tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39853773715986872282024-03-14T04:19:07.291+13:00Take Me 2 The World, Your Travel CompanionNats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-23499517025145313292020-07-07T14:47:00.001+12:002020-07-07T14:47:49.576+12:00The Lockdown Diaries Part 6: Take Me 2 The World is synonymous to Experiences<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienpdz88O2NwJIEt92HVKIx9eSaDSkw_ksqxnM-FP8MgNaLNGfPyHdCFtCqdd6jZlYQgCx881g7chzzRtAXqfPnxlcatq_A2pmklNCVQDwBWQVZRuD82V_tkyRJevdRGocjC47FNXEZbNf/s2000/Baby+Shower.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienpdz88O2NwJIEt92HVKIx9eSaDSkw_ksqxnM-FP8MgNaLNGfPyHdCFtCqdd6jZlYQgCx881g7chzzRtAXqfPnxlcatq_A2pmklNCVQDwBWQVZRuD82V_tkyRJevdRGocjC47FNXEZbNf/w500-h400/Baby+Shower.png" width="500" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Uma and I have had an interesting couple of weeks. You see, we both love sharing our culture and experiences while learning from the others. That way, we are teachers, as well as learners.</div><div><br /></div><div>When our best friend <a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/the-lockdown-diaries-part-4/" target="_blank">Wendy </a>asked Uma to organise a South Indian style Valaikappu (baby shower) for a mutual friend, she was over the moon. She immediately connected with other mutual friends, planned every detail with them and coordinated all arrangements. On Saturday the 4th July, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Indianvegcookingpn/photos/a.866287996780531/3086076238135018/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">celebration </a>turned out to be such a joyous occasion for all. Uma was at hand to explain the rituals to our Kiwi friends Wendy and Sally. She also had the opportunity to learn the Kiwi way of celebrating baby shower through Sally. </div><div><br /></div><div>For me, it was a bit different. I was asked by Dana Taylor from <a href="https://www.ipu.ac.nz/" target="_blank">IPU New Zealand</a>, a tertiary institution in Palmerston North, if I can deliver a guest lecture for a group of Tourism students. What a great time for the students of Tourism to hear from a practitioner under the current COVID-19 climate! <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> I gladly accepted the invitation, since I have a longstanding relationship with IPU - I have been personally running New Zealand tours for their visiting International student groups.</span></div><div><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJK3RVMbQL5DefKy6pMJC8LQddS6Eb6AWsnrUqv6oOmCGXEF7F2LUepvgusN8v4orvzFWs4CAnLZvUKUT2cnQl_i-3q2tSEHqpUMmx1QgnskFzZM2R93rPcoUv3oHedoCGklkUinkVZic/s4000/IPU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJK3RVMbQL5DefKy6pMJC8LQddS6Eb6AWsnrUqv6oOmCGXEF7F2LUepvgusN8v4orvzFWs4CAnLZvUKUT2cnQl_i-3q2tSEHqpUMmx1QgnskFzZM2R93rPcoUv3oHedoCGklkUinkVZic/w500-h375/IPU.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I spoke about where it all <a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/the-lockdown-diaries-part-4/" target="_blank">began </a>for us at Take Me 2 The World, where we are now surviving COVID-19 and what is our strategy for the path forward. When the Coronavirus disaster stuck without warning, we needed a lifeboat immediately. We used all possible resources under our command - the Government wage subsidy, MBIE funded COVID-19 Business Continuity Planning business coaching, Tourism New Zealand funded strategy consultation with KPMG, attending Industry webinars keeping us abreast of developments, participating actively in formal & informal support groups and finally keeping ourselves physically & mentally well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then I spoke about our next step, which is to look at surviving until the borders open. Here is where we exercised our imagination and creativity to design our "<a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/" target="_blank">Slice of the World in New Zealand</a>" series tours. We created these tours for discerning travellers who want to indulge in unique and authentic International cultural experience by making the entire trip stress-free and without the need to leave New Zealand. Before we talk about our strategy for the post-COVID world, let us take a quick look at some of these tours.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/a-slice-of-india-in-queenstown/" target="_blank">A Slice of India in Queenstown</a> is a tour for active and curious travellers, who want to have enriched cultural experience enjoyed as a group of likeminded people. Our guests join Uma and Nats in Queenstown to intimately understand the scintillating millennia-old Indian culture. They would learn to cook Indian food with Uma. She would be their main chef preparing a delicious Indian dinner at The Rees boutique luxury Hotel. They then participate in the Bollywood dance class, shaking their legs at the party. While they are busy having a time of their lives, they enjoy the best of both worlds with some top activities that Queenstown has to offer. </div><div><br /></div><div>For the discerning traveller who wants to indulge in authentic cultural experiences, the <a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/a-slice-of-latin-america-in-queenstown/" target="_blank">Slice of Latin America in Queenstown</a> tour is a perfect fit. We have taken care of minute details of the tour to make it stress-free, while creating a memorable Latin American cultural experience. Our guests would feel pampered with the personalised service from the Mexican-born, New Zealand-resident Tour Leader Tere Morales-Probert. Columbian-born Erika and Francisco will mix them Latin American cocktails, while they sample a variety of Tapas-style canapes. Then the tour party joins them for a colourful Latin American dance extravaganza with a selection of music. And they round it off with a dinner of Latin American flavours. </div><div><br /></div><div>Our exciting <a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/slice-of-france-in-taupo/" target="_blank">Slice of France in Taupo</a> tour is for those who wish to spend quality time with loved ones. Plenty of fun activities are designed to be enjoyed together. The group plays fun-filled games of Pétanque and Chaise Musicale with the French Sommelier Francis Auclert, the Wine Knight. They go on to sample six types of French wines and pair them with a French dinner at the luxurious Hilton Lake Taupo. Our passionate and experienced Tour Leader Colin will provide a lot of insight into the French culture, having lived in and immersed culturally in France. </div><div><br /></div><div>Further more, we are launching the Slice of Latin America in Auckland and Bay of Islands very soon. Our plan is to design and run 9 to 12 tours. If our Kiwi travellers support us by going on these tours, that would take care of us until the borders open. Then our long-term strategy for thriving would kick in once some semblance of sanity returns to the world! See you soon in my next blog post. Au revoir! </div>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-39789746188745967582020-06-19T14:10:00.002+12:002020-06-22T09:32:16.332+12:00The Lockdown Diaries Part 5: Power of Networking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mOqEZLmiRImSvd3KFk66HeQZF8YsNuKpigpr7_qZKqeRmuWptw_FWDi4M2IDvUo4qypd1FAkzlAfdtjY8iMOE6qdN2dJai-JcxxmD_SQXC9kKuioXc-aOwlmDM-1_SdXV5kQNd0UWQWL/s1920/Jake1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1920" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mOqEZLmiRImSvd3KFk66HeQZF8YsNuKpigpr7_qZKqeRmuWptw_FWDi4M2IDvUo4qypd1FAkzlAfdtjY8iMOE6qdN2dJai-JcxxmD_SQXC9kKuioXc-aOwlmDM-1_SdXV5kQNd0UWQWL/w500-h235/Jake1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><font color="#000120"></font></u><br /></div><div>Uma and I waited at <a href="https://www.thecooperage.co.nz/" target="_blank">The Cooperage Café</a> with a sense of trepidation. It was to be our first encounter with a larger-than-life celebrity. We had watched him with awe on TV, smashing Australian bowlers all over the park in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4q_mu4eOG8" target="_blank">2007</a>. There walked Jacob Oram to our table towering over us! We were in for a surprise though. Jake was so down to earth, even joking to the staff. He made us perfectly comfortable and we ended up chatting for an hour.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was not a chance encounter. We were connected through a chain of 5 links. It all started when I had joined Sime Darby Commercial Group (TIL Group back then) as the <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">IT Manager in 2010. Christine from the local recruitment agency PN Personnel used to help us with staffing back then. She introduced me to her colleague Mason, who became a good friend soon.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">When Uma and I founded Take Me 2 India and added Take Me 2 New Zealand, he suggested that I meet Julie from Destination Manawatu (now merged into Central Economic Development Agency - <a href="https://ceda.nz/" target="_blank">CEDA</a>). Uma and I met Julie and started off with our presentation. She asked us to pause 2 minutes into the presentation and brought her teammates Janet and Kate into the meeting. We continued and explained our vision and philosophy.</span></div><div><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUxab1wWHiLmvfomI2jGb9Wcy40mfydysUr5riahn7dsb46ORCb_9vDjofGyvov0_Z-AEKdFthPAGbw3KCmftDB9inzIRGLcumnWffIBXCTQK6LFCT_6HwMuF4LvtOJcB73mcV6Z08V-7L/s1280/Slide1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUxab1wWHiLmvfomI2jGb9Wcy40mfydysUr5riahn7dsb46ORCb_9vDjofGyvov0_Z-AEKdFthPAGbw3KCmftDB9inzIRGLcumnWffIBXCTQK6LFCT_6HwMuF4LvtOJcB73mcV6Z08V-7L/w500-h281/Slide1.JPG" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Janet and Kate were so engaged into what we were trying to achieve. They started connecting us with so many people. One such introduction led us to Matthew, who had been the sales manager at <a href="https://www.distinctionhotelscoachman.co.nz/" target="_blank">Hotel Coachman</a> at that time. Matthew is a natural connector of people and through him, we met with Jake Oram.</div><div><br /></div><div>When we met Jake, neither side knew how we were going to work together. We promised to keep in touch after exchanging contact details. Around the same time, other contacts started developing. Kate from Destination Manawatu introduced us to Tania from <a href="https://www.tourismnewzealand.com/" target="_blank">Tourism New Zealand</a>. When Uma and I travelled to India in December 2013, we flew to Mumbai to meet Neha at Tourism New Zealand India office, whose contacts were passed over to us by Tania.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our meeting with Neha turned out to be a big turning point to us. We learnt about the distribution channels within the tourism industry. We also learnt about a key Tourism New Zealand trade event called KiwiLink. We decided to participate in KiwiLink India 2014. Our senior partner Eswar and I presented our New Zealand inbound tour services to around 300 Indian travel agents in 4 cities.</div><div><br /></div><div>Soon after, one of the Delhi-based agents who attended KiwiLink contacted us to organise a New Zealand trip for an Indian school students group. We put together an exciting program for them and the tour was on! One of the key items on the tour? A day of cricket coaching by the legendary Jacob Oram!</div><div><br /></div><div>The story doesn't stop there. During KiwiLink India, we met a lovely guy called Sachin who was liaising with all the logistics. During the evening network function at Mumbai, Sachin pulled me aside and introduced me to Shashank, who owned a sports tourism company. We kept in touch regularly.</div><div><br /></div><div>When Jake Oram and I decided to launch a tour for 15 to 17-year old Kiwi cricketers to India under the brand name <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KiwiCapsIndiaTour2018/" target="_blank">Kiwi Caps</a> in April 2018, I immediately contacted Shashank and engaged Sports Konnect to handle the Indian side of logistics!