Lifestyle of Indian Girls Aspiring to Marry Abroad

The sun over the west shines just the same
The moon and the stars too
But something about the west
Beckons quite a few...

"Our decision is final", said Colonel Kapoor firmly, "if you wish to do a PhD in the US, we will find a suitable boy living there. Get married and the you can go." Shruti, their elder daughter was aghast. She could not believe that in this day and age, her parents, whom she had always considered liberal, would turn out to be so conservative. It was her dream to enroll for a doctorate degree in one of the top American universities. Besides, her excellent M.Sc results ensured that she stood a good chance of getting a scholarship. Surprisingly, her parents, who had always been so supportive of her ambitions and aspirations, now seemed adamant and unrelenting. She was perhaps too young and naïve to understand the fears they had about sending their beloved child all alone to a strange, advanced and unknown land, where she would have no one to call her own.

"My dream", sighed Radha, "is to marry an NRI (non resident Indian). Radha, a 24-year old chartered accountant, had always been in awe of the west. Europe and the US were her ultimate destinations, not just to visit as a tourist, but to live and feel that she belonged to those nations more than her own country.

Neha Aggarwal, a college graduate pursuing a secretarial course, stood on the threshold of marriage. In her family, an NRI was the ultimate catch, and he stood head and shoulders above any bachelor working in India.

These three young ladies, smart, accomplished and intelligent, had one more thing in common. Marrying an NRI seemed inevitably the only route towards the fulfillment of their dreams. The Indian mindset is such that people are convinced that the brightest and the smartest men always head towards western countries, where their intellect is appreciated and rewarded. Material comfort, economic security when added to the brand value linked to living overseas, becomes the dream of every parent for his daughter.

But is it as simple as marrying in India, and life abroad a cakewalk? Not really, as the contrast between lifestyles in India and other countries is too much to be taken lightly. Girls aspiring to marry abroad need to make a conscious effort and change their present lifestyle according to the requirements of the future.

NRIs or Non Resident Indians are those fellow countrymen who have stepped beyond Indian soil in pursuit of a job, build a career, or start a business. Whatever the assignment, working abroad certainly means more money, greater recognition of talent and dignity of labor, an excellent work environment along with immense job satisfaction, success coming much quicker than it would anywhere in India. That a dollar or euro salary helps afford good lifestyles, is also a consideration. Large villas, plush apartments, latest cars, seaside holidays, all come within a short period of time. It is the best option for a generation that likes to work hard and play hard. Back in India, they command a new kind of respect, doors open for them, and heads turn with a look of awe and admiration from all around.

This may seem like a bed of roses, but it comes with its fair share of thorns. The flip side to marrying abroad, can turn out to be a traumatic experience for young ladies oblivious to the harsh realities that stare at them once they leave India.

The first step is to meet an eligible bachelor working abroad, and liking him enough to say yes to the long-term commitment called marriage. Men living overseas have spent many years alone, establishing careers without any family support or comfort. They succumb to familial pressures for matrimony, but have definite ideas about what they would like in a life partner.

The Indian system of marriage is quite different from the west. While love marriages frequently take place, arranged marriages are more commonplace. An arranged marriage means that parents try to find suitable companions for their children on the basis of family, position and education. It is an age-old belief that children from similar family backgrounds and comparable economic positions are likely to have a more successful married relationship. Moreover, Indian society being conservative, till very recently, it did not give boys and girls the liberty to move about socially where they could get an opportunity to meet suitable partners. Parents are particularly strict with daughters, seldom permitting them to socialize unescorted. This naturally meant that the probability of young people meeting prospective life partners was very low. The task of finding a life partner has been the prerogative of the parents and relatives, and matchmaking quite an interesting assignment. This generations-old tradition has also been based upon common belief that children are too naïve and immature to decide who would make a good life partner for them, and therefore, the task should be handled by mature elders. Initially, the boy and girl in question were not even asked whether or not they liked the person chosen for them. Over the years this has changed, and the boy and girl meet and even go out together, quite like the west. As a friend puts it," people all over the world, meet, fall in love and decide to marry; in India, the boy and girl meet, marry and then fall in love!" Marriage is serious business in India, and considered to be a lifelong commitment. Divorce and separation are frowned upon, and even the courts of law try to resolve issues of marital discord to preserve the relationship and restore normalcy in the family. This is the rationale behind parents choosing prospective marriage partners for their children.

The fate of an NRI is quite the same. Once he succumbs to pressure from parents and agrees to meet prospective brides, the boy's parents shortlist a few girls whose family backgrounds have been checked and the girls' qualities, personality and habits gauged through common friends or acquaintances. They seem to have fixed notions about an ideal daughter-in-law, and fervently hope that their son would choose one of the girls they have liked. The son, in turn, has an image of a partner who has a bit of the smartness of a Susan or Jane at his workplace, but also has a strong set of Indian values, who can run a warm Indian home for him, cook exotic meals both Indian and western or oriental, pamper him so that he just has his work to think of, and does not have a thing to do once he comes home. She must also be well educated to blend into his social circle and not be a misfit. She must be able to fend for herself rather than depend on him for everything. Men in India, often feel that everything they say or do, must be accepted and even appreciated, but never questioned. While non-resident Indian men have learnt to do household tasks, but once married, they wish to wriggle out of such mundane though essential chores.

