Nestled in Punjab, Amritsar holds a mirror to India’s tumultuous past and its enduring hope. As a focal point of India’s struggle for independence and one of the most affected cities during the 1947 partition of British India into India and Pakistan, its streets echo with tales of both pain and perseverance. Here, history confronts you at every turn— bullet-riddled walls whisper stories of loss and resilience. Yet, just as quickly, the Golden temple glow soothes your soul with its peace, faith, and the indomitable spirit of its people. With buttery kulchas (flatbread), rural charm, and the Wagah-Attari Border’s (a symbolic Indo-Pak crossing), Amritsar is as diverse as it is captivating.
Read moreGrowing up in tropical India, skiing always felt out of reach—both in terms of skill and accessibility. However, Bansko in Bulgaria completely changed my perspective. Known for its powdery slopes, this charming mountain town is not only beginner-friendly but also one of the most affordable ski destinations in Europe.
Read moreI recently visited Finland, and even before landing, I found myself intrigued by its reputation as the happiest country in the world. Finnair, with its calm efficiency and understated warmth, offered a fitting introduction. But as I gazed at the blue horizon somewhere over the Baltic, I couldn’t help but wonder: what exactly makes this quiet, wintry, northern nation so happy? It seemed puzzling—Finland isn’t loud in the news, its winters are long and dark, and its population is relatively small and scattered. With that curiosity in mind, I arrived in Helsinki ready to explore.
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