Saturday, October 30, 2010

Flowering Tree - Bauhinia Variegata

Bangalore (State: Karnataka) known as Garden City true to its name as lot of flowering trees on either side of most of the roads. They bloom with flowers of various colors. One such tree is Bauhinia Variegata popularly known as "Orchid Tree" (Click on the images for bigger view)

It is an ornamental tree grown in subtropical and tropical climates from southern China west to India. The flowers are conspicuous, bright pink or white, 8-12 cm diameter. These scented flowers have only five petals.

It is a small to medium-sized tree growing to 10-12 m tall. The leaves of the tree are broad and split in the middle.

During the season the tree is full of flowers and with green leaves and pink flowers they look lovely.

For more visit Mosaic Monday

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Meharangarh Fort, Jodhpur

The Fort of Jodhpur (State: Rajasthan) looms on the top of a rocky hill, and it rises 125 mts, above the plains. Built in the 15th century by the Rathore Rajputs, the architecture is such that, one can not separate the fort from bluff-colored sandstone hill on which it is constructed. (Click on the images for bigger view)

The fort is built on the hill in such a way that it is very difficult to identify where
the hill ends and the fort walls begin. The fort at several places has 17 feet thick and 68 feet high walls.

It is approached by a series of 7 gateways set at an angle so that armies could not charge them with any success. Past the gates, the fort-palace takes one's breath away.


Across from huge courtyards are the palatial apartments that have been built over five centuries of bristling history. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled craftsmanship. Only some of the spectacular palaces of the fort are open to the visitors.

These consists of Moti Mahal with its pierced screen windows overlooking the coronation seat where the Rathore ruler have been ritually anointed to rule; Jhanki Mahal, the apartment from where the zenana women would watch ceremonial
events; Chandan Mahal, where affairs of state were discussed; the royal Darbar Takhat or throne room with its octagonal throne.

For more visit SkyWatch
and Ruby Tuesday

Monday, October 25, 2010

SeaDream I Late to San Juan Due to Engine Trouble

It's been a tough month for cruise travelers who've had to deal with ships with mechanical difficulties. First Regent Voyager had pod issues in Europe and had to cancel some itineraries, then Celebrity Century had rudder problems causing the cancellation of the October 13th Mediterranean sailing. Now this past weekend, passengers aboard SeaDream Yacht Club's SeaDream I had to deal with a bit of engine trouble aboard the mega-yacht.

The ship was supposed to dock in San Juan, Puerto Rico in the early morning hours, but didn't arrive until late afternoon. SeaDream assured passengers that the cruise line would pick up charges for airline changes and would cover overnight accommodations and meals for those needing to stay overnight.

Every ship, no matter how well maintained, may at one point or another deal with some type of mechanical failure that impacts an itinerary. Most often, the damage is minor—like arriving in port a few hours late—but sometimes entire itineraries are impacted. That's why the watch words here are "travel insurance."

I'm tackling the issue of travel insurance now for Cruise Critic. I'll let you know when my article, chock full of advice for protecting your cruise travel investment, goes online.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxuryCruiseBible.com

Lalgarh Palace, Bikaner

Lalgarh Palace is located outside the Bikaner city limits. It is at a distance of 3 kms from the city. This palace was built between 1902 and 1926 by Maharaja Ganaga Singh in the memory of his father, Maharaja Lal Singh. (Click on the image for bigger view)

The architecture of the palace is Indo-Saracenic where one can see elements of Rajput, Muslim and European styles.

Now, this palace has been converted into a heritage hotel. But, the first floor of the palace is converted into a museum, the Shri Sadul museum. The museum has on display are artifacts and personal possessions of the Bikaner Maharajas.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Lalbagh Flower Show - Orchids

At flower show in Lalbagh Gardens at Bangalore on August 2010 there were exclusive collection of Orchids on display. The colors were amazing. (Click on the image for bigger picture)

There were more than 25 variety of Orchids on disp
lay. The color combination and designs on each of them were beautiful.

There were stalls selling the Orchids plants outside the flower show. The price ranged from Rupees 600 to 1200 depending on the variety.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Nadi Narasimha Temple, Dodda Mallur

This small temple is located right on the banks of a river Kanva. If one gets out of the temple from one of its entrance they can get down into river. The deity of the temple is Lord Narasimha. As it is on the edge of river (nadi) the name of the temple is "Nadi Narasimh". But we had been here in peak summer and river had dried up. (Click on images for bigger view)

The temple is belied to be 1000 years old, but it might have been renovated some 300 years back.
The brick wall seen above is not part of the temple. It is an enclosure build around the temple to provide shade.

The towers of the temples have beautiful sculptures and they have been painted.
If on one side of the temple there is river, on the other three sides are sugarcane field, vegetable field and coconut garden.

