Don't be hesitant of Kashmir

The less I write the better. That's right, the valley of Kashmir is not just a region of Jammu & Kashmir but it's a beautiful paradise, an uncut diamond and a hidden gem. 

It's beautifully situated somewhere in the Himalayas with clear blue skies, tall trees and snow covered mountains. It's got picture perfect nature, deep forests, gorgeous hilltops, colorful houses with walnut wood interiors, house boats and uber rich embroidery and handicrafts. Oh yes, and don't forget the wholesome dry fruits and rich brilliant shawls and Pashminas. [You guessed it, I went overboard with my shopping!]

Kashmiri food in rich in various spices and full of color with main dishes of mutton (red meat), chicken, spinach and lotus stem. The most popular drink is Kahwah, which is their aromatic herbal green tea preparation with ingredients of green tea leaves, saffron, cinnamon, cardamom and crushed almonds. It is usually served with either sugar or honey.

The people are extremely warm, helpful and friendly. The political situation in Kashmir is what makes it a hesitant travel destination for many travelers but I will surely recommend everyone to visit it once, primarily Gulmarg, to see how its beauty takes over all the past disturbances.  

Yes, skip the city, look past the armed forces and visit Srinagar only in the day but surely stay a couple of days in Gulmarg - get adventurous with snowmobiles/ skiing and let the sheer nature and it's simple beauty completely engulf you.

I have finally found my much loved destination and more coming up on where to stay, THE Khyber Resort, things to do and best months to visit.

How to dress in Rome, Italy

Rome in Aug/ Sept is HOT! Venice is a bit rainy and humid, cool in the nights BUT ROME IS SUNNY. Even though I wanted to dress up light, I realized you got to be stylish at the same time. So here are a few suggestions that I have put together on what to carry/ wear when planning a trip to Rome.

1. Slim Fitted Jeans  - I love straight fits and since it's a holiday, even the colors can be light! View it here
2. Carry a few light tops,they go with jeans or shorts, floral is perfect for summers! View it here
3. & 4. I absolutely love Diesel and love their light denims, I love the shorts and the dress (in case you go somewhere fancy, you may need a dress), taken these from SS 13 Diesel collection here

5. You'll need a few camisoles for sure, you can keep it simple yet stylish! View it here
6. Another airy top, although this one's a bit dressy. You never know where you may be heading in the evenings, casual yet chic. View it here
7. Other than Khaki & neutral shades of shorts, why not go for a something colorful and funky? I love these turquoise shorts and I think they look uber - cool. View them here
8. I love linens and I love the length of these shorts. Again, whites go with anything and everything, surely to add them in for any travel! View it here 
9. I'm a fan of Boat shoes and I think they go with Jeans or shorts and they are super comfy, there's lots to walk in Rome! Surely need them. View it here 
10. You can't just be carry closed shoes, you need those strappy sandals that go so well with dresses/ jeans/ shorts/ skirts and I love these yellow ones, they come in different colors - View it here


Now after all this planning, you surely cant go wrong with those accessories. Keep it simple and take stuff that goes with everything! Bags that can be carried on the arm, shoulder or can be a sling when required!

Check out the Coach Jewelry collection here 
Check out the Coach Handbag collection here

Something Delightful - OshKosh B’gosh

This was a gift for my friend's little munchkin and I loved the entire lemon grey combination - Isn't it the cutest thing ever!?! 

I was about to buy the entire Newborn range but had to resist myself!

Baby Suits, Socks, Blankets & Bibs by OshKosh B'gosh

Amazing Asara

Asara Villa & Suite is a beautiful resort in Hua Hin and the drive is about 2 hours from main city, Bangkok.

Hua Hin is a beach town in Thailand the whole of Hua Hin is just one strip with many lanes and corners for it's beautiful properties and resorts. Asara is tucked away in one such lane.

As soon as you step into the resort, you don't have a choice but to simply relax. The lobby is impressive on a wooden deck and the villas are in the midst of large shaded trees and plantations, almost seeming like small jungle houses.

Huge wooden doors, outdoor shower and a private pool make Asara a typical Thai getaway, reminding you what Thailand is all about. We took the Private Pool Villa, although there are different room types to select from.

Our Villa had a decent size sitting area, bedroom, a huge bathroom with a bathtub, outdoor rain shower and a private pool with a patio area. 

There is a lovely quaint little health club and I went for a workout every morning, ending it with a coconut water and it seemed such a refreshing start to the day!

The spa is your typical Thailand spa (Fresh Aromas, Lemongrass Green Tea) with various treatment options and of course you should go for the Thai Massage. The breakfast served in the morning is lavish and by the pool. It's a great idea to go for a dip right after.

The highlight is the beach which is just a few walks from the poolside restaurant and you could sit hours sipping cocktails and enjoying the view. Lots of sunbeds, sofas and wooden benches around.

The only thing was because it's built like such a natural habitat and Hua Hin has a tropical weather, you will see many bugs and insects everywhere [It's everywhere in Hua Hin I think]. We had 2 lizards in our suite all the time [in the living area] and there were snails outside our door in the nights.  [My hubby seemed fine with it, of course I had my eyes everywhere looking out for them.] It could also be because the three days that we were there, it rained everyday.

Lastly, Asara arranges a shuttle to the Night Market (The other thing to see is the Market Village) during the evenings at scheduled times. The staff is around everywhere, so do check with them, it's something to do in the nights. And it's fun if you are into street shopping now & then.

All in all, Asara was a great experience, a typical Thai retreat, reasonably priced with staff who are friendly and attentive, willing to help you at any time.

[Sorry for the super late post but it's a crazy time at work & that's my bread & butter!]

Something Delightful

Have you been here? I have and it's simply beautiful. 

Next post on Why Asara Villa & Suite?

Summer Up! [Home Decor Ideas for this Summer]

So I'm not saying go extreme and paint a wall pale pink or lime but you can purchase some stylish accessories in cool colors and cottons or linens, purchase some fresh flowers and decorate your home for the summer!
Got a little extra time? Then try the DIY Crockery Set and invite friends for tea & cupcakes!
[I even got a little summer haircut!]

 Get Those Flip Flops Here

Cushion Collection (Left Bottom) from Chhatwal Jonsson

 DIY Crockery Set by Crafts Beautiful

Daily Delight

 Rees Roberts Partners LLC

(I thought of posting something 'Delightful' everyday - Hope you enjoy it!)