Round-Up: Wellness Travel

The beginning of September for many in the northern hemisphere is synonymous with new beginnings in life, whether it is business, career, a relationship or lifestyle change. It is also the time many of us start planning trips for the following year. Since Covid, there has been a growing interest in wellness travel — focussing on one’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. From spas to pilgrimages to retreats, or just relaxing getaways, people are looking to travel as a great life transformer – or simply a means of self-care.

Hotel Des Bains is a luxury thermal spa and resort located in Saillon, Switzerland. Saillon is the most beautiful village in Switzerland. I was a guest and it was superb.

 

I have curated a round-up of few helpful articles on wellness travel — my “top 5” list — highlighting relevant wellness travel news and destination/tourism ideas to consider as you plan for 2024. They are gathered from a range of media sources, and all offer some fabulous inspiration to find your next spa, retreat, spiritual pilgrimage or a relaxing holiday to unwind, destress, or focus on self-development.

 

Yoga retreats, ashrams, Yoga academies, India, travel, Shannon Skinner, yoga

The Atmantan Wellness Resort is located near Mumbai, India, where I recently was a guest, also superb.

Top 5 List: Wellness Travel Articles for Destination Ideas and Inspiration

1. National Geographic

The rise of wellness travel, from rewilding to yoga and pilgrimages

2. Euronews

Wellness tourism is booming but what’s behind the trend? 

3. Harper’s Bazaar

The great reset: the best wellness retreats in Europe

4. Vogue

The Best Spas in Europe that Mix Travel With Pure Relaxation

5. AFAR

What Your Wellness Vacation Will Look Like in 2023

 

A night shot at Hotel Des Bains in Saillon, Switzerland. 

 

RELATED ARTICLES:

Travel to India with me in 2024

Consider an India Yoga Retreat to Deepen Your Practice

Atmantan Wellness Resort in India: My Review

7 Days in Valais, Switzerland

 

Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational TV host/producer of ExtraodinaryWomenTV.com, radio host, international speaker, public relations consultant and writer covering travel, wellness and wine. 


Lotus Temple: India’s finest modern architecture

The Lotus Temple is one of my favourite attractions in Delhi. It is incredibly beautiful architecture, probably the most interesting house of worship in the modern era anywhere, and one of the most visited places on earth.

I had the opportunity to visit the temple on one of my trips to Delhi. I recently was going through my photos and panicked because I could not find my photos of Lotus Temple. Yesterday, I found them and I was inspired to post them on social media and decided to write about it.

Here are some fun facts about the Lotus Temple:

Walking through the gardens along the red sandstone walkway to get to the Lotus Temple

FUN FACTS:

• The Lotus Temple is famous for its distinct flower shape. It was designed to reflect the beauty and symmetry of the lotus flower.

• The lotus flower is an important symbol in Eastern and Indian faiths, including Bahá’i, Hinduism and Buddhism.

Truly magnificent architecture

• Lotus Temple is a Bahá’i faith house of worship. Bahá’i is a religious movement originating in Iran in the 19th century that emphasizes the spiritual unity of humankind.

• The design represents the “Oneness of God, the Oneness of all Religions and the Oneness of Mankind,” which are the guiding tenets of Baha’i faith.

• It is a popular attraction in Delhi, with more than 3.5 million visitors per year.

• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Anyone can visit Lotus Temple. It is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Be mindful, though, of the rules. Be sure to wear conservative clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, which is not uncommon for many places of worship around the world.

There are 9 reflecting pools of water, symbolizing the lotus leaves

• The building has 27 free-standing marble-clad petals arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides. There are nine doors opening into a central hall with high ceilings. This is the space where people gather and music is played. There are 9 reflecting pools of water, symbolizing the lotus leaves.

•  All around the temple are walkways made of red sandstone with beautiful curved balustrades, bridges and stairs that surround the nine reflecting pools.

• It won many architecture awards and is considered an incredible architectural achievement.

• The Lotus Temple has a Canada connection. The architect is Farinorz Sahba, an Iranian. Though he currently lives in the United States, he once lived in Canada prior to moving to the U.S.

• Like many places of worship around the world, visitors are required to take shoes off before entering.

Walking through the vast property to get to the temple. This is why I suggest taking a bottle of water with you.

TIPS:

• You will be given a bag to hold your shoes. Beware the ground is hot on bare feet. Since you must remove your shoes, take a pair of socks.

• Take a bottle of water with you. It can be very hot while walking around the gardens and waiting in line to get in.

Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational TV talkshow host and producer, speaker and writer covering luxury travel, wine and wellness for women.

RELATED ARTICLES:

Shannon’s Travel Bag articles on India


Canadian soldiers are buried in this War Cemetery in Assam, India

War Cemetery in India

 

It is said a cemetery is filled with stories.