How to Reach: It is located at a distance of 70 kms from Bangalore on State Highway 17 en-route to Mysore. There is a diversion to the right, 2 kms after Channapatna. After passing through a railway Crossing on this road, a mud road will lead to the temple.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Nandi Shrine, Khajuraho

The Nandi Temple in Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh) is a small temple opposite to Vishwanath Temple. Both the temple built in 1000 A.D belong to Western Group of Temples with their entrance facing each other. It has a large stone image of Nandi. (Click on the image for bigger view)

It is an open square pavilion resting on twelve pillars. It has a pyramidal roof of receding tiers of steps with minimal carvings at the top. The noteworthy decoration on its facades is a bold elephant frieze on the basement.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Tamil Nadu, The Land of Temples

The state of Tamil Nadu has a history that dates back to several thousand years where the traditions and culture live in harmony. The state has plenty of monuments and temples that are ancient and each of them are artistic. It is better known as can 'The Land of Temples' for the number of temples that can be seen here built over its centuries. The architecture and design of these temple have seen a change across centuries. It is home to more than 30,000 temples with every one of them being an architectural gem.

Apart of temples there are various natural resources across the state. It has a long coastline that stretches nearly a 1000 kms. Golden sands of the beach are dotted with coconut palm and casuarina groves. In the hill stations of the state one can stroll through the clouds afloat, and admire the nature.

I had the pleasure of touring some of the cities of this beautiful state. I have covered in my various trips in the state: Vellore, Tanjore, Chidambaram, Kumbakonam, Chennai, Mamallapuram, Kancheepuram, Gangaikondacholapuram, Darasuram, Madurai, Trichi, Ooty, Kode. Come travel with me and enjoy.


Sunday, October 10, 2010

Methar Mahal, Bijapur

Methar Mahal constructed in 1620, this is one of the interesting sights in Bijapur (State: Karnataka). Even though by name it is called "Mahal" this is not a place. This is a turret with the Mehtar mosque behind it. (Click on the images for bigger picture)

This is a two-storeyed structure with an exquisite entrance. The roof has two delicate minarets standing straight and tall.

This ornamental gateway is an excellent example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. It is embellished by a profusion of carvings in the form of brackets supporting the balconies and stone trellis work in Hindu Style.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Ken Gharial Sanctuary

At a distance of 24 kms from Khajuraho is Ken Gharial Sanctuary situated at the confluence of the Ken and the Khudar rivers. The river passes through areas which is rich in 3 varieties of stones like Bauxite, Granite and Lime. (Click on images for bigger view)

The Sanctuary gets its name from the Gharial, the very rare species of crocodiles. They are characterized by their exceedingly elongated and unbelievably slender snouts. Unfortunately we missed the Gharials as we were late in spite of reaching the place before 9:30 a.m. In the sanctuary they come out of the river and stay on the rocky river bed during early mornings usually.


One can also see here beautiful Raneh Water Falls.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Island Paradise: InterContinental Bali Resort Review


The world is a beautiful place... a very big, beautiful place and it can be difficult figuring out which destinations should top your "must-visit soon" list. I had always wanted to visit Indonesia, but I was more focused on Komodo Island (to catch a glimpse of a real-life dragon) than on Bali. But, when I sat down to plan a special birthday trip for my husband, a game plan to visit Bali and Hong Kong fell perfectly into place. I will admit that it's quite a trek from New York City to Jimbaran Bay, Bali, but it was worth every single mile!

Bali is blessed with many options when it comes to luxury villas, resorts, and guest houses. For this particular trip, we selected the InterContinental Bali Resort in Jimbaran Bay. We'd had an excellent experience with the InterContinental chain in French Polynesia in May. I also had my heart set on staying at the InterContinental Hong Kong on the way home from Bali so we thought, "Why not make it a trifecta!"

The resort is ideal for first-time visitors to the island as it's just a 10-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport and is nestled between Nusa Dua and Kuta. While some travelers feel that Jimbaran Bay is too close to the airport, we liked being within walking distance of the various fish restaurants lining the beach.

See below for some photos and additional trip details. You can also read my comprehensive InterContinental Bali Resort review at LuxuryCruiseBible.com

The Balinese Pool at the InterContinental Bali
There are six swimming pools here, including the Main Pool, private Club InterContinental Pool, and the Balinese Bath Pool (pictured above).

Spa Uluwatu—Treatments Overlooking the Beach at Jimbaran Bay
The lovely on-property Spa Uluwatu also offers massages in bales at the beach's edge.


Mermaids Hold Court at the Main Pool
Several mermaid fountains hold court at the main pool at the InterContinental Bali.

The InterContinental Bali Resort Complex
Spread over nearly 35 acres, the InterContinental Bali offers three levels of accommodation: Resort Classic, Singaraja, and Club International (which also encompasses suites). With 418 rooms and suites, it's one of the larger resorts in Bali.

Unique Flora and Fauna
There's a huge lily pond that attracts birds throughout the day who are hoping to catch a meal.


Dragon Statues Adorn the Property

Beautiful Fountains and Wading Pools are a Highlight of the InterContinental Bali




Club InterContinental Pool
This pool, with a bar and several bales, is for the exclusive use of Club guests. The resort suggests that families with small children use the Main Pool or Balinese Pool instead.

