If you are a World War 2 buff, Poland is a must visit. My travel buddy and me did a girls only trip and we could not have chosen a better place.
We stayed in an excellent, spacious, two room, two bathroom apartment pretty much in the heart of the city. (Józefa Sarego 28. Krakow). Every sightseeing desitnation / museum / restaurants etc were all pretty much within walking distance.
Important Places to visit:
Aushwitz Tour: This is approximately 2 hours away. I strongly urge you to book a tour and a little in advance. The tour ensures a pickup and drop at the doorstep. More importantly, if you do not go in a co ordinated tour, you will have to wait in long lines, and that may also be futile as they stop non-tour visitors after a certain time.
wagons that carried the “undesirables” to auschwitz.
the very daunting and haunting auschwitz camp
bunkers
Be on time, carry water, and be prepared to walk a lot – I mean A LOT!
Do not be daunted by the history and horror stories. It is definitely a distressing experience, but it allows your empathy to develop and it’s most assuredly a humbling experience.
Old Synagogue : The oldest Synagogue of Poland where Polish Judaism was practiced. In 1300 ‘s the King welcomed Jews into the country to increase entrepreneurship and commerce. Poland had the largest number of Jews, and the numbers have gone down by almost 90 percent after the holocaust.
old synagogue
Jewish Quarters – Kazimerez: This covers the history and geography and culture of the Jews of Poland. It’s also bustling and full of restaurants cafes and entertainment. The night life buzzes here.
Zgody Square: A part of the Holocaust history, this square is a memorial to the tortures of Jews.
jewish atrocities were carried out in this square
Krawl through Krakow (pub crawl): Visit their website. They take you all over the city tasting various different Polish Vodkas and local brews. We both are not vodka drinkers so did not go. But Vodka lovers should def try this.
local polish beer
Plac Nowy: Where the castle starts. Buzzing night life.
Galactic Museum: Paintings related to the new and old Poland, taking into account the alteration of Poland post the Holocaust.
Wawel Castle tour: Must do a tour. Interesting history.
Salt Mines: An hour from Poland. Take a tour, don’t go on your own.My advise? – unless you are super curious about salt mining, don’t waste your time. I found it two hours of time and money waste. Fully hyped.
Schindler’s Facotry: This is a museum. We did not go, but it’s worth visiting.
Krakow Walking Tour: This is a must do, if you want an indepth knowledge of Poland and it’s history, take this tour.
Shopping:
There is a huge mall in the new town area. It looked rocking and had some local brands as well. We did not do any shopping whatsoever so cannot comment on it at all
Vodka: do pick up a local vodka for your bar.
Places to eat:
We found some fabulous places to eat in. Vegetarian was easy to find.
I’l Calzone : part of a hotel. Food was Italian and great.
Hamsa : New the old town. Excellent Mediterranean. Not to be missed.
Vegab : Falafel and wraps. Again not to be missed.
Pod Norenami : Completely vegetarian, hole in the wall restaurant. We really enjoyed our meal there.
Hotel Balthazar: Dinner in their very cute courtyard restaurant. Order in advance for vegetarian. Service was excellent.
Try Zapiekanka : It’s a local open flat bread dish. There are stalls near Plac Nowy which serve it.
THINGS TO REMEMBER:
If you are staying in an AirBNB make sure they have lifts or some help to carry up your luggage. If it’s summer, AC or fan is a must
Carry water at all time because you will be walking a lot.
Take walking tours. These give a lot of info and cover a lot of ground in terms of historic / cultural centres.
Auschwitz is a must do, but prepare your self for some horrors. You will have to walk a lot. Plan to take a tour after a heavy meal, or carry snacks.
Where ever possible take organized tours.
If you want to take it all in, plan a 3 day 4 night minimum stay.
One of the richest countries in the world, with a prohibitive exchange rate.
Norway still uses it’s own currency – Krone (fondly known as NOK). They prefer not using Euro. And they prefer credit card to cash. If you shop using Euro, you will get back Kroner in return.
Exchange rate in the airport was quite good. It’s a good idea to carry Norweign Currency from your home country.
The water is the best in the world, and anywhere in Norway you can drink straight from the tap.
Taxi’s are very expensive. Food is fairly priced.
Vegetarian food is easily available.
Check weather for rain.
OSLO
THINGS TO DO.
As countries go, this was beautiful gorgeous and made for an amazing holiday. But if it’s history with brave wars and fearsome battles you are looking for, it’s not going to be a part of your tour here. Nevertheless historical facts exist and you must make time for awalking touraround Oslo. It’s best to have a guide who can take you through. There are statues and museums all around, but the information surrounding them is far and between.
One of the richest countries in the world, with a prohibitive exchange rate.
Norway still uses it’s own currency – Kroner. They prefer not using Euro. And they prefer credit card to cash. If you shop using Euro, you will get back Kroner in return.
Exchange rate in the airport was quite good. It’s a good idea to carry Norweign Currency from your home country.
The water is the best in the world, and anywhere in Norway you can drink straight from the tap.
Taxi’s are very expensive. Food is fairly priced.
Vegetarian food is easily available.
Check weather for rain.
A park statue in Oslo. This man was a World War 2 hero.
THINGS TO DO.
As countries go, this was beautiful gorgeous and made for an amazing holiday. But if it’s history with brave wars and fearsome battles you are looking for, it’s not going to be a part of your tour here. Nevertheless historical facts exist and you must make time for a walking tour around Oslo. It’s best to have a guide who can take you through. There are statues and museums all around, but the information surrounding them is far and between.
The walking tour will also take you to the waterfront, and the new Oslo promenade.
The modern architecture is quite gorgeous and well – uh! Modern. Walking up to the highest point will grant you gorgeous views of Oslo. This area is now the most sought after residential area.
Statue garden. End your walk at the statue garden. There are close to 200 statues made by Gustav Vigeland.
It’s called Brunost, and it was the most amazing and different cheese I have ever had.
Salt by the promenade was a great experience though. Many varieties of cuisines are available in this open air market. Great places to sit eat and enjoy the ambience. Very neat and clean.
BERGEN
Fjords
We took a taxi from Bergen to Voss (where the mineral water comes from). We asked a local taxi driver who had got us from the airport to quote a full days fare and we hired him. Alternately your hotel can book a day taxi for you.
From Voss we took a the ferry to Flam. We got into the “Norway in a Nutshell” boat for a trip to Fjords. It was a 3 hour tour in the Fjords and we docked in Flam. From Flam we took a train (past of the tour) to Voss and got into our car and drove back home.
Some more info on Fjords tour
You need to give this tour a full day.
Those motion sick can take a mild tablet – waters are fairly calm and there is no rocking.
Norway in a nutshell is the company we used to book our tickets and the entire tour. They have many permutations and combinations. Look it up.
There are also companies which give you a 3 day in water – like a cruise, and leave you in another city.
FJORDS
Furnicular
Bergen has the cutest Furnicular going up on the top of Mt. Floyen where the entire Bergen can be seen through a birds eyeview. There is also a small café, which serves snacks, drinks and munchies.(time required 1 to 1.5 hours max) In peak holiday season the tickets could take time to buy. Please check if its available online
Also the queues to get into the furnicular could be long.
Colourful fronts : for which Bergen is famous for.
Sunsets are quite spectacular. In summer the sun sets around 10.30 – 11 pm. The city is bustling and alive till quite late at night.