Choosing a life partner is difficult especially because nowadays, it is not enough that the girl is "presentable". To be able to gauge her attitudes and outlook, and to see whether they may prove to be compatible, the Indian abroad wishes to meet the girl time and again. Her behavior and demeanor will help him decide whether or not she will fit into his life overseas. The girl on her part, takes her time to see whether the man is thoughtful, warm and caring or is he a male chauvinist, arrogant about his success, and singularly lacking in the ability to give respect to others, especially women. Many Indian young men remain tied to their mother's apron strings for their whole lives, and hence are never able to see the talent and qualities in other women. These attitudes sometimes change when they live abroad where the society offers a lot more respect to women. Marriage for Indian men too is a deep commitment; therefore, the NRI takes pains to acquaint the prospective bride with the tough lives and tasks ahead, which in India, they may never have faced. Living in India under parents' protection is an entirely different experience. India is home, their comfort zone, familiar and friendly, and seemingly safe. Parents indulge and pamper, assist and advise in everything, always shielding their children from difficulties and tensions.

Thus, when the goal is to marry someone settled abroad, it is better to prepare in advance, get acquainted in western ways, and hence be equipped to handle a different life in an unknown place. The bottom line is that life abroad is tough, entailing a lot more hard work. One would need to be efficient in household chores since domestic help is a rarity, restricted to only an elite class of people. India is one of the few countries where domestic help is a given. Time management skills are an asset and efficient handling of every chore becomes essential since there is so much to do. From shopping, cooking and cleaning to clearing snow from the driveway, mowing the lawn, the list goes on... Added to this is the fact that the migrant feels lost and lonely in an environment that does not exude warmth, and cities seem almost deserted, as populations are not at Indian levels. Above all, the young ladies in question are in a new relationship, still getting to know their husbands.

It would be beneficial for each of these girls to acquire skills such as driving so that they can be independent. In the Indian system few can afford a car per member of the family, employing chauffeurs is a prerogative of the elite and the middle class are a single-car family with men most of the time. The young ladies on the threshold of marriage must also read and gather information about the social norms of different countries, be well informed about western society, and even acquire some language skills, for, who knows when the knowledge of another language may come in handy. The Internet puts a world of information at one's fingertips, and one has to browse around to become well informed. Knowledge is the key to greater confidence makes you more self assured and dignified in demeanor, and society is more receptive and warm to such individuals.

In terms of appearance, it is important to merge with the crowd, rather than stand out as a foreigner. The young ladies can also try out different types of cuisines and develop a taste for non-Indian food. Most Indians find continental food unpalatable, and vegetarian options are not their kind either. One would have to develop a taste for different foods so as to not face an embarrassing situation in a social gathering being unable to eat anything. Young ladies are not in the habit of taking on complete cooking responsibilities, restricting their culinary experiments to a single exotic preparation. Most mothers are in charge of the daily staple food in Indian homes that include multiple preparations. Under their watchful eyes, the girls can gather a number of helpful tips that make every meal delicious.

In Shruti's case, she has to grow out of the student mould focusing only on studying. She has to get used to the idea of getting married, sharing her life, shouldering the responsibility of a home, being a wife and student at the same time, and above all, learn enough about the U.S. Western influences have crept into Indian society, but many unknown facts are unraveled when one delves deeper. Her homework on universities, admissions and scholarships will have to be centered around the place where her prospective husband is based. She has to work herself out of the emotional attachment to her family, to be able to leave them and go. A part of her daily schedule set during discussions with her parents, is to plan one meal everyday and set it in front of her family. Her father has decided to give her driving lessons himself and useful tips on money management.

Radha and Neha need to do the same. Both belong to smaller cities and are less exposed to Western influences. Simple living and their laid-back attitude would have to be changed if they are aspiring to marry abroad. Exposure to non-Indian food and dress, etiquette and table manners, good command over English, the art of polite conversation even in a crowd of unknown people instead of sitting quietly in a corner, appropriate behavior in public places, are some of the things they need to learn. Being able to walk smartly with an air of confidence will take time and practice. This will please their partners and life beyond the home would become a lot more fun, than facing the prospect of reprimand each time they are out and not doing things right. Neha realizes that she needs to take aerobic lessons to lose weight and tone up her body. Radha feels the need to learn western dance so that she can join the crowd wherever there is music and dancing.

Marrying abroad has been a happy experience for thousands and a nightmare for just as many. Girls must learn to handle difficult situations. Beyond India, each young man is an anonymous entity, very few know where he goes and what he does, certainly not his family in India. If the girl's family does not make sufficient enquiries, the girl's life faces the risk of being ruined. Some young Indian men have already married foreigners, but keep their families back home in the dark. They lack the guts to tell their parents the truth and lead them on, never realizing that they would be ruining an innocent girl's life. They feel they could go on with this dual charade forever, but the truth inevitably stumbles out. The worst sufferer is the girl in question.

Many a time men profess to own businesses while they are actually employed for menial jobs. Thus a waiter claims to be a restaurant owner, a salesman becomes the owner of a chain of stores. Torture and abuse of innocent girls are horror stories. Caution and thorough investigation becomes the key to avoid such agony. The stresses and strains of survival in Western society take their toll on men too, who, unable to vent their frustrations elsewhere, resort to abusive behavior and the young wife is at he receiving end. Crossing from one economic level to another also leads to behavioral changes in men.

