Rashmi Narayan

The Deccan Odyssey promises colourful cabins, red-carpet service and the luxury of your own loo as you glide from Delhi through Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle
“That first glimpse of the Taj Mahal never gets old — and I’ve seen it at least 50 times,” says my guide, Mohammed Nadeem Khan, with a glint in his eye. We walk towards the monument for what is my comparably paltry second time in 17 years.

This month it’s National Curry Week (7-13 October). One person who probably won’t be celebrating is Bangalore-born food and travel writer Rashmi Narayan, for whom the very word ‘curry’ is an insult to Indian cuisine.

“Julley! Welcome to Ladakh — the land of high passes,” says my guide Pujan Rai. “You’ll hear this word a lot around here — Julley. It means hello, thank you and goodbye in Ladakhi.”
It certainly is the land of high passes. Ladakh, a union territory in northern India, is surrounded by the spectacular white peaks of the Himalayas, which include the Ladakh and Zanskar mountain ranges. Both are different: the Ladakh Range lies to the north and is a part of the Trans-Himalayan range.

Travel News – The rise in Indigenous Tourism and Tourism Tax.
WTTC has launched its Supporting Global Indigenous Tourism report emphasising how indigenous tourism is anticipated to rise and be a key economic driver towards global economy by 2034. First nations tourism is also flourishing in Canada where various agreements between tribal groups and the government have resulted in income from Indigenous-themed tourism.
Over tourism is a factor for a sharp rise in the cost of living for locals. Tourism tax might not deter heavy footfall but will redirect travellers to lesser-known destinations.

The first thing that may come to mind when someone mentions Kentucky is bourbon – but there's a lot more to this state than America's Native Spirit.
From epic hikes in state parks to equine experiences at horse farms and from exploring quaint small towns to partaking in artistic workshops, the Bluegrass State has hidden charms aplenty. Here's how to go beyond the beaten track and discover Kentucky's lesser-known experiences.

Bourbon and Beyond.

“Bourbon represents more than just a drink—it embodies a rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and community. A culture that I’ve often felt I have one foot in and one foot out of,” Missy Spears, Executive Director of Queer Kentucky, tells me. “Since Bourbon is often the centrepiece of social gatherings, whether it’s a fundraise...

From UNESCO-listed caves to marine reserves and quiet towns once inhabited by Romans, Carthaginians and Moors, this under-explored region of southeast Spain has surprises in store.
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Wedged between the popular coastal destinations of Málaga and Alicante, the region of Murcia occupies a stretch of southern Spain too often neglected by international travellers. Sea coves and quiet beaches characterise its 155 miles of sunny coastlin...

Eat your way across a country generously scattered with Michelin and Michelin green-starred restaurants for world-class dining. It’s not all high end, though – the Danish culinary scene offers up experiences across all budgets. Irrespective of rain or sunshine, the Danes are always ready to embrace hygge, a concept that involves enjoying the good things in life – and that definitely includes enjoying the excellent cuisine the country has on offer. Dive into Denmark’s gastronomy at these restauarants.

It may not have the French architectural charm of NOLA, but Lake Charles’ vibrant celebrations have a certain je ne sais quoi, finds Rashmi Narayan

Dining in the USA's southern region is special because, apart from its wide array of soul food and seafood, barbecue and Cajun and Creole cuisine, you can embrace a slice of American history and culture while enjoying an amazing range of restaurants and cafés.

Monocle Radio Episode 3426

57 minutes

Rashmi Narayan talks to host Emma Nelson about the increase in corporates wanting to meet their sustainable targets by having employees travel by train in the USA and what this could mean for tourists. She also talks about polar expeditions that are on the rise and why they must be regulated to help reduce carbon emissions on their fragile ecosystem by travellers.

Saddles, spurs, and smiles.
Ask any Texan and they will confirm that the Lone Star State is rodeo country, particularly in February.
Visiting San Antonio during the annual Rodeo and Stock Show, the iconic paraphernalia won’t be hard to find: as I walk around the showground, I see cowboy boots, Stetson hats, shiny belt buckles and catch glimpses of ba...

There’s much more to Danish cuisine than hot dogs and open sandwiches ... but they’re a very good place to start.
Beyond its reputation as a fine-dining destination, there is a dish in Denmark to entice every epicurean and bring more hygge into your life.
Even Danes will agree that the names of their dishes aren’t the easiest to pronounce. Most involve making a gurgling sound in the back of the throat when you have a go at saying them.

Iberostar Selection Creta Marine, sitting between Heraklion and Chania on Greece’s largest island, has reopened its doors to show off an impressive makeover

Within minutes of checking in, elements of this stunning seaside resort come together in great harmony. Uplifting interiors, a punchy welcome drink, sprawling acres of manicured lawns and good-humoured staff.

An epic Tennessee road trip

A road trip from one corner of Tennessee to the other will ensure you soak up its legendary music, delicious food, Civil Rights history and hidden gems – all of which are worth turning the engine on for.

From its musical heart in the vibrant city of Memphis in the west to the Great Smoky Mountains in the east, Tennessee is a remarkably versatile destination that fits every traveller’s wish list.