</div><div><br /></div><div>See how it was like pieces of a Lego set, forming a meaningful structure when different pieces are put together? THIS is the power of networking. Luckily for me, it has been one of my key strengths. I thought I would deconstruct how I go about it. I am sure there is a large body of works on this topic, but whatever <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I say here is based on my own experiences and reflections.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">For me, there is one strong attribute that is key to network. I have always been genuinely interested in people. And when you meet someone, it must never be in the basis of 'what is in it for me'. It is rather effective to find out what the other person has and how you could help by utilising it to be mutually beneficial. For these reasons, I have never shunned meeting anyone even when there were no pathways for potential collaboration apparent. And it almost always <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">has worked.</span></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I also like to point out that networking is not speed dating. Patience is a virtue when it comes to networking. When you are earnest in your efforts, it blossoms into beautiful friendships. I can't put a value enough to emphasise how important this is. Friendship often nurtures empathy. Empathy is the core for humanity. Being humane is the secret behind collaboration. Collaboration has always been the key success factor for Take Me 2 The World family.</span></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">So why is this important in the current context of our survival against the COVID-19 crisis? We have been able to design a superb series of "<a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/" target="_blank">Slice of the World in New Zealand</a>" tours, because of our collaboration with many friends from our various supplier partners. I will talk about it next week.</span></span></div>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-91794754506586672652020-06-10T19:52:00.004+12:002020-06-11T08:09:44.670+12:00The Lockdown Diaries Part 4: From the Dream to Reality<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfWMthHvkZNekmri7ewTTwrK8NmSuXd2dMKW_SlI3R_bFTmM8EJCcncjM68P_dn_W8W4aeMDbMU1gHT8lOlZw7tj-hiUlWq_Qr39z0B9k9LCn6Soz1-yi_nnzItre97zKyhKLeuLQu1qz/s1920/Family-NS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfWMthHvkZNekmri7ewTTwrK8NmSuXd2dMKW_SlI3R_bFTmM8EJCcncjM68P_dn_W8W4aeMDbMU1gHT8lOlZw7tj-hiUlWq_Qr39z0B9k9LCn6Soz1-yi_nnzItre97zKyhKLeuLQu1qz/s320/Family-NS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>After gaining my <a href="https://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/explore/business/business_home.cfm" target="_blank">MBA degree</a> from <a href="https://www.massey.ac.nz/" target="_blank">Massey University</a> in 2010, I was at crossroads with my career. The question was whether to continue to grow in my IT career or to spread myself horizontally into general management. By 2012, I was no longer enjoying being in IT. I was dragging myself to work every day. It was a joyless situation to be in.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have always been open to reaching out to my friends when I am down. <span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
called my very good friend Wendy from MBA one day </span>(Yes, she is the one Uma and I were going to <a href="https://takeme2theworld.com/the-lockdown-diaries-part-2/" target="_blank">escort to Morocco</a> along with a group of her friends!). Wendy suggested a meeting with her friend Mo, who was doing IT contract work in Wellington.</div><div><br /></div><div>We three met for coffee at a café in George Street, Palmerston North. Mo was explaining to me the ups and downs of IT contracting. While he was talking, I had this sudden Eureka! moment out of the blue! </div><div><br /></div><div>You see, most people who haven't visited India have a mental picture about it, most of it being stereotypes because of what they read in India. But if you had visited India, you would agree with me it is a lifechanging experience. Why not take Kiwis to India and provide them with an authentic, unique and personal travel experience? Weird, right?</div><div><br /></div><div>I thanked Mo and Wendy, came back home, and had a chat with Uma sharing my idea with her over dinner. She didn't hesitate and told me to pursue it if that is what I had wanted to do. This was in October 2012. For the next few months, we did our research looking at how the tourism industry works, what the other travel companies do, and crunching the numbers. We also had our Kiwi friends enthusiastically participating in our focus group meetings.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the 10th April, 2013, we met with Bobbie O'Fee at <a href="https://www.onla.co.nz/" target="_blank">O'Fee and Associates</a>. The same day, we registered our company BlooMoon (NZ) Limited! Our brand was called Take Me 2 India. Uma designed our website. Our Facebook page was up. And the word started spreading.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Jocelyn, <font style="background-color: transparent;">m</font></span>y other very good friend from MBA and her husband Chris immediately registered with us for a tour of India with their 3 children! I personally escorted them through South India for close to 3 weeks in December 2013. While they loved their experience, their honest feedback on where we needed to improve was highly valuable to us. How blessed have we been!</div><div><br /></div><div>In March 2014, I gave up my 6-figure salary and resigned my job as the IT Manager at <a href="https://www.simedarby.co.nz/our-businesses/commercial/" target="_blank">Sime Darby Commercial NZ Ltd</a>. I must really thank Uma and the boys for the sacrifice they have been through. Our lifestyle changed overnight. Never thinking twice about buying gourmet bread turned into looking at the price tag twice!</div><div><br /></div><div>Uma and I continued to look at ways of growing the business through creativity. We looked at the behaviour of International tourists visiting New Zealand. Most of them travel only to popular tourist locations like Auckland, Rotorua and Queenstown. Having lived here since 2004, we know New Zealand has much more to offer. That gave the birth to Take Me 2 New Zealand.</div><div><br /></div><div>As months rushed by, our happy guests started asking for more destinations. We started extending trips from India to Sri Lanka and Maldives, New Zealand to Australia. We decided to consolidate all destinations into one single brand - Take Me 2 The World!</div><div><br /></div><div>And came our biggest milestone at the time! Jocelyn and Chris wanted us to design a South America holiday for their family this time. I invited my long-time friend Erika, a Columbian-born NZ resident, to work with me. She not only helped to design the itinerary, but also made all arrangements and escorted the family to Peru, Chile and Ecuadorian Amazon!</div><div><br /></div><div>We have never looked back since then. Well, not until COVID-19 put a dampener anyway! Uma's cousin Eswar and brother-in-law Aura from India became part of the Take Me 2 The World family. W<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">e opened our India office in 2014. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">We made our New Zealand inbound tour operations into a B2B model, primary working with overseas travel agents, but without compromising our motto of authenticity, uniqueness and personal attention. We became members of <a href="https://www.tourismexportcouncil.org.nz/" target="_blank">Tourism Export Council of New Zealand</a> and got ourselves <a href="qualmark.co.nz/" target="_blank">Qualmark </a>endorsed.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">We have always run Take Me 2 The World with the 3i attributes our senior partner Eswar has advocated - Integrity, Intention and Intensity. We have made mistakes and learnt from them. Each one of us have played our roles, contributing to our growth. I have been reflecting on some of the key moments in our Take Me 2 The World journey. Let me share them with you next week.</span></div>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-46674512810796237432020-06-04T08:28:00.002+12:002020-06-12T10:24:24.712+12:00The Lockdown Diaries Part 3: Kindness lights up our lives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKArV0FGoYFE9b1ZmDXG5nhk__9UiE9Hf15XzJZeXqrFrdWI8nj27vY7cy9aa8vduVLnw3uT_obcYrZsN28eT4AsCkbDI2LSbfCvTUBuovCHdIyB8biklI0UBRx_-YbM2D8IF_PbCyGdK9/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKArV0FGoYFE9b1ZmDXG5nhk__9UiE9Hf15XzJZeXqrFrdWI8nj27vY7cy9aa8vduVLnw3uT_obcYrZsN28eT4AsCkbDI2LSbfCvTUBuovCHdIyB8biklI0UBRx_-YbM2D8IF_PbCyGdK9/s320/Kindness.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><font color="#000120"></font></u><br /></div><div>What has been happening in the US right now is terrible. The fire of hatred engulfs city after city, day after day. The looting and arson are unwatchable on one hand. The brutality applied by the Government is terrifying on the other. I am struggling to put my head around the hatred, apathy and egotism exhibited from different quarters there, especially when the entire world is in the middle of a socioeconomic crisis in a scale not witnessed before!</div><div><br /></div><div>I am simply confused, because what Uma and I have experienced so far is only love, empathy and kindness. People have gone out of the way to extend their hands to us. It felt as if all of them had been feeling protective of us! </div><div><br /></div><div>When things started going pear-shaped all over the word, the first phone call came from Nicky checking in how we are doing. It was quickly followed by my friend Subbu from Australia, Simon, Kalpesh, John and Venky. Simiyon, one year junior to me at Uni, has been messaging me regularly offering his counsel and ideas.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then Joyce started giving her chiropractic care for free. With no income in sight for months on, I emailed Nat that I wanted to suspend his lawnmowing service, he simply replied that he would continue to mow for free until we start seeing some income. Celia laughed it off when I asked her how much I needed to pay for the garden maintenance.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the early days of the lockdown, Uma and I started going for long walks daily. It was strange to walk through empty streets with only teddy bears keeping us company from windows, gates and letterboxes. But one day, we passed over a stranger who had been sweeping fallen autumn leaves from her driveway. We ended up chatting, mindful of our social distancing requirements.</div><div><br /></div><div>We mentioned to her how overwhelming we had been feeling at that moment, worrying about the future of Take Me 2 The World. She looked at us seriously and said, "For a kiwi like me, it would be great to travel with you and understand New Zealand from your point of view as immigrants". We parted ways after bidding adieu.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once we reached home, Uma and I talked about what Lyn had just said. I decided to send a <b><a href="https://mailchi.mp/6a2a555ade5e/uma-and-i-wish-to-brainstorm-with-you" target="_blank">newsletter </a></b>to our network of past guests, friends and well wishers, inviting them to brainstorm ideas with us. The reply emails with responses and inputs simply oozed love and care! We then followed it up with a Zoom meeting. It was fascinating to see how much people wanted us to succeed! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Together, we came up with several ideas: </div><div>1. We will immediately capitalize on Uma's culinary & teaching skills, which should help us with short-term cashflow.</div><div>2. We will launch a series of International Themed Tours with New Zealand for Kiwis, who cannot travel overseas - Bring the World to New Zealand, so to speak.</div><div>3. Our specialty is creating tailor-made itineraries. We will promote it as a service.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Immediately after the zoom meeting, Al and Alison called us and said they have transferred a $1,000 to our account as a Koha. They advised us to use it to bring our ideas into action. We were left speechless with their kindness!