Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Category: Destinations

Americas, Art, Culture, Destinations, Travel, USA

Explore Harry P. Leu Gardens In Orlando Florida

You know what? I hate theme parks. But when we lived in the USA, we had to plan a trip to Orlando, Florida. Because, well! My kiddo loves Legos and those exhilarating (read mind-numbingly scary) rides!

Well, what did I do on this trip? I floated on some lazy rivers and kept myself motivated for that one day when we explored a historic little garden in northeastern Orlando. Harry P. Leu Gardens it was called.

Extraordinarily beautiful, the Leu Gardens floored me with natural beauty, manicured gardens, a resplendent home, and some really engaging history. You definitely don’t want to miss out this hidden gem on your next trip to this sunny city.

Americas, Destinations, Travel, USA

10 Most Beautiful Cities In The American South That You Need To Visit

Given what is happening in the USA right now and my obsession with the new Netflix series, Sweet Magnolias, I could not help but remember my good old days in the American South. When I would go hopping from one beautiful city to another uncovering cultural treasures.

Believe it or not, Southern US is culturally rich because of the different kinds of people that have lived here over hundreds of years. It is rich because of the numerous customs and ways of life that have come together to create something unique – the Southern style of living.

As I fondly remember my Southern US escapades, I put together this list of the 10 most beautiful cities in the region for you to discover on your next trip to the USA.

Art, Asia, Culture, Customs, Destinations, India, Travel

Witness The Colors of India Through The 18 Most Colorful Experiences

Whether you are traveling to India or within India, you should definitely experience the myriad colors this country has to offer. From colorful festivals to flamboyant architecture to exuberant markets, India has some of the most amazing experiences lined up for you. Have a look at the 18 most colorful experiences that you need to have on your next trip to India.

Asia, Culture, Customs, Destinations, India, Travel

Stories From Mayong – The Seat Of Black Magic In India

Fancy doing something different for your next vacation in India? Something supernaturally cool?

Visit the cradle of Indian black magic – a small obscure village in the remote hinterlands of Assam, Mayong. A scary name in the olden times, Mayong was the seat of occult in the Indian subcontinent. And a name people would not dare to utter.

Is Mayong still a hub of black magic? Does it still conjure up scary images? Click through to find out.

Art, Asia, Culture, Customs, Destinations, Indonesia, Travel

Balinese Culture Guide: 11 Must-Have Cultural Experiences in Bali

I got so carried away when I was writing about Sri Lankan culture and traditions that I went ahead and finished my second culture guide today. For yet another island but not a country. Bali!

But Bali is a beach destination, you would say. What’s cultural there??

I would say, “Go ahead and have a look at my Balinese Culture Guide”. And then let me know if you start having doubts about Bali being a beach destination or a cultural one!

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!

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