Showing posts with label India. Show all posts
Showing posts with label India. Show all posts

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Hotel Sherlock | Ooty | India

A couple of winters ago, I had the good fortune of visiting Hotel Sherlock in Ooty. I was blown away from the start. Being a fan of Sherlock Holmes, the name itself aroused my curiosity. Imagine my delight when I discovered that we have themed hotels here in India, in the town next door!!

This home-converted-to-hotel is situated advantageously at a vantage point in Ooty with a breathtaking view of the town and the valley below. With a small winding road up a hill, entrance through an ornate iron gate, and a beautiful path surrounding by flowers leading to its door, it feel like you're leaving a world behind. I'm still not able to decide on my favorite view, given that Ooty looked gorgeous both in sunlight and clouds from here. 

The best part were the interiors of this cozy stay-in. We were in a room called Black Peter, complete with appropriately "olden" themed  (No kudos to my architectural knowledge) decor with its very own fireplace! The room had a small awning with a glass front that looked directly into the garden and hills. While the room decor was fascinating to look at during the day, the howling winds of the night with the unsettled mist gave it quite a spooky feel.

The staff was super courteous and welcoming, and the place gave a memorable ring to Ooty for us. Hopefully, one day, I'll be back ;)

Meanwhile....

The beautiful entrance way:


Going forward, we were taken to the cottages, all named and themed after different Sherlock murder mysteries. The beautiful cottage area:


The view from our room






The restaurant (with a themed menu):





The gallery with the entire Sherlock Holmes collection and a peaceful reading area, for when you just want to be away from it all. (Did I mention Christmas season had just started?)






Beautiful night look:





On a side note, can't help but mention the delish Ooty chocolates (70% cocoa YUM!), some of the best I've had!



Happy weekend people :)



Saturday, March 29, 2014

A Blast From the Past

I landed in Hyderabad, India a couple of days ago and found myself absolutely free (how deliciously joyful that feeling is!) for a few hours. Hyderabad is a city that is very close to my heart for a number of reasons. I decided to make good use of the time and went about doing some exploration by myself...

Reacquainting myself after years, I found myself at Shilparamam, a beautiful flea market/Indian artisans' showcase near Madhapur area. I had forgotten how beautiful local artists creations can be and why I hadn't been there sooner!! (Mental note: pinch self) I was mesmerized for hours strolling through the lanes of stalls filled with pretty things - I could set up camp here! 

Check out the things that had me going ga-ga!

Night Bazaar showcasing everything ethnic, vintage and breathtaking! (You know I'm afflicted with Color Frenzy!)



Lovely summer scarves:

B-e-a-utiful embellished vintage bags!!





 Handmade ethnic ones - so perfect for summer!!

                            

                           

These gorgeous Gujarati work wall hangings and table runners!



Handmade carved wooden boxes that had me wanting to replace every box in my home


Dizzying array of colorful jewelry that begged for a indulgence (I gave in - keep calm and sparkle)





I would call it as good a day as any!

- Cheers!