SHOPPING
The water front has very cute shops . Some of these are in the lanes of the colourful homes and exteriors you will see. There is also a history attached to it and these shops serve as way of livelihood to the sellers.
FOOD
Some of the restaurants we ate in.
Madame Felle (water front) I cannot praise this restaurant enough. Normally we shirk from tourist populated areas, but this restaurant, which served Mexican fare was utterly brilliant.
Altona wine bar: Very good selections
Colonialean 44:
Lysverker seas food and wine:
OpusXVI
1877
All restaurants mentioned above were worth noting. There were a few others which were nothing great.
NORWAY IN A NUTSHELL (HA!HA!)
Go with the complete understanding that it’s going to be an expensive holiday!
2 nights in Oslo are enough. 3 in Bergen!
Carry your NOK currency
Try not to take taxis
Food is very good, and almost all cuisines are available
Heads up: This journey is a road trip. Car is required.
It was family holiday time, and we had gone to the USA for my daughter’s post grad ceremony. A proud moment indeed!!
The son suggested an offbeat, not oft visited place in Arizona. The ANTELOPE CANYONS. Well at least most of us did not know about this place. It’s also a canyon, but for some odd reason the Grand Canyon became a tourist attraction, and this beautiful naturally occurring, ever changing rock formation and catacomb like structure remains popular but far less appreciated than it should be.
We first went to Scottsdale. A cute, well to do town in Arizona. It looked like a beloved and well loved town by its denizens, because every street corner, some street walls were beautifully and thoughtfully decorated. It boasted of a beautiful canal, some outstanding restaurant and cuisine choices and a high street which seems to come straight from a Enid Blyton book where things are cute, charming and cheruby!
We stayed only a day, on way to Sedona. The W hotel is a nice place to stay, with it’s own very popular and fancy after dinner bar.
Next morning we headed to Sedona, a 4 hour drive. We arrived late – a warning if you want to go there. It’s a small town, and all food places (again a huge variety) close max by 9 pm. More on that soon–
We stayed in Log Cabin type accommodation. Extremely extremely cute, with it’s own fire place, huge bedrooms and great bathrooms.
I will not mention the name because the service was pathetic. No breakfast, rude housekeepers and no regular housekeeping!
But where ever you stay in Sedona, you need to be stuffing your face by 8.30 pm latest! Or then you can cook! The Cabins had a completely done up kitchen.
We reached the arid, almost deserted looking Antelope Canyon. The highlight of Sedona. This is a Native American reservation, which means only Native Americans can live and work there. It’s considered sacred land, and stretches till you cannot see any further!
Only Native American owned tours can take you there and I cannot stress enough the seriousness of booking way way in advance. We did not know this, but the kids did a hunt and we were able to secure a tour. Last minute or depending on the concierge of your hotel can burn a hole in your pant, of a kind that you will look like you dont own a pant anymore!
The tours are every few minutes. If you can – ask for Vernon’s tour timings. Of all the guides in al the places we ever needed one- he was the best and most gracious and helpful. PS: Him being a photography aficionado you will manage stunning pics.
If you look carefully on the top left, you will see the formation of a woman with long stresses.cracks and holes, gaps – al formed and reformed with falling rain and floods.
The canyon is below ground. The rocks you see are quite young and every monsoons they get a barrage of water falling through and sometimes flooding the canyon for a few hours. Water falling heavily, downwards towards gravity, from a small opening – such is the power that it can change and break rock formations, cause holes in the sides and basically wash away their carefully created infrastructure of stairs and walkways.
Vernon took this picture from a particular spot, using the panorama effect
skylight
Arrive into the canyon area an hour before your time. A little further away, in the reservation itself is restaurant and a massive river, where you can do a river tour too. Just ask for the MARINA. To and fro from the Marina to the tour area takes time, so do keep in mind your tour timings.
From Antelope Canyon, we went to the Horse Shoe Bend. Gorgeous view from far far above. Many places to take pictures. The kids were getting a bit adventurous with going too close to the edge for pictures, which made me super anxious and worried, so I nudged them back into the car again really quickly. A fair warning :: to see the horse shoe bend, one has to trek a bit.
The Super Gorgeous Horse Shoe Bend.
Off we went to the Grand Canyon. Everybody goes only to the West Rim. It’s the most famous. We landed up in the South Rim, which was also gorgeous. Totally breath taking – the entire stretch, as far as the eye can see. They also have helicopter rides, which you can look up online.
Mr. Somani and meSouth Rim
We stayed the night at a motel by the South Rim and headed to the West Rim the next day.
It takes a few minutes to get used to the glass floor. You are not allowed to take pictures, and if you want pictures taken, then there is a separate line as you enter the glass floor outstretch. It was well worth it, because a few pictures are a must. Helicopter rides here too. Book in advance.
shots taken by professionals.shots taken by professionals.
(shots by professionals) If you look carefully, jut below the lightening, you will see an eagle with his wings spread out. He looks after the spirit of the Natives.
This is also reservation land. There is a rock formation resembling an eagle. The Natives are taught to do the right thing. It’s a matter of pride in their community. They say that if the mom’s are busy and cannot keep an eye on their children, the eagle keeps an eye on them, making sure they do no wrong.
At the end of our 5 day road trip, we landed up in Las Vegas – but then what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. :))
If someone tells you that a day in Amritsar is enough, disown that person immediately!!
We spent 2 nights and 3 days, and still were running short of time to do everything we wanted to and eat everything we needed to.
Amritsar is one part spiritual, and one part sin! Both are as diverse and as important. We were a mixed group of people, some who were careful of what and where they eat, some small eaters – but sweet lovers, some who just went with the flow. Let me tell you every single one of us enjoyed the spiritual and sin part equally!
GOLEN TEMPLE (the spiritual side)
It is worth going through the history of the temple before you go for the darshan. You can read it here.
You are allowed to carry a bag and your phone.
Park you car at the Golden Temple parking and either walk or take a three wheeler to the temple gates.
There are four gates to enter the temple. Please try and go from the gate closest to the information centre (so that you will easily find one of the sin parts I was talking about! :P)
Wear footwear that can be washed later. Leave your footwear at the footwear centre. (You must note the sewa that goes on there. You will find people polishing your shoes, or cleaning them.)
Enter the temple and join the line that leads to the Harmandir Saheb where the Guru Granth Saheb is kept in the day. Go up one floor from the main Granth Saheb and then one more floor up. You will see the oldest Granth Saheb. A priest reads from this non stop – 24 hours.
Take your prasad . – for this do carry a small box or zip lock bag. A lot of prasad is given and sometimes you might not be able to finish it on the spot. This way you can eat it at leisure – or with your langar.
Head to the Akal Takhth – the main Sikh Seat. Sit there for a while. It’s considered very holy.
Roam around. Take pictures. We went in the night. The Golden Temple runs 24 hours – by the way!! The glamour and beauty is very visible at night. Around 8.30 pm to 9 pm they take the Granth Saheb to the Akal Takhth for the night. It’s bought back in the morning at 4 am in a palanquin, and that’s the other darshan which would be worth doing. We went in the evening, did the darshan, had dinner at the Langar and left for the night.
the golden temple
You must eat at the Langar. It is a very simple fare. But the fact that it feeds anyone 24 hours of the day, and is made by sevaks who carry deep spiritual intent, makes the food extra special and tasty.
