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Alison at the Taj Mahal

Alison

Indian Subcontinent Specialist

After completing a master's degree in chemistry, Alison pursued a career in the pharmaceutical industry, which resulted in her working in India for two and half years. This was perfect for her as she has always loved traveling.

Based just north of Mumbai, she was able to travel extensively around India during her vacations. After returning to the UK she decided that it was time for a change of career. Given her desire for travel and her extensive knowledge of India she joined Audley. Since then she has rediscovered the highlights of India, including the Golden Triangle and Kerala. In addition, she has traveled extensively around Sri Lanka, discovering the variety of experiences the country has to offer — from cultural sights and the wildlife, to abundant tea plantations and paddy fields. More recently, she has visited Bhutan, discovering more about this fascinating country with its unique philosophies, beautiful countryside and colorful festivals

In her spare time, as well as traveling, Alison enjoys all nature of outdoor pursuits from kayaking to hill walking and parachuting.

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Alison, an Audley Travel specialist

Start planning your trip to India & the Himalaya with Alison

Munnar, India

I recommend visiting - Munnar, India

Munnar in Kerala at an altitude of 5,200 ft is the main tea growing area in the south of India. The first time I visited was on a break from work in Mumbai. The amazing green rambling hills were such a breath of fresh air from the busyness of the city.

It is one of the few places in India where waterfalls flow all year round. It provides great opportunities for escaping the crowds including walking in the plantations, and some gentle hill walking providing the reward of fantastic 360 degree views. I'm sure once you visit you will not want to leave!

Ellerton, Kandy

I recommend staying at - Ellerton, Sri Lanka

Medium

Ellerton is lovely small simple boutique hotel sitting on a hillside close to Kandy. It was built over 100 years ago for use by the Tea estate managers, and therefore retains the colonial character.

Although I have stayed in more luxurious properties, the friendly welcoming staff really made my visit memorable. The staff are always happy to help but do so in a relaxed non-intrusive fashion, making it much more of a homely experience than a hotel stay.

In addition Ben, the resident Black Labrador, is always willing to accompany you on walks around the plantation if you wish!

I'll never forget when…

Having lived in India it is difficult for me to choose a most memorable experience, as I had so many. However festival season in India is unforgettable, particularly Diwali.

It is great to witness everyone enjoying themselves, and the displays are particularly impressive — from the hanging lanterns, to the amazing Rangoli on the floors, to the extensive firework displays. I'm not sure my ears will ever fully recover!

Photos of Alison

  • Alison in the rock garden, Chandigarh, India Alison in the rock garden, Chandigarh, India
  • Alison joining in with pre-wedding celebration dancing, India Alison joining in with pre-wedding celebration dancing, India
  • Alison enjoying the views from One-Tree Hill at Ashburnham Estate, Sri Lanka Alison enjoying the views from One-Tree Hill at Ashburnham Estate, Sri Lanka
  • Alison on a private plane in Bhutan Alison on a private plane in Bhutan
  • Alison making Ayurvedic oil, Sri Lanka Alison making Ayurvedic oil, Sri Lanka
  • Alison in Munnar, India Alison in Munnar, India
  • On top of Pidurangala Rock, looking out to Sigiriya Rock, Sri Lanka On top of Pidurangala Rock, looking out to Sigiriya Rock, Sri Lanka
  • Alison in a tuk-tuk in the small town of Ella, Sri Lanka Alison in a tuk-tuk in the small town of Ella, Sri Lanka