Times have changed and the gap between India and the West has narrowed. Each successive generation has a more westernized lifestyle, and if the people stepping beyond Indian shores, are able to retain a bit of our own culture, blend our Indian value system with the Western style of thinking, their aims and aspirations will certainly have positive outcomes and happiness would be well within their reach.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2324233

Loneliness Versus Conformation - A Snapshot From The Life Of An Indian Girl

It has always been expected that I CONFORM: Conform to the code of body language; dress code; mode of speech... to be precise, my entire bearing had to be fashioned into a mould, closely monitored by those around so that I become a perfect "Feminine Role Model" for the family. A girl is appreciated for being sincere in everything she does: her academic pursuit and her other accomplishments... but the moment she makes a clear expression of her independent mind, she becomes the centre of controversy! So it was natural that my independent quest for the truth and validity of the views expressed by the "authority" in the household, or the values imposed on me by the moral police around, always drew a flak!

A girl child is praised for her beauty, her comeliness, her impeccable manner and politeness in her demeanor in India but never ever for her individual expression which could be dangerously unique. An Indian girl from a conservative background like me is not expected to be "Unique!"

Those were the days when, in a family setup, mothers are fallible angels quite often but fathers are infallible... I could not hide the grimace on my face as I was often asked "Are you being given education to argue with your father?" or "How can you be so arrogant as to contradict his views?" Sometimes they would ask "Girl! Have you learnt no manners from your school?" Yet the situations that provoked such volley of questions could be extremely funny! I often chuckle at those memories of my salad days! Anything could be outrageous... it could be my skirt above the knee length, a loud guffaw or when caught off guard, exchanging sweet, inviting glances with my secret admirer. The poor chap happened to look towards our terrace wistfully, like a Bollywood hero, every evening from my next door terrace in the neighborhood... It all boiled down to the same old cliché: Oh! She will learn it in a hard way from her Shosurbari (in-law's house). It was since my girlhood days the term " Shoshurbari" cast a shadow of fear in my heart. This fear was mixed with feelings of hatred for those imaginary enemies that hung in my consciousness like a looming danger...

Well, one day, it was all about an issue over two talented singers. One of them happened to be my favorite and my teen-aged spirit rebelled at my father's unkind words for her. I was stung by his unsavory comparison of her with the singer of his own time. What rubbed salt to my insult was my aunt's secret pleasure at my discomfiture. A common issue of generation gap and perception it was, and yet, my impulsive teen-age blood raced through my veins to react. As my anger rose, I was consumed with the idea of proving his verdict to be wrongly judgmental. I secretly relished the way I made my point with passion in front of the stunned onlookers in my household. A father proved wrong and that also by his doting girl! My younger brother showed me a Thumbs Up secretly! Well! I never anticipated the much ado about nothing that was to follow...

I saw dark ominous clouds gathering on my father's brow and a strange mixture of thrill and fear hovered in my mind at that moment... I dared to justify myself, blurting out a foolish statement with a pride in my voice, "I take part in debate in school to prove my point... I am justifying my view to you in a logical manner. What's wrong in that?" "I just wanted to tell you how singing styles differ which make all the difference in rendition. If one cannot accept the new style, one has no right to despise it." Time stood still for a few seconds. My aunt, who often visited my place from her village for financial assistance from my papa, raised her eyebrow, and quipped, "I often warned you brother never to let her go to any fancy Public School. You never cared to listen, do you see now?" Then turning to me sternly she said" "So you have been taking part in debate to contradict your Father? Even my Mom joined the fray issuing me a threat that she would talk to my class teacher regarding my degrading manners and indiscipline. She would! I frowned at the woman who never found any voice in the family no matter how voluble were her protests over issues at times. I pitied her at that moment. I left the dinner table in a huff and slammed the door of my bedroom with a loud bang.

My heart grew faint as their muffled voice of shock frayed my nerves. I knew there was no chance of escape as my class-teacher did not much appreciate my independent ways and tomorrow was the god dam Parent -Teacher's meeting! During those days, a teacher enjoyed the status of a Mini Hitler in his/her domain. Today, however, these poor souls are left to the mercy of the band of mini mafias in the class-room who the parents send to the schools for a few hours of heavenly breather!

It was a sweltering summer day and my class-room was packed to the capacity. I joined my friends, answering to their queries in a disinterested voice. The class-teacher, Mrs. Roy, sat at her chair, poised and grave, as usual. I turned away my gaze from her as I hated that perpetual frown on her brow. Some of the parents had already trickled into the room and took their seat. I awaited my mother's arrival in a somber mood, anticipating my painful humiliation in front of my class-mates whose moms already viewed me with suspicion for my high spirit and unfeminine ways, as they said. It was natural that they did not consider my example to be of any benefit to their growing daughters. I wiped off the droplets of moisture that was beginning to gather on my face and neck. Trying hard to pep up my spirit, I gazed outside the window of my class-room when suddenly the sight of a pair of pigeon making love on one of the window ledges of a building nearby fascinated me! I felt thrilled! The mango blossoms in the school garden smelled sweet...

