Growing up in an Indian family, I’ve been fortunate to have visited India more times than I can count. Despite this, I still haven’t covered even half of what this vast country has to offer. India is described as a continent due to the glorious differences between each village, never mind each state. This is what draws me back every year to visit and explore new regions.
My five senses are always satiated during my vacations in India, as my every need is taken care of before I can even think to ask. The Ayurvedic practices in Kerala strengthen my mind and body connection, the flavorful food on the streets of Delhi has my mouth watering just thinking about it and the sunsets over the Rajasthani Aravali Hills flood my body with peace.
I hope I can help create unique memories such as these for each person who visits.
Q&A with Siya
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
Crispy curry leaf fried prawns in Kerala are one dish that I can have any time, any day. Kerala is known for its seafood, especially in coastal cities like Kochi, where you can find juicy prawns fried in a crunchy batter with beautifully balanced southern Indian spices and delicate curry leaves. Pair this with a delightful evening cocktail and a view of the ocean, and there’s no place I’d rather be.
What’s the one thing you always pack?
A versatile shawl can go a long way when traveling in India. No matter the temperature, it can keep you warm during the cooler evenings or protect you from the sun during the day. A lot of places of worship and palaces require you to cover your head or shoulders and keeping a handy shawl in your bag ensures you’re always prepared.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
The village safari I took in Chanoud, Rajasthan was the highlight of a previous trip to India. Driving through the village in an open top jeep, we headed towards vast fields where we discussed the crops and farming practices of the land. I met shepherds and heard their stories, was welcomed into local’s homes and fed traditional Rajasthani food. We spotted rare bird types having an evening drink at the reservoir and herds of sheep and goats running back home for the night. The evening ended with stargazing as that night five planets aligned in the dark sky for me to witness.