Spice of life: Spread your wings to make new memories
Though technology is taking the lead in every aspect of our lives, there is no alternative to taking the plunge and touring a new land for a first-hand experience
Meeting new people, making memories, and exploring cities, open a new world. Travelling refreshes, rejuvenates and infuses energy in us. It is humbling too for we see the tiny place we occupy in the wide world. Life gives us myriad opportunities to learn and grow.
Though technology is taking the lead in every aspect of our lives, there is no alternative to taking the plunge and touring a new land for a first-hand experience.
Visiting places and palaces of Rajasthan was a mesmerising experience for us. The sumptuous delicacies were unforgettable. Thereafter, the beautiful beaches of Goa enlivened the spirit. Navigating the seashore and making sand castles paved the way for a never-ending desire to connect with nature. Further down, in Kerala, God’s Own Country, held its own charm with serene beaches and tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. We enjoyed the fresh aroma of the world’s favourite beverage in the middle of tea gardens.
Sitting in my library, I often reminisce the panoramic scenes of Darjeeling in West Bengal. During our visit there, we enjoyed taking a stroll in lush tea gardens that left us spellbound by their magical effect. Taking a ride on the toy train allowed us to soak into the spirit of nature. Above all, a chance meeting with the king of South Indian cinema, Rajnikanth, was a delight for us.
When we happened to be visiting neighbouring Sikkim, it was the warm hospitality and simplicity of the locals that rejuvenated us besides the mystifying natural beauty.
Nearer home, Kashmir Valley is not a place but an emotion that everyone should experience. Visiting Paradise on Earth had been an innate desire. On seeing the beauty of Dal Lake, Nishat Garden, Chashme Shahi, and Shalimar Garden, we could imagine being transported to heaven. Visiting Gulmarg was the cherry on the cake. Vast stretches clad in snow made me realise why it was a favourite spot of Mughal emperor Jahangir.
Undoubtedly, travelling adds to our life, making our communication skills better, enhancing our creativity and imagination.
With the exam season over, it’s time to broaden our horizon, spread the wings in the limitless sky and make new memories. As author Miriam Beard put it: “Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it’s a change that goes on deep and permanent in the ideas of living.”
imartisood@gmail.com
The writer is a freelance contributor