Nevertheless, the dark hours of humiliation had been approaching remorselessly... so my bower of bliss was short-lived. I was suddenly aroused from my oblivion when the class-teacher called out my name in her intimidating voice: Mandira! I jolted into sense and caught the sight of my mother sitting at a corner chair with cold detachment. When did she slip into the room quietly? I asked myself. I felt some curious eyes turning towards me. I stood up with trembling fingers, weak knees and thumping heart... I braced myself up for the next moment and faced Mrs. Roy's stern visage when she suddenly declared how glad she was of my performance in the session before summer break.. Before my mother could react, Mrs. Roy informed her that I was also awarded the District Championship trophy in debate! I saw that familiar curve at the corner of my mom's lips whenever there was a pleasant surprise in store for her. Her eyes brightened up as congratulations showered on her from different corners. A dizzy moment that was... I was happy because I made her happy as I always wanted to secretly.

As we walked out in silent closeness after the meeting, my Mom suddenly looked into my face and said "I know how you are my young lady... but no matter how you are, you must conform". She continued, "In our society... I mean in real life, you will not be allowed to win the championship trophy... remember always! I don't want you to be lonely... " I touched her finger and declared Ma! Don't worry... am strong enough to bear with that...

This is a piece of snapshot from my girlhood. I am happy that the Indian society is in a state of positive transformation today... yet this transformation, that is changing the life of many urban girls, who are slowly discovering their voice today, has been a long story of sweat and bloodshed down the generation. I lived in a better time than my grandmother and mother as I got the chance to be educated in a Public School. However, my education was stopped during my college days and a socially arranged marriage was settled for me.

I completed my education latter to the extreme displeasure and non co-operation of my in-laws. Had not my husband stood by me firmly to let me pursue my studies, I would not be writing this snapshot today for EzineArticles and would never have found fulfilment in my class-room teaching among my teen-agers.

There have been countless stories of rebellion and conflicts in my life which enabled me to emerge as a stronger individual with an independent mind set with each passing day. It also helped me to evolve my sense of empathy for those Indian girls around me who are struggling to find their own in a society where they are constantly discriminated against. I appreciate and respect those women who have been at a far more disadvantageous position than me, yet who, never give up...
As I relive those moments from my life, I don't feel any bitterness against my parents today as I know that their views on feminine code of conduct and imposition was a part of a greater reality... They were the role models of a system that prevailed during those days..the Victorian values that still prevail in many parts of a changing nation today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7818795

Places Worth Visiting in North India

Do you love to travel and want to explore new places? Have you already visited the various South Indian cities and next on your travel list is North India? If yes, then tour packages for North India are meant for you. There are several travel agencies which come up with lucrative offers for north India tour from time to time. Those who want to cool their heels off and want to have a mesmerizing experience of visiting north Indian cities should avail these packages to cut down on their expenses. Let us have a quick look at the cities worth visiting.

Pushkar:

Pushkar is one of the most beautiful places to explore in North India. The blend of five rivers Suprabha, Nanda, Prachi, Kanaka and Saraswati enhances the beauty of this place further. The place is bestowed with the natural beauty of grand mountains.Pushkar is only 13 kms away from the Ajmer Railway Station. It is about 153 kms from Jaipur which is the nearest airport.

Jodhpur:

The city is thronged by the starry-eyed couples. It is the second largest city of Rajasthan and it is popularly known for its romantic ambiance. The city was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha. The beautifully carved handicrafts, the traditional music and the folk dances of the city are the major tourist attraction.

Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer is basically a city of havelis, forts and sand dunes. The unique camel rides of the city attract the visitors. Apart from Jain temple, Patwon-ki-haveli, Bara Bagh, Salim-singh-ki-haveli and Gadsisar sagar tank are the main attractions of the Jaisalmer.

Shekhawati:

Shekhawati is popularly called as an open air art gallery of Rajasthan. Previously, it was a part of the Jaipur State and now it comprises of several districts like Sikar, Jjunjhunu and NE Rajasthan. For over a century, the city is the backbone of the commercial entrepreneurship.

Khajuraho:

The place is one of the most popular sites and those who love to visit the city of religious importance. There were as many as 85 temples built by Chandela rules out of which only 22 are still there and others are in a wreck. These temples flaunt the beautiful erotic motif of Hindu art.

Ladkh:

Ladakh is one of the most beautiful places in India. The city is bounded by the mightiest Great Himalaya in the south and Karakoram in the north. The beauty of Ladakh range and Zanskar range us awe-inspiring.

Leh:

A grand nine-storied palace built by Sengee Namgayal, Ladakh ruler, in the 17 th century is the most spectacular thing in Leh.

There are several other cities like Varanasi, Lucknow, Kashmir, Jaipur, Bikaner, Goa and a lot more. The list is virtually endless.Those who have budget constraints do not need to compromise on their craving. They can make a trip to North India and explore the wonderful cities by availing packages for North India.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8005503

Best Casino in India

Gambling is a fun activity and many people have a penchant for it. It's actually a great activity to indulge in every now and then, especially when you have taken some time off work. If you are looking to gamble over the holidays or after your work hours then there are many spots that you can hit with your family and friends. Here is a list of some well known casinos. Go through the facilities available at each and then pick the best casino in India for your weekly entertainment haunts.

Goa has loads of casinos for visitors. Some of the well-known names are casino Royale at Mandovi, Casino Pride in Panjim, Casino Carnival at the Mariott in Goa, Dunes at the Zuri White Sands Resort and the Chances Casino and Resort in Dona Paula.

About 40 gaming tables and a weather deck are laid all across Casino Pride that has three floors. Keep children busy at the Kid's Zone over here that has loads of computer games. The Pride Group is a well know brand in this niche as it manages operations at Casino Palms at Baga, Casino Paradise in Porvorim and even Casino Pearl in Bogmolla. Its casino is open for all 24 hours and on all seven days of the week. Unlimited drinks and buffet come with the tickets and there is also live entertainment during dinnertime.