This Remembrance Day, I am transported to a land far, far away: the city of Guwahati, the state capital of Assam, in India’s northeast region. In Guwahati, which has a population of 1.1 million, there is a little-known cemetery where 5 Canadian military members are buried. In 2015, I had the privilege of visiting this cemetery.

The Guwahati War Cemetery holds about 500 graves for military service members who fought in both World Wars from several countries, including: Canada, India, UK, New Zealand and Australia. Since this region is off-the-beaten-path for international travellers, and the cemetery itself is not exactly easy to find, it doesn’t attract many foreign visitors. But it is certainly well maintained and has many benefits for those who are able to pay their respects.

War Cemetery in India

As someone who has travelled across India, the Guwahati War Cemetery is the first cemetery I have visited in this country. As I walked around the grounds alone, with the exception of my guide who gave me space, I was taken by its natural, understated, simple beauty. Its peacefulness in the midst of a noisy and chaotic Indian city, was a pleasant reprieve, especially while trying to stay cool in the sweltering heat. While I strolled at a gentle pace and looked at the headstones, I wondered what it would have been like for the loved ones of those buried to come visit here, so far away from their homelands. I sought comfort in the knowledge that these sacred grounds held not just 500 graves, but 500 stories,

The cemetery is administered by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, an intergovernmental organization that maintains the graves and memorials of Commonwealth of Nations military service members who died in the two World Wars. It includes the graves of 1.7 million men and women of the Commonwealth military forces and cemeteries at 23,000 locations across the globe.

 

War Cemetery in India

What is unique about this particular cemetery is that, until 2012, it was the only Commonwealth cemetery to have burial sites of Japanese soldiers who died during the second world war. It is unusual to have soldiers that are allies and enemies buried together in one war cemetery. In 2012, the Japanese government had the remains of its soldiers sent back to Japan for burial there.

 

No war was fought in the area where the cemetery is located. Those military service members who are buried here are mostly patients from nearby war hospitals and some graves were brought in from other local cemeteries over time. (source: Indian Express).

Related Articles:

Shannon covers Rongali Festival in Assam, India

 

 


Top museums and art galleries to visit in Toronto

Fort York Historical Site Toronto Ontario Canada

Looking south over Fort York, the Gardiner Expressway and the Toronto Island Airport. (photo credit: The City of Toronto)

If you are visiting Toronto, or live here, and want ideas for cultural activities to do this season, here is a list of top museums and galleries in the Toronto area to check out. The museums range from history to living museums, and the galleries are primarily the major ones (there are oodles of smaller ones scattered across the city that are also well worth a visit).

Note that at the time of writing, Toronto is still currently not fully opened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so please check the respective websites for updates, opening hours and public safety guidelines for visitors.

Royal Ontario Museum ROM Toronto Ontario Canada
Royal Ontario Museum (photo credit: Taxiarchos228)

 

Top museums and galleries list (in alphabetical order):

48th Highlanders Museum

A Space Gallery

Aga Khan Museum

Applewood Shaver Homestead

Art Gallery of Ontario

Art Gallery of York University

Art Museum at University of Toronto

Bata Shoe Museum

Black Creek Pioneer Village

Campbell House Museum

Canadian Language Museum

Canadian Sculpture Centre

Casa Loma

Cedar Ridge Creative Centre

Colborne Lodge

Doris McCarthy Gallery

Enoch Turner School

Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery

Fort York Historical Site

First Floor Gallery and Architecture & Design Gallery

Gallery Arcturus

Gardiner Museum

Gibson House

Hockey Hall of Fame

InterAccess

Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre Gallery

Koffler Centre of the Arts

Lakeshore Grounds Interpretive Centre

Mackenzie House

Market Gallery, St. Lawrence Market

Mercer Union

Montgomery’s Inn

Morris and Sally Justein Heritage Museum

Museum of Contemporary Art

MZTV Museum of Television

Neilson Park Creative Centre

OCAD University Galleries

Ontario Science Centre

Open Studio Gallery

Oral History Museum

Orborne Collection of Early Children’s Books

Power Plant

Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Regimental Museum

Redpath Sugar Museum

Reuben & Helene Dennis Museum

Riverdale Farm

Royal Canadian Military Institute Museum

Royal Ontario Museum

Royal Regiment of Canada Museum

Ryerson Image Centre

Saint Mark Coptic Museum

Scarborough Museum

Spadina House

Taras Shevchenko Museum

Textile Museum of Canada

Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library

Tollkeeper’s Cottage Museum

Todmorden Mills Heritage Site

TD Gallery of Inuit Art

Toronto Police Museum and Discovery Centre

Toronto Railway Museum

TD Gallery at Toronto Reference Library

Toronto Scottish Regiment Museum

Toronto Sculpture Garden

Fourth York Post Office

Fort York Historical Site

Ukrainian Museum of Canada, Ontario Branch

Zion Schoolhouse

As well, the city of Toronto holds Virtual Exhibits. For more info, visit Ontario Museum Association and Toronto Tourism.

