Aahilya Holidays

01/07/2024

TEXTILE & CRAFT JOURNEY OF SOUTH INDIA WITH ARTIST JULIA & POLLY - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/glimpse-of-north-east-india-with-artist-helen-sill-17275777

30/06/2024

📸 Capturing Memories in Thrissur! 🌟

On this delightful day, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture of Thrissur, Kerala. Our first stop was Kalyan Silks, where we indulged in a fabric frenzy—handpicking exquisite cotton and silk textiles for our creative projects. The colors and textures were simply mesmerizing! 😍

Later, we strolled over to Fab India, a treasure trove of handcrafted wonders. From block-printed kurtas to intricate accessories, we found unique pieces that spoke to our souls. 🛍️

But our adventure didn’t end there! We wandered through the ancient streets, discovering hidden gems and soaking in the town’s rich heritage. 🏛️ And then, we arrived at the magnificent Vadakkumnathan Temple. Its towering gopuram (entrance tower) stood proud against the sky, and the scent of incense filled the air. 🙏



Have you ever explored Thrissur? Share your favorite memories below! ✨🌴

29/06/2024

🚗 We embarked on a scenic drive from Kumarakom to Thrissur, weaving through lush landscapes and cultural gems. Our journey took us to two remarkable places:

Traditional Lamp Making: In a quaint village, we witnessed skilled artisans crafting exquisite lamps. The warm glow of these handcrafted beauties illuminated our day. 🔥✨

Kutthampully Weaving Village: Here, we immersed ourselves in the art of weaving. The rhythmic clatter of looms echoed as vibrant fabrics took shape. 🌈🔗
From threads to light, Day 6 was a celebration of craftsmanship and heritage. 🌿🌼

Join artist Judy Gula next year on this amazing adventure
www.aahilyaholidays.com

Artistic Artifacts

Remember, every thread tells a story! 📜✂️ What’s your favorite craft discovery? Share below!

28/06/2024

🌟 Day 5 Bliss: From Munnar to Kumarakom!

Our adventure unfolded along the serene backwaters of Kerala. Here’s a glimpse of our delightful day:

Houseboat Magic: We set sail from Kumarakom jetty on a traditional houseboat. 🏡⛵ The gentle lapping of water against the boat’s wooden hull lulled us into a peaceful reverie. 🌊✨

Snacks, Lunch, and Tranquility: Onboard, we indulged in scrumptious snacks and a hearty lunch. 🍽️ The aroma of freshly cooked Kerala delicacies filled the air as we floated through the emerald-green channels. 🌿🥥

Backwaters Exploration: Alleppey’s backwaters unfolded before us like a secret paradise. 🌅 The lush mangroves, vibrant birdlife, and quaint villages painted a picture of serenity. 🦆🌴

Evening Retreat: As the sun dipped below the horizon, we returned to our cozy hotel. The pool beckoned, and we dipped our toes into its cool waters, savoring the day’s memories. 🌇🏊‍♀️

Join us next year with artist Judy Gula and Aahilya Holidays
www.aahilyaholidays.com

27/06/2024

🌟 Day 4 Adventures! 🌿🎨

🎨 Batik & Clamping Workshops: We dove headfirst into the vibrant world of Batik and clamping! From color introductions to the mesmerizing dyeing process, we crafted our own textile masterpieces. 🌈

📜 Handmade Paper Unit: Our curiosity led us to a magical place where paper is born. We witnessed the artistry behind handmade paper, a delicate dance of fibers and creativity. 📝

🍽️ Local Flavors: Lunchtime was a treat! Local ladies whipped up a feast that danced on our taste buds. The flavors? Pure love! 😋

🍃 Tea Museum: Sipping history! At the Tea museum, we sipped knowledge along with our chai. A captivating movie unraveled the story of India’s beloved beverage. ☕

Join our tour to Kerala in Feb 2025 with artist Judy Gula
www.aahilyaholidays.com

Kerala

27/06/2024

A TEXTILE & ARCHITECTURE JOURNEY OF UZBEKISTAN GROUP II - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/glimpse-of-north-east-india-with-artist-helen-sill-17275779

26/06/2024

Day three of our Kerala Textile & Culture Tour unfolded amidst the breathtaking beauty of Munnar! ⛰️

The scenic drive to Munnar was a visual treat. Lush green hills carpeted with tea plantations stretched as far as the eye could see, punctuated by cascading waterfalls. The fresh mountain air with a sense of peace and rejuvenation.

