Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Author: Soumya

Soumya is an acclaimed travel writer who has traveled to 30+ countries and lived in 8 while pursuing her passion for history and culture. Her writings have been published in BBC Travel, Architectural Digest, National Herald, and many more. She loves exploring world heritage sites and has a deep affinity for everything ancient, especially the lost civilizations of Mesoamerica!
Asia, Culture, Destinations, Sri Lanka, Travel

A Tryst With Sri Lankan Culture: 9 Must-Have Cultural Experiences In Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tiny island nation in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Yet, it has one of the richest cultural landscapes in the entire world. Mindboggling diversity and a century-old history are to blame. Needless to say, Sri Lanka is a treasure trove for any culture seeker.

However, there is just so much to see and do in Sri Lanka that it can be a nightmare where to begin your culture tour. It was for me!

That is why I put together this ultimate guide to experiencing Sri Lankan culture in 9 easy steps.

So, here are the 9 most amazing cultural experiences that you need to have in Sri Lanka. Culture vultures, go dig in!

Culture, Destinations, Travel

Passion For Travel: Turning Your Love of Culture Into a Profitable Venture

Do you ever wonder how to create a successful profitable venture from your passion? If yes, you should go ahead and give this a read.

I have always loved history and culture. And I have been really passionate about traveling. So much so that I decided to start my own travel blog with a deep focus on culture.

And I am loving how it has turned out so far. And starting to pay back. Read my tips and tricks on how to convert your passion for culture into something profitable and sustainable.

Asia, Destinations, India, Photo-essays, Travel

20 Stunning Photos Of Bodoland Assam To Inspire You To Explore This Hidden Paradise!

I have been raving about Bodoland, India in my last couple of posts. But I just remembered that I haven’t yet shown you how beautiful this place is.

Well, Bodoland is a true paradise on earth. It is blessed with stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and a colorful culture. I could not have asked for more on my trip. Really.

Click to find out what exactly I mean. And I bet you won’t stop swooning after you see these pictures.

Asia, Culture, Customs, Destinations, India, Photo-essays, Travel

The Bodo Beauty: An Ode To The Beautiful Women Of Bodoland

If you have been following my posts about Bodoland, then you must know how much I love the Bodo people and their culture.

An autonomous land with unparalleled natural beauty, Bodoland is also home to some tenacious people. The Bodo women are among then.

I appreciated and learned so much about Bodo women and their lives on my trip and even after that. Here are some of my interesting findings and lots and lots of amazing portraits of the Bodo beauty.

Asia, Culture, Destinations, Sri Lanka, Travel

13 Beautiful Things To Do In Colombo Sri Lanka

Colombo, the often-overlooked capital of Sri Lanka, is actually a wonderful cultural destination. It is home to a massive national museum, the bustling Pettah market, and some amazing colonial architecture in the Fort district. Not to mention all the amazing people you meet and all that amazing food you can try when here.

I am glad we made a spent a couple of days here and did not use Colombo as a mere pit stop. And you should not either! There are 13 inspiring reasons to keep you back. You should totally check them out.

Art, Asia, Culture, Destinations, India, India, Travel, UNESCO Heritage Sites

How To Virtually Travel To Mumbai From Home

I live in Mumbai and am craving to explore my own city more than ever now. Has it ever happened to you? Things that are so close by seem so far off suddenly? Well, I am kind of experiencing the same now.

In order to feel the pulse of Mumbai again, a vibrant active city that has gone silent for some time, I creating this whopping Virtual Guide. Yeah, right. I have been doing virtual tours of Mumbai ever since I wrote this. And I bet you would like to do one too. So, go ahead. Click to find out how you can explore Mumbai even from your armchair.

Culture, Destinations, Europe, Portugal, Portugal, Travel, UNESCO Heritage Sites

How To Virtually Travel To Portugal From Home

When I am home, I am constantly looking for travel inspiration. Or revisiting places I have loved. Virtually. Do you do that too?

