About Madhu

WHO AM I?

A small town girl living in big, bustling Chennai. Bitten late and hard by the travel bug, I’m on an extended sabbatical from my interior design practice and on a mission to make up for lost time.

Marriage, the birth of our daughter and nearly a decade of shuttling between remote tea plantations in the Nilgiri Hills in South India, made for a near idyllic life but put our travel dreams on hold.

A chance move to the big city opened up opportunities for work that I immersed myself into with as much passion as I bring to travel today. I got proficient in CAD, apprenticed with leading architects in the city and eventually graduated to a successful design practice of my own, while Ravi, my husband – the elusive R of my early stories – quit his steady job and turned entrepreneur.

We were soon empty-nesters with enough savings to finally dust off our mothballed dreams. With much prioritising, and quite as much luck, we’ve since managed to make the most of both: our passion for travel and our work and family commitments.

Ravi and I travel together mostly but I add solo extensions to each trip and incorporate solo journeys in between when he is unable to join me. He loves travel nearly as much as I do but I suspect he loves his work a little bit more.

6 fun facts that my profiles do not reveal about me.

The Urge To Wander was born in early 2012 out of my desire to share my perspectives of the places I have travelled to and of the people of those places. What started out as a personal journal grew into one of the leading travel blogs in India thanks to a highly engaged community. It has also led to some interesting collaborations with tourism boards and exclusive travel brands.

You’ll find history and culture score over adventure here. It was never my intention to offer travel advice when I started out, but my stories and photo essays will now be backed up by a host of dedicated pre-planning and destination guide pages* to motivate you to travel more and to travel well.

It’s a big beautiful world out there. So many places to experience yet, and so little time. I intend to make the most of what I have left. I’m Madhu, come wander with me…

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MY FAVOURITE DESTINATIONS

Egypt – Because it flips every notion of antiquity on it’s head!

Istanbul – For its magical East/ West vibe, the amazing food and the people.

Kashmir – For its poignant magic and gracious people and

Ladakh – For the magnificent Himalayan landscapes that have left me hankering for more.

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Machu Picchu in the mist for one.

A dawn balloon ride over the surreal landscape of Cappadocia.

Our priceless hour with the last remaining silverback gorillas in Rwanda.

And unhurried day-long safaris through the Serengeti witnessing the great wildebeest migration. I would return to Africa every year if I could afford it.

FIRST TIME HERE?

Whether you are seeking inspiration or in the process of planning a trip, these featured pages will point you in the right direction.

Image Link To Travel Planning Page.

If you have questions or suggestions regarding travel or any content on this blog feel free to drop me a line here. I love constructive feedback.

And if you haven’t already, do remember to subscribe so you never miss a new post or guide.

S U B S C R I B E

611 thoughts on “About Madhu”

  2. Hi Maddhu. You have changed the theme of your blog, right? Hope everything is all right with you.
    (Happy New Year… last day of the calendar to say that)
    Fir milenge
    Brian

    Reply

    1. Thank you very much Arvind. I have been rather irregular around here. Hoping to return to a regular schedule soon.

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  7. Great blog, wonderful design (can tell you’re a designer 🙂 ) and excellent photography. Will come back more often, as there’s so much more to explore here. Happy travels from the Netherlands!!

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  9. Hello Madhu,
    Had pleasure of meeting you back in 2002 when I was invited over for a lovely evening curry. Thanks to your husband for giving me the details of your blog today, I shall pop in from time to time and view your great photographs and stories. India is a truly magical place and hopefully one day I shall return as I have many fond memories (and one or two I would rather forget!)…every time your husband phones I feel the pull of a trip to Chennai 🙂
    Venice next week!

    Reply

    1. Hi Paul, apologies for the belated response. Thank you very much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts. Hope Venice went well. I spent over a week there last April and loved every moment. You must plan another trip to Chennai. We shall try to ensure that you leave with memories that you will never want to forget 🙂

      Reply

      1. Hi Madhu, our Venice trip went very well – amazing place or as I liked to call it – ‘The Worlds Largest Maze’. The temperature and humidity was extremely high (34c) myself and Helen were permanently attached to water bottles. I would like to recommend a hotel we used should you ever go back, we stayed at the Hotel Ala, just off the Giglio ramp. Needless to say, I came back with about 50gb’s of photos and HD video. Our next trip hopefully will be a return trip to see our friends in Washington DC and either a trip to Chamonix (last seen 27 years ago) or Sorrento. It is unfortunate that the actual travelling bit is becoming the most hated part – I have developed a great dislike/phobia of airports (but love flying). How do you cope with this part of travelling? Paul.

        Reply

        1. Hi Paul, ‘the world’s largest maze’ about sums up Venice! 🙂 Would love to see your images…do send me a link if you plan to upload your gallery to the web. Chamonix sounds wonderful. We haven’t covered much of Europe – or the UK – except on a multi city escorted tour about three decades ago, which does not really count as travel. Time to remedy that.

          Airports are a challenge for me as well. But what option do we have with our urge to wander?

          Reply

    1. Thank you. Happy you do! The theme is the same, I have just removed the background image and opted for a lighter colour scheme.

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  16. great blog! since you are into designing interiors…its also shows on your blog theme and layout …which happens to be quite slick! 🙂

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  19. Hi Madhu, I happened to be here accidently, will admit that. But it has been so very good for me. I like the overall design of this site and the way you have structured it. It also now compels me to read all your blogs, especially the African Safari ones. Happy to have paid a visit. Good Luck, Shaunak Marulkar (Pune, India) 🙂

    Reply

  21. Hi Madhu, I commend you for following your passion. Not many have the courage to do it. The proof is here. This blog is beautiful and your passion shines through it. We get the gift of seeing it, as the icing on the cake. Must follow.