Railway museum toronto ontario canada travel shannon skinner
Railway Museum (photo credit: Arild Vågen)

 

ROM, Royal ontario museum, shannon skinner, art, toronto, ontario, museum, travel
Ancient Chinese art at ROM (photo credit: Wladyslaw)

 

Resources: Ontario Museum Association, Toronto Tourism, Ontario Tourism

Sources: Wiki

 

 


Interview with legendary Swiss chef Irma Dütsch

Irma Dütsch, legendary Swiss “Michelin star” chef and restauranteur

When you think of Switzerland, what may first come to mind are the magnificent alps and crystal clear lakes. Switzerland also happens to have a fabulous gastronomy scene – and some extraordinary chefs.

On a recent trip to Switzerland, I sat down for an interview with legendary chef, Irma Dütsch. I had travelled to the charming, car-free, alpine village resort of Saas-Fee in the Valais region. Saas-Fee is known for its proximity to many trails for hikers and skiers, Gault Millau dining and annual food festival, the Nostalgic Culinary Mile.

Irma Dutsch

Irma Dütsch is no ordinary chef. She is the first female chef in Switzerland to be awarded a Michelin star. Fondly known as the “Grande Dame de la Haute Cuisine,” Dütsch is also the first female in Switzerland to qualify as a professional chef, in an industry dominated by men for eons. An extraordinary accomplishment.

Our rendezvous was at the charming Restaurant Swiss Chalet, owned by local chef Holger Schulthesis and his wife, whose fun cooking class I took the night before. I had filmed a short video of my interview with Dütsch, but unfortunately, the video has some tech issues (no thanks to my tech skills). Once I got home and reviewed it, I decided I could not use it. Though since I had plenty of time on my hands during the pandemic lockdown, I recently revisited our discussion and, inspired by this remarkably creative woman, decided to post the video anyway, even though it is a bit fuzzy.

Dütsch was born and raised on a farm in Switzerland. She went to study in Rheinfeldon, in the German area of Switzerland (located along the Rhine river), and became the first Swiss woman to quality as a professional chef. Her dream, since the age of 5, was to be a chef and restauranteur. She followed her heart. For more than three decades, Dütsch, along with with her husband Jans-Jorg Dütsch, ran the Waldehotel Flestchhorn restaurant in Saas-Fee. In addition to receiving a Michelin star, the influential Gault & Millau restaurant guide awarded her 18 out of 20 points (the maximum allowable).

Today, Dütsch spends her time consulting and writing, and is often called upon as a guest chef on the international stage. She has several cookbooks under her belt, including a children’s cookbook. As well, she has a Canadian connection, as she has previously lived and worked in Montreal.

In her own words:

The conversation was edited for clarity and length.

SS: When did you first decide you wanted to be a chef?

ID: I was 5 years old when I knew I wanted to be a chef.

SS: What was it that inspired you?

My mother cooked every day. I loved the food and I liked to see the preparation. It is life in the kitchen.

My father died on Christmas. I wanted to help my mother. She was a school teacher for cooking.

SS: You are an acclaimed female chef in a male-dominated industry. What was it like for you starting out?

It was very difficult to learn to be a chef because nobody wanted me. I come from the French-speaking part of Switzerland, from Gruyere, where the cheese comes from, so I had to go to the German part to learn how to cook because nobody wanted me. So it was not easy. But I did do it. I was the first female chef in Switzerland.

SS: How does that make you feel?

ID: I don’t think about that. I am what I am.

SS: What is the biggest challenge you faced as you were developing your career as a chef?

ID: First, I did it for myself and after that I saw that people love my food. So I would do more and more to make people happy.

SS: Ws there ever a time you said I can’t do this, it is too hard?

ID: Never. Never. I still do it and I like to do it.

SS: You live here now in Switzerland. You’ve worked in Montreal and one of your children was born in Montreal.

ID: Yes, Sandra was born in Montreal. A beautiful town. I love Canada because we married in Canada. I would like to go back to Canada one day.

SS. If you had to turn back the clock, with everything you’ve learned now as a chef, travelling the world, cooking for many people, married with kids – if you could go back, would you do anything different?

ID: I don’t think so. I just want to be a chef.

SS: You have a children’s cookbook. What interests you in teaching kids how to cook?

ID: The test and how to do it by themselves. And to eat well because when you are small and you are eating well you eat well all your life. I don’t know nobody that is not eating well and not doing good work.

SS. If you had any advice for a young girl who now has a dream to be a chef, what would you say to her?

ID: Do it, but stay in the kitchen. Do not go away and do something different. Never do something different. Stay in the kitchen and work and learn.