Finally we picked up our footwear and headed to the hotel.
At every auspicious place people pay their respect. If you are confused about what to do, just follow the lead of the public.
PLACES TO SEE
Jalianwala Baug
A must visit. It might bring out a rage in you, or it might just be another page in history. But do go. It does not take long.
Gobindgarh Fort
They have a sound and light show, and a 7D show. It gives you the history of the fort, some about the struggle for independence and loads about the Gurus of the community. Look up the timings and see the show. I found it educative and interesting.
Wagah Border for the fiery Indian spirit. We did not go, but our friend did. She said she had goose pimples throughout. You have to book a seat via web site before hand. Ask your hotel to do it. Don’t go with the touts, keep your own car.
FOOD (the sin side!)
Ah! Sin city this Amritsar. Diet before hand. Starve if you must, but be prepared to eat delicious food in Amritsar.
Kulcha land. People will tell you it’s where all tourists go. Don’t let that deter you. They go there because the Kulcha and channa is seriously unbelievable. Do not miss.Have the masala kulcha. Tell them to make it really crisp. Lassi is also awesome.
Kesar Da Dhaba Another hole in the wall, but a must visit.
Kanhyalal They make those stuffed Bedmi Puri with Aloo lonji, channa and spicy aloo sabji. (you have to ask for the aloo sabji). Have the lassi. Yum! Best place for breakfast.
Ram Lubhaya & sons. For khatta and aam papad. Right next to Kanhyalal.
Gurdass Ram Jalebi Wale. When you leave the Golden Temple, (which is why I asked you to enter from the gate close to the information) ask anyone for Khooi Galli, or the famous Jalebi shop itself. You must must eat the Jalebi and the Gulab Jamun. Exactly opposite this shop is a shop which makes hot milk.
Makkan Surprisingly many Kulcha shops in Amritsar are purely vegetarian. For the best fish in town go to Makkan. They do good chicken also.
Bira Chicken lovers paradise.
Gianni Tea Stall for fabulous tea in matti ka kulhad.
Paan Next to Kulcha Land, there is a paan shop. Just go to see the mad varities he has. We got a simple paan made, and it was outstanding. He is very famous for his fire paan.
Bansal sweets for original pinni, moti choor ladoos etc.
Taj Swarna we stayed there and had one meal there. Fantastic Kuclha, channa. Amazing service.
SHOPPING
Raunak for jooti’s. Though frankly, jooti’s are available dime a dozen, the ones available here are very comfortable. My friend bought one from else where but found the ones from Raunak better.
Kartar Singh Di Hatti. For all phulkari dupattas, salwar suits, lucknowi suits etc. It’s a huge shop, he gets it tailored too (I cannot vouch for his finishing), and you can request him to courier it too. To get there: ask the guy at Raunak to get you a small rickshaw. The driver will wait for you there and take you back to your car / hotel. address – Katra Kanhiyan. Goal Hatti Chowk, Katra Ahluwalia. Ask to meet Deepak, amazing sales man – catches your needs and shows you exactly what you want without wasting your time. Trust me – this is the only place you need to go to.
Kamini Mehra Great Salwars at very reasonable prices. Fancy Salwar shopping can be done here. Address: Dayanand Nagar, Lawrence Road. 8283817192, 964608887
Ujagar Singh Karam Singh for papad, warian, and all those kind of takeaways. Taj and all the good places get their papad from here. Dont buy papad just about anywhere. There is lots of soda and not that great a taste. These people had decent stuff.
Address :Bazaar Kathian Under Shiv Mandir, Near Mai Sewa Bazar, Opposite Sujan Singh And Sons, Amritsar, Punjab 143001 Phone no: 0183 253 1434
TAXI SERVICES we were recommended Rajpal Driver – +919855337598 He was excellent and is a mine of information. Very sweet person, drives well and knows the nooks and crannies of Amritsar. Do ask him for recommendations. He was suggesting a place in the old city for Kulchas, and being a local he would be bang on about it.
Amritsar is a land of goodies. Make the most of it. Keep your own driver if you can, and go with friends. It makes the experience worth it.
In the end – quick but pertinent points…
-Wear washable footwear for the temple
-Definitely go for the evening darshan.
– Cover your head at ALL times in the Golden Temple – men and women. For women a dupatta is not necessary. A large handkerchief is good enough even for the women. You get people selling them outside the temple, thats good for men and women.
-Clothes – even jeans are ok for women. Head should be covered. Of course keeping the sanctity of the place in mind shorts, short skirts and sleeveless tops should be avoided.
– Take a small zip lock or box with you for the prasad.
– Eat at the langar
– Keep your own taxi driver
-Eat without restrictions 😛
-Stay away from touts for Wagah Border
-Take advice from the locals, we struck gold there.
-Taj Swarna is a great place to stay in.
-Try to take the trip in winters. Even the local faces bleached at the thought of us tourists trying to visit Amritsar in the peak summers.
Ours was a whirlwind trip to Ireland. We could not make it to the North of Ireland, but the South as far as I see it, was well covered indeed.
The North Ireland is under the United Kingdom. And the South is Republic of Ireland. There was some major confusion about visas. One web site said those having British Visa, would have no trouble getting in. One said it’s at the discretion of the Immigration officer.
VISA
Anyway not to confuse you – Those having British Visa’s made or renewed post 2015 would mostly have a BIVS visa. They will have no problem entering Ireland, as long as they have an immigration stamp in UK – meaning they have to come via the United Kingdom.
Those who have older visas – well October 2016 the end of the agreement between UK and Ireland, so you had better get an Irish Visa for entry.
ARRIVAL
We reached Knock airport. Two airports are close to Galway (from where we started the journey). Shannon and Knock. Dublin would be a few hours away.
DRIVING
We wanted to be free to stop for drinks or take a nap in the car. So we did not choose to drive around. Instead we hired a chauffeur driven taxi. It turned our pockets into dust, but was well worth it.
Also we had heard / read that the roads in some places can become so narrow that it could cause a traffic jam, if a car came in from the other side. So yes!! A traffic jam with only two cars is apparently an Irish thing. And it did happen, but far and large we found that Ireland very easy to drive in. The roads were very good.
At one point we had to take an internal taxi in Galway. The driver gave us a good rate – still a shock to our pockets – but you can also try to talk to the local taxi guys. They are willing to help.
THE IRISHAre very very very and I cannot add really add the number of “verys” I really want to – FRIENDLY. Helpful. Happy. Amazing Singers. Inborn Musicians. And some of them as naughty as their famous Leprechauns. Asking an Irish for help, could often lead to a story waiting to be told. Within an hour of us visiting pubs, we had heard the life story of many a local.
the friendly irish folk
THE WEATHER. Now that’s the most controversial word in Ireland. This country is known for it’s untimely rain and bleak weather. The Irish, have got so used to it, that even their sheep look up in disdain and disinterest when the weather goes foul. Carry a warm water proof jacket. Ours stood us in good stead. If you don’t have a head covering, carry an umbrella. Scarves and mufflers are a good idea. We went in late September, which according to me is the best time to be in Ireland.
OUR ITINERARY
We started in GALWAY
We stayed in The Twelve Hotel. This was a little away (appx 15 minutes by cab) from the main Galway city(Barna). We did this on purpose as the other hotel we were looking up, was bang in the middle of town and at the start of a noisy street.
