The Roaming Shoes

Java – this enchanting Indonesian island had always sparked my curiosity. Growing up in Odisha, a coastal state in eastern India with a rich maritime legacy, I often heard tales of ancient voyages between our shores and the distant lands of Java, Bali, and Sumatra. Back then, Java was just a name wrapped in stories. I never imagined I’d one day experience it myself. That changed this year—when we chose Java for our 11th anniversary trip. And what a journey it turned out to be! Java wasn’t just a destination; it was a breathtaking collection of moments. In just a few days, we saw the sun rise over an active volcano, hiked under a star-filled sky to witness the rare and mystical blue fire of the Ijen Crater, stood at the edge of a beautiful yet acidic volcanic lake, and trekked to a surreal waterfall that looked like something straight out of Avatar . Every moment was magical—and everywhere we went, the warmth and kindness of the people made us feel right at home. We were, quite lit...

  Think of the desert, and the first place that springs to mind in India is none other than Jaisalmer —Rajasthan’s Golden City, where history whispers through sandstone walls, and golden sand dunes stretch endlessly beneath the desert sky. While its glorious forts and palaces tell tales of a regal past, it's the surreal charm of the Thar Desert , the cultural extravaganza, and the unforgettable desert camping experience that steal most hearts—including ours. Sush and I had long dreamt of spending a night amidst the dunes, and when we finally made it happen, Jaisalmer exceeded every expectation. From watching the sun melt into the desert horizon to dancing under a sky full of stars, this was one experience we’ll never stop talking about. So here’s everything you need to know to plan your own perfect desert escape—plus a few unforgettable places to see in Jaisalmer while you’re at it. Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer   October to December (excluding Christmas holidays): ...

  In a world obsessed with ticking off checklists and chasing every “must-see” spot, there are some trips that quietly remind us of the joy in slowing down. Our visit to Pahalgam one of the most talked-about destinations in Kashmir was meant to be a fleeting stopover, but it unfolded into something much deeper. A last-minute Airbnb cancellation, incessant rain, and the place’s reputation for being too “touristy” made us skeptical at first. But as fate would have it, we landed there anyway and left with hearts full of unexpected memories. This blog isn’t your usual list of “top things to do in Pahalgam.” It’s a story, a pause, a slow travel memoir for those who believe that sometimes, letting go of FOMO leads to the most meaningful experiences.   The Drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam: A Journey through Stories Our love for Pahalgam began long before we arrived. The drive from Srinagar was, in itself, a visual poem. Picture this: golden paddy fields flanked by towering mo...