Safar from Chandigarh to Hyderabad

 We had to travel to Hyderabad from Chandigarh. We reserved our railway tickets on the Shatabdi Express three months in advance, anticipating a smooth and comfortable journey. However, it turned out to be a roller coaster ride and a memorable adventure.

From our society, we booked a seven-seater uber cab – a spacious one – with ample legroom and enough space for all five family members: three teenagers and two adults. Each of us had a 15 kg suitcase, a handbag, and one extra, hefty food bag, bursting at the seams. If it had been a person, it would have been pitifully complaining.

We reached the railway station an hour early and waited in the bustling waiting hall. When the train arrived, we all hopped on. The train was scheduled to reach Delhi at 3:25 pm but was over an hour late, arriving at 4:30 pm. After that, we headed to the metro station.

All our luggage – five 15 kg suitcases, five 7 kg bags, two purses, and the heavy food bag – had to be scanned. There was a lot of hustle and bustle, with separate lines for males and females. We bought tickets to Aerocity, Delhi, for Rs. 50 each. Later, we learned we needed to take a shuttle for Rs. 40 each. We purchased the shuttle tickets and trudged to the bus stop with our heavy luggage.

On 28th May, the temperature in Delhi soared to a scorching 52.6 degrees Celsius. The situation was pathetic: only one shuttle bus was available, making round trips to the airport. We stood in the sweltering heat for about half an hour without any shade. Taxi drivers offered to take us for Rs. 100 per head, suggesting we return the bus tickets. It seemed like collusion between the cab drivers and the ticket seller, as it was a government-run shuttle service. Two other buses stood roadside, deemed out of order by the caretaker, leaving just one functioning bus. He suggested we take a taxi if we were in a hurry.

Just as we were losing hope, a bus finally arrived, bringing a sigh of relief. We boarded and reached the airport in 25 minutes. The ride was bumpy, and the driver initially struggled to start the bus.

After rushing through the security check, we finally relaxed upon boarding the plane. Upon reaching our destination, Hyderabad, we collected our luggage, exited the airport at 11:30 pm, booked an Uber, and headed home.

Thus, our long journey, starting at 8:30 am and ending at 1 am, was thrilling, memorable, and filled with incidents that added to our experience.

Anunidhi Sharma

Visit to Lachiwala Park, North India

 Lachiwala Park, located in Doiwala on the way to Jolly Grant International Airport, is a beautiful and serene nature park that attracts visitors from all nearby regions. The park's main attractions include a centrally flowing river and numerous fountains. It is a sprawling park featuring a diverse variety of trees and plants.

The entry fee is Rs 80 for adults, and there is an additional fee of Rs 50 for cars. Many visitors also arrive by e-rickshaw. Inside the park, there is a picturesque driveway stretching about 2 to 3 kilometers, which many prefer to explore by car. The park provides a dedicated parking area. Additionally, there is a designated space for swimming where people can relax and have fun. Several shops near the swimming area offer swimming supplies. This area is located just outside and parallel to the nature park's entrance.

However, the park does have a few drawbacks. While there is one ice cream shop that also sells cakes and other items, and another eatery, the latter's pungent smell can be off-putting. As a result, many visitors prefer to bring their own food, which is allowed in the park. Enhanced dining options within the park would greatly improve the visitor experience. Atleast they can come hands-free to the park and enjoy the stroll inside the park.

The park features many heart-shaped entrances and charming wooden bridges, perfect for posing and taking photos. Visitors often make reels and short videos for Instagram. Numerous sitting areas are available for relaxation, allowing visitors to walk and enjoy the park's beauty. There is also a dedicated play area for children. Strolling and spending time in the park provides a sense of peace and tranquility that is enjoyed by both the young and the elderly.

Anunidhi Sharma

Visit to Haridwar

 Travel to Haridwar is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage and is visited by lakhs of devotees every year. People visit here as it is one of the important dhams out of the four dhams in Hinduism. There are many temples in Haridwar – the famous ones being Vaishno Devi Temple and Sureshwari Devi Temple. These temples are located in the picturesque Shivalik Hills and are frequented by many devotees. The Sureshwari Devi Temple, in particular, is near the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. During the rainy season and colder months, visitors can often see wildlife such as the majestic neelgai, elephants, and other animals along the way.