I would recommend The Twelve in a heartbeat. They had a fantastic gastropub, an amazing concierge and fabulous rooms.
The breakfast was outstanding. The recommendations for restaurants, bars and pubs outside the hotel were bang on.
Our room was HUGE. And rates were fantastic.
The Quay Street.
The Spanish Arch is just outside Quay Street. Hmmm! It’s noting to shout back home for. Just an arch. But – once you go through, the sea catches up with you, and the view is spectacular.
the spanish arch – galway
The Latin Quarter, is a huge network of streets with all the shops, bars, pubs and restaurants. Since Galway is a student town, the place rocks on weekends. The streets are buzzing with the most amazing street performers, and the pubs and restaurants, put out seating outside (when the weather is good) and it’s a full bonhomie scene out there.
Here are some recommendations for bars and pubs.
For good wines – go to Bunch Of grapes, Quay Street bar, Freeny’s, Neactin.
Deli La Tosca served fantastic Spanish Wines.
Other bars and pubs.
The Crane bar was highly recommended, but we were not too impressed.
The Quay Street bar was super.
Restaurants.
Milano Pizzza (it’s a huge and popular chain), Kia (food was fantastic), Adbria, Twelve Hotel Gusto Bar, Lighthouse – at Abbey Gate Street, Quay Street Kitchen.
CONNEMARA
We went to Connemara for a day trip. We stopped at the Clifden Castle, for some champagne. (Um! It was our 12 noon break folks. You drink the coffee we will stick to our champagne- Thank you!) This was a really quaint stop, over looking the mountains. A perfect serene get away.
This was bought by Mitchell Henry for his wife. After she passed away, he sold it to the Benedictine Nuns. It still belongs to them. I do believe they could be the holiest of the lot, so peaceful is this place. It’s a museum of sorts, and we could hear plaintive piano music as we roamed around. They also have a walled garden, which was very non impressive. But do walk around. And take in the essence of old world charm.
DOOLIN. We stopped at Doolin on the way back, for a meal. Stone Cutter’s Café. A small quaint yellow house, in the middle of fields, occupied by sheep and cows. As whimsical as it can get. But the astounding part was the food. It was unexpectedly amazing, both in taste and variety. We were vegetarians and the mélange of dishes had us very impressed.
Doolin – stone cutters cafe in the middle of fields
CLIFFS OF MOHER AND ARAAN ISLANDS: When in Ireland, you cannot miss The Cliffs of Moher. The Araan Islands, were nothing great according to me.But the Cliffs – now they took our breath away. The entire cliff is cordoned off with a wall, so you cannot really stand at the edge. But – a little way towards the left (while facing the sea) start walking towards the cliffs and there is a little walk way, where you can jump the walls and you can walk along the edge. the height is imposing, and my toes curl inwards when I am very close to the edge of any height, but I got some awesome pics. The walk involved wall jumping and getting down from heights, but we had a great view. Since it was raining we got our shoes all nice and gooey, its best to wear sturdy shoes. Take your time and go to the Cliffs. The walk is a must. Try and see if you have the option/ luxury of choosing a bright sunny day. But Ireland being what it is – it could rain the exact minute you step out of your car.
Cliffs of Moher
KILLARNEY. This was the best part of our trip. The coolest, hippest!! The people in Killarney are mad, half drunk and uninhibitedly friendly. Within an hour into the city we knew who are the locals, who lived where, did what?O’connors pub: do go there. You must go there. For all the locals go there. And that is where the fun is. And if a band called The Small Hours is playing anywhere in Killarney, DO NOT MISS IT. Go to the ends of Killarney for it. It’s a husband, wife band, and they are fab.
O’ Connor’s pub and the locals singing
The grand. Another rocking party place. Bouncers and all. The front, they play Irish bands, (the New Foundland was amazing) and in the back of the club, they have a discotheque. It’s a bit risque. So please go with company.
Food. We ate at the Khao (Vietnamese) and the Stone Chat Café. Fantastic food, authentic and fresh. There were many other restaurtants, but we had only two days, and both the days the lunch was out of Killarney.
Must Visit.: The National park.Take the Jaunty ride. Its fun. Alternately its an amazing place for a long walk.
Jaunty ride
The Cathedral: was very pretty. We did not go in, but the sites from outside were also majestic.
Ring Of Kerry.This takes a full day. So you can do what we did. We went half way then turned around and took a short cut back.
Skelligs Chocolate Factory: is a must do. We stopped off the coast for a quick lunch. It was basic pizza fare therefore I did not write down the name.
We stayed at The Ross.: it was round the corner from all our sinful debacles. Completely walkable and very safe. Heart of town, but not in the noisy streets.
DUBLIN: We stayed at The Mespil. I don’t recommend it at all. Coming to Dublin after friendly Killarney was like getting lost amongst wolves. The city seemed too big, the people too busy and nothing suited us for a few hours. Once we got the hang of it we were good, but we would have liked to do Dublin first, so as to savor the flavours of small towns towards the end.
We were there only for a day, so have not done much sight seeing or food eating.
Temple Bar: The district and the bar. Every local will turn up their face at it, but I am telling you – YOU HAVE TO GO. Its jostle jostle, bump bump, no place to get drinks, too many people, loud music, but Oh Lord! Its amazing.
A tasting bar of the original Temple Whisky is attached to the main temple bar. Do visit if you are a Whisky lover.
At the end of the Temple Bar district, stands a small take away selling the most amazing French fries. PLEASE HAVE SOME!! 😛
The Quay Street bar was also nice.
Grafton Street: also has a lot of clubs and pubs.
Guinness: Now whether you like Guinness or not, you cannot come to Dublin and not visit the Store House. Book in advance and pick up souvenirs for your friends.
Trinity College Library: is one of oldest and most well kept libraries in the world. Must visit.
Trinity college Library
Food: We ate at the Bull and Castle. Fantastic service and great food. Hugo, was a champagne bar. We were caught in rain, and decided to stop walking and work up our appetite with cheese and champagne. They have a very cute window seat, so if you are just two on a romantic evening out, book it in advance.
Rasam: we had a private invite, but invite or not, distance or not –(its in the burbs) if you feel like eating Indian, go no where else. The food was authentic, fresh and the restaurant was one of the most classy ones I have ever see. Since it was a personal invite by the owner, I can vouch for the fact that the owner stands at the helm himself and manages the show.
Rasam
Beautiful Ireland
This husband wife team, have an Air B and B and the husband also has his own car which he uses to drive people around Ireland as a tour guide. Very sweet people if you want someone to drive you around.
The land of the Rising Sun, Shoguns, Samurai and Sakura.
Time to Visit – Look up the internet for the year’s correct information on Cherry Blossom, (sakura) blooming time. Mostly it is End March to Early April. The cherry blossoms bloom completely only for a span of 2 weeks. Post that they start closing up, and the green leaves start showing. It has to be seen full bloom, else the entire point is lost.
Cherry Blossom timePink Blooms
Autumn, is also a lovely time to visit Japan. The colors change, and the leaves are in full glory, from yellows, oranges and reds. I have not seen this sight, but was told by locals that it’s a sight to behold.
Do’s and Don’t’s.