Background:

The Michelin star and why it is significant:

Michelin, originally a France-based tire company founded by two brothers, began producing travel guides in 1900 to encourage people to drive their cars around France (and of course to buy tires). In 1926, the company began to include in their guides the Michelin stars, which is a grading system for restaurants (1-3 stars, with 3 being the most extraordinary). Today, the majority of chefs with Michelin stars are male, with only about 100 (that I could track) are women.

About the Valais region:

Valais canton (region) in Switzerland is a land of gourmet delights, such as fine wines from stunning vineyards to fruit orchards and rare spices, to traditional rye bread and the famous Swiss raclette.

Resources: Swiss Tourism, Valais/Wallis Tourism, Saas-Fee Tourism.

Related posts:

Making ancient rye bread in Switzerland

7 days in Valais, Switzerland: wine, cheese and marmots

Dalai Lama, Swiss Robin Hood and the pursuit of happiness

This Swiss female winemaker is trailblazing

Shannon Skinner is an author, travel writer, radio and TV host, and creator/host of ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com. She lives in Toronto.


Atmantan Wellness Resort, Pune, India: review

It is late at night, it’s hot and rain is hammering our private coach as we wind up the hilly road of the Sahyadri mountains in Mulshi, a hill station in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is June, the rainy season in India, and my first experience of a monsoon. The windows are so saturated with rain I can barely make out the trees in the darkness along the side of the road. One of the passengers is playing music, softly.

So to say I am relieved when we see the warming lights of the Atmantan Wellness Resort property would be an understatement. A staff member meets our coach to welcome us and direct us to check-in. It has been a long day of touring yoga ashrams and academies in the Pune area, after a day of attending International Yoga Day in Delhi, and I am looking forward to visiting one of the top luxury resorts in India.

Shannon Skinner, Atmanta, India

 

Atmantan is an award-winning luxury, wellness resort that sits on a hill in the Sahyadri mountains of the Western Ghats range overlooking Mulshi Lake. Approximately 40 kms from the city of Pune, the resort spans 42 acres and is located in the Mulshi hill station (hill station is a quaint term for the holiday destinations in or near the mountains).

Atmantan:

Atma = soul | mana = mind | tann = body

 

For any traveller seeking personal wellness transformation, Atmantan has wellness offerings that are holistic, integrated and can be tailored to the individual. Their wellness offering include: detox, relax and rejuvenation with Ayurvedic Panchkarma, treating conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, improving cardio and overall fitness, weight loss, pain management, rehab, emotional wellness programs, and more.

 

Founded by Nikhil Kapur, a former ironman tri-athlete, and his wife, Sharmilee Agrawal Kapur, a pranic healing practitioner, the couple dreamed of creating a holistic spa resort, with a focus on mind-body-spirit. In 2016, their dream became a reality. It is a stunning property.

After checking-in, an employee drives me in a golf cart to my room, only to later return, thankfully, to hand me my passport that I forget at the check-in counter. It is too late to eat anything, so I shower and snuggle into bed. My room is luxurious, the air conditioning is welcoming and the bed is super comfortable. The rain doesn’t let up all night.

When I wake in the morning, the rain has stopped. I step out onto my private terrace and inhale the view of the mountains — and exhale joy. It is serene. The early morning fog is lifting off the mountains. The colours in nature are deep and vivid from the monsoon. It is so quiet I can hear my heart beating.

Breakfast is delightful. The food is fresh with plenty of healthy choices – and the main restaurant’s view of the mountains and lake is awesome. I am joined by a local gentleman, looking mighty fit, who tells me, at 80 years of age, he comes here regularly for the fitness and wellness programs. He takes me for a walk through the sprawling property to show me a big Buddha sculpture in a garden next to the lake.

Shannon Skinner at Atmantan India

Shannon Skinner at Atmantan India Finally, I meet my group at our bus and we leave for a day of touring more yoga ashrams. When we return late in the evening, the restaurant is officially closed, but the staff has prepared ahead of time a delicous buffet of healthy Indian fare for us, served in the cool Chantara room. In the morning, I tour the state-of-the-art wellness centre and fabulous spa facilities before we have to depart for the airport in Mumbai. I only wish I could stay longer and most definitely would come back.

Shannon Skinner, Atmanta, India

If you go…. 

Getting there? You can reach Atmantan by road or air. I flew from Toronto to Delhi for a short stay and then flew with a group from Delhi to Pune via Air India (2 hours). From Pune, we were driven by private coach to the resort (2 hrs). For guests, private helicopter service and chauffeur-driven vehicles are available. Nearest airports are Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (approx. 175 km/3.5 hrs) and Pune Airport (approx. 60 km/2 hrs).

DETAILS:

Price From: $ 220-280+ Cdn (pax). Inquire about rates and specials. Includes breakfast and access to facilities.