Casino Carnival which has two locations absolutely rocks! One branch of the casino is at the Goa Mariott in Miramar while the other one is on a boat that takes off for a cruise on the Mandovi river. The casino has everything from buffet, snacks and booze to live entertainment. There is also VIP room for high rollers.

The 154 room hotel in Varca beach at Zuri White Sands Resort attracts male gamblers by throngs during the night. The layout has slot machines, derby games and American roulette. Chances Casino is tucked away in a 53 room boutique hotel located at Dona Paula beach. It has the view of the breathtaking Vainguinim Valley. A free buffet table is laid out for gamblers to dine away while they are playing. Dress code here is smart casuals and there is even live entertainment on many days. Games available over here are slot machines, Blackjack, American Roulette and Mini Baccarat.

Most of the casinos in India are located in Goa. Actually, India has hardly any locations where legal gambling is allowed. It is carried out in just 5 cities in the country. If you want to gamble away in India then Goa is the place to be. Most of the top notch hotels over here have casinos where you can let your hair down and bet away. In fact, casinos are a great place to enjoy with friends and spend time, especially if you have a wad of cash you want to squander. You can hook up with friends also when you are gambling or take a pile of cash home if you win. Either ways, gambling at casinos is a smashing way to spend time and party with your pals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7981011

Exploring Top India Tour Destinations - Unique Lifetime Experience

Tourism in the country of India will never fail to impress you as the country has a number of exotic tourist destinations dotted with loads of attractions. The country offers an array of tourism options which include cultural & heritage tourism, wildlife tourism, adventure tourism, monsoon tourism, medical tourism, etc. With an array of tourism options, the country is also renowned for offering good accommodation facilities with availability of good number of hotels ranging from economical hotels to heritage and luxury hotels. There are a number of tourism destinations in this country appealing tourists and vacationers from all over the world.

One of the most sought after destinations for tourism and holidays in India is Rajasthan, the largest state of the country. Rajasthan, the land of kings, attracts tourists with its exquisite range of attractions such as magnificent monuments, invincible forts, elegant palaces, splendid havelis, beautiful temples, historical & religious sites, wildlife sanctuaries & national parks, desert, rippling sand dunes and of course excellent hospitality. Jaipur (the state capital, also known as Pink City of India), Udaipur (City of Lakes), Jaisalmer (Golden City of India), Jodhpur (Blue City), Pushkar, Ajmer, Ranthambhore, Sariska, Bharatpur, etc are famous tourist places in the state dotted with several cheery attractions. There are a number of luxury and heritage hotels in this state offering truly luxury and royal accommodation facilities for guests. Luxury and heritage hotels of this state are very popular among tourists coming for India Luxury Tours and travels.

Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are famous states and tourist destinations in northern India renowned for their extraordinary copious nature beauty and healthy & cheery climate. Agra in Uttar Pradesh is world famous with world heritage attractions like Taj Mahal (one of Seven Wonders of the World), Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Delhi, the capital city of India, is one of the most sought after destinations in the country known for historical, heritage and modern attractions. Lotus Temple, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, Akshardham Temple, etc are key attractions in Delhi city.

Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Corbett National Park, Kanha Tiger Reserve, Bandhavgarh National Park, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, etc are famous destinations for wildlife tourism in India. These destinations a large number of wildfire lovers & wildlife adventure enthusiasts from all over the world on India Wildlife Tours and travels.

Goa (known for beautiful beaches and magnificent churches & convents), Kerala (known for beautiful beaches, serene & scenic backwaters, forested hill stations, historical monuments), luxury houseboats, luxury beach resorts), Ooty Hill Stations, Kodaikanal Hill Station, Hyderabad (the City of Nizams), Bangalore (the Garden City of India), etc are famous tourist destinations in southern India with lots of attractions and providing excellent tourist facilities. Indeed, the country of India is worth visit. There are several India Tour Packages available in the market today to choose from. With a right tour package, you can enjoy best of India tourism.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5892916

Popular Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh India

Himachal Pradesh a state in the northern part of India is known for its scenic beauty and panorama. It's bounded by the Jammu and Kashmir on the north and Uttar Pradesh to the south. The forests, apple orchards, and snow-covered tall mountain ranges are at the heights of natural scenery and magnificence. It's a place of tourist attraction and is filled by travelers at all times. There are five major sectors that draw the maximum tourists in Himachal, namely - Shimla, Kullu and Manali, Dalhousie and Chamba, Kangra- Dharamshala-Palampur and Paonta-Nahan.

There are many places to visit in the Himachal Pradesh. Let us take a glance of a few places around Himachal. First is the Rajgarh Valley. This valley is a greenish lush situated in the district of Solan. It's a place of abundant natural beauty. Tourists can trek and adventure throughout this place. There are hotels and guest houses nearby. The residents of this place worship Lord Shiva and Godless Durga.

There is an elevated village nearly 2000 feet above sea level called as the Pragpur village. The village is occupied by local residents. There are historical and religious places around this region. We can travel; around the Kangra valley which is nearby this village. Around the Kangra valley region is the Sujanpur Tira or Fort. It was constructed in the early 19th century. This fort is a house of excellent wall paintings and beautiful shrines. Near the Kangra town are three richly built temples known for their carvings and historic Importance The Lakshmi Narayan temple, Ambika Temple, and Jain Temples are fascinating and marvelous looking.