Visit the shrines. You must. It’s a bit tedious, but the ones I would have left out, saying – seen one seen all, were the ones which will stay with me forever. Thankfully we had with us a friend who cajoled us and relentlessly took us to see everything there was to see. Be prepared to walk a lot.
Subway – The subway in Kyoto is fairly well connected. Its BRILLIANTLY connected in Tokyo. Take day passes. It works out super cheap and efficient. It is for 24 hours from the time you take it.
Taxi – Take as few times as possible. Prohibitively expensive. And they hate going to close by places.
Stay – in a RYOKAN in possible. At least for a night or so. We stayed in a very basic one. Try and find a little higher end one. It’s an experience you wont get anywhere else.
The people – are polite, amazing and extremely helpful. If you approach them for direction, they will drop what they are doing, drop the line they are standing in and take you to the place you were asking for. I have nothing but respect for the Japanese. We have never met a better race of people. They humble you with their polite behavior. You will find many of them wearing masks. Its not for their protection, but for the publics. They feel they have a cold or something infectious, and want to protect the public from it. Their motto in life is the neighbor should not suffer, at any cost. Absolutely amazing.
Weather – was cold in April, first week We got slight rainfall too. Look up the weather before you leave. It can get unpleasantly cold and take you by surprise.
Bullet Train– Shinkansen. We took it from Tokyo to Kyoto and back. An experience I tell you!! We were moving at the speed of 350 km/hr and felt not one lurch. Ever! Use the J R pass for the same.
Booking – can be done online. But you have to go and redeem it into a pass. It tales time so be prepared for the wait. Queues are long. Keep the pass carefully.
Its worth the money. We calculated daily tickets v/s the pass, and the pass was more worthwhile.
Train pass – The J R pass (Japan Railway) made a lot of sense because we traveled to Kyoto from Tokyo and back. From Kyoto we also went to Nara, using the same pass. We would have been able to use to to Mt. Fuji and Hiroshima too.
No eating in public transport! – Just not ok. Japan is so clean its unbelievable. And you wont see dustbins anywhere. Why? Firstly, people are not eating all over the streets. Secondly, they all carry a small trash bag with them. (YUP!) and take the trash home to throw.
Bus – Very effective. You have to pay when you get off. Keep change handy. They also have coin changing machines. In the bus!
Language – is an issue. Google translate is fantastic. You can also click a picture of the words you need translated and it converts those lines to English. Its fantastic and very helpful.
Guide – We booked for 3 days. Frankly you need them only for a day in Kyoto when you are doing the main shrines. Once you get the hang of the layout and language issues, you can maneuver yourself quite easily. We booked them through the Japanese Cultural Centre. _ Just for your info – they were just ok.
Tips – no one expects any tip what at all. Not the taxi driver, not your waiter in bars and restaurants, and not your bell boy. In fact they can take objection. I had taken small gift articles specific to India, and they were happy to accept those.
Drink – the local whisky. Its fantastic. Try the Sake. I did not like it much, but my friends loved it.
Shop – at local boutiques and stores. I picked up a lot of stuff from MUJI and UNIGLO.
Japan has lovely cotton clothes. Expensive, but some things were worth it.
Money Exchange – very funnily the best rate was available in the airport. Remarkably better. Both Tokyo and Kyoto city, had rates much worst than Tokyo airport.
Drinking water– tap water is safe in Japan. They have dispensers on every road, every corner, every mall.
Food – can be a bit of an issue. We had carried Theplas etc and were happy for it. Mostly we needed it in our train journey. Having said that we got great food all the way. You have to be a bit ready to experiment with Buddhist food etc. You can ask for chilli paste/ oil almost every restaurant. Also try the tofu dishes. You will not find better tofu anywhere else in the world. Jap food is healthy. I did not see even one plump person in Japan – forget obese.
Tofu Salad
HAVE THE LOCAL MEALS – see the restaurant section of this blog.
Buy local Japanese ingredients. I picked up Wasabi, Wasabi powder, Togarashi powder, some sort of ginger based powder and tofu skins.
Shiatsu Massage– It was soooo relaxing. It’s a kind of acupressure massage. They make you wear a robe and press points from head to toe. I felt like a zombie for a bit after the massage. The state of relaxation was really complete.
Voltage Issues – don’t buy electronics in Japan, unless you plan to use them in USA. They work on 110V.
KYOTO
Kiyomizu Dera . This is off Gion area – on a hillside. It was dark when we reached, but it was beautiful. I can only imagine it on a misty morning, with the clouds pouring in and the bells of the shrine tonging.
Gion – is a lovely area to walk around. Get the feel of the local area and the local life.
Nishiki Market. This is 100 years old. A sightseeing place as much as shop. Get the famous Japanese knives here. Buy some kimchi. Check out the different.
100 year old Nishiki Market
Philosophers Path. Dear lord! This place was heaven. The best Cherry Blossoms. The river flowing in between was filled with pink petals and the entire effect was amazing.
Cherry blossoms Also known as Sakura
Ginkaku ji Shrine. The silver shrine. Thus named because the reflection of the moon would fall on the roof and make it look silver. Beautiful Zen gardens adorn the surroundings of this shrine.
The moon hits the roof and makes it silver.
Arashiyama – Bamboo forest. Must see. Walk between the bamboos to get a feel of how we humans are small little midgets compared to nature.
Bamboo forest
Nijo Castle. The Shogun’s retreat. The great hallways, the conference rooms, everything reeked of great history.
Inari . The shrine of the 10000 red gates. Beautiful red gates one after the other. Each gate was offered as a payback for a prayer answered. Quite a sight to see.
Inari Shrine — 10000 gates
Kinkakuji Shrine. – Golden Pavillion. We did not see this one. But its on the top list of sight seeing in Kyoto.
NARA
An hour’s bullet train ride from Kyoto. NOT TO BE MISSED. My favourite shrine. The shrine with the hugeeeee Buddha. Todaiji Shrine. Mesmerizing.
Todai – ji Shrine Nara
Deer Park. Very interesting. Buy the cookies sold by the vendor and feed the deer. They come so close. And try feeding them some other food! They look at you like you have committed a sin! ;P
Feeding the deers – Nara
Restaurants
We found all restaurants in Japan, very small, very clean and run by minimal staff.
Sigestu – Tenryu ji Restaurant . Buddhist / Zen Meal. Absolutely amazing. Its called Shojin Riori – the meal.
Kerala – amazing indian meal. Don’t go anywhere else. Book in advance.
L escamoteur – PLEASE GO. It was the most amazing bar we went to. Go early as you will get turned away if there is no place. Fabulous host, fantastic cocktails. Vie for the swing seat, if only two of u.
Mad place – truly! No food!
L’Escamoteur Bar
Address:
138-9 Saisekidori, Shijosagaru, Saitocho
Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8012
On the same street as L escamoteur are many many restaurats. Great Italian places.
The Pontocoho Alley has many bars and restaurants. Dive into the small side streets. You will find hidden gems.
Some of the ones we visited were – Atlantis, K-ya, etc.
TOKYO
Hip – modern and completely city!
Shrines –
Senso ji Shrine Either we had a shrine over load or this really wasn’t that fantastic. Worth missing.
Meiji Shrine – Please GO! The walk to this serence shrine is well – serene. I loved the peace and quiet. Shuts at 6 pm!
RESTAURANTS
Tofu Kai Zen Meal. Fantastic atomosphere and fantastic service. Book in advance.