Who Goes? It is a one-of-a-kind in India, so it attracts locals, as well as international guests; business travellers, couples, singles and families (adult only; young children under 14 yrs. not allowed).

Style/Character: A luxury hotel resort, 5-star, modern, with mountains and lake views.

Service/Staff: Good service. Courteous, helpful and professional staff, who will gladly taxi guests around in golf carts. The food in the restaurant was delicious.

Rooms: 106 rooms and villas; all contemporary, luxurious and comfortable. All rooms (range from standard to suites) have a balcony or terrace, and offer lovely views of the mountains and lake. Includes large, bright bathrooms with bathrobe and aromatherapy products, free WiFi in the rooms, air conditioning, tea/coffee maker, fridge, and a flat screen/satellite TV. All rooms non-smoking. Of special note, the exclusive, luxury Mango Tree Villa (140 sq. meters) features a private infinity pool, fitness studio, massage room, sauna, outdoor rainfall shower, walk-in wardrobes and pagoda, with breath-taking views.

Food/Drink: There are 3 food and beverage venues. Main restaurant is Vistara (“spectacular view”), bbq lounge Chantara (“moon and stars” in Sanskrit) for relaxed evenings with music and interactive dining experiences, and bistro Té-Jus (juice bar), with a 360° panoramic view. For meals, Atmantan takes a farm-to-table approach for their “spa cuisine” by using fresh ingredients and organic produce to make meals that are a fusion of Asian, Ayurvedic, macrobiotic and Mediterranean healthy dishes; and excluding refined flour, sugar and dairy. Any dietary need can be met, including gluten-free, sugar-free and vegan, etc.

Amenities. The wellness and spa centre — over 60,000 square feet of wellness facility — is run by an Ayurveda doctor, and has several doctors and therapists available, and 23 treatment rooms. Fitness centre with everything from spinning to yoga to zumba and meditation – and mini-golf. There is a chemical-free indoor and outdoor saltwater swimming pool; business centre and conference centre. Lovely garden and walking paths.

Women traveling solo-friendly: Yes.

Family-friendly: Adult only. Children from 14 years and older are welcomed; children are not allowed in the wellness centre.

Disabled Access: TBD

Pet-Friendly: TBD

Local shopping: Not a shopping destination. Consider Pune or Mumbai for shopping.

What not to miss: the Buddha statue in the garden.

Nightlife: If you are seeking an exciting nightlife, you will need to find another spot.

Value for Money: At a minimum room cost of approximately $ 220 Cdn, you get excellent services, luxurious comfort, spa and fitness services, in a new and unique facility, and a peaceful setting with a breathtaking view.

Reservations: http://reservations@atmantan.com

Location: In the Mulshi hill station, 170 km from Mumbai and 60 km from Pune, and close to Lonavala. Address: Palse Vasti, Mulshi Taluka, Pune 412108 India | +91 20 66766666

Resources: India Tourism.

I was a guest of Atmantan Hotel and India Tourism. Opinions are my own.

Shannon Skinner is an award-winning broadcaster, international speaker, author and travel writer. Tweet to her at @Shannon_Skinner.

Related articles:

A girl on a bus in Pune, India, taught me the importance of being present

Yoga and the monsoon in India

International Yoga Day

 


The rhino, the tiger and me: Safari in India


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SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: Travel Tips for Women

Shannon travels to India. This is part 5 in a series of articles.

Safari in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India

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I am bouncing in the back seat of an open Jeep as it meanders through India’s Kaziranga National Park, a wildlife sanctuary and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northeastern state of Assam. Despite the spitting rain, I am grateful to be on my first-ever safari. It is April and the Monsoon season is approaching. Just not yet.

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My guide and ranger at the wheel

Joining me is my guide, Dipankar Borkakati, an Assamese native who has taken care of me since landing in the city of Guwahati, Assam’s capital, where I spent my first few days in India covering a cultural festival, Rongali Bihu. Even after a hair-raising 5 hour drive together through the vast state’s rich fertile land, villages and tea plantations to reach Kaziranga, we are thankfully still friendly. Driving our Jeep is an experienced and friendly ranger. I hope he has a gun, you know, just in case we get chased by crazed pelicans.

All arrangements for the safari experience including my guide, transportation and accommodations were provided by Vasco Travel, whose team in Delhi worked tirelessly on perfecting every detail, even checking in with me daily by phone. Considering they are the leaders of inbound travel to India, I know I am in good hands.

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Park rules

Living amongst Kaziranga’s tall grasslands, tropical forests, lakes and swamps that surround us are several species of mammals including the once endangered one-horned Indian rhinoceros, Indian elephants, water buffalo, swamp deer, barking deer, pelicans, Ganges dolphins, leopards, fishing cats and the Royal Bengal Tiger, to name a few.

