Travel with Shreya

22/01/2024

Travel Blog on Cherry Blossom in Japan 21-Day Itinerary – Day 3:

Embark on a captivating journey through Kurokawa, A*o, and Kumamoto, as each destination unfolds unique tales of cultural richness and natural beauty. From the tranquil onsen town of Kurokawa, renowned for its rejuvenating hot springs, to the scenic landscapes of A*o, dominated by the majestic Mount A*o, and finally, the vibrant city of Kumamoto, where history meets contemporary charm. Join me in savoring the delights of agedashi tofu in Kurokawa, exploring the historic A*o Station, and indulging in vegan Mexican tacos at Tortacos in Kumamoto. This blog encapsulates a day brimming with diverse experiences, from onsen adventures to culinary delights, promising a memorable journey through the heart of Kyushu, Japan.

Discover the allure of Kurokawa, A*o, and Kumamoto as this journey unfolds tales of culture and nature. From tranquil onsens to scenic landscapes, delve into a day of diverse experiences in southwestern Japan.

22/01/2024

Travel Blog on Cherry Blossom in Japan 21-Day Itinerary – Day 2:

Discover the captivating allure of Kagoshima, a hidden gem in southern Kyushu, Japan. Join me on an exploration through this lively city, where history gracefully mingles with the beats of contemporary life. This blog unfolds a mosaic of first experiences, from the exhilarating ride on Japan’s renowned Shinkansen to the unique charm of our inaugural stay in a Love Hotel. Come along as we relish our first taste of Coco Ichibanya’s delightful offerings and uncover the treasures Kagoshima holds. From the iconic Kagoshima Castle and the idyllic Sengan-en Garden to the adventurous escapades around Sakurajima, an active volcano, each step reveals a story of cultural richness and natural beauty. Let’s dive into the essence of Kagoshima – a destination that guarantees a harmonious fusion of tradition and modern wonders.

Embark on a journey through Kagoshima, Japan, filled with first experiences: Shinkansen rides, Love Hotels, and delightful culinary discoveries. Explore, savor, and plan your stress-free adventure with Travel Love Repeat.

22/01/2024

Why You Should Join Our Vegan Vacation in Japan for 2 Weeks?

Experience: Enjoy a carefully curated vegan vacation in Japan with Ubuntu Travel Love Repeat, ensuring every meal aligns with your plant-based preferences.

Bliss: Immerse yourself in the beauty of cherry blossoms at Fukuoka's Ohori Park, Okayama's Korakuen Garden, and Tokyo's iconic spots.

in Onsens: Indulge in the tranquil ambiance of Yufuin or Beppu Onsen, unwind in Beppu Hatto Onsen, and savor a traditional Kaiseki dinner for a serene escape.

: Immerse yourself in Japan's rich culture with visits to historic sites, including Okayama Castle and the optional Naoshima Island art tour.

of Kyoto: Experience the allure of Kyoto with visits to the iconic Kinkaku-ji, a Shojin-ryori meal, and a memorable day trip to Nara.

in Takayama: Explore the picturesque Sanmachi Suji and embark on a day trip to Shirakawa-go to witness traditional gassho-zukuri houses.

: Conclude your journey in Tokyo, where cherry blossoms adorn the Imperial Palace, Shibuya, Akakusa, and Shinjuku. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji during a day trip to Hakone.

: Benefit from Ubuntu Travel Love Repeat's local expertise, gaining insights into hidden gems, offbeat destinations, and the best vegan-friendly spots.

: Embrace eco-conscious travel practices with Ubuntu's commitment to responsible tourism, leaving a positive impact on the destinations you explore.

: Create lasting memories as you embark on a 14-day vegan adventure, appreciating the beauty, culture, and flavors of Japan in the company of like-minded travelers.

