Take Off With Me

  Croatia has slowly occupied a significant place in the travel map of Europe . It has been named the emerging destination of the world. Tourism in the country was impacted by the Homeland War in the nineties. However, things have really changed in recent years. So what is the reason for Croatia's popularity? Croatia has become popular for several reasons drawing in tourists, investors, and international attention.  The country is just stunning, wherever you go. There are more than 1000 islands, many of which are secluded and unexplored. The pristine beaches, never-ending coastline, and turquoise Adriatic sea are enough to charm the weariest of travelers. If you are interested in history and culture, Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik are dotted with stunning historical structures. Dubrovnik is also very popular amongst Game of Thrones fans as a major part of the movie was shot there.  Croatia has become popular for several reasons, drawing in tourists, investors, and international at

I have been fortunate enough to travel all over the world and see different cultures and ethnicities. It has been an enriching experience that has taught and inspired me a great deal. What fascinates me most is the glaring difference between living in Europe and other Western countries and staying in India. The contrast can be felt everywhere - in culture, lifestyle, eating habits, clothing, etc. Let me list the main differences. The Indians are a family-oriented breed. It is common to see 2-3 generations living together all their lives. Grandfather, father, son, and all their families live under the same roof. In Western countries, children leave their parent's house as soon as they enter college. Living in a joint family is unheard of there. In India, it is a common practice in towns and cities to keep help for cooking, driving, and other household chores. Affluent families keep 4-to 5 staff to help them do all sorts of odd jobs. In Western countries, people generally do all the

India is known for its street food. The amazing variety and taste can tempt even the most disciplined eaters. As the country is vast and spread out, it becomes difficult to decide what street food is the best in India. North India is famous for its Chola Bhature, Gol Gappe, and Momos, whereas South India is known for Dosa and Idli. If you go to Mumbai, you will get Pao Bhaji and Vada Pav, and in Kolkatta, it's Kathi Roll and Pucchka. But what are these dishes? Let me help you understand your favorite Indian street food. Gol Gappe/Pani Puri/Pucchka - A hollow, crispy, puffed, fried ball that is filled with spicy water, tamarind chutney, boiled chickpeas, and mashed potatoes. It is undoubtedly the most popular street food in India , especially among females. Papdi Chaat - Deep-fried flat puris are served with yogurt, potatoes, and an assortment of sweet and tangy chutneys. The sweet and tangy taste can be really addictive. Pao Bhaji - A medley of spicy mashed potatoes and other v

     I had to travel to the USA in the first week of March to attend my nephew's wedding and spend some time with my son. By that time Coronavirus had already started spreading all over the world but things were under control. My journey was quite smooth and non-eventful as I reached Atlanta via Doha. Preparations were going on at full scale for the wedding. People had started arriving from India, America, and Canada.      Slowly things started becoming difficult and tense. Lots of restrictions were being placed, social media was abuzz and the media was creating panic. At that time it seems to be overhyped. We started getting cancellations. Even local people did not want to attend the wedding and everyone had their reasons - some were afraid to get the dreaded virus, a few felt they would not be able to return back to their country and some felt it was not morally correct to attend such a big gathering. There was pressure to cancel the wedding, but there was no time left. Gue