Named after the patriot Maharana Pratap is the lake maharana pratap sagar which is a sanctuary of migrated ducks from Siberian regions. We can view thousands of varieties of ducks in one place. The best season to visit this place is between September and March. One more must visit place in Himachal Pradesh is the great Himalayan national Park. The vast stretch in area contains glaciers, snow caps etc. This place is the home for various wildlife species like Snow leopard, Snow cock, brown bear, Musk Deer etc. So you have lot of tourist destinations to visit during Himachal Pradesh tour.

Other famous places of visit in the Himachal Pradesh are listed below,

Dalhousie- a hill station with five major hills known for its great altitude and scenery.

Shimla

Mandi- which is popularly known for its 81 old stone temples. This place is called as Bilaspur- The first planned hill town of India, it is surrounded by lush hills and scenic beauty.

Chamba- A plateau region famous for the Champavati temple and chappals.

Kullu and manali Valley- A center for tourist and honeymoon attraction.

Wild Himalaya is best tourism company based on ladakh, India. Offering travel services to topmost states like ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Sikkim, Nepal and Bhutan. Book Himachal Tour Packages at budget with wildhimalaya.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7354016

Places to See in India: 3 Rapturous Indian Holiday Destinations

So, you plan to see the best of India and cover the best destinations? You want to experience the different sides of this country so that you can return home fully content? If yes, then here are 3 vivid and varied places you must visit during an Indian trip:

i. Goa: Goa is the best beachside destination which the country has to offer. It is a must-visit for all the citizens of the country. And if you are a foreign tourist and think that you have got some of your own brilliant beaches, then just walk over to Go and you may just get spellbound by how much more it can offer to your senses! Apart from its 40-odd beaches which are all diverse in beauty, the state has some of the most historic & heritage churches, forts and monuments. This entire combination works wonders to the Goa tourism bringing it instant cash throughout the year. Goa hotels too are a class apart. Some of the reputed Goa hotels have also got casinos where you can take a bite of gambling!

ii. Kashmir: If you want to enjoy the hillside beauty of India, then Kashmir should be your best bet. Though, rival hill stations like Shimla, Darjeeling, Gangtok and Kodaikanal too are pretty enamoring, the Himalayan beauty of Kashmir simply stands out due to its enigma! In terms of pure poetic beauty, you cannot find a worthy rival for the Dal Lake. It is easily the most romantic corner in the world. Shikara ride is very popular on this lake whose waters epitomize serenity and clarity. Kashmir hotels vary from the luxurious to the low-budgeted ones! The great thing about this place is that it has some very beautiful neighbors like Ladakh which is an icy paradise at a very high altitude. It is a zone for the sports lovers, and so many Kashmir packages are now also including a trip to Ladakh.

iii. Haridwar: Haridwar is holy, sedate, serene and spiritual. It is another side of India and shows its spiritual persona. With the glistening Ganga flowing at its purest best in this town and the earthen lamps adorning its swirling waters, the river is a sight to behold during the dusk! Har Ki Pauri ghat is that place where everyone including sages, pilgrims, foreigners and photographers can get what they want. The ghat is full of solace & spirituality! Haridwar has a number of other interesting temples and the Mansa Devi Mandir is the most famous of them all. Despite being a small pilgrim destination, there are excellent Haridwar hotels which can be booked offline or online. Apart from the budget-friendly inns, you can also book a room in some of the luxury Haridwar hotels.

India has many other places like the Agra (that houses the Taj Mahal), Delhi (which is a historic heaven) and Kolkata (a corner of Bengali culture), but these three towns described above hold the true mirror of the country's diverse charms.

For visiting these 3 places and for booking kashmir hotels and Goa hotels!

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Rajasthan India Travel Guide - Helpful Travel Guide

Rajasthan, the land of kings and the largest state of India, is one of the most vibrant and colorful states of India. It is globally famous with its rich culture, unique tradition, glorious past, heritage monuments, magnificent forts & palaces, beautiful temples, rippling sand dunes, wildlife sanctuaries & national parks, traditional villages, palace hotels, heritage hotels, excellent hospitality and of course generous people. Traveling in different cities and tourist destinations of this royal and imperial land would be a unique lifetime experience. On your Rajasthan travel and tours you will have a wonderful opportunity to explore lots of interesting places and fantastic tourist attractions. A comprehensive Rajasthan travel guide can assist you in most handy way to make your travel enjoyable and very memorable.

Jaipur - Also known as the Pink City of India, Jaipur is the first well-planned city of India. It is the capital and largest city of Rajasthan. City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar are highlights of Jaipur tourism. Other popular attractions include Birla Temple, Govind Devji Temple, Albert Hall Museum, Jal Mahal, Amber Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, etc. Accommodation facilities in this city are excellent with availability of good hotels ranging from budget hotels to deluxe hotels to heritage hotels.

Udaipur - Also known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur in Rajasthan is a beautiful and romantic city. Major attractions in this city include City Palace, Lake Palace, Monsoon Palace, Jagmandir Palace, Pichola Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari, etc. Udaipur is internationally famous for fairy-tale palaces and lovely lakes. Lake Palace is an internationally renowned luxury hotel in this city offering royal and extreme luxurious accommodation for tourists and vacationers.

