Mad About Thali Meals in India

Unknown August 30, 2014

It was at Agra–our third city stop in India–where I looked behind me and saw the couple seated next table relishing an interesting looking plate filled with assorted dishes. We asked the waiter what it was. "That is Thali ma'am and sir" replied the amiable restaurant staff. Without further ado,...

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When an Accommodating Phony Tourism Officer Turned Hotheaded at Istiqlal Mosque

Unknown August 26, 2014

After my temple run concluded in Yogyakarta, I went back to Jakarta for a couple of days before my Cebu Pacific flight back to Manila. At the hostel I met two other Filipinas who became my accidental tourist buddies. Since we're all going home the same night, we decided to spend our last...

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Hanoi Spring Roll and a Conversation through Google Translation

Unknown August 20, 2014

One of the many amazing things about traveling is the opportunity to meet new people on the road. During my trip to Hanoi I met Hoang, a cheerful woman who works at one of the many Sihn Tourist offices in the city. Recommended by another traveler friend Jerik, I sought her out after I arrived...

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An Example of a Well Assembled Space: Azumi Boutique Hotel

Unknown August 15, 2014

A series of flashing bulbs always lit up inside my brain each time I hear the term 'boutique hotel'. As a veteran of sleeping in dingy hotels devoid of management's proper planning and an architect's imagination, I welcome the idea of staying in a fancy nest. So, coming to Azumi Boutique Hotel...

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The Dharma Wheels Go Round and Round at Sarnath's Isipatana

Unknown August 07, 2014

"... here at Sarnath he turned twelve wheels of Dharma ..." "Keep in mind this most beautiful wood, named by the great rishi, where ninety-one thousand kotis of Buddhas formerly turned the Wheel. This place is matchless, perfectly calm, contemplating, always frequented by deer. In...

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