</div><br /></div><div>We immediately registered Uma's Indian Homemade Food service with the city council, delivering dinners on Wednesdays on pre-order. As soon as we posted about this service on Uma's Indian <b><a href="www.indianvegcooking.co.nz" target="_blank">Vegetarian Cooking Class</a></b> <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Indianvegcookingpn/" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a></b>, the planned 15 meals sold out! Jayne straightaway gave us $60, asking us to use the excess to spend on our initial outlay! Jeanine was giving constructive feedback each week and even offered to collaborate.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have no doubt that we would be a success story when we come out of this. But the victory doesn't belong to Uma and me alone, but collectively to every single one of the lovely people of our Whanau! It is no accident that I mentioned at our <a href="http://bni.co.nz/en-NZ/chapterdetail?chapterId=XIhe7NCiZPnevZH8ecwadA%3D%3D&name=BNI+Palmerston+North" target="_blank">BNI Chapter</a> meeting this week that I feel Blessed and Positive.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-90431926683458291002020-05-28T13:04:00.001+12:002020-05-28T13:04:28.800+12:00The Lockdown Diaries: Our Arrival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRGsNja00qz12ceru15ZH1BUyFZ1oAXswNbXEQoELDybwyDBl5R0Tgvb6O4Lamt9iqXsao4BRULjCnvqAJRyPAcYYTfG1T4e85EjKfysyOgqURN43RUh0ghVG3YgaHaVFLWbycSDbzRSS/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2605" data-original-width="2300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRGsNja00qz12ceru15ZH1BUyFZ1oAXswNbXEQoELDybwyDBl5R0Tgvb6O4Lamt9iqXsao4BRULjCnvqAJRyPAcYYTfG1T4e85EjKfysyOgqURN43RUh0ghVG3YgaHaVFLWbycSDbzRSS/s320/Family.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>All things being normal, Uma and I would have been escorting a group of friends in Morocco as we speak! Today would have been Day 12 of the tour for Wendy and friends, starting from Dades, enjoying the views of Atlas Mountains and arriving at Marrakesh. As things stand, we are rescheduling the tour to May 2021.</div><div><br /></div><div>Since we didn't catch the flight to Morocco, let's talk about another flight. This is probably the most important flight we ever took as a family, the one that bought us to New Zealand for a fresh start just 16 years ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>June 2004 brought us our red-letter day in the form of an email from my friend Saravanan. He was living in New Zealand, working as SAP Specialist in the IT Department of Click Clack Limited - you know the company that made unbreakable food storage containers? He was asking me to apply for the position of IT Systems Administrator. </div><div><br /></div><div>I applied just for fun, not thinking too much about it. But then, to my surprise I was interviewed twice within a week and got my offer of employment! And on the 15th August 2004, when India was celebrating its independence day, Uma and I arrived in these shores with our 4-year old Sai. </div><div><br /></div><div>When we came out of Auckland International Terminal to catch the shuttle to Domestic, we had our first taste of Kiwi kindness. We had packed 14 pieces of luggage assuming naively that we wouldn't be able to get most Indian things here. It was spitting when we came out. We were all tired to the bones after a very long-haul journey. <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Sai was clinging to Uma. </span>The shuttle bus arrived. Before we could blink our eyes, fellow travellers picked one of our luggage each with a smile and carried into the bus. I can assure you it was not just the rain that made my eyes wet.</div><div><br /></div><div>And so began our life in New Zealand, in Palmerston North!</div>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-25887979233071725692020-05-21T13:31:00.000+12:002020-05-21T13:31:14.904+12:00The Lockdown Diaries: Life after COVID as Tourism Operators in New Zealand
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4qZFN6lVRHRzRHIuXpXrSPELQ-pJnnMYnpOY9g2rI8cYUdUBgIAhlGaxBFtP8moVqfqCczewscQbksheU9sVr937SMJpi4RCbCv32SWe_vZ4IWsJRhDkvpVCBDWU2MM5FlvsBQU71_Am/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2200" data-original-width="3300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4qZFN6lVRHRzRHIuXpXrSPELQ-pJnnMYnpOY9g2rI8cYUdUBgIAhlGaxBFtP8moVqfqCczewscQbksheU9sVr937SMJpi4RCbCv32SWe_vZ4IWsJRhDkvpVCBDWU2MM5FlvsBQU71_Am/s320/FB+Blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Most people switch on their apocalypse mode during when a
crisis strikes. And then there are some, who see new opportunities. I guess Uma
and I belong to the latter category. I wouldn't pretend that we were not
rattled when COVID-19 situation escalated very rapidly. </span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;">There was no known strategy to refer to. All the rulebooks
and norms were thrown out of the window. Doors were closing in whichever
direction you looked to. Revenue from our Tourism business not just became
Zero, but it started going negative when clients started cancelling and we had
to issue refunds. </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"> </p>
<p><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;">Meanwhile, the bills kept coming. Mortgage needed to be paid.
Our 19-year old son Sai is studying Bachelor of Music (film music composition
specialization) at Victoria University, Wellington. How do we pay his fees?
12-year old Aniruth is in Year 8. Will we still be able to spend $300 for his
school camp in October, if at all it goes ahead? Questions. Lots of them. With
blank answers.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"> </p>
<p><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;">Before I tell you how we went about finding some goals to
work toward to, let me take you on a time travel back through our lives. Back
to when I was a regular, routine-bound, employed man. Uma was discovering
herself with a Web Design business, and then with her <a href="http://indianvegcooking.co.nz" target="_blank">Uma's Indian Vegetarian
Cooking Classes</a>. Then in April 2013, both of us became entrepreneurs and
partners-in-crime, starting our <a href="https://takeme2theworld.com" target="_blank">Tourism business</a> in April 2013. Fasten your
seat belts folks, because you are in for a rollercoaster ride!</span></p>
Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-39109987886364249242017-05-04T15:09:00.000+12:002017-05-04T15:09:55.391+12:00Why A Worn-out Itinerary When You Can Have An Out-Of-The-Ordinary Holiday?I knew I was lost! Gosh, I must be the world's worst map-reader. The air was thick with humidity. I was sweating profusely. Not without some trepidation, I asked this young woman, who was waiting next to me to cross the road, "Excuse me. Could you please tell me the direction for Haji Lane?" It was a relief when she said with a smile that she was heading in that direction, and offered to walk with me. <br />
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I had a 15 hour layover in Singapore, on my way back home to New Zealand. I was determined to avoid the same old tourist routine and discover unique things in the city. The online forums all seem to lead to Haji Lane, a quirky and tiny alley full of interesting cafes and boutique shops. Add artful graffiti decorating both sides of the street. The picture is complete.<br />
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After landing early in <a href="http://www.changiairport.com/" target="_blank">Changi Airport Singapore</a> in the wee hours, I had a restful sleep, shower and breakfast at the <a href="http://www.changiairport.com/en/airport-experience/attractions-and-services/pay-per-use-lounges.html" target="_blank">Ambassador Transit Lounge</a>, before taking a taxi into the city in the morning. I got down at the point that I had planned, closer to Haji Lane. And I got lost promptly as soon as I started walking! So it was a blessing to have found Mae, who just happened to be in Singapore with her husband, who had been attending a conference. <br />
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It turned out to be a great day, with Mae taking me through not only Haji Lane, but also the nearby Arab Quarter, the bustling Tiong Bahru market & hawker centre and finally the Chinese New Year celebration at China Town. She even helped me to bargain for a souvenir! We had a cup of coffee before saying good bye to each other.<br />
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This is the beauty of trekking off the beaten tracks. You never know where the next surprise is coming from. This is the founding philosophy of Team #TakeMe2TheWorld. When you can have a once in a lifetime holiday, why would you want to have a tired and worn-out itinerary? Where is the sense of thrill in jumping into the unknown? <br />
<br />
Take the case of Wellington based friends <a href="http://takeme2theworld.com/testimonial.php" target="_blank">Lisa and Sue</a>. When Septuagenarian Lisa first met me, she had pretty much knew what she wanted out of her India holiday. She commissioned us to design an exclusive itinerary for her and Sue, which bypassed every known popular tourist attraction, traversing through rural South India. We had incorporated the friends' interests of travelling like the locals do, agriculture, fabrics, embroidery, food and cooking, into our itinerary for them.<br />
<br />
Let's peep into a day in their holiday when they visited <a href="https://byhandfromtheheart.wordpress.com/2016/01/07/meet-the-artist-thamarai-house-of-hand-embroidery/" target="_blank">Thamarai, House of Hand Embroidery</a>, shall we? A story within the story!<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;">From Chennai this morning comes this email, from a small workshop in a back, but respectable street in the south of the city. For the embroiderers within our midst, here is a tiny shot of the most heavenly embroidery you could wish to watch being executed. The thread is the finest coiled spring..and the MEN were at long frames, embroidering 13 metre curtain lengths of hand printed silk fabric, with a sort of lozenge patterns in a repeating 10 different lozenge pattern of different sequin, bead and gold thread stuff... using a very fine sort of crochet hook. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;">Also they were working on a PELMET, about a metre deep, 15 metres long, done on deep red velvet with 3sorts of antique coloured gold thread. A special assignment for someone's home, Final cost ? Somewhere about $US 14,000. (For goodness sake, who has that money for a PELMET????). These families did the fine work also in their village to the south of Chennai, and it is a dying art... their children do not want to spend all day at an embroidery frame when they could have a far more exciting life elsewhere. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;">The 3 lady bosses , all from Chennai originally, met in The Louvre where they were working on restoration embroidery. They are most keen to keep the traditional art alive.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;">They take on anything at all working with gold, silver, beads, sequins, and they have the full range of Anchor embroidery threads in their storeroom, not to mention fabric, oh, the works.. a huge storeroom... So, if you wish to have something designed especially, get in touch. They also do work for Chanel, apparently .</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;">I don't know if they do ecclesiastical embroidery, but judging by their storeroom, they could do any kind of bead, sequinned and goldwork you might dream up. They buy the best of metal thread which resists tarnishing. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;">Talk about a pig in clover! I was moved to tears when I first got there, by the beauty of the work...</span></div>
</blockquote>
So tell me. When you can have such unique experiences on your trip, would you restrict your holiday only to popular attractions? Clichéd it may be, but it is not the number of places you have covered in your journey - it is discovery of the self by pushing boundaries and daring to experience, that counts! - <a href="http://takeme2theworld.com/whyus.php#ourteam" target="_blank">Nats Subramanian</a><br />