14/01/2024

Travel Blog on Cherry Blossom in Japan 21-Day Itinerary – Day 1:

Embarking on my first-ever Japan escapade, Day 1 in Fukuoka unfolded as a vibrant kaleidoscope of new experiences. Dive into Fukuoka’s magic with a stay at Yaoji Hotel Hakata, your zen retreat with hot-spring bliss. Start your adventure hopping from Hakata station to Ohori Park using the airport line, soaking in the city’s ruins and a touch of cherry blossom joy at Maizuru Park. Explore the spiritual vibes at Kushida Shrine and cruise Hakata’s river for an evening delight. Grab a bite from Evah Macrobiotic Fukuoka, a taste adventure. Use the Mymizu app for free water and unwind in Yaoji Hakata’s onsen before a night’s sweet slumber. Fukuoka’s 24-hour charm awaits, promising a mix of unique moments stitched with the city’s special spirit.

A vibrant start to my first-ever Japanese adventure, unveiling cultural wonders in every corner of Fukuoka with Yaoji Hotel's hot springs, Hakata river cruise, and more.

15/05/2022

Let us have a look at the itinerary of each day and overall expense of the full road-trip of Southern Iceland in Winter in 10 days for 1 person!

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/southern-iceland-road-trip-winter-10-days-itinerary-expense/

Let us have a look at the itinerary of each day and overall expense of the full road-trip of Southern Iceland in Winter in 10 days for 1 person.

15/05/2022

On our way back to Keflavik from Snaefellsnes Peninsula, we visited The Settlement Center at Borgarnes to know Iceland's history and have the all-vegan buffet....

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/last-day-iceland-borgarnes-keflavik-iceland/

On our way back to Keflavik from Snaefellsnes Peninsula, we visited The Settlement Center at Borgarnes to know Iceland's history and have the all-vegan buffet.

15/05/2022

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is Iceland in Miniature. There are volcanic craters, dramatic mountains, lava fields, stunning beaches, waterfalls, fjords, hot springs, awe-inspiring gorges, lush meadows, twisting lava caves and cute fishing villages of colorful wooden houses....

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/best-snaefellsnes-peninsula-2-days-northern-lights-iceland/

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is Iceland in Miniature. There are volcanic craters, dramatic mountains, lava fields, stunning beaches, waterfalls, fjords, hot springs, awe-inspiring gorges, lush meadows, twisting lava caves and cute fishing villages of colorful wooden houses.

12/05/2022

While traveling around in a new country, Richie and I are keen in discovering “secret spots”, places off the beaten path, to enjoy something only with your traveling partner. We found one such hidden hot spring in South-West Iceland. It was not on Google Map, there was no proper sign. I just managed to find the GPS coordinate of the location in one of the blogs I have read about it and we went there searching for it. The hidden gem gave us an exclusive experience, giving us the feeling of having traveled far away. Then, we enjoyed the whale-watching tour in the small town of Grundarfjordur, which is the only place to spot orcas or killer whales in Iceland. We made sure that the tour is ethical. Our guesthouse in Snaefellsnes Peninsula is also amazing, as it overlooks the famous Kirkjufell Mountain and the North-Atlantic shore.

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/best-snaefellsnes-peninsula-2-days-landbrotalaug-hot-springs-whale-watching-kirkjufell-iceland/

Highlights of the tour are Landbrotalaug Hot Springs on the way to Snaefellsnes, whale-watching tour in Grundarfjordur, and the stay overlooking Kirkjufell.

11/05/2022

On Christmas, we stayed in a refurbished bus at Mount Esjan's base overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, met Icelandic horses, attended mass in Hallgrimskirkja....

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/esjan-buses-unique-accommodation-icelandic-horses-christmas-day-reykjavik-iceland/

On Christmas, we stayed in a refurbished bus at Mount Esjan's base overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, met Icelandic horses, attended mass in Hallgrimskirkja.

10/05/2022

Vatnajokull National Park is the largest ice cap in Europe. We had the experience of a lifetime as visited the crystal ice cave inside the glacier, and Iceland's natural crown jewels - Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the nearby stunning Diamond Beach!