The River Ganga is a sacred river in Hinduism. People come to take a holy dip in the river at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, believing that this act washes away all their sins. Many people from all over the world visit to pray for their well-being, health, and prosperity.

Haridwar has also become a popular tourist destination, and many eateries have opened up to cater to the visitors. Famous food joints like Chotiwala's, Bahubali Samosa, and various stalls selling cuisines such as Chinese and local delicacies like kulfi are popular among tourists.

Additionally, a variety of ornaments such as bangles, rings, and necklaces are sold here, along with different types of keychains that attract children. Near Har Ki Pauri, there is a 1.5 km stretch of road lined with shops offering various clothes, ornaments, and eateries. This area is a pedestrian zone, restricted to all electric and other vehicles, so people, young and old alike, walk through this vibrant and bustling market.

One of the most beautiful and serene experiences in Haridwar is the Ganga Aarti, which brings peace and tranquility to the mind. The Ganga Aarti takes place in the morning and evening, and people visit Haridwar specifically to witness this peaceful and spiritual ritual.

                                      

Schools in and around Financial District

 

AVN Vida International School, a CBSE-affiliated school, focuses on the holistic development of its students, encompassing personal, physical, and academic growth. The school allocates ample time for sports activities to enhance students' participation. The annual tuition fee amounts to approximately 1.5 lakhs per student, with additional optional charges for the mess. The mess fee covers breakfast, lunch, and snacks for a nominal fee of forty thousand. Transport fees vary depending on the distance, starting at forty thousand for distances within 5 kilometres.

The quality of education provided is commendable, with students receiving regular homework, assignments, and internal assessments based on classroom activities and projects. The school boasts a spacious campus adorned with lush trees, promoting an environmentally friendly atmosphere. Notably, many students residing in Mantri Celestia opt to enrol at AVN Vida.

Kairos School, also located in Gowlidodi, is a reputable institution situated amidst numerous residential complexes. Its proximity to residential areas makes it a preferred choice for many parents. Both AVN School and Kairos School offer education up to the tenth grade, providing ample options for families residing in the Financial District, Gowlidodi, and Nanakramguda.

Additionally, Nanakramguda hosts another school Gaudium School - catering specifically to the Primary Year Program, offering a nurturing environment and a plethora of activities for young learners. While parents have the flexibility to choose from these schools for their children enrolled in the Primary Year Program, many opt for schools farther away based on their individual preferences and priorities.

Travelling with an infant / toddler

 

As summer vacation approaches, many of us are eagerly planning our travels, whether it's embarking on adventurous treks, visiting sacred pilgrimage sites, or simply indulging in a relaxing staycation at a favourite destination. However, for those journeying with infants, ensuring a memorable and comfortable trip requires careful preparation. Infants and toddlers are prone to expressing their needs through crying, which can disrupt the enjoyment of adults. To ensure a harmonious journey, it's essential to pack a few key items. Cotton proves invaluable, particularly during air travel, where changes in air pressure can cause discomfort in children's ears. Placing cotton in their ears can alleviate this pressure and prevent discomfort. For toddlers, having candies on hand can provide quick relief if tears arise, offering a sweet distraction. Additionally, packing small toys, such as their favorites, can effectively stave off crankiness and keep little ones entertained throughout the journey. Providing ample milk, juice, and crushed fruits ensures that nutritional needs are met for infants who have begun eating solids. Essential items like diapers, basic medicines, and wipes should also be packed to handle any unforeseen situations. Hygiene is paramount, so carrying sanitizer, cloth wipes, and a baby blanket ensures cleanliness and comfort for both baby and caregiver. A traveling-friendly stroller and baby carrier are indispensable for exploring while keeping the little one safe and secure. By organizing these items in a well-equipped diaper bag, travelers can embark on their journey with confidence, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

 Summary of the list 

1. Cotton for plugging in the ears

2. Favourite Toy 

3. Powder Milk 

4. Juice 

5. Crushed Fruits

6. Wipes

7. Sanitizer

8.Cloth wipes

9.Baby blanket

10. Stroller - light weight

11. Sling / baby carrier