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<br />Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-65368781102761161052016-11-14T18:16:00.000+13:002016-11-15T11:30:17.326+13:00Captivating Day Trip to Cape PalliserWhenever we travel personally, Uma and I always look to blend the must-do attractions with what the locals do. When one's specialty is planning and organizing exclusive New Zealand holidays, one needs to discover and experience interesting locales, wouldn't you agree? Occupational hazard I suppose...or Not! :p<br />
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So.... On a long weekend in October, we decided to explore <a href="http://www.wairarapanz.com/cape-palliser" target="_blank">Cape Palliser</a> and <a href="http://www.wairarapanz.com/lake-ferry" target="_blank">Lake Ferry</a> areas. We went on a day trip with our two boys. Oh boy! What an amazing trip it was!<br />
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We started our drive from <a href="http://www.manawatunz.co.nz/" target="_blank">Palmerston North</a>, wended our way through the gorgeous <a href="http://www.manawatunz.co.nz/visit/te-apiti-manawatu-gorge/" target="_blank">Manawatu Gorge</a> and proceeded towards Masterton. En route, we stopped over at <a href="http://pukaha.org.nz/" target="_blank">Pukaha Mt. Bruce</a> for a cuppa. This fantastic wildlife reserve is the home of Manukura, the little white Kiwi bird, amongst other NZ native flora and fauna.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj478ChZ1idWSl7KrJInAm3kQjgBffNOZSOcJIxl3fZeiSTphQ3svMCkHMLdDH6hiSJ0Oqne4nAz2UCL9i7g5UzMLpEszoDRWHflUhbuhksp-R_bMlXCFwYrlCuWaDCFGESK7-s0hD6LBRd/s1600/greytown-wairarapa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj478ChZ1idWSl7KrJInAm3kQjgBffNOZSOcJIxl3fZeiSTphQ3svMCkHMLdDH6hiSJ0Oqne4nAz2UCL9i7g5UzMLpEszoDRWHflUhbuhksp-R_bMlXCFwYrlCuWaDCFGESK7-s0hD6LBRd/s320/greytown-wairarapa.jpg" width="320" /></a>We then passed through Masterton and then <a href="http://www.wairarapanz.com/greytown" target="_blank">Greytown</a>, which is known for its cute colonial cottages lining up on both sides of the main road. It is another great stop for coffee and its superb chocolates! In fact, it would be a good idea for you to stock up your grocery (if you are planning for an overnight stay at Cape Palliser) or a picnic lunch. Don't forget a bottle of wine from the local <a href="http://www.wairarapawines.co.nz/home_pages/wineries/index.htm" target="_blank">Wairarapa vineyards</a>! <br />
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On State Highway 2, we took the left turn into Kahutara Road and proceeded towards the Cape. I have driven through many scenic NZ roads, but this must rank amongst the top 5! It was breath-taking. We could clearly see the snow capped mountains as far as Kaikoura in South Island, as though they were floating in the azure waters!<br />
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We crossed the small fishing village of Ngawi and proceeded in the unsealed coastal road towards the old lighthouse. The boys didn't have any problems climbing up 250-plus steps. We too followed them pretty quickly. The scenery waiting there for us is simply impossible to describe in words! I will leave it to you to experience yourself!<br />
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We had our picnic lunch by seaside in one of the many isolated scenic spots, taking in the serenity surrounding us, with only fur seals lounging on rocks for company. We drove in the same road back for about 30 kilometres (about 19 miles), took a left turn and headed into Lake Ferry, a small beach town. Fishing is a popular activity here. We lounged in the open yard overlooking the lake and sea at <a href="http://www.lakeferryhotel.co.nz/" target="_blank">Lake Ferry Hotel</a>, with a cup of coffee and a bowl of fries to the boot.<br />
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We decided to take a detour through <a href="http://martinborough.com/" target="_blank">Martinborough</a>, another small town in the region. It is known for its excellent Pinot Noir. This is another option for an overnight stay. We headed to Carterton from there, took a right turn and stopped at <a href="http://www.stonehenge-aotearoa.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stonehenge Aotearoa</a>. It is a very interesting place to visit, where science meets civilizations. The guided tour blends astronomy with history & legends of the world.<br />
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The day went quickly. It was already time for us to drive back home to Palmerston North after a wonderful family day out! The trip took us through different landscapes within the region. We would strongly recommend 2 or 3 days of touring. Guess what? We have already planned to return in December. This time, we will take a back (holiday home) by the side of the sea in Cape Palliser!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-small;">For your New Zealand holiday ideas, contact us through our website </span></b><a href="http://www.takeme2theworld.com/">www.takeme2theworld.com</a>. Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0Cape Palliser 5772, New Zealand-41.611904 175.29012409999996-41.802165 174.96740059999996 -41.421643 175.61284759999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-78700369710591378722016-07-11T11:02:00.000+12:002016-07-11T11:02:39.559+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 10
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Fri 15 Jan</span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">The
day started early to take advantage of watching the <i>Pongal</i> celebrations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A highlight was stopping at a small temple
that was buzzing with activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People were
praying, touching deities and placing powder on their heads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were some immense statues of deities on
horses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyone was friendly and
welcoming.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Not
long after leaving this temple we stumbled upon some roadside celebration so we
stopped and watched young people dancing frantically accompanied by loud drums
and crashing cymbal-like instruments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lots of locals were mingling around, as were tourists like us who
happened to pass by, some of whom joined in with the dancing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nats informed me that the dance was Tamil
Folk Art called “<i>Thappaattam</i>”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All told,
we obtained a satisfying glimpse of the Pongal Festival, even though some
celebrations were cancelled as a result of the Government banning the Taming of
the Bull (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jallikattu" target="_blank">Jallikattu</a>) ceremonies.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
then headed south along a motorway through dry barren country with low-growing
arid shrubs and little sign of human habitation, apart from occasional fields
of sunflower and corn.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">After
passing through <i>Kovilpatti</i> and glimpsing at the <a href="http://www.nec.edu.in/" target="_blank">National Engineering College</a>
where Nats attended, we continued on and the vegetation progressively changed
to one with many coconut and banana plantations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To our right appeared the Western Ghats and
we drove for several kilometres through a veritable forest of wind turbines.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Eventually
we reached <b>Kanyakumari</b> and had a delightful lunch at the <a href="http://hotelseaview.in/" target="_blank">Seaview Hotel</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had a Malabar fish curry which gave me
wonderful taste sensations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
retrospect it was the best curry I tasted on the trip.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">After
lunch we checked into the Sparsa <a href="http://sparsaresorts.com/" target="_blank">Hotel</a> where our rooms had wonderful expansive
views over the Indian Ocean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we
were at the very southern tip if the Indian mainland.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Late
in the afternoon we stopped outside our hotel immediately into a very crowded
market, along which we strolled to view the big statue of <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvalluvar" target="_blank">Thiruvalluvar</a></i>, whose
memorial we saw in Chennai on our first day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Next to him was a monument to a wandering monk, Swami Vivekananda.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We looked at a Ghandi memorial and wound our
way up a circular tower to observe the surrounding sea and town.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">At
sunset we stepped outside the hotel onto the “boulevard” to watch the sun go
down over the sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t get up the
following morning to watch the sunrise over the sea – one of the few places on
earth where you can be on land and witness both the sunset and sunrise over the
sea – but we did get a great view of it emerging above the palms outside our
room.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Free-camping
was allowed all along the street outside our hotel, so hundreds of campervans,
mostly local visitors, had their vehicles lined up along the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a concentration of humanity in a small
area and no facilities provided, the sights and smells were rather unsavoury to
say the least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This town has much
potential but presently lets itself down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not recommended.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com1Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu 629702, India8.0883064 77.53845078.0568649 77.4981102 8.1197479 77.5787912tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-63113424181603448442016-06-22T15:42:00.001+12:002016-06-22T15:43:10.274+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 9<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Thu 14 Jan</span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">We
set off for Madurai, driving through many paddi fields.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In due course we reached the magical city of
<b>Madurai</b>, which is dominated by its magnificent temple complex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Babu dropped as off somewhere in the city centre
and we followed Nats through many side streets until we reached our lunch spot,
The <i>Sree Mohan Bhojanalay</i> Restaurant, which is a simple upstairs workingmens
eatery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Humble as it was, we had a very
tasty Marvari – South Indian fusion lunch with generous
portions.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">We
then walked back to rendezvous with Babu, taking in all the colourful
sights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We checked in to the <a href="http://www.heritagemadurai.com/" target="_blank">Heritage Hotel</a> which is set in extensive picturesque grounds and possesses a unique
swimming pool shaped like a step-well, reminiscent of the pool we were about to
see in the temple complex. </span><br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Late
in the afternoon we were accompanied by our guide, a Mr Johnson, to see first
of all the <i>Nayakkar Mahal</i> (Palace).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This building houses
many fine treasures, especially some exquisite old sculptures of various
deities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sadly, the building and its
grounds are neglected with paint peeling off and lots of pigeon damage and rank
grass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many labels had come off the