La Jolla – Mexican. Was a good break and a good meal.
Gonpachi– very very famous. Kill Bill scenes were shot here. Fabulous food, though the din can get to u.
The dishes I want to highly recommend –
Takana Meshi – Rice pickled with mustard leaves, and served in a hot stone bowl.
Zaru Tofu – Special cold tofu in a bamboo basket.
Rigelleto – In the famous Roppongi area. Fantastic – yum yum!
garlic mashed potatoes
Try their – mashed garlic potatoes and Jalapeno fritters
Sembikiya The fruit restaurant. MUST MUST MUST GO. Its located in the same buiding as the Mandarin Oriental hotel – the Nihombashi towers. 2 nd floor fruit parlour!
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We went quite beserk! Have the fruit platter. The avocado and tomato sandwich and the fruit sandwich. TRUST ME ! Your mind will be blown away!
Umenohana Ginzanamiki Dori it’s a mouthful to pronounce, but the food is worth everything u have and you may have to give away! Book in advance. – book a veg meal in advance. Zen Meal.
Pinsa de Roma – small restaurant tucked away on way to Meiji Shrine, in the Takashite area. It’s a little off but plan to eat the pizzas there when you are on way to the shrine. You will not regret it! Best I have had. It was crisp, crunchy and sublime.
Peking Restaurant at the Imperial Hotel. Great chinese food.
Vivo bar – fantastic music. Ask for RICARDO very sweet chap.
Peter Bar – at The Peninsula Hotel. View of the city. Nice.
SHOPPING AND OTHER THINGs
Ometosando – shopping. High end stuff. In the middle of the street , there is a Japanese Craft centre. Good stuff for souvenirs. Do go. Its worth it. I picked up really soft towels from there.
Liquor Store – amazing one. Small but loaded.
Liquors Hasegawa – Shop no 1, Under Tokyo Main train Station. East Spot. Chuo Dori Avenue. Close to Daimaru.
Pick up your Japanese whiskies and Sake here.
Other shopping places – Daimaru, Sogo, Mitsukoshi, Takashimaya. Frankly I went crazy for the local stuff.
Local food – Basement of Takashimaya – there is a small super market called Medina (i forgot to write down the name – but it was something like that)
Akiabara – electronics market. You might not be able to pick up much because of the voltage issue, but do go and take a quick look. Its huge, massive. I haven’t seen an electronics market like this. Ever.
Goa – the land of toddy, feni, siestas and fish! Every where we ate, the sea food menu far out did the veg menu. And Pork!! Goans and their Siesta and Dukkar!
We stayed in Casa Colvale. Back of the Beyond.
By the Chapora River
If you don’t mind driving 40 minutes to the closest good eatery, and if you dont require extreme luxury – stay there. Because the people are lovely, service fabulous. It’s clean, romantic, extremely peaceful, and the small pool is clean and water beautifully chilled, set in the midst of a forest and by the river Chapora, Siolim.
Places to eat –
Mustard. It’s a mix of Bengali cuisine and French. Both of which use heavy doses of mustard. Bengalis use Kasundi, and the French, version of Dijon. Both potent!
Bomras. Oriental at its best. Beautiful settings, slightly bad service. (PSST – I think my server had inhaled some substance which made him slur and his nose water!) Decentish veg options. The rock fish with galangal is highly acclaimed. PS – order the khowsuey in advance. Its really nice, but not readily available.
Gunpowder. Authentic coastal cuisine. You wont get idli dosa there. Look for their appam’s, ishtew, and fish curry.
La Plage. Shack/ restaurant by the sea. Go there with you costume, jump into the sea, have a few drinks, have a meal, chill and spend the day there. Great service.
Thalassa. On the cliff, by the sea, great food, awesome sunset. Book in advance. Well in advance.
J&A. Amazing Pizza’s. But the service has fallen some.
I have a friend sitting next to me, itching to get hold of some pics on my computer. She also has some suggestions for Goa.
Sinq and Cavalla Night clubs. Look for their bollywood and retro nights.
Leela Cottages. Elevar Restaurant . Another place like La Plage. But its seems La Plage is loosing its plot, in comparison to Leela Cottage. Try the baked Camembert cheese, says friend who breathes down my neck.
Fiesta Old favourite. Still does well.
Curlies. Famous shack. Go. Party. Eat and feel the sand between your toes.
Jardin D’Ulysse. Comes highly recommended.
Go with the flow. S A A. So many restaurants were recommended to me. This was one of them. We needed more than 15 meals to complete the list given by friends.
Antares. Started by Master Chef, runner up no 5 or something. Giving Thalassa a run for it’s money. Book in advance.
PS : Look out for Goan Poi bread, Balchao Naan, Balchao Prawns, Fish Curry, Goan Xacuti. All local favourites.
Do have a Feni and Toddy based Cocktail. If you have the gumption, try it their way, neat with whatever they mix it. I don’t know as I have never had the guts to try.
Sit and Chill. Goa is for relaxing, eating and drinking, Chatting and Catching up. Enjoy!
Underneath the Coconut Tree.
Sitting under the whorls.
Staring at the sky,
My word mixing with yours.
Conversations in the breeze.
Catching up.
Old times and New.
Planning the future.
Blessing the past.
For it brought me to you.
And you can be compared to very few.
(For Mr. Somani – cheers to our many days in the sun!)
The fact that we were found sleeping in our own beds, and not huddled under a park bench, is still a mystery to me. Such was the copious amounts of alcohol consumed.
Munich – Oktoberfest- Beer drinker’s haven.
My boys in beerland!
If you don’t have a table booked in a tent (and if you do, you are my bestest friend ever!)- well then, there is away out – ahh! Way in! Once the fest opens up, and the mad rush to consume beer abates a wee bit, make your way to the festival grounds, on a week day. We went on a Monday. When we reached the grounds, we saw that they were allowing people into tents. Exhilarated we all ran in. Our beer loving friend, ran around cajoling the beer servers ( mostly women) and got us a table.
What’s the big deal about a tent you say? One can sit outside and drink too — open air and all that!
Sure!! So we thought. But the tent was complete madness. They had a band playing in the centre, and suddenly a man would get up and try to go bottoms up on a litre of beer! And everybody around him would cheer him, egg him on, the band would pick up a beat to keep in time with him, and if he failed the entire tent of 3000 people would boo him! But if he made it…. he was proclaimed a hero!! AND – if he stood on a table to gather attention, he would be unceremoniously escorted out of the tent! But only after he made his attempt at the bottoms up! We had to vacate the tent by 6 pm though!!
The music band inside the tentSitting outsideBottoms up!
My beer crazy friend! See the size of the glasses. Beer glasses are cleaned with lightening speed! And filled as rapidly as a fighter plane breaking the sound barrier.
Beers arrive in barrels. On horse carriages. Horses with shining coats, going clip clop.
When we went to the fest in 2013, we were shocked to see rides. What were rides doing in a beer fest?! One half of the fair ground is all rides. And the fair ground is massive. Unbelievable rides, horror shows, and the works. It put universal to shame!
This one swings and then drops down! FAST!
Haunted House.
It takes you up, up, up. Makes you
wait, keeps you hanging, then – DROPS!