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/vatnajokull-national-park-jokulsarlon-glacier-lagoon-diamond-beach-iceland/

Vatnajokull National Park is the largest ice cap in Europe. We had the experience of a lifetime as visited the crystal ice cave inside the glacier, and Iceland's natural crown jewels - Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the nearby stunning Diamond Beach.

07/05/2022

On day 5, we drove ahead of Vik to visit the impressive Eldhraun lava field, then the pictursque Fjadrargljufur canyon, hiked at Skaftafell to witness the stunning Svartifoss....

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/vik-eldhraun-lave-field-fjadrargljufur-canyon-skaftafell-fosshotel-glacier-lagoon-iceland/

On day 5, we drove ahead of Vik to visit the impressive Eldhraun lava field, then the pictursque Fjadrargljufur canyon, hiked at Skaftafell to witness the stunning Svartifoss.

13/04/2022

Iceland's Southern Coast includes two stunning waterfalls - Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the Dyrholaey Peninsula and the Reynisfjara Beach!
https://www.travelwithshreya.com/seljalandsfoss-skogafoss-dyrholaey-reynisfjara-the-barn-hostel-vik-iceland/

Iceland's Southern Coast includes two stunning waterfalls - Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the Dyrholaey Peninsula and the Reynisfjara Beach.

10/04/2022

Iceland visit is incomplete without visiting the Golden Circle, which can also be boosted with adding exciting adventures such as snorkelling at Silfra fissure and snowmobiling on Langjokull glacier and more!
https://www.travelwithshreya.com/golden-circle-snowmobiling-langjokull-glacier-from-reykjavik/

Iceland visit is incomplete without visiting the Golden Circle, which can also be boosted with adding exciting adventures such as snorkelling at Silfra fissure and snowmobiling on Langjokull glacier and more.

22/03/2022

If summer is for whale-watching in Reykjavik, then winter is for the Northern Lights and museums and more. The city is full of life. Here are the top 10 things to do in Reykjavik during winter....

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/iceland-winter-road-trip-top-10-things-to-do-reykjavik-iceland/

If summer is for whale-watching in Reykjavik, then winter is for the Northern Lights and museums and more. The city is full of life. Here are the top 10 things to do in Reykjavik during winter.

08/02/2022

Know what to do on the same day on arriving Iceland in case you are restless like me. We were lucky to get a direct flight to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, from New Delhi. The airport is called Keflavik International Airport, which is a gateway to Iceland. Blue Lagoon is also a must visit on the day you arrive or depart as it is close to the airport. Explore Reykjanes also before heading to Reykjavik.

https://www.travelwithshreya.com/iceland-winter-road-trip-things-to-do-on-arriving-iceland/

Keflavik International Airport is a gateway to Iceland. Blue Lagoon is a must visit on the day you arrive or depart as it is close to the airport. Explore Reykjanes also before heading to Reykjavik.

19/08/2021

19/08/2021

Finally, the much awaited video on Baasbari Farms is out!
If you’re tired with the hullaballoo of the hectic life and are looking for a quiet sanctuary to recover your elements, then look no further than the newly opened Baasbari Farms, around 90-min drive from Darjeeling in northern part of West Bengal, India. This eco-farm, a first-of-its-kind in the locality, is built completely with local materials. The farm will give an experience of the real countryside of Darjeeling region. It is eco-tourism in a living sense.
https://youtu.be/_DwZZLTNiQg

If you’re tired with the hullaballoo of the hectic life and are looking for a quiet sanctuary to recover your elements, then look no further than the newly o...