statues.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">But
the real gem of Madurai is its famous <i>Meenakshi Temple</i>, the best Hindu temple that I’ve
seen in India.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We passed through tight
security into the complex and were amazed at the beauty of the art work
inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a maze of arcades
lined with well-preserved statues of deities and gargoyles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is truly impressive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a lovely Nandi with people
whispering their secrets into his ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Local people were prostrating themselves in front of shrines and we
could view some beautiful images of Shiva.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This complex is huge and one could get lost inside, although not
entirely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a formal layout.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB32pmjjopMwDExXJY-2EiFlzwn45SA9wdM8yzBatKgWrn_3-a6PnyMGV_huBC1fcO5J2z9EClCIxYicZeq-rQqHJ-wUIfAGmjoNnMJGKxkUb6sizNF7xq-oDiwo7wa24DceZrWHuYnPE5/s1600/_MG_3774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB32pmjjopMwDExXJY-2EiFlzwn45SA9wdM8yzBatKgWrn_3-a6PnyMGV_huBC1fcO5J2z9EClCIxYicZeq-rQqHJ-wUIfAGmjoNnMJGKxkUb6sizNF7xq-oDiwo7wa24DceZrWHuYnPE5/s320/_MG_3774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Outside
but still in the temple grounds, we gasped at the enormity and beauty of the
gopurams and other structures – high and ornately carved buildings with little
images telling a story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very
colourful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We sat by a central pool and
admired the setting, both the temple complex and its devoted followers.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Leaving
the complex we wound our way through a fascinating warren of narrow alleyways,
with hosts of tailors on Singer sewing machines and a myriad of little dhukhas
selling beautiful cloth and jewellery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It reminded me of Change Alley in Singapore fifty years ago.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Nats
then took us for an Italian meal at <a href="http://www.philsbistro.in/" target="_blank">Phil’s Bistro</a> – quite different.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001, India9.9252007 78.119775399999989.8000697 77.958413899999982 10.0503317 78.281136899999979tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-29425133903254764702016-06-03T08:50:00.001+12:002016-06-03T08:50:45.251+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 8
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Wed 13 Jan</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Started
early for our drive to <i>Kadiapatti</i>, a village halfway between Thanjavur and
Madurai.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">En
route we stopped to see a variety of things: a roadside family who roasted
cashew nuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Took some interesting
photos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The raw nuts are first heated at
high temperature in a pot over a fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The pot had holes which allowed the cashew oil to drip through to sustain
the fire.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobLhcLnf-QQgg702i0hhFMbtsTPJ1ZAjHzWgn2ZF4dBWY0Q-Olc71MC17O2_r47eBJ6aTV5Z9OLZZT5mNSR3NmQYFRfNJk3N1ZhCmchrzQNWISb9xqKNenJC0I5BMjP83LkOjzcFNvLCR/s1600/DSCF0076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobLhcLnf-QQgg702i0hhFMbtsTPJ1ZAjHzWgn2ZF4dBWY0Q-Olc71MC17O2_r47eBJ6aTV5Z9OLZZT5mNSR3NmQYFRfNJk3N1ZhCmchrzQNWISb9xqKNenJC0I5BMjP83LkOjzcFNvLCR/s200/DSCF0076.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">After
a period of time the roasted nuts are taken out and whilst still very hot, an
older woman would take a nut in her hand and hammer the nut casing until the
actual edible cashew nut was revealed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nats bought some nuts off them and we took photos of the family with
young children.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Further
along we stopped to feed a troop of monkeys by throwing biscuits out the
window.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
also stopped at a wayside village to purchase some pens at a small shop (“<i>duka</i>”
in East Africa; “<i>dhukhan</i>” in Hindi; “<i>kadai</i>” in Tamil) to give as gifts for
children.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">At
another point we stopped and walked down a dirt road lined on either side by
terracotta horses, which were offerings to the gods, but we didn’t continue on
to the temple.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UF91NQVgxAc_q_FU1_qMnsEhoxeiRZeeRkSdWIkeiQcDcaLX723y0JLzw9UYWpkux8wh1czLO3_n20XsTavj9sI_FtamN0pfnoGbGOm5k8-zcjJ8WDSRJa_ALPNDIQ4QUoJSk_tjNhS7/s1600/363+Chidambara+Villas+Kadiapatti.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UF91NQVgxAc_q_FU1_qMnsEhoxeiRZeeRkSdWIkeiQcDcaLX723y0JLzw9UYWpkux8wh1czLO3_n20XsTavj9sI_FtamN0pfnoGbGOm5k8-zcjJ8WDSRJa_ALPNDIQ4QUoJSk_tjNhS7/s320/363+Chidambara+Villas+Kadiapatti.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Eventually
we arrived in Kadiapatti and booked in to the <a href="http://www.chidambaravilas.com/" target="_blank">Chidambara Villas</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a magnificently restored Chittinad
House and after a superb authentic South India lunch, served on banana leaves,
we were taken on a tour of the house by the delightful manager called
Kavitha.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She spoke excellent English and
was very informative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The house is
amazing in its architecture with rooms in the past allocated for various
purposes, such as discussions between parents for the offering of a dowry, or
arranging for loans, another one for formal hosting and other rooms for storing
valuables.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">For
the next couple of hours we rested to let our sumptuous lunch go down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vPkvr7iL7q8HbpwO6t5Xbl4eZvIKMETEhWDG_dEAw_3RogkCnrQ-Vzsi2y8BhdNGWKnKhADUDgOl00RPIR-igIGuvUZPULXv8_qgWXjzSaeUs0zGdYR8COa_Gu0fWdGnLd7RkNwxgUPH/s1600/_MG_3741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vPkvr7iL7q8HbpwO6t5Xbl4eZvIKMETEhWDG_dEAw_3RogkCnrQ-Vzsi2y8BhdNGWKnKhADUDgOl00RPIR-igIGuvUZPULXv8_qgWXjzSaeUs0zGdYR8COa_Gu0fWdGnLd7RkNwxgUPH/s320/_MG_3741.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Around 4pm we gathered to watch Kavitha
construct a <i>Kolam</i> on the road outside our entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We joined in to chalk our own images, then we
went for a stroll around the village.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Chidambara Villas are an oasis of splendour amidst a neglected
village (<i>patti</i>) where several grand old houses have passed their glory and
fallen into neglect as the younger generation leave for richer pastures. </span></div>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
</span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">When
we got back, Alison and I had a swim in the inviting pool.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Just
prior to dinner, Nats had arranged for us to visit the kitchen and watch food
preparation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dinner was a buffet of
superb local dishes.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
</div>
Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-49086156227832454282016-05-27T11:19:00.000+12:002016-05-27T11:19:18.356+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 7
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Tue 12 Jan</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Early
start for drive to Thanjavur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Passed
through a lovely rice field and stopped en route to see rope making with
coconut fibre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all had a go at
teasing out the fibre.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkyeUM3gxaFke9NoSsg5tJsYUcBG0_wt_GaSCfeh5kJcBJXLjoq6JG9Unhd2QYNLPGchViDIZ9oUC29GytrrAEat4EPFpD_8qYmpYbId1k-iN2yhdiFb0h5qU3D-0135VPRe8dGjns__S/s1600/279+On+road+to+Thanjavur.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkyeUM3gxaFke9NoSsg5tJsYUcBG0_wt_GaSCfeh5kJcBJXLjoq6JG9Unhd2QYNLPGchViDIZ9oUC29GytrrAEat4EPFpD_8qYmpYbId1k-iN2yhdiFb0h5qU3D-0135VPRe8dGjns__S/s320/279+On+road+to+Thanjavur.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
also stopped to see a mud house and family by the side of the road. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
crossed a dam and saw many crocodiles in the water, bathing on the banks or in
the shallows not far from where fishermen were sitting on little rafts with
their feet dangling in the water.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Very
pleasant South India lunch at the Paradise Resort mid-way on the journey. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Arrived
at Thanjavur approx. 3pm and dropped our luggage off at the Tanjore Hi
Hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2e9qqozyyNW6XrNUIvpR2fsEKHDZLbue9TensrQ33uNGP8ZU1Od2TpupfCbyzJKgiHNfPXMIWR-T86Y7nbdo1U-oAu9k2ztviTz6SOtJ5YOdKdwpSBWqDoUnI-IiWoE4GG9IdgkuSxgFS/s1600/_MG_3709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2e9qqozyyNW6XrNUIvpR2fsEKHDZLbue9TensrQ33uNGP8ZU1Od2TpupfCbyzJKgiHNfPXMIWR-T86Y7nbdo1U-oAu9k2ztviTz6SOtJ5YOdKdwpSBWqDoUnI-IiWoE4GG9IdgkuSxgFS/s320/_MG_3709.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Guided
by Mr Raja to the Palace to see the wonderful 7C – 11C bronze statues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are truly great pieces of art, mainly
of Shiva and Parvati.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Late in the
afternoon we visited the famous local temple with its impressive Nandi and
great towers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was atmospheric to
enter the interior of one of the “shrines” and observe Shiva in the form of a
lingam. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">After
this, we went to a genuine small bronze-making business and observed the
procedures for making bronze items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
bought a little statue of Lakshmi and a little sleeping Buddha.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>B and P bought a larger impressive Nandi.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlO16fDQdYaTD467ledHR_3gkJYOhtCamgXhgvsBbQcYUq_1vuX8tjZKi7gkVBmG-cxcD-Xx57yJYnKT-Q0Z_db0a4msd3qDv3oDqaQKySXloYd2GqyQvMH6wuWtld1Rfh0lCJoHJ7ze0/s1600/P1000292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlO16fDQdYaTD467ledHR_3gkJYOhtCamgXhgvsBbQcYUq_1vuX8tjZKi7gkVBmG-cxcD-Xx57yJYnKT-Q0Z_db0a4msd3qDv3oDqaQKySXloYd2GqyQvMH6wuWtld1Rfh0lCJoHJ7ze0/s320/P1000292.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Our
evening meal was delightful sitting out on a balcony looking up at the starlit
sky and a beautiful moon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nats helpfully
suggested which dishes we should sample.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His advice in this area is a real bonus on this tour. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Slept
well in a beautifully decorated room.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
</div>
Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001, India10.7869994 79.13782739999999210.5374024 78.8151039 11.036596399999999 79.460550899999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-89196684107665374852016-05-20T14:30:00.000+12:002016-05-20T14:30:05.978+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 6
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Mon 11 Jan</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Woken
just after 4am by the very loud sound of the fishing boats heading out to
sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was followed by loud local
religious chanting/singing, which we subsequently found was common in South India at this
hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">When
the sun rose, it streamed straight through into our door from over the sea.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">A<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-kQSq99B2CNvmjvAWmfMnodYHvW4X9cHK605Eb-MKIEXQffAXYRCVIzen33wZTZDFM-f1lgdou6nR9HzPxwfjS-n5sNATSCR5eD8sOCGOZwAinrYjFv7wk8G0lQJs2Cw9PZF1rLG7los/s1600/187+Dune+Eco+Village.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-kQSq99B2CNvmjvAWmfMnodYHvW4X9cHK605Eb-MKIEXQffAXYRCVIzen33wZTZDFM-f1lgdou6nR9HzPxwfjS-n5sNATSCR5eD8sOCGOZwAinrYjFv7wk8G0lQJs2Cw9PZF1rLG7los/s320/187+Dune+Eco+Village.JPG" width="320" /></a>fter
a lovely breakfast in the open dining room, we headed back to Pondicherry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the way, we collected our guide for the
day, Kamachi, who also happened to be a lawyer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She spoke very good English.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">In
the early morning light we took a delightful cycle rickshaw ride through the
French quarter, noting the influence of the French in the architecture of the
buildings<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>with arched and wrought iron
gateways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Afterwards, we drove around in
our van visiting two wonderful Catholic churches and poked our nose into the
Sri Aurobindo ashram and saw the ashrams’ paper-making centre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We then strolled through the absolutely
delightful Pondicherry flower, fruit, veggie and fish market. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoCqOictbwFuccpL4CV0WkD4fual28RyMp67rr9_WwNYuzOGZ5jZRCXLfUJhMYt0A4qVxsqHkH6HHQwv8awwdeLcYMz8ybgKKARczA3zgLyBsSd-mq-cR5xS0qfvUI7mb0Mw7E9v17XKY/s1600/213+Guide+Kamachi+Pondicherry.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoCqOictbwFuccpL4CV0WkD4fual28RyMp67rr9_WwNYuzOGZ5jZRCXLfUJhMYt0A4qVxsqHkH6HHQwv8awwdeLcYMz8ybgKKARczA3zgLyBsSd-mq-cR5xS0qfvUI7mb0Mw7E9v17XKY/s200/213+Guide+Kamachi+Pondicherry.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Lunch
was taken at a French bakery, “Baker Street” with authentic French baking – we
had a pizza and ham quiche – not exactly French but very tasty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also tasted some delightful sweet morsels. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">In
the afternoon we visited Auroville and were impressed with the imposing
matrimandir – a huge golden globe that is used as a meditation dwelling only by
devout followers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Outsiders aren’t
allowed in.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Returning
to our village we relaxed with a cooling swim and dined at night in the
restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
</div>
Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com1Pondicherry AKA Puducherry, Puducherry, India11.9138598 79.81447219999995511.789577300000001 79.653110699999957 12.0381423 79.975833699999953tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-55645495461820187732016-05-13T13:52:00.001+12:002016-05-13T13:52:04.820+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 5
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Sun 10 Jan</span></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Early
start to wander around the incredible sculptured rocks of Mahabalipuram, dating
back to the 7<sup>th</sup> Century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA7z-VTRouhU3nEDIhLkMe8D04mHq8ub6jrkUEYPqdy5MCYF6bPOsnRKd0mlPudFQABvDpiufHZVVVFFCWNUlvY__Fm1K4rHxjUWNc1NA1lL-amgJ02W6_iWCT-3TwjncDmSPo5VjExJgg/s1600/Mahabs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA7z-VTRouhU3nEDIhLkMe8D04mHq8ub6jrkUEYPqdy5MCYF6bPOsnRKd0mlPudFQABvDpiufHZVVVFFCWNUlvY__Fm1K4rHxjUWNc1NA1lL-amgJ02W6_iWCT-3TwjncDmSPo5VjExJgg/s400/Mahabs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
were accompanied by a very knowledgeable guide, <i>Cholan</i>, who explained all of
the details of the carvings in the rock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Visiting these sculptures was a rich experience which I’m sure will
prove to be a highlight of our tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
captured lots of photos and videos of this enchanting place.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
got back to our Resort at midday in time to check out and went to a nearby
vegetarian restaurant for lunch with Nats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Had aloo gobi and a vegetable kofta curry.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXjqcTMm4rAHUocwT8DzaY1UbdYnn4aMGWyTYiDV-rVeWW0Vx3vDTmUIQDMu13ewuPpeMjyNQCIQmn4VYLmq54m9KOjEh-S8wAdSj3RLvbj2KGQVf3f6Rim_Dz6VtEhInU3RknzxQhVVZ/s1600/185+Dune+Eco+Village.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXjqcTMm4rAHUocwT8DzaY1UbdYnn4aMGWyTYiDV-rVeWW0Vx3vDTmUIQDMu13ewuPpeMjyNQCIQmn4VYLmq54m9KOjEh-S8wAdSj3RLvbj2KGQVf3f6Rim_Dz6VtEhInU3RknzxQhVVZ/s320/185+Dune+Eco+Village.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
drove during the afternoon to Pondicherry where we checked into our
accommodation right by the beach – <i><a href="http://www.duneecogroup.com/our-hotels/the-dune" target="_blank">Dune Eco Village and Spa</a></i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Alison and I had a raised bure with a bamboo
slatted floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had an A-framed
thatched roof and a lovely outdoor covered balcony.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Late
in the afternoon we went to the French quarter of Pondy for a drink at the
<i>Seaview Hotel</i> overlooking the beach and pier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nats ordered us snacks of various kinds, the best being <i>chicken tikka</i>
and a <i>Egg Bhurji</i> (spiced scrambled egg).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the
sun had set we wandered along the promenade enjoying the atmosphere with other
strollers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We admired the huge sculpture
of Gandhi.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Slept
well under our mosquito net although the bed was a bit hard.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-62976501546691619332016-05-11T14:42:00.001+12:002016-05-11T14:42:14.390+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 4
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Sat 9 Jan</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Late
start at 10am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lovely drive down to <i>Mamallapuram</i>
(also called <i>Mahabalipuram</i>), reaching coconut palms along the coast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We stopped halfway to look at a fascinating
crocodile sanctuary which housed crocodiles from all over the world.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilx8luy6V2MqXRT7e2gCOBjaJBO-y5_nK-3_d4XKc3tv6UZHXIJayaHDl6GjsFboEg_gUP5UYMTlcJuoELqU45_gV5vJrb9drbo03qg5WlIZFjnuLTGRcAZnGEukhhAcIt6n9f9wEfkvvI/s1600/P1000200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilx8luy6V2MqXRT7e2gCOBjaJBO-y5_nK-3_d4XKc3tv6UZHXIJayaHDl6GjsFboEg_gUP5UYMTlcJuoELqU45_gV5vJrb9drbo03qg5WlIZFjnuLTGRcAZnGEukhhAcIt6n9f9wEfkvvI/s200/P1000200.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Lunch
was had at the <i><a href="http://www.moonrakersrestaurants.com/" target="_blank">Moonraker’s Restaurant</a></i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s a small place but possesses a delightful ambience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Started with a cold Kingfisher beer then
squid pieces cooked in a batter followed a huge king prawns and a grilled snapper
and rice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All very tasty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the street where Ric Stein wrote
that he sampled the best curry in all of Indian – a fish curry at the Seashore
Restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufGV_WwqdWR1Zp8fJPGmGo_clIAuV7MxX2Lct4ulbr1Gp253edIFVQ15z7gxzgvlRyTaiZ2jlc-muQ7T9mfP7Knt4Kg_8RozXzeVW0qD6PHR2Pr9fyRTif7saamzlsnWzHLm0W5SZdA_l/s1600/057+Strolling+around+Mamallapuram.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufGV_WwqdWR1Zp8fJPGmGo_clIAuV7MxX2Lct4ulbr1Gp253edIFVQ15z7gxzgvlRyTaiZ2jlc-muQ7T9mfP7Knt4Kg_8RozXzeVW0qD6PHR2Pr9fyRTif7saamzlsnWzHLm0W5SZdA_l/s200/057+Strolling+around+Mamallapuram.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5QGW0kPgvPbVMxoAY6B8X6s-7yix-KOb0atKBM8zONPP_v0ef5cbzHVaOD8mFCtU5RPPGq6cYkz8h6kbtJtd3m9ICalLzzKGsO5j8qD3aUzCo-m5__ULt0SXp7gL5dSjkNigW1yVZJOa/s1600/057+Strolling+around+Mamallapuram.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">After
lunch we strolled down the colourful lane to the beach, stopping at Apollo
Books to but some books on the Mahabalipuram sculptures that we were going to
visit in the morning. <span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Back at the <i><a href="https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-mamallapuram" target="_blank">Radisson Blu Temple Bay Resort</a></i> we lazed away the rest of the afternoon, swimming in the delightful long pool.</span></span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">In
the evening we went to a wonderful dance performance as part of the Indian
Dance Festival held at this time of the year for a month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We watched the <i>Bharatanatyam Dance group</i>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Returning
back to the Resort we had a wonderful meal of <i>Aloo Gobi</i>, crepe stuffed with
tomatoes, spinach and mushrooms, a wonderful okra dish and dumplings in a
spinach sauce.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-65273763669256698052016-05-08T19:00:00.000+12:002016-05-08T19:00:21.233+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 3
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Fri 8 Jan</span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uDdGPX6uu_3OJIbZ3WNROhEGrrv_MmMnJedj7bxt6tzH6gTvbEX78D7XavNUzcWMdoiJvudoxk2x2h2Hj44UGxyi_4K529Cp-mqB-8Zz44YFbZYQlqVJ15jnKd7IqfZ1_PrMipn3texN/s1600/036+Mrs+Anandhi+%2528Mrs+Happiness%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uDdGPX6uu_3OJIbZ3WNROhEGrrv_MmMnJedj7bxt6tzH6gTvbEX78D7XavNUzcWMdoiJvudoxk2x2h2Hj44UGxyi_4K529Cp-mqB-8Zz44YFbZYQlqVJ15jnKd7IqfZ1_PrMipn3texN/s200/036+Mrs+Anandhi+%2528Mrs+Happiness%2529.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Busy
day today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nats and Anitha collected us
at 7.45am and we drove through early morning traffic to collect our older guide
for the day, a delightful 77-year-old woman who proved to be very knowledgeable
about Indian religion and art – Mrs Anandhi (Mrs “Happiness”).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
went first to the <i><a href="http://www.kalakshetra.in/site/" target="_blank">Kalakshetra Foundation</a></i> which is an indigenous arts foundation
set in a beautiful compound with lots of trees and scattered open-windowed
rooms and a big auditorium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No-one else
was around and we arrived to an open area under a massive banyan tree where
about 100 mainly young female students were seated on the ground in the lotus
position, singing a long very appealing chant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was captivating. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuwxvVjBc02-scIhGn8OUck9ZGau4NQRt-eS21jXN-AY1kixQMt4MyiPPwLGSeNyawBiavbZ8F3qt9QsQ_uVL8Ra9Ljf4ciAm8amCNLWvpNAlGrDcgbw3ohOm7e76bWGYX76WVt0yZp8h/s1600/026+Kalakshetra+Foundation.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuwxvVjBc02-scIhGn8OUck9ZGau4NQRt-eS21jXN-AY1kixQMt4MyiPPwLGSeNyawBiavbZ8F3qt9QsQ_uVL8Ra9Ljf4ciAm8amCNLWvpNAlGrDcgbw3ohOm7e76bWGYX76WVt0yZp8h/s200/026+Kalakshetra+Foundation.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Around
9.30am they finished and dispersed to their various classes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was an absolute delight to wander around
the compound watching or listening to the students performing dance and
music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some were also learning to play
various musical instruments such as the violin and the <i>veena</i> which is like a