Viktualienmart This is an open farmers market (open through the week!) We stopped here for lunch. The vegetarians had options of fresh breads, dips, magnificent display of olives, cheeses of all kinds, and smoothies and juices (you think we touched juices??!!) The non vegetarians – went mad! Bratwurst! The world famous – Pork suasages. We had to use a wad of tissue paper to stop their saliva from drooling, as we were sitting right next to the stall and the smell was making them loose control! Word of suggestion – eat and go for the beer fest! And there is no place better than this. Also pick up some good gourmet stuff to take back home. I picked up some red chillies. They just reached out their spicyness and whispered wonderful things in my ears.
Dallmayr: Very fancy gourmet store. They have this orange liquor called Naranja. YUM!
Restaurants and Pubs: Munich is the gourmet destination of Germany. You will be surprised with the food.
Hofbräuhaus München. Old german style restaurant. Great food. Try their mushrooms.
We did not do too much of eating and absolutely no sight seeing. Concentrated only on drinking. Both the times I was there.
The hotels are frightfully expensive during this time. And if not booked on time – not available.
Go with friends. We went, just two of us, in 2103. It was amazing. But with friends (and mind you, they should be a little on the eccentric side) – it’s an unforgettable experience.
Eat well before the fest. Go to different tents and taste all kinds of beers. The Weiss beer in Munich is very very nice.
I’m afraid, this post is going to be about only drinking and partying. No touristy info, no gyaan and no insights. I cannot – because all we did for 6 days was drink, laugh till tears stormed our cheeks (and in that state, how can one look around?) and ate.
It was hot in parts, in the middle of Sept. So if you don’t like the heat, DO NOT go before that. It was crossing 40deg C in the earlier months.
We have friends who lived in Budapest for 16 years, and they still go there ever so often. Nothing like a local showing you around. We saw places small and big, wonderous and awesome because they took the pains to take us, and show us the side of Budapest most people would not see. Unfortunately they were as mad as us, and as uninterested in tourist shit as we were.
What you must know about Budapest —
It is cheap. I mean in terms of money. The currency is called Forint. It is lower than the Indian Rupee!!!!! Yes! I swear! They did not adopt the Euro. So 10000 Forint is 2500 INR.
The population is as classy as the currency is cheap. The women were hot, well dressed and gorgeous. Alas, the men were not fat, but just about ok looking!
Buda and Pest are two sides of the city, divided by the Danube river. Buda is more residential, ultra green and some places are out of a fairytale book. Pest is the commercial side, with the Parliament and shopping and restaurants etc.
Check out the weather before you leave. Unlike other European countries, Budapest has a more temperate climate. Having said that, they still get very hot summers and cold winters.
Stay in the Pest side.
Uber is not easily available. Nor are taxis. We got caught in a cats and dog kind of shower and were stuck without a taxi for 30 long, soaked minutes! On a normal evening (and no evening was normal for us!) Taxi’s can be booked. Do not hail off the road. It seems, they charge way more. Use the METRO ,TRAMS and BUS. We bought a 3 day pass, and it was super convenient. Most, to all, parts of the city is covered by the public transport. Very efficient!
Eat early. Most restaurants and pubs stop serving food, by 10pm.
EAT DRINK PARTY
The first thing I have to share and the most important are the Ruin Pubs.
Ruin Pubs. Planked and boarded. Chipped Paint. But OH! so wild!!
When the Lehman Brothers crashed, many people who had bought out dilapidated buildings to renovate and flip over, were told by their bankers that they can no longer be funded. One genius turned his half boarded, semi falling down (but safe), planked, unpainted building into a pub. And called it a RUIN PUB. It became an instant hit and took off as a fad. For one drinks and parties harder, especially when the money is chewed up and gone. To forget!! To live!! (Hungary has just got on its feet again!) So – the ruin pubs! They are huge. And most of them play different sorts of music in different floors/ areas. Its not your classy pub. Just the way it is, boarded up, with peeling paint. But the food, booze and music is world class. (and cheap!!)
Some of the ones our friends took us to – Instant. Fogasház. Let me repeat —– GO THERE. Even if you are 80 years old and reading this ( I don’t think I have an 80 year old reading this .. ) The concept is mind blowing. ( I would have used an F word here – but i might have a 60 year old reading this)
Gozsdu Courtyard. This place is mad. Its a huge alley, with pubs, restaurants, fast food joints and Strip clubs (Yeah!!) on both sides. It’s a You – will – definitley – find – something – of – your – taste- : kinda place. We went almost all nights. Food in most places shut by 10 pm but one can party till dehydrated and puking! UMM! The men in this holiday want to make sure I let you know about — KLIK. Ladies strip thingy. In the middle of Gozsdu! (But what the hell – even I thought it was an excellent marketing gimmick)
Cactus Juice. Very nice underground pub. Great food.
360Deg Roof top bar. Fab fab views. Great drinks. good food. But hey!! Either book, or go early!
Gödör Area. Amazing place. Its an open pond. With an adjoining garden. Get your food, drinks and sit by the pond and eat and more importantly – drink! Hear the music some kids are playing around you. Chill, relax and let go.
Gödör Breathe – Enjoy – Relax.
Frucht Térász. Open air bar close to this pond.
MIKA. Great open air restaurant. Bump into loads of tourists here and meet some interesting people.
Bordo. Another open air restaurant. Great food.
Rakpart – Pier Bar. Bar by the waters. Great feeling, sitting by the river, sipping drinks.
Tokio. Amazing amazing oriental food. Good for vegetarians also. Very close to the river.
Pomodoro. First class Italian food. Must go.
Bombay Curry Bar. Now this one!!– you have to go to. Even if you are not craving Indian food. The food was fresh, wholesome. The service warm and welcoming and the decor very brisk and entertaining. They have 2 restaurants. One in Andrassy area, and another in Corvin area.
Sugar Shop. I am a pastry chef. It takes a lot for me to get excited about desserts!! This shop was a marvel. Very cute, excellent pastries and great ice creams. They even have a candy store.
Daubner Pastry Shop. I want to work there.. in their bakery! Frankly the pastries were nothing I want to dance and sing about, but their baked goods!! OH MY! OH MY! Things I have never had before. Sorry! Cannot go on with the description. It evokes very hungry lusty memories! Its on the Buda side, so use that time to drive around and see the greener side of this crazy city.
Gelarto Rosa. Near the Basilica. Firstly it’s not only a gimmick, the flavours of ice cream available are humongous and they also taste amazing. Fresh. Fantastic.
Famous Rose Ice cream
Choose your flavours. Try and choose at least 2 distinct colours. Why —-
That’s why!!
BESIDES THE EATING AND PARTYING:
SHOPPING : Shop!! A lot! Because it’s way cheaper here than anywhere else. Because every thing is available here. Because retail therapy will keep you away from drinking too much!
My friend who is an Louis Vuitton fan, entered the shop to check out the prices and came back hyper ventilating and flapping. It took her two long sips of water and a few deep breaths to tell us all, that the prices were low! Needless to say, pockets got burnt.
Go to the Andrassy Avenue for all the designer stores.
For smaller more intimate stores ( and even the bigger names) go Tovörösmarty tér.
Vass Shoes: Very famous custom made shoes. My husband had a huge grin on his face for the entire hour he was there and for a few hours post that! They have for women too, but its more famous for men’s shoes.