Upon arrival at our hotel, the warm welcome with refreshing tea and delectable banana fritters instantly put us at ease. It was the perfect prelude to exploring the verdant hills of Munnar.

Our afternoon was dedicated to a captivating cardamom and birdwatching walk. We strolled through spice plantations, their fragrance enveloping us as we learned about the cultivation and processing of cardamom, a key ingredient in Kerala's cuisine.

Birdwatching enthusiasts in our group were in their element, spotting a variety of colorful avian beauties flitting through the trees. The symphony of birdsong added another layer of magic to the experience.

Munnar's breathtaking scenery, coupled with its unique flora and fauna, has left us mesmerized. Stay tuned for more glimpses of our adventures in this hill station paradise!

To join this journey next year with artist Judy Gula
www.aahilyaholidays.com

Artistic Artifacts

Send a message to learn more

25/06/2024

Day two of our Kerala Textile & Culture Tour unfolded, brimming with fascinating encounters and hidden gems! ✨

We started the day by immersing ourselves in the world of Kerala's handloom industry. Visiting cooperatives provided a firsthand look at the dedication and skill of local weavers, creating beautiful textiles using traditional techniques.

Afterward, we savored a delicious and authentic banana leaf lunch at a local restaurant. The taste of fresh, local ingredients and the warm hospitality left us feeling truly nourished.

With full bellies and happy hearts, we continued our exploration. The Mattancherry Palace, a stunning example of Keralan architecture, transported us back to a bygone era. Its intricate murals and artifacts offered a glimpse into the region's rich history.

The Jewish Synagogue, nestled within the heart of Jew Town, was a place of serenity and cultural significance. We learned about the fascinating history of Kerala's Jewish community and marveled at the synagogue's unique architectural style.

Wandering through the bustling streets of Jew Town, we were captivated by the vibrant spice shops. The aromas of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper filled the air, a sensory experience unique to Kerala. Every day on this tour has been a delightful discovery, and we're eager to share more of our textile and cultural adventures with you!

24/06/2024

Our incredible Kerala Textile & Culture Tour kickstarted in March 2024, and we're so excited to share our experiences with you! ✨

On day one, we warmly welcomed our group of 22 enthusiastic guests at Cochin Airport. After a brief rest, we embarked on a captivating journey through Kochi, a city brimming with history and culture.

Our first stop was Fort Kochi, a place where time seems to travel back centuries. We wandered through its charming streets, lined with colonial architecture and vibrant shops.

A visit to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, was a step back in time. Its intricate architecture and historical significance left us awestruck.

The iconic Chinese fishing nets, standing tall like sentinels, provided a glimpse into Kerala's unique fishing traditions. Their silhouette against the setting sun was a sight to behold!

As the day drew to a close, we were mesmerized by a captivating Kathakali dance performance. The vibrant costumes, expressive movements, and dramatic storytelling painted a vivid picture of Kerala's rich artistic heritage.

This was just the beginning of our Kerala adventure, and we can't wait to share more of the textile traditions, cultural encounters, and breathtaking beauty we discovered along the way!

Join our textile tour of kerala with artist Judy Gula in February 2025
www.aahilyaholidays.com

Artistic Artifacts

24/06/2024

Our incredible Kerala Textile & Culture Tour kickstarted in March 2024, and we're so excited to share our experiences with you! ✨

On day one, we warmly welcomed our group of 22 enthusiastic guests at Cochin Airport. After a brief rest, we embarked on a captivating journey through Kochi, a city brimming with history and culture.

Our first stop was Fort Kochi, a place where time seems to travel back centuries. We wandered through its charming streets, lined with colonial architecture and vibrant shops.

A visit to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, was a step back in time. Its intricate architecture and historical significance left us awestruck.

The iconic Chinese fishing nets, standing tall like sentinels, provided a glimpse into Kerala's unique fishing traditions. Their silhouette against the setting sun was a sight to behold!

As the day drew to a close, we were mesmerized by a captivating Kathakali dance performance. The vibrant costumes, expressive movements, and dramatic storytelling painted a vivid picture of Kerala's rich artistic heritage.

This was just the beginning of our Kerala adventure, and we can't wait to share more of the textile traditions, cultural encounters, and breathtaking beauty we discovered along the way!