large-sized sitar, although the veena is more ancient than the sitar and there
is no connection between the two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
of the dancing was thrilling to watch through the open windows or sitting on
chairs inside.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPUnU0DNtN2Akf_YEnwQZv8VpxEcSOhIiV-edupdPUDZ07qmhTAMasWJFiwoQGIK8RNKGMc3-m3u9BZnwzNpeECd_Hk0_LG3c9rR3q-WaUPeseskR5piPy_AHXjdUoG1_CYr8Sp_MsD5ch/s1600/035+DhakshinaChitra+Centre.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPUnU0DNtN2Akf_YEnwQZv8VpxEcSOhIiV-edupdPUDZ07qmhTAMasWJFiwoQGIK8RNKGMc3-m3u9BZnwzNpeECd_Hk0_LG3c9rR3q-WaUPeseskR5piPy_AHXjdUoG1_CYr8Sp_MsD5ch/s200/035+DhakshinaChitra+Centre.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">After
this wonderful experience we went to the <i><a href="http://dakshinachitra.net/" target="_blank">DhakshinaChitra Centre</a></i>, which is a
huge compound where houses from various South India regions have been
reconstructed in their original form – from Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra
Pradesh – some from reassembled original materials collected from their home
state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We watched an open-air dance performance,
glass-blowing (Nats bought and gave us each a little peacock or elephant
cocktail stirrer) and pottery-making.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was an open gathering of artists from various villages who were
selling their wares. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
had an enjoyable South Indian lunch at this Centre.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">In
the afternoon we drove along the Marina Beach which is about 1km wide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Locals were mingling on the beach but none
were swimming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We drove past an Ice
House and Madras University and passed by old British heritage buildings. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
then arrived at Santhome Church where St Thomas is buried.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We went in and observed his tomb.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qt0wx3_GWKHIOSFBptXd2FW3kYUFQG5p-0PvV37nXRROPz7ec8awbf2YWXcJzog45bWerhwEHzhnqEWnZJ6SJck-Xe-YTqGNsbZr8TTxwTKHNqzYHKFk07USk67EUmJmtnZckspxNwxL/s1600/_MG_3609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qt0wx3_GWKHIOSFBptXd2FW3kYUFQG5p-0PvV37nXRROPz7ec8awbf2YWXcJzog45bWerhwEHzhnqEWnZJ6SJck-Xe-YTqGNsbZr8TTxwTKHNqzYHKFk07USk67EUmJmtnZckspxNwxL/s200/_MG_3609.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">We
then visited a Shiva Temple at Mylapore, which you enter through an impressive
<i>gopuram</i> adorned with colourful ceramic figures of Shiva.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A loud festival was in progress with crowds
of people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The chiming of a huge bell
and the noise from the blowing of various instruments that sounded like South
African vuvuzelas – a very penetrating a sound – was too much for Paul and me,
so we retreated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was approached by an
odd local who tried to convince me to take off my temple socks and experience
the sensation of walking around the temple barefoot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As part of a ritual, Nats prostrated himself
in front of a shrine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anitha sat on the
ground in the lotus position and swayed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There was much ritual activity being performed all around us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Arial Unicode MS",sans-serif;">Tired at the end of a long day, we went back
to our hotel, showered and relaxed in a quiet bar for a Kingfisher beer and
then settled for a meal in the hotel restaurant – Barbara had a nasi goreng,
Alison a plate of samosas and Paul and I shared a very hot green chicken curry.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
</div>
Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India13.0826802 80.27071840000007812.5876862 79.625271400000074 13.5776742 80.916165400000082tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-3924494944544968142016-05-07T14:15:00.000+12:002016-05-07T14:15:04.524+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 2<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Thu 7 Jan</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D1ltjkYlQJg8J_hxd_9kEMVgPYDB-dijsLi1TZwgYivkCl8V1fbh6o4P_YgwYpKz6r15oY4rrtU3ZVZvL2xovDc7EuRb3g7kY3nFINtgAkyAVRH7gM_yfrVRUbXy_tKdJlMuEl9VKy0i/s1600/_MG_3505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D1ltjkYlQJg8J_hxd_9kEMVgPYDB-dijsLi1TZwgYivkCl8V1fbh6o4P_YgwYpKz6r15oY4rrtU3ZVZvL2xovDc7EuRb3g7kY3nFINtgAkyAVRH7gM_yfrVRUbXy_tKdJlMuEl9VKy0i/s200/_MG_3505.JPG" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D1ltjkYlQJg8J_hxd_9kEMVgPYDB-dijsLi1TZwgYivkCl8V1fbh6o4P_YgwYpKz6r15oY4rrtU3ZVZvL2xovDc7EuRb3g7kY3nFINtgAkyAVRH7gM_yfrVRUbXy_tKdJlMuEl9VKy0i/s1600/_MG_3505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D1ltjkYlQJg8J_hxd_9kEMVgPYDB-dijsLi1TZwgYivkCl8V1fbh6o4P_YgwYpKz6r15oY4rrtU3ZVZvL2xovDc7EuRb3g7kY3nFINtgAkyAVRH7gM_yfrVRUbXy_tKdJlMuEl9VKy0i/s1600/_MG_3505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D1ltjkYlQJg8J_hxd_9kEMVgPYDB-dijsLi1TZwgYivkCl8V1fbh6o4P_YgwYpKz6r15oY4rrtU3ZVZvL2xovDc7EuRb3g7kY3nFINtgAkyAVRH7gM_yfrVRUbXy_tKdJlMuEl9VKy0i/s1600/_MG_3505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D1ltjkYlQJg8J_hxd_9kEMVgPYDB-dijsLi1TZwgYivkCl8V1fbh6o4P_YgwYpKz6r15oY4rrtU3ZVZvL2xovDc7EuRb3g7kY3nFINtgAkyAVRH7gM_yfrVRUbXy_tKdJlMuEl9VKy0i/s1600/_MG_3505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Nats
collected us at 9am and we went straight to the Valluvar Kottam, which is a
memorial to a great poet Thiruvalluvar, who wrote a great tome called the
Kural.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a long poem of 1330
couplets covering ethereal issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sadly, the compound has been neglected and the massive chariot, which
would look spectacular if in pristine condition, looks dilapidated. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">An accompanying building houses granite-inscribed
slabs with the couplets, and these are also in a neglected state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Kural dates back to over 2,000
years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gardens, which apparently
were very pleasant, are now overgrown and occupied by the homeless.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8jm4UB5m9BlDpBmx8fVrJifBDlfguFHl77uiCNzo-fBTOOc-dMmDo0xnYohfHLJNEJzWrxkR88AznDEoLgCfXDq8l7gVcksGHrU4IT8PawKved-e9tvpbVjBZlq82b8d4jR2ktBR6t1S4/s200/_MG_3522.JPG" width="200" /> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8jm4UB5m9BlDpBmx8fVrJifBDlfguFHl77uiCNzo-fBTOOc-dMmDo0xnYohfHLJNEJzWrxkR88AznDEoLgCfXDq8l7gVcksGHrU4IT8PawKved-e9tvpbVjBZlq82b8d4jR2ktBR6t1S4/s1600/_MG_3522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">We
then strolled through the Koyambedu flower market which consisted of a riot of
colour with mountains of different flowers.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">At
lunchtime we had a magnificent feast in the home of Dr Sudarsanan which his
wife prepared for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were treated
like royalty in their home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We gave them
a wooden entwined table mat and B and P gave them a lovely plate.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2MVSvwMqyfk7zmFSKdd7W8t2L1mQodjAAkBE_mhERUOp3y2po1JnfpYpIrjN9YzotHWCD1bEsm-V-Trw0d9Z8KGlrJQHWFE4bD2KlwYUolEoNiWBilRl8eV6HYM4JMX-F0c0TZqg-CkAo/s1600/021+Lunch+with+Dr++and+Mrs+Sudarsanan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2MVSvwMqyfk7zmFSKdd7W8t2L1mQodjAAkBE_mhERUOp3y2po1JnfpYpIrjN9YzotHWCD1bEsm-V-Trw0d9Z8KGlrJQHWFE4bD2KlwYUolEoNiWBilRl8eV6HYM4JMX-F0c0TZqg-CkAo/s320/021+Lunch+with+Dr++and+Mrs+Sudarsanan.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Late
in the afternoon we visited St Andrew’s round church and then took a stroll
down Mint Street, mingling with the throngs.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Nats
had a team member with us all day called Anitha, who is very pretty and a
delight to talk with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is 40 but
looks 20 and she talked freely about her arranged marriage and the difficulties
of forging her own life.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5gZYFoceQH9BaHOFkJ3VoW2XaH7Ab1VeCUBOfQgSoQ4D47qfwNPki2Kr72RFZjwksxe0HWv3KZQEfdzelDVT99GKYkJV0bFxLV-5ROWxnQqdoHY_EcjNImvw0FFM_ohPjahD0t2xW6Wd/s1600/024+Anitha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5gZYFoceQH9BaHOFkJ3VoW2XaH7Ab1VeCUBOfQgSoQ4D47qfwNPki2Kr72RFZjwksxe0HWv3KZQEfdzelDVT99GKYkJV0bFxLV-5ROWxnQqdoHY_EcjNImvw0FFM_ohPjahD0t2xW6Wd/s1600/024+Anitha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5gZYFoceQH9BaHOFkJ3VoW2XaH7Ab1VeCUBOfQgSoQ4D47qfwNPki2Kr72RFZjwksxe0HWv3KZQEfdzelDVT99GKYkJV0bFxLV-5ROWxnQqdoHY_EcjNImvw0FFM_ohPjahD0t2xW6Wd/s200/024+Anitha.JPG" width="150" /></a> </span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5gZYFoceQH9BaHOFkJ3VoW2XaH7Ab1VeCUBOfQgSoQ4D47qfwNPki2Kr72RFZjwksxe0HWv3KZQEfdzelDVT99GKYkJV0bFxLV-5ROWxnQqdoHY_EcjNImvw0FFM_ohPjahD0t2xW6Wd/s1600/024+Anitha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5gZYFoceQH9BaHOFkJ3VoW2XaH7Ab1VeCUBOfQgSoQ4D47qfwNPki2Kr72RFZjwksxe0HWv3KZQEfdzelDVT99GKYkJV0bFxLV-5ROWxnQqdoHY_EcjNImvw0FFM_ohPjahD0t2xW6Wd/s1600/024+Anitha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5gZYFoceQH9BaHOFkJ3VoW2XaH7Ab1VeCUBOfQgSoQ4D47qfwNPki2Kr72RFZjwksxe0HWv3KZQEfdzelDVT99GKYkJV0bFxLV-5ROWxnQqdoHY_EcjNImvw0FFM_ohPjahD0t2xW6Wd/s1600/024+Anitha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Late
afternoon Barbara and Alison shopped for Indian toys whilst Paul and I went to
Raymond’s tailors where I was measure for some trousers which I collect
tomorrow.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">In
the evening we relaxed in the hotel with a Kingfisher beer and nibbles during
the happy hour.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India13.0826802 80.27071840000007812.5876862 79.625271400000074 13.5776742 80.916165400000082tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-20759512117776332132016-05-06T14:19:00.000+12:002016-05-06T14:21:26.153+12:00Al's Musings - South India trip Jan 2016 - Day 1In January 2016, Nats accompanied two lovely couples from New Zealand - Al & Alison Rowland & Paul & Barbara Brookfield for 21 days through South India. Al had been keeping a diary of the entire trip. He has gracefully given us permission to publish it. We would be presenting the day by day musing of Al for the next 21 days. Here is the first day!<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">SOUTH INDIA
TRIP 6 January – 27 January 2016</span></b></div>
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</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">With Nats Subramanian from
Take Me2India (now <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>known as TakeMe2The
World)</span></b></div>
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</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Accompanied
by our friends Barbara and Paul Brookfield.</span></div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGagw5M1Rq_QChf3PQLNX1MsPS2pfxELjhNsoytzuknmzIz0hj9rzCJeaiH-darB2b8tfsiEtxVpwfcKl7Tq8oJxDjXmF8c5j8NKLN6Eh7J0ooTg_cNteO_6nhHMnXlr-SvyFQ_678lL8N/s1600/_MG_3702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGagw5M1Rq_QChf3PQLNX1MsPS2pfxELjhNsoytzuknmzIz0hj9rzCJeaiH-darB2b8tfsiEtxVpwfcKl7Tq8oJxDjXmF8c5j8NKLN6Eh7J0ooTg_cNteO_6nhHMnXlr-SvyFQ_678lL8N/s320/_MG_3702.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">We
arrived in Chennai late on the 6<sup>th</sup> after two tiring flights –
AKLD-SING-CHENNAI.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">We
already had our electronic visas so immigration clearance wasn’t too bad,
although Barb and Alison were both finger-printed and for some reason the
machine wouldn’t record Alison’s fingerprints which caused a little
