In August I was back in India for a week after a long time. Even though I've been there 20 times, this time it was different, it felt like I had to cross a threshold. Perhaps also because my trip had to be postponed twice due to personal circumstances. But now I went anyway and I'm so glad I persevered! I am often asked why I love being in India so much. In short I think this is because India totally engrosses you from the very first moment. In India I let go of everything and can only 'be' there. India stimulates the senses with its colors and scents and many rituals. India is very inspiring to me, so it is also necessary that I occasionally look for peace to clear my head. I do this by staying outside the city or in a small-scale guesthouse in a quiet neighborhood in the city.
I only had a week and my main goal was our own clothing brand House of Nilay. Our clothing and home accessories are made in Jaipur, the Pink City. Because of corona all remotely. I had never met its creators before. It's unbelievable that we've come this far without seeing each other. And believe me, that was and still is quite a challenge. In terms of communication, things don't always go smoothly. Very nice to be able to see everything with your own eyes.
But I also met Kuldeep and Sakchhi with whom I have two guesthouses and Jatinder, our travel agent for Namasté Reizen for 20 years .
Unfortunately I didn't have much time for other things. So I haven't been able to discover any new places. Although.. I can call the B&B I stayed in Delhi a discovery. I stayed there before, but it has changed ownership. It's such a nice place to stay. My room had a balcony so I could start the day outside with a cup of tea. The rooms and common area are decorated with block print textiles. The food is fantastic! So highly recommended!
In Jaipur I enjoyed a delicious lunch and a good cup of tea in the Tapri Tea House, which now also has a nice shop. And also new to me was Baradari Restaurant in the City Palace .. design between the old palace walls (picture on the right). Special place where many Indians come for a famous lamb dish in a red sauce. Very tasty!
Of course I also took time to shop at Hauz Khas and Khan Market in Delhi and at Anokhi in Jaipur. Hauz Khas is a bit more alternative, here you will find special small shops. Khan Market is Delhi's most expensive 'market' with shops like Fab India, Good Earth and Nicobar. Here you can buy the most beautiful home accessories and clothing. Fab India also has a great range of supplements, teas and care products. And very affordable.
In October, the entire team will travel to India to celebrate our travel organization's 25th anniversary.
Dreaming of a trip to India? Then be sure to contact me at hello@houseofnilay.nl
Love,
Margaret