Complimentary Breakfast for Club Guests
Club guests are entitled to complimentary breakfast at five different venues throughout the resort: the Club InterContinental Pool (pictured above), Club InterContinental Lounge, Taman Gita Terrace, Bella Singaraja restaurant, and in-room dining.

The Entrance to the Club InterContinental Pool
A private oasis for Club guests.

The Club Lounge
Club guests check in to the resort right here in the Club Lounge. It's also one of the venues available to them for complimentary breakfast. Drinks and snacks are available throughout the day: 6:30am–noon = breakfast; 11am–3pm = selection of juices, soft drinks, tea/coffee, and a snack menu; 3–5pm = English afternoon tea; 5–8pm = evening cocktails, wines, sparkling wines, and canapes; 8pm and onwards = late-night snacks.

Club Duplex Suite Vanity and Bathtub

Club Duplex Suite Upstairs Bedroom

Club Duplex Suite—Downstairs Living Room and Dining Room

The Club Duplex Suite with Balcony

Club Duplex Suite with a Daybed in the Downstairs Living Room

The Balinese Bath Pool is a Favorite Spot to Cool Off

The Bales at the Balinese Pool

Perfect Spot to Enjoy the Pool


We highly recommend the InterContinental Bali. The staff is friendly and accommodating, the grounds are well-kept, and the restaurants serve consistently delicious meals. This would be a perfect pre- or post-cruise home away from home and we hope to visit Bali and this resort again soon.

For more information about the InterContinental Bali Resort, talk with your travel agent or contact the resort directly at +62 361 701888.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxuryCruiseBible.com

Photos © Leonard Hospidor

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Ganesh Mandir, Jhansi

Inside the Jhansi Fort is the Ganesh Temple used by the royal family for the worship. (Click on the images for bigger picture)

This is a simple temple built in a very small area very close to the gate. In Jhansi (state: Uttar Pradesh) this is one of the most popular temple. The wall behind the temple is the inner walls of the fort. A tour of fort is not complete without a visit to this temple.

Travel + Leisure Curated Cruises Featured This Week on American Express' Daily Wish

Each week, American Express cardholders have access to special curated sales dubbed the Daily Wish. Sometimes the items on offer are high-end electronics such as digital cameras or flat-screen TVs. This week, American Express teams with Travel + Leisure magazine to present discounted travel packages, including cruises from Windstar and Lindblad Expeditions. Each of these travel companies have received high ranks in the 2010 T+L World's Best Awards.

Here's what you can expect. Cruise fares are for two people sharing a cabin. Some of the deals are fairly competitive:

Windstar Cruises On Sale Tuesday October 5, 2010

7-Night Wind Surf Holiday Voyage
Ports: Bridgetown, Barbados; Pigeon Island, St. Lucia; Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe; St. Barts; St. Martin; St. Kitts
$2,298 all-in, cruise-only Category B for two people sharing a cabin
Available dates: December 19, 2010
Note: The total cruise fare for two people is about $950 less than prices I've seen at other online cruise discounters.

7-Night Caribbean Adventure Aboard Wind Surf
Ports: Bridgetown, Barbados; St. Kitts; St. Martin; St. Barts; Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe; Pigeon Island, St. Lucia
$1,932 all-in, cruise-only category B for two people sharing a cabin
Available dates: November 28; December 12; January 2 & 16
Note: The total cruise fare for two people is about $825 less than prices I've seen at other online cruise discounters.

7-Night Yachtsman's Caribbean Aboard Wind Spirit
Ports: St. Martin; St. Kitts; Tortola; Jost van Dyke; Virgin Gorda; St. Barts
$2,298 all-in, cruise-only category B for two people sharing a cabin
Available dates: December 19; January 8, 15, 22, 29

7-Night Costa Rican Adventure
Ports: Puerto Caldera, San Juan Del Sur, Playas del Coco, Quepos, Bahia Drake, Curu, Tortuga Island
$2,149 all-in cruise-only category B for two people sharing a cabin
Available dates: January 15, 29; February 5, 12, 19; and March 5, 12, 19, 26

Lindblad Expeditions Cruises On Sale Wednesday, October 6, 2010

9-Night Galapagos Islands Cruise Aboard the National Geographic Endeavour
Ports: Bartolome, Santiago, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana, Espanola, Santa Cruz
$5,690 all-in, cruise-only category 2 for two people sharing a cabin
Available dates: now through March 15, 2011

7-Night Costa Rica & Panama Canal Cruise Aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion
Ports: Panama Canal transit, Lake Gatun, Gulf of Panama Islets, Isla Coiba National Park, Panama; Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica
$6,972 all-in, cruise-only Category 2 for two people sharing a cabin
Available dates: November 1, 2010–March 26, 2011

Be aware that a limited number of cabins are available at the prices listed above and you must pay for the trip with an American Express card.

For more information, visit the Daily Wish website sponsored by The American Express Network.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxuryCruiseBible.com

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