IMG_1647_editQuite along park road

Kaziranga lies in the flood plains of the famous Brahmaputra. Most of the area gets flooded from the river during the Monsoon season, and the elephants and other animals migrate to higher ground prior to it.

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Deer with one-horned rhinos in the distance, other side of swamp

My guide points to something in the distance. Tiger? No. In the grasslands ahead is a lone elephant with a man riding – actually, standing — on its back as they saunter across the plains. I am amazed at the man’s balance and grace riding this massive and awkward creature.

IMG_1646_edit Man riding elephant

We continue. Bumpity-bump. I am glad I went to the washroom before leaving the Infinity Resort. It is late afternoon, the sun will soon set and we don’t have long in the park. The silence is deafening, save the occasional jeep of tourists traveling the same dirt road.

IMG_1670_editedOne-horned rhinos at edge of the water

My guide points again. Tiger? Nope. Poking though the tall grasslands and not more than a few meters from us appears one of India’s most prized possessions: the one-horned rhinoceros. Given rhinos are known to run fast, really fast, my heart races. We gaze at it in all its glory. My guide whistles to get its attention. It sees us. It most definitely sees us. Just as I grab my camera, it turns around and it…

…snap…

…drops a load.

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A dignified view of the same rhino

Behind it, in the far distance, are more rhinos, elephants, and herds of water buffalo and deer.

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Rhinos, water buffalo, deer and many other mammals co-exist

But no Royal Bengal Tiger. Yet. Tigers are often seen here. The ranger tells me the population is more than 100 and they are “very shy.” Part of me wants to see one, and part of me does not because it means that if I see it, the likelihood is it would see me, too. I think of Yann Martel’s Life of Pi.

Another jeep of tourists stop to inform us they just spotted the legs of a tiger in the foliage alongside our road, but apparently got scared off by an oncoming truck. I am fully wide-awake.

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As we journey ahead, I hear dogs barking. My guide informs me it is not dogs, but rather the barking deer and when they bark, it is a warning signal to the rest of the herd that a tiger is near.

A tiger is near.

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Grasslands and hills in background 

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Ranger Nekib explains park life. Where is the tiger?

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We climb a watchtower and with binoculars scan the grasslands and lake below. Pelicans are resting. The sun is rapidly falling, washing the plains with “Bengal Tiger” orange.

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Sunset in Kaziranga National Park

I take one last scan for the shy tiger. But, alas…

After a ninety-minute adventure, it is time for us to leave or we will be in trouble. As we ramble out of the park, my guide, Dipankar, leans back and says: “You will have to return to Kaziranga. The tiger is calling you back.”

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Only a few minutes later, because I love sunsets

* * *

Where to stay: Near Kohora Town is Infinity Resort Kaziranga, a luxury hotel set in a bamboo grove, which has a main building with a restaurant, spa, internet, and spacious guest villas set on stilts. Prices from $85-155 per room/night.

How to get there: Kaziranga’s Park Gate is located at Kohora Town. The closest airports are in Jorhat (100 km) and Guwahati (240 km). Then by car is the best way to the park.

Traveling to India? Vasco Travel (www.vascotravel.net), based in Delhi, is the industry leader in in-bound travel to India (in Canada, Vasco is represented by Canadian Travel Services www.CanadianTravelServices.ca). For flights, visit Air India (www.airIndia.in), a Star Alliance Member (my route Toronto-London-Delhi-Guwahati). Resources: India Tourism (www.IncredibleIndia.org) and Assam Tourism (www.AssamTourism.gov.in).

* * *

Read my other stories in the India series:

India’s Incredible Living Root Bridges
In Picture: Rongali Festival in Assam, India
Rongali Festival in Assam, India and my unexpected fame 
Traveling to India? Here’s some expert advice from Vasco Travel

 

Shannon Skinner is a television host, inspirational speaker, writer and traveler. Read her travel stories at Shannon’s Travel Bag.


Rongali Festival in Assam, India & my unexpected fame

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SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: travel tips for women
Shannon travels to India, part two in a series of articles.

 

My unexpected fame at the Rongali Festival in Assam, India

I have been traveling across North East India for the past 10 days, with my first stop in Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, a major tea region and also home to Kaziranga National Park UNESCO heritage site. I came to Guwahati to attend a special arts & culture festival, Rongali (meaning “colours”), which honours the start of the New Year here.

A combination of a happily hectic travel schedule and limited internet access means I am only now able to post my articles and blogs – from my hotel in Kolkata.

Shannon at Rongoli Festival in Assam, India

(that’s me learning to dance with the Meishing Tribe)

What I discovered is that attending festivals which highlight the arts and culture of a community is a great way for travelers to experience a place and people in a short period of time. In a way, it is like “one-stop-shopping.” On April 17-19th, the Rangoli Festival brought together many of the regional tribes and community members to showcase their dance, music, art, crafts, food and traditional sports. It also featured a number of well-known Bollywood and Assam singers, artists, actresses, fashion designers and many other local celebrities.