THERMAL BATH. We went to Rudas. Awesome, must do experience. On Sundays men and women are allowed together. Carry your costume and be prepared to soak up a life extending experience. I will not describe this is detail. All I will say is – go! HAve fun. Relax. PS: Carry a botlle of water! See the details here!
Basilica : you will end up passing it.
Basilica
For stunning, panoramic views and great pictures, go the to Castle District. Look for events taking place. We went when a chocolate festival was on!
In parting – I do tell thee! Budapest is happening! Amazing and Outstanding. If you like to see something different, feel something different .. make your trip!
The heaven where green hills, rolling meadows, snow clad alps and busy streets turn the unromantic into a poet and a poet into a sufi saint.
We stayed at the Chalet Alpstein – all 19 of us, ranging from 2 years to 65 years of age. (+41 33 853 0844). The view from our chalet was something out of picture postcard. Gorgeous old fashioned homes set on lush green hills, by even greener carpet – like meadows and mountains covered in the last legs of snow.
The view from our chalet
One of the finest supermarkets I have been to – Co op. (pronounced as COOP), was just behind our chalet. Many a times, we took the shopping cart itself to our apartment and returned it after we stored our stuff in the kitchen.
If you are staying for a good number of days do get hold of the Swiss Pass. This gives you instant access to trains, bus, cable cars (barring a few) and is extremely convenient. Keep it with you AT ALL TIMES.
Buses transverse up and down Grindelwald.
The train station is the main hub, where you might find taxi cabs too.
There is this lady, who does taxi service all over Grindelwald. Call her and she will pick you up. She also has a huge van for larger groups.
Taxi Service
Please note, there is only one clinic with an xray machine. It shuts once a week. Be careful with all the activities.
If you are living in a chalet or self catered apartment, and need a cleaner this lady comes in highly recommended. But please inform your land lord or ask her / him for their daily cleaner.
home cleaner
Activities
There is sooooo much to do in Grindelwald, that it can exhaust you to sleep early in the evening.
Tobogganing This is dry tobogganing, on a steel tray set on an incline, and not the snow one. You have to take a bus up to Pfingstegg, and then a cable car up. Please note that not only kids ,but even adults will want to do it at least twice.
The speed is under your control.
Tobogannig
I highly recommend a walk down, back to the town. It’s absolutely gorgeous. The beauty and the greenery just stops your heart. Lots of places to sit on the way.
The sights you see while walking downRest a while, under huge green trees.
Jungfrau. Take a train from the main station, and go to Jungrau. (J is pronounced as Y).
Please Note: Look for a warm sunny day. Even then you need to dress warmly. You must step out into the lookout and do some snow activities. For that the ears need to be covered, the body needs a full jacket and dark glasses ARE A MUST!. The snow is so blinding, that you wont be able to see without it.
Jungfrau!
Be Warned — the altitude gets really high. Though the train takes you up really slowly and you keep getting used to the height, some people might feel a bit breathless. The heart rate increases slightly. But mostly all manage.
DO NOT go in peak season. The crowds are horrendous and takes close to 1 hour or more to catch the train back.
Food in Jungfrau.
I have a walking talking encyclopaedia of a sweet brother in law. He suggested something awesome.
There are three restaurants in Jungfrau. One is a self service. One is — are you ready for this?– Bollywood Cafe. And it served Bollywood food!! Thanks to Yash Raj and his films, Switzerland is a popular Indian attraction. (All Indians throng there, so space constraint). Cristal, is a seated restaurant. You can make a booking too. Slightly expensive, so you will always get a booking there. Excellent food. Another options is to pack some sandwiches etc and eat it there.
They have a huge Lindt shop up there!
Do some snow activities, while you are there. Unless the weather is really rotten, they have Zip lining, tobogganing etc organised.
Zip Lining
The Eiger Trail. Those fond of walking, walk along the hills of Eiger. Do go to the local tourist centre for details.
The Grindelwald sports centre. If it’s raining and you are stuck, go to the sports centre. Indoor pool, rock climbing, rope room etc. Grindelwald also has an outdoor pool. Please ask your concierge. I have lost the address – (Swiss names!!)
Zip lining Take the cable car to the last station, and do Zip Lining.
Trotti Bike DO NOT DO IT. It looks awesome. But its a 4.5 km ride, on a very very steep decline. 6 of us were doing it, and two fell. One was hurt so badly that we had to rush him to hospital. Luckily it was on the very first decline. Once a little way down, there is no way up. They have no emergency evacuation. No way to contact base that someone has fallen. And no SOS medical treatment!! And to top it all – private cars ply on the same road. Imagine loosing control and banging head long into a car??
If you do end up doing it, please keep your brakes applied at all times. Heavy people, refrain. People with bad balance refrain. People with neck and back problems refrain!
Paragliding is super super fun. And the organisation is very sturdy and well managed. Call before hand and book in advance. Sometimes it could be a little away, and you might need to take a train.. (see why I suggest the Swiss Pass?)
Paragliding — they take you really close to the mountains.
Go to Small Towns Just hop on to the train, and make your way into small quaint towns. Spend the day, discovering neighbouring places. The trains are really convenient. Like a hop on – hop off bus. Contact the local tourist office for details. I reccommend, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken amongst the many others.
Lake Bachalpsee. I have’nt been, but I believe its a top rated thing to do. Its quite a walk, but the view is worth it.
Picnic by a Stream. We walked and walked and found a walking trail by a stream. At some point, we found a rocky opening leading to the stream, and claimed it for our picnic spot. The water is white, mixed with clay. The steam rushes and gushes and we were warned not to go in, at the risk of being swept away. I have never found a better way to unwind! We all pulled out our shoes, and dipped our legs in the chilled chilled water. Just sit and hear the sound of the stream and feel all the negative stuff wash away with it.
Drink from a stream. As you keep walking around the area, stop and drink from the spring. Not the white water I mentioned above, but look for clear spring, linking itself into the river. The water is crystal clear and medicinal!
Roll Down Hill. Find a huge hill. Walk up and then roll down!!Its super super amazing. Be careful not to trespass.
Giddy headed rolling
Every Wednesday, during summer Grindelwald roads shut down for a party. The entire road is blocked for stalls, rock shows etc. You can eat your dinner there on that day. Sangria, Beer, wines all sold in the stalls.
Restaurants.
Do have the local cuisine. Fondue, Raclette and Roesti. PLEASE!!
Mercato at Hotel Spinne. Excellent Pizza. Asked to be seated outdoor on a nice day.
Hotel Eiger. Their Eiger fries are yum! Try their Roesti too! Fondue and Raclette also amazing. Sit outside!
Kirschbuhl. Way up on the hill! Book in advance. Fantastic Roesti. Ask for their special fondue!
Golden India One of the best Indian food I have had. Their roti’s, even cold was wonderful!
Fondue in Lauterbrunnen If you end up going to Lauterbrunnen, Please – I urge you to have the fondue here! (click on the link!)
Coop– I love this super market. Bang in the middle of the city, near the bus station! You get EVERYTHING there!
Shopping
Walk around, and see what you like.
Great Sports shoes and super winter wear.
Chocolate Shop Click on the link and find the place (not difficult) and go buy some chocolates!! Fresh and amazing!
Bars
Hotel Eiger has a super bar
The Bar at Eiger
As does Spinne
Avacado Bar, on the main street looks very happening.
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Underneath the Coconut Tree. 
WindOverSeas 