25/05/2021

Imagine having a vegan fine dining just beside a natural lava wall overlooking the views of the wonder world. Yes, I got the Premium ticket of the Blue Lagoon that has the option for making a reservation in the Lava Restaurant, and of course I reserved. The restaurant is located just by the lagoon and luckily I got the best seat there. The experience was pretty unique. I couldn't imagine having plant-based options there but I was happy having a 3-course vegan meal there 💚

25/05/2021

Few interesting facts about Blue Lagoon 👍
💚Did you know Blue Lagoon is not a natural spring? While Iceland is abundant of natural hot springs, the Blue Lagoon is not one of them. Even though the land and the lava that shapes the pool is natural, but the water is actually the result of runoff from a neighboring geothermal power plant.
💚The Blue Lagoon is located in Grindavik, a small fishing town in Reykjanes Peninsula, and we took around 20 min to reach there from the airport.
💚There are three tiers of tickets – Comfort, Premium, and Retreat Spa. The ticket prices vary depending on the time of the year.
Comfort tickets cost around $90, and it includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, and first free drink of your choice. Premium tickets cost around $110, which includes an additional mask of your choice, dining reservation (optional), and sparkling wine with your dining reservation. Retreat Spa tickets cost around $620. It includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, access to a private changing room, a private spa and a private area of the Blue Lagoon Iceland.
💚The Blue Lagoon is open from 8 AM to 9 PM during winter, and from 7 AM to 11 PM, sometimes 12 AM during summer.
💚You have to shower before getting inside the lagoon, and make sure you tie up your hair properly as the silica-rich water is not great for the hair.
💚The lagoon is around 4.7 ft deep and the temperature of the water is around 40 degree Celsius.

11/03/2021

Always dreamt of Blue Lagoon in Iceland, and now here I am 💚

02/03/2021

The board says "Jump Into the Pot and Take a Picture". Being a বাধ্য সন্তান (obedient child), I listened to the troll while it started cooking me up 😃
Iceland is famous for its folklore full of elves, trolls, Yule Lads, and more. Here you can see how the Troll welcomed me in the airport.
From restaurants, cafes, bars to banks, money exchange services, car rental companies, duty-free shopping areas and more, Keflavik international airport has all such modern amenities.
The airport is small but well sign-posted, so we didn't face any difficulty claiming our baggage and exiting. However, .sharma and I spent more than an hour hopping everywhere at the cute airport.

01/03/2021

Look at that happy face! Yes, coz I just reached Iceland! Aaaaaa...... Richie was like, "There is a person behind, will take a good pic once he moves out of the frame." I was like, "Jaldi kheech yaar, ek photo toh banta hai inna cute aircraft ke sath, aur bohut thand bhi lag rahi hai, andar jani hai airport ke jaldi" (I was asking him to click the photo fast as I wanna pic of mine with this cute aircraft, and then wanna go inside the airport soon as it's pretty cold outside).
Iceland had always my heart, me being a huge Game of Thrones fan. Then one fine day, Richie over the phone, "Let's go for a winter road-trip yaar, okay you choose, Scotland or Iceland?" In seconds, I was like, "Of course, Iceland!" I meant no offense to Scotland, it's breath-taking too, but come on, remember the scenes of beyond the Wall? The vast and frozen landscapes of Northern Westeros? Remember the sequence where Samwell Tarly and Lord Commander Mormont were attacked by White Walkers? Also Arya’s and The Hound’s journey to the impregnable Eyrie? That arrowhead mountain beyond the Wall when Jon Snow and his band of men ventured North to fight the Army of the Dead? There are more! So, it was a YES to Iceland in seconds.
We did not put much thought on the trip initially, just roughly did the costing of the trip, and booked the flight tickets. Gradually, we got our visas, booked accommodations and few tours in advance, also rented the most suitable vehicle for our trip, and the day almost arrived when we had to actually take the flight from New Delhi, India to Reykjavik, Iceland. However, the airport is located in Keflavik, few kms off Reykjavik.

28/02/2021

"People often say that ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder,’ and I say that the most liberating thing about beauty is realizing that you are the beholder.” – Salma Hayek