Then there was my unexpected fame.

SShannon Skinner dances with tribes at Rangoli Festival covered in India Telegraph

(India Telegraph)

The North East of India is an area that is relatively unexplored — and vast — and many people, particularly those living in smaller communities, are not accustomed to seeing foreigners. I found myself being celebrated and, to surprise, also became a local celebrity. Many wanted their photos taken with me, and even the media were interested, which I found myself, or my photo, in at least 3 major daily newspapers and also doing several TV interviews about my experience at the festival.

Oh, there is also the Assam Tribune:

http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=apr0415/city051

A fellow journalist, my friend Tom Peters, who also attended the festival and traveled with me from London to Guwahati, said it best:  India is a place where photos best tell the stories. More to come…

And now I must get to the airport for the next leg of my trip: Delhi!

Special thanks to Vasco Travel, the leaders in travel to India, who provided my guides, ground transportation and accommodation. The team worked tirelessly in perfecting every detail, even calling me daily.

 


Going it Solo: 6 Things to do in Ontario for Women who Travel Solo

The summer issue of Infinity Magazine, one of the publications I write for, is out! It features my article “Going it Solo: 6 Things to do Around Ontario for Women Who Like to ‘Go it’ Solo.”

Check it out! You can read it here – and more travel articles and reviews that I have written.


Sugar Ridge Retreat Centre, health-focused and pet-friendly in Ontario’s nature: review

Shannon Skinner white jacketSHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: travel tips for women

Shannon Skinner, along with her sheepdog, Bob, visits Sugar Ridge Retreat Centre in Ontario.

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If you are looking for a peaceful, health-focused retreat where you can enjoy Ontario’s breathtaking nature, good food and get in some hiking or cross-country skiing, along with your furry canine companion, Sugar Ridge Retreat Centre offers just that — and more.

Yoga Centre Day Exterior - August - Andrew Heubner

With a busy, blooming business and some personal events causing my stress levels to climb, I knew it was time for a retreat. Though I didn’t want to leave behind my dog, Bob, because that would just add to my stress. So when researching pet-friendly retreats on Facebook, I discovered the Sugar Ridge Retreat Centre. Then after speaking on the phone with owner and manger, Liz Frost, a dog-owner herself who raved about the peacefulness of its setting — and welcomed Bob — I was in.

Cabin #4 resized

Just 90 minutes north of Toronto, this hidden gem is located near Midland, Ontario on 150 acres of trees and meadows, and surrounded by 3,000 acres of provincial land. Built about 5 years ago, Sugar Ridge began as a dream after Frost left her cushy job as a chartered accountant and felt called to create a centre in the woods that promotes health, mindfulness and peacefulness. Along with her husband, Kurt, the two spent years searching for the right property. After many challenges, they opened Sugar Ridge (named after their maple forest and maple syrup that they sell), which offers relaxing, affordable and environmentally-conscious accommodations, as well as regular yoga classes and other programs.

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It was a busy Thanksgiving weekend and the centre was full, with most guests bringing at least one dog (there was a total of 12, including Liz’s dogs — the most ever). Bob and I walked some of the 20 kms of nature trails accessible from the property. It was inspiring to be in nature and watching Bob happily exploring the grounds — which includes a garden and a magical view of the night sky (and shooting stars!) – and my stress melted away.

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The main centre is the hub. There are private showers. The dining/living areas are open-concept. The studio/meeting room is circular and closed off (no dogs allowed). For rainy days and cooler evenings, there is a fireplace, magazines and games. Be sure to take off shoes and don slippers that are provided – or bring your own.

The cabins surrounding the main centre are cozy, clean, with high ceilings, windows, plenty of lights, and equipped with flashlight, fire extinguisher — and quiet. I had a restful sleep under a warm duvet and Bob slept well on the floor. In the morning, I just opened the door and out he went to pee — easy — as I kept an eye on him while still cozy in the bed.IMG_0695

Since the property is small, Liz and Kurt cook the meals; with Kurt doing all of the baking. The food is vegetarian fare, with a focus on organic and fresh-local produce; some baking is gluten-free. Our dinner was a scrumptious Moroccan stew with steamed broccoli, grilled tofu, salad, cucumber slices with hummus; dessert was Johnny Cake.

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The breakfast was a great spread: cooked oatmeal with warmed fruit (dates and apricots) – and fresh pumpkin muffins (vegan). Liz will also cook you eggs (farm fresh). Fresh fruit, nuts, tea are available anytime of the night/day.

