In October 2024, I had the opportunity to visit the Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun, India. Established in 1906, FRI is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious institutions dedicated to forestry research and education.

Exploring the Campus

The FRI campus spans over 500 hectares and is renowned for its Greco-Roman and Colonial architecture, particularly the main building completed in 1929. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to India’s rich colonial heritage and is a major tourist attraction in Dehradun.

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In October 2024, I had the joy of celebrating my wedding anniversary in Dehradun, India—a city that holds a special place in my heart.

Celebrating Wedding Anniversary

Another year, another adventure

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In October 2024, I embarked on a memorable journey through Jaipur, India’s Pink City, immersing myself in its rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural marvels.

Day 2 – Travel Memories in Jaipur, India

1. Visited The City Palace in Jaipur
2. Lunch at Niros Restaurant
3. Enjoyed drinking Lassi at Lassiwala
4. In the evening visited Jal Mahal
5. Pay respect at Moti Doongri Temple
6. Pay respect at Birla Mandir
7. Shopping at Night Bazaar
8. Dinner & party at KnightHouse

Morning at The City Palace

My day began with a visit to the City Palace, a sprawling complex established in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The palace’s courtyards and intricate buildings, showcasing a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles, narrate tales of Jaipur’s regal past. The Chandra Mahal, a seven-story structure still inhabited by the royal family, and the Mubarak Mahal, now a textile museum, were particularly captivating.

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In October 2024, I discover the rich heritage of Jaipur with visits to Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, and a cultural evening at Chokhi Dhani. Experience Rajasthan’s royal past, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.

Day 1 – Travel Memories in Jaipur, India

1. Stayed at Umaid Mahal – Bani Park Hotel in Jaipur.
2. Visited Amer Fort
3. Visited Jaigarh Fort
4. Lunch around Jal Mahal
5. Visited Hawa Mahal and local market
6. Coffee Break
7. Evening spent at Chokhi Dhani

Stay at Umaid Mahal – Bani Park Hotel

My adventure began with a stay at the Umaid Mahal – Bani Park Hotel, a beautifully restored 18th-century heritage property. The hotel’s intricate décor and special glass artwork provided a regal ambiance, setting the tone for my explorations.

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On the seventh day of our South Korean journey in April 2024, we delved into the vibrant city of Busan, immersing ourselves in its rich culture and dynamic urban life.

Day 7 – Travel Memories in Busan, South Korea

1. Breakfast at “A Twosome Place”
2. A long walk around Gamcheon Culture village
3. Korean lunch near Seoul Tower
4. Shopping in Gukje Market
5. Night walk & dinner in the Seomyeon Area

Morning at “A Twosome Place”

Our day commenced with a delightful breakfast at “A Twosome Place,” a popular café chain in South Korea. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the array of pastries provided a comforting start, energizing us for the adventures ahead.

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On the sixth day of our South Korean adventure in April 2024, we embarked on a journey from Seoul to Busan aboard the KTX bullet train, setting the stage for a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Day 6 – Travel Memories in Busan, South Korea

1. Traveled to Busan from Seoul by KTX bullet train
2. Checked in at the Arban Hotel in the Seomyeon area
3. Took lunch at Mubanna Chondak Chicken near Arban hotel
4. Experienced local travel by subway
5. In the evening walk around Gwangalli Beach
6. Night party and dinner at Haeundae Beach

Morning Departure from Seoul

We began our day at Seoul Station, the bustling heart of the city’s transportation network. The KTX (Korea Train Express) bullet train, renowned for its speed and efficiency, was our chosen mode of travel. Departing promptly, the train accelerated smoothly, reaching speeds of up to 305 km/h, ensuring a swift journey to Busan. The ride was comfortable, with spacious seats and panoramic windows offering fleeting glimpses of the Korean countryside.

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On the fifth day of our South Korean adventure in April 2024, we set out to explore Nami Island, a picturesque destination renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance.

Day 5 – Travel Memories in Chuncheon, South Korea

1. Afternoon visit to Nami Island
2. Lunch at Nami Island
3. A long walk around Nami Island
4. In the evening back in Seoul
5. Indian dinner at “Gurkha” in Myeongdong Street

Journey to Nami Island

We began our day with a scenic drive from Seoul to Nami Island, located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. The island, shaped like a half-moon, was formed when the North Han River was dammed in 1944, creating a serene retreat just a short distance from the city.

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On the fifth day of our South Korean adventure in April 2024, we embarked on a journey to the Garden of Morning Calm, a botanical haven nestled in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do.

Day 5 – Travel Memories in Gapyeong-gun, South Korea

1. Guided tour of Nami Island
2. Early morning breakfast at the Garden of Morning Calm
3. A long walk around Garden of Morning Calm
4. Then afternoon visit to Nami Island

Morning at the Garden of Morning Calm

We began our day with an early morning visit to the Garden of Morning Calm, renowned for its meticulously curated landscapes and diverse plant species. The garden’s design emphasizes curves, spaces, and asymmetric balance, reflecting Korea’s unique beauty and cultural heritage.

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On the fourth day of our South Korean adventure in April 2024, we embarked on a journey to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Paju-si, a region that stands as a poignant reminder of the Korean Peninsula’s complex history.

Day 4 – Travel Memories in Paju-si, South Korea

1. Half-day-guided tour to DMZ
2. Visit the Odusan Unification Tower near the North Korean border
3. Breakfast at Odusan Unification Tower cafe
4. Visited the old Prime Minister House near DMZ
5. A long walk around DMZ
6. Taken Korean lunch in Seoul with Korean drink soju
7. In the evening, we visited Starfield Library
8. Dinner at Gangnam Street

Behind Us is the North Korean Border

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