Join our textile tour of kerala with artist Judy Gula in February 2025
www.aahilyaholidays.com

24/06/2024

Spark Your Creativity: Aahilya's Unique Holidays 2025 [First Quarter] - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/meet-british-textile-artist-wendy-dolan-17187795

23/06/2024

Embark on a vibrant 17-day journey through the rich textile heritage of South India! From the elegant silk of Mysore to the handloom cotton of Calicut, explore diverse fabrics, traditional techniques, and passionate craftsmanship. 🌿✨🌸

To plan your holiday with artist Ms Julia Oxlade and Ms Polly Woolstone in January 2025 visit our website.
www.aahilyaholidays.com or email us at [email protected]

21/06/2024

On our journey to Tashkent, we started our day with a fascinating discovery - the Koni Gil Paper Mill! This charming haven, steeped in history, is a testament to the city's rich legacy of papermaking.
Did you know? Samarkand became a major papermaking center after the 8th-century Battle of Talas! Legend has it that captured Chinese soldiers, skilled in papermaking, revealed the secrets of this craft.

The mill itself is a delight. Imagine a serene setting where water and wind power operate the mills, pounding mulberry bark, cotton, and textile waste into beautiful sheets of paper.

From the 10th century onwards, mulberry bark became the preferred material for its pest-resistant qualities, flexibility, and durability - perfect for the needs of Islamic calligraphers.

The resulting paper was renowned for its light color and delicate fragrances, achieved by incorporating henna and rosewater into the process.

Exploring Koni Gil Paper Mill was a journey through time, unveiling a unique chapter in Samarkand's history. It's a reminder of the ingenuity and artistry that flourished here for centuries.

21/06/2024

On our journey to Tashkent, we started our day with a fascinating discovery - the Koni Gil Paper Mill! This charming haven, steeped in history, is a testament to the city's rich legacy of papermaking.
Did you know? Samarkand became a major papermaking center after the 8th-century Battle of Talas! Legend has it that captured Chinese soldiers, skilled in papermaking, revealed the secrets of this craft.

The mill itself is a delight. Imagine a serene setting where water and wind power operate the mills, pounding mulberry bark, cotton, and textile waste into beautiful sheets of paper.

From the 10th century onwards, mulberry bark became the preferred material for its pest-resistant qualities, flexibility, and durability - perfect for the needs of Islamic calligraphers.

The resulting paper was renowned for its light color and delicate fragrances, achieved by incorporating henna and rosewater into the process.

Exploring Koni Gil Paper Mill was a journey through time, unveiling a unique chapter in Samarkand's history. It's a reminder of the ingenuity and artistry that flourished here for centuries.

20/06/2024

On this day we went to Gijduvan, a town renowned for its centuries-old ceramic traditions. We visited a captivating workshop, where time seemed to stand still as we witnessed the age-old techniques used to create these beautiful objects.

Imagine this: a mill, powered not by electricity but by a donkey, diligently grinding the materials that will be transformed into exquisite ceramics. This traditional method adds a touch of magic to the entire process.

The glaze, a crucial element, is formed by melting kaolin, quartz, and other components. But here's the truly unique ingredient: ishkor! This special coal comes from a wild desert grass and is essential for achieving the perfect glaze.

We were mesmerized by the dedication and skill of the craftspeople, their passion evident in every step of the process. From shaping the clay to meticulously applying the glaze, their expertise has been passed down through generations.

Visiting this workshop was a true privilege, offering a glimpse into a disappearing art form and the unique cultural heritage of Gijduvan.

Limited seats available book your place soon for our next year holiday to Uzbekistan with Kim Thittichai
www.aahilyaholidays.com

20/06/2024

Uzbekistan stole my heart, and it wasn't just the stunning architecture, rich culture, and vibrant textiles! This incredible country is a haven for foodies, even vegetarians like myself. Worried about finding delicious options in an Islamic nation? Fear not!

From steaming bowls of soup and perfectly grilled veggies to fluffy non breads (flatbreads) and refreshing salads, there's something to tantalize every taste bud. And let's not forget the endless cups of flavorful tea! Noodles, Potato Pirojki, rice dishes like vegetarian plov, and hearty stews featuring pumpkin and potato became staples during our adventure.

Potato somsa, a savory pastry filled with potatoes and spices, was a delicious on-the-go snack, while baklava and yogurt ice cream provided the perfect sweet ending to our meals. Did I mention the honey cake? Divine!

One thing that truly impressed me was the care taken to accommodate vegetarians. Many restaurants prepared separate vegetarian meals, ensuring no cross-contamination with meat. A huge thumbs up for respecting dietary needs!