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DETAILS:

Venue: Sugar Ridge Retreat Centre

Price From: Cabins are $139 per night, including full breakfast buffet for 1-2 adults. Each additional adult is $35. Children under 5 years stay free, and ages 6-12 add an additional $15. Facility rentals are $270 (half-day) and $540 (full-day). Enquire about rates and specials.

Who goes? Singles, couples, families, particularly with a focus on health; and corporate groups. Those looking for a nature experience, and/or conference facilities in a quiet, peaceful setting. Dog-lovers.

Style/Character: Retreat center with cabins set in nature, bed & breakfast (buffet-style).

Service/Staff: Friendly, resourceful.

Rooms: Retreat centre has 10 cabins with options of either 4 twin beds or one double and 3 twin beds.

Food/Drink: No restaurant on-site, but owners Liz and Kurt will cook a meal (vegetarian) if requested in advance. Lunch $17 per person. Dinner $25 per person. Snacks, tea and coffee are available 24/7.

Value for Money: Yes.

Women traveling solo-friendly: Yes. But bring along a flashlight for walking the grounds at night because it is quite dark.

Family-friendly: Yes.

Pet-friendly: Yes (check the pet policy). If you do not like dogs, this may not be the place for you.

Amenities: Main retreat centre is 4,200 sq. ft. multi-purpose building open year-round, used for corporate meetings or conferences, personal getaways, group or individual retreats, half-day receptions or multi-day retreats. Meeting room is 1,200 sq. ft, fully equipped. Dining area seats 40. The lounge offers living-room style seating and a wood-burning fireplace. A private office is available to guests or for individual massage/bodywork treatments. Main centre has wireless internet. Accommodates groups up to 40 people overnight, or 50 for day use only. Regular yoga classes are held on-site (check the website for details). Cabins are modern, simple, comfortable and bright. Washroom facilities are located in the main centre (bring your own towel).

Local shopping: In nearby Midland.

Where to eat: Liz and Kurt Frost will cook you a meal, but you must book in advance. Midland has a number of restaurants.

What not to miss: Walking the nature trails in the area.

Nightlife: If you want nightlife, you will need to drive into Midland.

Reservations: http://sugarridge.ca

Location: 90 minutes north of Toronto, near Midland, Ontario

* photo credit: images of Sugar Ridge provided courtesy of Liz Frost


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Shannon Skinner
I am hosting a tour of India for extraordinary women, in partnership with Sunspots Holidays, this September 2024.Join me as we explore India's stunning architecture, such as the renowned Taj Mahal, royal palaces and ancient forts. Discover Indian culinary delights, cultural places, authentic textiles and learn about everyday way of life of Indians, including yoga, through a female lens.We will explore 5 cities, as well as India's breathtaking desert region, Rajasthan. As well, we are now offering an *optional* tour extension of Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world and the spiritual capital of India, after the completion of our main tour, adding a 6th city to our itinerary.I am excited to share with you the India I fell in love with. Join me!🔸women's tour🔸Sept. 16-27, 2024🔸12 days/11 nights - 5 cities🔸Delhi-Agra-Jaipur-Jodphur-Udaipur🔸Optional Varanasi tour extension post-tour (2 days/1 night)🔸small group Presented by: Extraordinary Women TV. Book this exclusive offer now.For details, visit: ShannonSkinner.com.Contact: info@shannonskinner.com. *Tour can only be purchased with Sunspots Holidays (TICO registration 1030981).#shannonskinner #extraordinarywomentv #travel #india #toursforwomen #shannontravels ... See MoreSee Less
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I recently had the opportunity to speak at a travel industry event, “Evolving Tourism Landscape in India,” hosted by the India High Commissioner in Ottawa and India's Consul General in Toronto.I spoke about my northeast India travels and why a Bengal Tiger is calling me back.Photo: Indo Canada Chamber of Commerce (thank you) ... See MoreSee Less
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Shannon Skinner
India is one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. Take it from me, a travel writer.This September, I am hosting a guided tour of India for extraordinary women, in partnership with Sunspots Holidays. Join me as we explore India's stunning architecture, such as the renowned Taj Mahal, royal palaces and ancient forts. Discover Indian culinary delights, cultural places, authentic textiles and learn about everyday way of life of Indians, including yoga, through a female lens.We will explore 5 cities, as well as India's breathtaking desert region, Rajasthan.I am excited to share with you the India I fell in love with. Join me!🔸women's tour🔸Sept. 16-27, 2024🔸12 days/11 nights - 5 cities🔸Delhi-Agra-Jaipur-Jodphur-Udaipur🔸small group Presented by: Extraordinary Women TV. Book this exclusive offer now.For details, visit: ShannonSkinner.com.Contact: info@shannonskinner.com. *Tour can only be purchased with Sunspots Holidays (TICO registration 1030981).#shannonskinner #extraordinarywomentv #travel #india #toursforwomen #shannontravels ... See MoreSee Less
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