Jodhpur - Jodhpur, the Blue City, is the second largest city of Rajasthan. Major attractions in this city include Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Sardar Market, Jaswant Thada Memorial, Mandore Gardens, Balsamand Lake & Palace, etc. Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the most popular and famous luxury hotels in Rajasthan and India. There is also good number of budget hotels in Jodhpur city.

Jaisalmer - Also known as the Golden City of India, Jaisalmer is located in the very heart of the vast expanse of Great Thar Desert. It is a wonderful tourist destination in the state to explore. Major attractions in this city include Golden Fort (also known as Sonar Kila or Jaisalmer Fort or Jaisalmer Durg), Jain Temples, Merchant Havelis, Camel Safaris, Rippling Sand Dunes, Desert National Park, etc. There several budget, luxury and heritage hotels in this city for accommodation of tourists coming from different parts of the world. Jaisalmer hotels in Rajasthan are known for offering royal accommodation and great Indian hospitality.

I hope this Rajasthan India Travel Guide will be very handy on your Rajasthan travel and tours.

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Top 10 Things To Do In India

India is bigger than life; a population that exceeds a billion, more than a million square miles of land and 23 official languages. But one common thread runs through it; India floods your senses from every direction.

From October to March the weather is refreshingly cool with minimal rainfall in most places. India's main festivals also take place during this time, such as the Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan, the Republic Day of India and the Holi, the festival of colors.

Explore contrasting images of Delhi, old and new, with our insider's guide. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Humayun's Tomb, a red-sandstone predecessor to the Taj Mahal, and the 13th century Qutub Minar. Tour Old Delhi for a glimpse into some of India's most historic sites, including the 17th century Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk bazaar. Continue to the Red Fort, with its red sandstone walls extending for more than a mile. Afterward, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Visit Varanasi, located on the Ganges River. Millions of pilgrims flock to Varanasi's ghats (steps leading into the river), where the devout wash away their sins. See Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism. Explore the ruins of a once-flourishing Buddhist monastery and a Buddhist art and sculpture museum.

Discover India's spirituality from another perspective--by taking an unforgettable sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, floating past ghats as worshippers begin to appear on the banks. Afterward, visit Khajaraho, where you spend the afternoon discovering its exquisitely carved temples.

Travel from Kahjuraho to Jhansi, stopping en route at Orchha. Pass by small villages and fields plowed by ox carts, in time arriving at the 17th century Orchha Palace and its group of Hindu temples. Enjoy lunch near the temples, and then board a train to Agra, home to the Taj Mahal; your luxury hotel offers private views of this monument from every room!

Experience Agra and the Taj Mahal, the greatest monument of love, early this morning to watch as the sunrise decorates its sheer white surface in rosy pinks. Afterward, visit the Agra Fort before returning to your hotel for an afternoon of leisure. Return to the Taj Mahal at sunset to watch as the light dances off the crisp white marble.

Driving to Jaipur, we stop en route at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch in Bharatpur, continue to the 'pink city' as Jaipur is often known, for its pink-hued sandstone buildings. Visit the Amber Fort, with its distinct Mughal architecture, and then set off for a local village to ride an elephant through the countryside. After lunch make a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (or Palace of the Winds), and visit the City Palace. You also stop at the Jantar Mantar Observatory, which houses the world's largest sundial.

Take in the charms and sights of Udaipur, a city of pristine white buildings along the banks of Lake Pichola. Visit the City Palace, a stunning marble edifice that is actually a complex of palaces and galleries that offer unforgettable views of the lake and its surroundings. See the Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakesh Palace and stroll through the Garden of the Maids of Honor. Many temples and shrines are here and are easily accessible by our private cruises or land tours.

Privately cruise Mumbai Harbor to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the islands world-renowned temples, which are carved directly out of rock and filled with ornamental statues and pillars. Most spectacular is the Trimurti, a towering bust of a three headed Shiva depicting the three aspects of Hindu cosmology; creation, preservation and destruction.

The warm welcome to Goa will embrace you, it's people will capture your heart and an exotic, yet strangely familiar charm will surround you. Beautiful beaches bask in the sunshine, vibrant color fills roadside markets and, as the sun sets, streets come alive with music and gastronomic delights.

Heading south we reach tropical Kerala, a true gem. Your stay begins with a cruise along the inland waterways to see fisherman collecting the day's catch. This region is renowned for blazing sunsets, a sail on the Arabian Sea offers a front-row view to this natural spectacle.

Monumental love stories played out in architectural wonders, royal feasts celebrating a banquet of culinary pleasures, religious ceremonies steeped in age-old traditions and palaces dressed in royal opulence paint a portrait of India, past and present. To discover and experience India one moment at a time is a rare pleasure!

Donna specializes in custom luxury travel arrangements and VIP treatment for leisure clients worldwide. Whether you are looking for a special family vacation, or a trip of a lifetime ~ We are here to help.

Donna Salerno, Certified Travel Consultant and Destination Specialist, has 29+ years in the travel business, specializing in customized luxury vacations to Asia, Europe, Africa, South Pacific, South America, and the Far East.

Our focus is providing personal, professional service to clients who are looking for extraordinary travel experiences and outstanding value.

We travel extensively all over the world; in search of exciting destinations to provide first hand knowledge to our guests.