consternation.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Our
bags came through on the carousel, thankfully, as we had only an hour in
transit in Singapore.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Nats
was outside the airport to meet us – a welcome sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took us to our air-conditioned van and we
met our driver for the trip – Babu.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial unicode ms" , sans-serif;">Through
late-night traffic we drove to our hotel – the Raintree on Anna Salai, and
after a nice shower we collapsed into bed.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-385211472262863522015-11-27T14:45:00.000+13:002015-11-27T14:45:10.030+13:005 Top Driving Tips that can make your New Zealand Holiday safe and pleasant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3YETBMWi1ahPaTBfyOFwt6ASriW1TLODr-UaE6-ng0HRy6mGLvIJ3r7s0OC-TTMeFYDWXGTTPi272o1m7vmc1MJ03Us6dg_n4wZqwPohMMzQBEqySJ9nY3iXY2IDxUEZp8DylvjrOyD_C/s1600/Nats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3YETBMWi1ahPaTBfyOFwt6ASriW1TLODr-UaE6-ng0HRy6mGLvIJ3r7s0OC-TTMeFYDWXGTTPi272o1m7vmc1MJ03Us6dg_n4wZqwPohMMzQBEqySJ9nY3iXY2IDxUEZp8DylvjrOyD_C/s200/Nats.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
When I came to New Zealand for the first time in August 2004, it took some time for me to get used to driving. Coming from India, the road code and driving etiquette were Latin to me. The non-use of the horn was shocking. Wouldn't it go to rust and crumble?! And Give Way! What is that all about? All I knew was to Take Way when there is a gap for my car to fit into! But man, were the things different! As in DIFFERENT! If you are anything like me, this blog is for you!<br />
<br />
Before we go any further, let me tell you straight - New Zealand is best seen by driving yourself. If you can drive, take a <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/ShowUserReviews-g255368-d6487067-r274367096-Takeme2NewZealand-Palmerston_North_Manawatu_Wanganui_Region_North_Island.html#REVIEWS" target="_blank">rental car</a> or even better, a<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Takeme2NZ/posts/899114990138293" target="_blank"> camper van</a> (motor home). You will have a trip of your lifetime. Just follow these simple tips. You will enjoy your trip.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSEePcjT8PIKeBhyWuYfR5ZUcwMU6wJgUJ2Q4s_4YhR1z73rRlgjoqAslR_1rUL3DOFvUJMeCiwaSK_h3Xy0ghv3PcaMPg9s1X36TOq2tefI4smBhvaRQ4O0Mfb4bQepoPMR46v8wPCRS/s1600/nz_driving_keep_left.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSEePcjT8PIKeBhyWuYfR5ZUcwMU6wJgUJ2Q4s_4YhR1z73rRlgjoqAslR_1rUL3DOFvUJMeCiwaSK_h3Xy0ghv3PcaMPg9s1X36TOq2tefI4smBhvaRQ4O0Mfb4bQepoPMR46v8wPCRS/s200/nz_driving_keep_left.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>1. Keep Left.</b> This is very important, especially if you live in a country, where you drive on the right-hand side. Our body is so programmed around our day to day routines. All it takes a momentary loss of concentration, you will find yourself in autopilot, driving on the wrong side. Not good for you, not good for other motorists. So keep your focus and keep to your left!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2KUMpRuHwXwQHrj_ckGfpU9KxeoivPv1K3aR0C6NOPBq527wcXD6r4u4I0uruybfClZtQL3TxJ-zUfXiqBJbP6wQwFyMosoCpA76j3M0LUC1sY6Q1SolCfnJ3aaTAe343rJQqGpJypHcr/s1600/Yellow+lines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2KUMpRuHwXwQHrj_ckGfpU9KxeoivPv1K3aR0C6NOPBq527wcXD6r4u4I0uruybfClZtQL3TxJ-zUfXiqBJbP6wQwFyMosoCpA76j3M0LUC1sY6Q1SolCfnJ3aaTAe343rJQqGpJypHcr/s200/Yellow+lines.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>2.</b> <b>Mind those yellow lines.</b> Pay attention to the center lines. They tell you when to pass (overtake) the vehicle in front of you safely. If the lines are in dotted white, as long as you are able to see at least 100 to 150 meters in front of you and the conditions are safe, you may pass that slow-moving caravan. If you see two solid yellow lines, it is illegal to overtake and go into the right-hand side lane. If there is an yellow line on your side and white on the other side, you are not allowed to cross the line and overtake. If you have white lines on your side and the yellow line is on the other side (like in the picture), you may pass. My personal advice? Keep your overtaking to minimum. You are in New Zealand to enjoy yourself, not to beat every other car in a race! If you must, then wait for the designated Passing Lane.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9R3fuxCdVsWJbiv1cR1m0NsutWKwpe3U_Zp_ezCuarOymLfhQchZ0nC9bjV6cwa3udIM3jd5aPFRT1-FmDJYMOm1wQtyqYdcNc-R0TjIP5ZN23gI-myznvtbY7TTYLI58NLvji17nBX8B/s1600/100K.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9R3fuxCdVsWJbiv1cR1m0NsutWKwpe3U_Zp_ezCuarOymLfhQchZ0nC9bjV6cwa3udIM3jd5aPFRT1-FmDJYMOm1wQtyqYdcNc-R0TjIP5ZN23gI-myznvtbY7TTYLI58NLvji17nBX8B/s200/100K.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>3. Stick to the Speed Limits.</b> It is always a temptation to put your foot down, but beware of speeding tickets. There are instant fines and there is a chance of getting yourself suspended from driving. You are not only not helping yourself, but also are putting other road users in danger. It's a good time to watch this <a href="https://youtu.be/bvLaTupw-hk" target="_blank">video</a>. Remember, the speed limit within city / town limits is 50 kmph. School zones have a 40 Kmph limit at certain times of the day. When you drive into or out of a city, there is a step increase to 70 kmph (sign posted) and then to 100 kmph (sign posted). This is your maximum speed limit on the Open Road (highway / rural roads). In a few places, you might encounter a sign post with a black band across a white circle. It just means that it is an Open Road and the speed limit is 100 kmph.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9GGPUFqZ3Uuedw6-Btx7edTCiiDwJuhCLvQMf0TY5L1st2SQy78QM88QAj8-ZUCZmbzqiAzGJs01lkjCQa23-eoeWaEMed5KdIkDJY2SFNYIzoPnE4TrgZ1hp1WP-96WFHQv2DyvedwKw/s1600/flush-median.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9GGPUFqZ3Uuedw6-Btx7edTCiiDwJuhCLvQMf0TY5L1st2SQy78QM88QAj8-ZUCZmbzqiAzGJs01lkjCQa23-eoeWaEMed5KdIkDJY2SFNYIzoPnE4TrgZ1hp1WP-96WFHQv2DyvedwKw/s200/flush-median.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<b>4. Give Way rules could be confusing for first-time visitors.</b> The intersections and roundabouts could put you in uncertainty. This excellent <a href="https://youtu.be/hJvMrhpIBK8" target="_blank">video</a> is very handy to understand the rules around giving way. One important tip: When you see a Stop sign, bring your vehicle to an absolute stop. Don't crawl your vehicle. You MUST Stop. And pedestrian crossings are there for a reason. For the pedestrians to cross. You must stop if a pedestrian is about to cross at the designated crossing.<br />
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Oh, just another small tip - in larger places, you will find flush medians (see the picture). They are definitely not for overtaking. They are waiting space for you when you have to turn into let's say a supermarket, on a busy road. Or to merge into the traffic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrU3UjbtvrrEeICrQVTw9lySLSK0K2tgrEe5F_mNYkS1M3PgWde-1lqNsonIupMcSPGtxztFTPqf3DLJDvgh-eAHEg-GhQSaS0dPJ_mE2LzIJCbsYTGFE7pCTUNH8jYK0KmcW-RtjVVPE/s1600/Scenic+lookout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrU3UjbtvrrEeICrQVTw9lySLSK0K2tgrEe5F_mNYkS1M3PgWde-1lqNsonIupMcSPGtxztFTPqf3DLJDvgh-eAHEg-GhQSaS0dPJ_mE2LzIJCbsYTGFE7pCTUNH8jYK0KmcW-RtjVVPE/s320/Scenic+lookout.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>5. Enjoy your drive and have fun!</b> The Kiwis are very friendly people. Almost all of them are. Respond to them in the same way. If the traffic queues up, be patient and follow other cars. Don't try to overtake. Don't honk. Honking is like shouting. On very rare occasions, may be twice or thrice in 10 years, I have used a short beep to warn a wayward driver who didn't respect my right of way :)<br />
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Don't make the mistake of driving from point A to point B without stopping. You are likely to encounter a lot of scenic lookouts on New Zealand roads, which will take your breath away. Make time to stop safely and enjoy the scenery!<br />
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For more ideas and tips for your self-driving New Zealand holidays, <a href="http://www.takeme2newzealand.com/" target="_blank">contact us today</a>. We can help you by designing an itinerary that matches your tastes and preferences, and organise everything for you.Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3985377371598687228.post-57325386219705061802015-11-09T18:39:00.002+13:002015-11-11T12:41:23.804+13:00Holidaying in New Zealand - Self drive or chauffeured?One of the most common questions we get at <a href="http://www.takeme2newzealand.com/" target="_blank">TakeMe2NewZealand</a> from our guests is "Should I be driving myself during my New Zealand holidays? Or should I be driven around?" The answer is simple; It depends on who you are!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holiday at your own pace</td></tr>
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You enjoy your freedom. You don't want to push yourself around. You want the flexibility to stop and enjoy if you find something interesting during your journey. While there is a definite <a href="http://www.takeme2newzealand.com/pure-indulgence.php" target="_blank">itinerary</a> for the day, you wish to do your own things too. If you tick these boxes, a <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/ShowUserReviews-g255368-d6487067-r274367096-Takeme2NewZealand-Palmerston_North_Manawatu_Wanganui_Region_North_Island.html#REVIEWS" target="_blank">self drive</a> New Zealand holiday is for you.<br />
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On the other hand, you love to sit back and let someone else drive you around this beautiful country. You would also enjoy commentary from your driver-guide. In this case, there are two options available to you depending upon your budget. You can choose to travel by a private vehicle with your own driver-guide. Or you may tour around prominent New Zealand must-do's in coaches.<br />
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While choosing a private vehicle is relatively expensive - the drivers have strict rules around rest periods and breaks, and are provided with single occupancy accommodation and meals - this option gives you the flexibility similar to the self-drive option. And the drivers are very experienced and knowledgeable with local attractions. They provide commentary during your travel, which adds more value to your experience.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMAVDg3dJp20ttt2nTU0EsoUXt9GXV6ea67-SRvtK1KboauPTa6n7d7bUzBXuYctPa3-PcmpMFX9HFXncNYBCdjbzZ5W-J3qi_kKoSV8P3RcEk7p1JgWr3vX953eP71S6wd0xz8VnCg8xu/s1600/GreatSights+Coach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMAVDg3dJp20ttt2nTU0EsoUXt9GXV6ea67-SRvtK1KboauPTa6n7d7bUzBXuYctPa3-PcmpMFX9HFXncNYBCdjbzZ5W-J3qi_kKoSV8P3RcEk7p1JgWr3vX953eP71S6wd0xz8VnCg8xu/s200/GreatSights+Coach.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flexible Coach Tours</td></tr>
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If you prefer a structured itinerary, prefer not to drive and are on a budget, the best option is coach tours. Having said that, they need not be rigid tours. We can help you with designing a comprehensive package, which will meet all your requirements. What's more, you get picked up from and dropped off at your accommodation!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The legendary glass top coach</td></tr>
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Ultimately the choice is purely based on your taste and preference. If you wish to discuss with someone who can make appropriate recommendations, do <a href="http://www.takeme2newzealand.com/contactus.php" target="_blank">contact</a> us.<br />
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Look out for our next post for useful driving tips while touring New Zealand!Nats Subramanian, Take Me 2 The Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14588166058183818098noreply@blogger.com0