So, to all my vegetarian friends out there, Uzbekistan is calling your name! And don't forget to try the sugar-coated almonds - they're a delightful treat! My personal favorite, however, was a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth non bread I had at the Grand Samarkand restaurant. Unforgettable!

Uzbekistan, you've been an absolute delight!

20/06/2024

Textile & Culture holidays with Aahilya Holidays 2024 - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/tigers-textiles-of-golden-triangle-with-british-textile-artist-amanda-duke-17187115

19/06/2024

Samarkand's wonders continue to amaze us! On this day, we embarked on a journey through history, visiting two awe-inspiring landmarks.

First, we paid our respects at the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the legendary Amir Timur. This magnificent structure, adorned with intricate turquoise tiles, is a testament to Timurid grandeur.

Next, we stepped into the mesmerizing Shahi-Zinda Necropolis. With its vibrant blue-tiled facades and mausoleums clustered along narrow pathways, it's a photographer's paradise!

Shahi-Zinda, meaning "The Living King," is not only a burial ground but also a revered pilgrimage site. We were captivated by the stories etched in every detail, a glimpse into the lives of past royalty and nobles.

Samarkand's historical treasures continue to leave us speechless. Stay tuned for more adventures from this incredible city!

19/06/2024

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true masterpiece of Timurid architecture, and today, we unraveled its captivating stories.

As the birthplace of the legendary Amir Timur, Samarkand boasts a rich history that's beautifully reflected in the Registan's intricate details.

We spent hours deciphering the hidden meanings and symbolism woven into the stunning mosaic tiles and architectural elements. Each design, a window into the past, revealing the artistry and cultural significance of this remarkable place.

From the magnificent turquoise dome of the Gur-Emir Mausoleum to the intricate facade of the Sher-Dor Madrasah and the Tilya-Kori Mosque, every corner of the Registan Square held us spellbound.

This experience was a true journey through time, and we left feeling inspired by the beauty and knowledge we encountered.

18/06/2024

Our Uzbek odyssey took an exciting turn today as we journeyed from Khiva to Bukhara!

Upon arrival, we were treated to a spectacular fashion show, a vibrant display of traditional and modern Uzbek clothing, accompanied by captivating dance performances.

Later, we delved into the world of textiles with a fascinating Suzani embroidery workshop. Learning the intricate stitches and vibrant patterns was a truly enriching experience.

The day culminated with a delightful cooking class, where we mastered the art of preparing Plov, Uzbekistan's national dish. It was a delicious way to end a fun-filled day!

Stay tuned for more glimpses of our Bukhara adventures!

Join this amazing journey next year with artist Kim Thittichai.
Only 4 places left..

18/06/2024

Our exploration began at the Lab-i-Hauz ensemble, a vibrant hub that embodies the essence of modern, traditional Uzbekistan. Here, history and culture seamlessly blend.

The magnificent Nadir Divan-Beghi Madrasah, Khanqah, and the towering Poi Kalon minaret and mosque, each architectural marvel, whispered tales of a glorious past.

We delved even deeper into the city's rich heritage with visits to workshops of jewelers and embroiderers. Witnessing the creation of exquisite pieces firsthand was a true privilege. These age-old crafts continue to thrive, preserving the legacy of Eastern art.

No exploration of Bukhara is complete without a visit to its ancient Ark Fortress, a powerful symbol of the city's long and storied history.

Bukhara has truly captivated us with its charm, and we can't wait to share more of our discoveries!

17/06/2024

Cultural And Textile Tour Of Kerala with artist Judy Gula - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/tigers-textiles-of-golden-triangle-with-british-textile-artist-amanda-duke-17186575

17/06/2024

🌙 Celebrating Eid al-Adha: A time for reflection, sacrifice, and unity. 🕌✨ Share blessings, feast with loved ones, and remember the spirit of selflessness. 🐑❤️

Eid Mubarak to all from Aahilya Holidays

13/06/2024

TEXTILE & CULTURAL JOURNEY OF INDONESIA WITH AMANDA DUKE - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/glimpse-of-north-east-india-with-artist-helen-sill-16967989

10/06/2024

Textile & Culture tour of Uzbekistan with artist Kim Thittichai - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/textile-and-visual-tour-of-north-india-16535105

06/06/2024

Textile And Visual Tour Of North India - https://mailchi.mp/aahilyaholidays/textile-and-visual-tour-of-north-india