If yes, you will love this amazing guide on how to travel to Portugal without leaving your home. Yes, in your PJs! Isn’t that exciting? Check out how you can take yourself on a complete virtual tour of the most beautiful sights, attractions, art, and culture of Portugal.

Asia, Destinations, Sri Lanka, Travel

11 Best Beaches In Sri Lanka – The Ultimate Beach Guide

When things get better and the world drives Covid19 away, I am going to run off to a white sand beach, soak in some sun, and feel the waves. What about you?

If you are also craving some good beach time like I am, have a look at this exclusive list of the 11 best beaches in Sri Lanka recommended by travelers from around the world. I am sure you will find your favorite in there.

Asia, Destinations, India, Travel

The Bodoland Ambassadors Program – From The Eyes Of An Ambassador

Are you looking to go on an exotic press trip in India? Planning to apply for the Bodoland Ambassadors Program next year? Not sure how to go about it? Is it even the right fit for you? Have a look at my complete review of the Bodoland Ambassadors Program that I was part of this year. Yeah, straight from the horse’s mouth! All details in there including helpful tips and tricks.

Art, Asia, Culture, Destinations, India, India, Travel, UNESCO Heritage Sites

Art Deco In Mumbai – A Tour You Should Not Miss Out On!

Whether you are a local or a tourist visiting Mumbai, this detailed guide on how to take a tour of Mumbai’s Art Deco buildings is going to interest you a great deal. Art Deco was probably’s Bombay’s first step to modernity but has always remained a hidden treasure.

Did you know that Mumbai’s Art Deco buildings were recently inscribed on the UNESCO heritage list? Yeah, that’s some really amazing architecture waiting to be discovered! You won’t find them in any Mumbai itinerary or bucket list. That’s why I put together this ultimate guide for you to experience Mumbai’s Art Deco scene. With or without a tour guide! Go, check it out.

Asia, Culture, Destinations, India, Travel

Bodo People Of India – Their Culture And Lifestyle

As the fear of Coronavirus grips the world and traveling takes a backseat, I sit down to reminisce about all the good times I have spent meeting new people and learning about new communities. On the top of my list is the Bodo tribe from Assam.

Remember, I toured Bodoland in Assam for 10 days earlier this year? Here’s my ode to all the beautiful people that live there.

To all the Bodos. A guide to experiencing their life and culture. If you ever decide to make this offbeat trip, do not forget to pack this guide on Bodo culture, cuisine, costume, beliefs, and myths. Care to come on a virtual journey with me now??

Art, Asia, Culture, Destinations, India, Travel

Celebrating Art And Blurring Perimeters At The Dwijing Festival In Assam

Have you heard of the Dwijing Festival in Bodoland Assam? And did you know that it is one of the best representations of contemporary art inspired by local Bodo culture and folklore?
You have got to visit the Dwijing Festival if you are an art/culture/heritage lover. Even more if you are an offbeat destination hunter. Read on to find out why the open-air art museum at Dwijing is so special!

Asia, Culture, Customs, India, Travel

Umswai Valley – One Of The Most Unique Places To Visit Near Guwahati

Are you looking for a really offbeat travel destination in India? Filled with intriguing stories, mysterious lore, natural beauty, and an indigenous local culture?

Well, look no more. Cause we have just the perfect fit for you. The Umswai Valley in Assam! One of the best hidden gems in India, the Umswai Valley will offer you history, culture, nature, warmth, and so much more. Come, try it!

Art, Culture, Destinations, Europe, Portugal, Travel

Conímbriga Roman Ruins – A Fascinating Day Trip From Coimbra

I had no clue ancient Roman history was so closely intertwined with that of the Portuguese. That is until I found the Roman ruins of Conímbriga.
Have you heard of Conímbriga? I hadn’t until last September. But I am so glad I did. Cause Conímbriga has such exclusive floor mosaics, you would not want to miss them for anything in the world. And elaborate, stylish residences with water fountains and murals! I would add them to my Portugal itinerary again. Would you?

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