Markets of India

“What an interesting journey to the land of rich culture, fairytale palaces, epic forts, interesting people. Noise, spice, heat and colour it’s all there” It was 44 degrees in India and I see myself in a dizzying, chaotic open market. Who cares about the heat, continuous honking of cars, smell of masala and korma, all […]

House

Sea Gypsies

“It amazes me more than anything. Their daily life cycle is so simple.” Moving smoothly on the ocean that I had always fear to tread and miles away from civilisation is a courageous thing to do especially for someone like me whose fear of open water is quite strong. The dive boat carrying me with my husband […]

Divers Haven in Philippines

Philippine Sea – a Divers’ Haven

With its 7,100 plus islands, and dive sites that have been featured prominently in various books, magazines and websites, surely the waters surrounding this archipelago is nothing but breathtaking. I am not a diver, I can’t swim and have a strong phobia of open water but it did not stop me from taking a boat accompanying […]

Ayutthaya Temple

Celebrating Ayutthaya: The Siamese Kingdom a UNESCO Heritage Site

In a country’s development, old customs and traditions are almost always forgotten as time passes and new influences replace the old. Fortunately, not with Thailand as it has maintained the preservation of their cultural heritage. The Thai people are certainly proud of their birthright as is evident in customs, food, architecture, arts and crafts. Thailand has […]

temple

Magnificence of the Sanctuary of Truth

The scene is astonishing! With an area of thirty two acres, intricately carved teakwood and a gigantic height of one hundred five metres stand majestically – an architectural wonder seen by only a few in Thailand.  The magnificence of Sanctuary of Truth is in its building of intricate carved wood that must have taken millions […]

gourmet-kebab

Gourmet corner from Arlene Rafiq’s kitchen

Since the time of the cavemen and immediately after they discovered how to make a fire, they have learned to eat kebab. The basic idea of meat and fire have not changed but the process of marination has evolved which makes a big difference.   In my various visits to Afghanistan, I have noticed the […]

Afghanistan: In the Eye of the Beholder

Not too long ago, Afghanistan was the target of America as it has become a terrorist haven. It is not on any traveller’s list of destinations and probably won’t be in my lifetime. Who knows where this country will lead, all I know is that I have enjoyed my temporary visits. I have been to a place […]