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Top Ten Destinations for Perfect Vacations in India

The list of tourist destinations in India is unending and to select the top ten is another painstaking task. The tourists from every nook and corner of the world visit India due to variations seen in cultures, traditions, heritage, celebration, customs, cuisines, etc. The geographical and climatic factor also makes some of the destinations ideal to be visited at any day of the year. The historical palaces and forts, wonderful islands, serene beaches and lakes, incredible wildlife, vast deserts, etc., are some of the magical elements of India Tours.

1. Taj Mahal - Wonder of world: This amazing symbol of love is the destination that sets the first position of the list of top ten vacation spots.Being located at the bank of river Yamuna, the sight is spectacular for one-for-the-album pictures.

2. Kashmir - Paradise on earth: The beauty of the place makes it equivalent to a paradise.The snow capped Himalayas, the fresh environment, natural landscapes, serene lakes, houseboats, etc., are some of the attractions that make the kashmir tour packages highly popular than other tours to India

3. Kerala - God's own Place: The exceptional beauty and tranquil ambiance makes the place perfect for rejuvenating vacations.Backwaters are the silent heroes of the place.On the other hand, ancient temples, green forests, and amazing houseboats, make this place God's own place.

4. Rajasthan - Royal Land: For real royal experience, visit Rajasthan.The place is sought-after for its attractions like camel safari, heritage tourism, wildlife, etc.Along with this, the forts, palaces, and hospitality make this place royal in every sense and one amidst the popular India Tour Packages.

5. Goa - Basket of Exotic Beaches: The beaches and churches make this place a popular destination for the wonderful vacations in India.The picturesque ambiance also attracts newlyweds to spend their honeymoon and strengthen their bond of love.

6. Khajuraho - Specimen of Impeccable Architecture: The magnificent art of temples of Khajuraho has earned huge growth in tourism in India.Fine engraving of architecture and erotic sculptures on the wall of the temples is counted as the great work of art.

7. Manali - Vigilant Hill Station: This beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh is considered as "India's Switzerland". The spellbound beauty of the place attracts vacations for tours to India. This destination is also counted as perfect destination for honeymooners.

8. Ooty - Queen of Hills: The list of the top-ten destinations of India for vacations would not be justified without "Queen oh Hills". The rolling hills, thick forests, tea gardens, etc., are some of the key attractions of the place. The amazing toy train ride also makes Ooty tour packages different from other India travel packages.

9. Andaman & Nicobar Islands - Emerald Islands: A group of 572 emerald islands, located in the eastern part of bay of Bengal is one widely considered for a lavish vacation in the arms of nature. Te colorful corals, amazing marine life, crystal clear blue sea, and tall coconut trees are some of the specialties of the place.

10. Tirupati Balaji - Sacred Pilgrimage : This spiritual shrine is visited by numerous pilgrims from every nook of the world.This pilgrimage of Lord Venkateshwara is located on the 7th peak of the Tirupati Hills (Andhra Pradesh).

When it comes to discovering Indian culture and heritage, there are unending attractions to be visited and explored. Marking top ten destinations is a tough job but the popularity and distinctive history connected with the attractions make them rank on the list of sought-after destinations.

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Where to Find the Indian Girl Friend?

Indian girl is the ideal combination of beauty with brains. She is no more stuck in the spider web of religious and traditional restrictions yet proudly follows her cultural values. It would be a hearty experience to take an Indian girl for a date. Search for an Indian girl as date through the Indian online dating websites there is plenty of them online.

Is India moving out from arranged marriages?

In today's hi-tech dot com savvy environment people are very comfortable with online dating and matrimony portals. They are moving out of the closed boundaries and embracing the modern method of knowing others. The trend of online dating in India is picking up as younger generation is more confident, focused and wants to explore every corner of the globe when it comes to searching their partner. This is pertinent for Indian girl as well. She is at ease with the concept of dating online .

Which Indian Dating site is better

Online dating websites are the great option to narrow down the search for Miss Right. There are plentiful profiles available that can be browsed based on some specific criteria. Some websites offer quite detailed information about their members in their respective profiles which can be studied thoroughly and then after come to a decision whether this should be taken forward or not. Most of the website owners take extra efforts to verify the info given in the profile hence, whatever mentioned in the profile is very less likely to be fake.

Which dating sites Is better to find the perfect Indian girl?

One can use varied personality analysis tools and compatibility test offered by few dating websites. This facilitates in making the right selection amongst all the available profiles of Indian girls at the website. These tools are very helpful in getting an Indian girl as date. In order to get the access to all the profiles at these online sites individual is required to register and take the membership by paying the fees. After taking the membership they can contact the females, initiate the chat and if everything goes fine they may look forward to date an Indian girl as in a steady relationship.

Few tips to charm the Indian girl

Indian girl adores the intellect level of her partner. Futile and offensive jokes or immature talks can not grab her attention instead enlightening discussions, caring attitude and eminence sense of humor can make an individual win her heart instantly. This apt code of conduct can be put forward while chatting with her at the dating or matrimonial websites. There are also different communication tools that are offered by these online portals having extensive profiles of girls from India. You can find comprehensive reviews of Indian dating sites and matrimonial sites at Online dating in India.

Find the girl of your dreams from India through the online medium. These sources are very efficient in searching the right person with whom you start off as mere friends, then proceed to be good friends and then who knows it clicks to more than good friends. Indian girls make wonderful partners as they are loving, caring and committed towards their relationship. Look for your date at these websites successfully and observe her integrity yourself!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4309944