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    1. Thank you Ron. Glad you enjoy my blog. The look is all about the theme. I think yours is pretty good too 🙂

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    1. Kat, thanks again for the award and your generous support. Wishing you great adventures in the months ahead.

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    1. Thank you. And I hope you do manage to incorporate travel into your life. There is no boldness involved. You just need to dream and then work hard to make it come true 🙂

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    1. Thank you Anette. This is a premium (paid) theme that I have further customised. There are many similar free magazine style themes that you could use. Like ‘Imbalance’ for example.

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  33. Such a gorgeous blog you have Madhu. Wonderful to connect and I have just found you on Facebook using my personal profile. Wishing you every happiness in 2015 and many adventures. 🙂

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    1. Apologies for the belated response Sue. All good wishes to you too 🙂 Have just liked your Facebook page.

      Reply

  35. Hello Madhu,

    Thank you so much for visiting my blog and following it.

    I really feel great to find your work here.

    Hope to follow your adventures…

    Sreejith.

    Reply

  36. Hi…looking forward to following your travels as I am heading out of South Africa soon hoping to do a RTW trip. Happy travels.

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  39. What I think can be summed up in one word “awesome”. Your posts were like ‘never ending’. I tried to find the first post for some time. So much of travels!! Amazing 🙂

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  40. Hi Madhu, chanced upon your blog and boy am I grateful! Loved your blog, your pictures speak and your writing has so much soul…couldn’t help but get transported to those places for a fleeting moment and then back again to reality…INSPIRATIONAL !

    Reply

    1. Appreciate the generous compliments Priyanka. Delighted to meet you and look forward to seeing you around 🙂

      Reply

  42. Hi Madhu, I like the new look! The gravatar is great!
    I’m not a frequent blogger anymore (lots happened and happening), but when I do post something or simply log in (like I did now), I never log out without visiting your blog. I enjoy your posts always, keep them coming.

    Reply

    1. Really kind of you to say Shaantz! Appreciate your taking the time to write this note. I hope the ‘happenings’ are all good. Wish you all the best in whatever you decide to do. Take care. Hugs 🙂

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      1. I come back to your blog and find more awesome pictures and stories:)

        Not all was good Madhu. I’ve been to Bangalore three times this year as Mom was ill….she passed away recently, in fact, two months to this day. That took its toll on everything from my life to my work to everything else…..but life must go on. I’m trying to get back to things and it is difficult. I realize today is Onam and we miss her more than ever on this day.

        But I’ll be back here soon. Take care.

        Reply

        1. I am so very sorry for your loss Shaanthz. Sorry too to have missed this comment somehow. Losing one’s mom is devastating at any age. My thoughts are with you and your family.

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  43. Hello Madhu, I’ve just stopped by to comment on your new gravatar (will come over later to see the posts). I love it! I’ve just realised we have a beauty mark on the exact same spot, except that I have two of them. Do you find practical to use your DSLR with sunglasses? I know I can’t do it successfully 😀

    Reply

    1. Glad you like it Paula 😀 No, I am not comfortable either. This was an early experiment at an outdoor event a couple of years ago, when I was wearing contact lenses.

      Reply

  45. Hi Madhu,

    I have seen your passion of travel, design. I feel admirable when i see your travel map. So i just wondering where will you off to next ? 🙂

    Happy travelling 🙂

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your interest in my urge to wander! We have a safari in Tanzania lined up for September. Nothing concrete beyond that.

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  48. Hi Madhu.. Loved your blog. I am passionate about travelling too, every chance I get, I pack up my back and visit some place new. Not necessary somewhere far from home.
    Travelling is a desirable syndrome and I am glad we share that syndrome. I will be following you on your journey.

    Cheers
    Aanchal

    Reply

    1. Hi aaanchal, I seem to have missed your comment somehow! Apologies for the late response. Thank you very much for your support. Look forward to exchanging travel stories with you.

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  49. Hi Madhu,

    I have just come across your blog and immediately I fell in love with your style! I look forward to reading your future posts. Happy and safe travels.

    Wendy

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  50. Hi Madhu,

    Love your featured photograph 🙂 It has to be Kolkata, ( looks like Gariahat)..The window shutters are so typical.. love them..much more interesting and intriguing than the glass panes that we now have in our apartments ..thanks for refreshing my memories.

    Regards,
    Mamta

    Reply

    1. Thank you Mamta. The background image is indeed from Kolkata, shot somewhere in the vicinity of Star Theatre in Sobha Bazaar. Glad you like it. Look forward to seeing you around 🙂

      Reply

  51. Hi Madhu,
    Thank you for following my photography/lyric essay blog http://www.throughharoldslens.com.

    I hope you enjoy your journey.

    To help you launch your travels, I thought you might enjoy a couple of “Quick Links” to a few of my favorites, from over 200 posts, on Through Harold’s Lens:

    “Five Senses” (France)
    http://throughharoldslens.com/2013/06/20/five-senses-european-tour/

    “Maiden Mild” (Poland)
    http://throughharoldslens.com/2013/06/12/maiden-mild-european-tour/

    “Shaken! Not Stirred” (Sweden)
    http://throughharoldslens.com/2013/09/13/shaken-not-stirred-european-tour/

    On behalf of the entire Creative Team at Through Harold’s Lens, my trusty sidekick Mr. SLR Nikon, his brother Mr. Pen Pal and myself, we wish you safe travels.

    Best,
    Harold

    Reply

    1. Enjoyed browsing the links Harold. Thank you for your visit and comment. Happy travels to your too. Have a great day!.

      Reply

  53. I love your blog and so happy to have found you while ‘snooping about’ on the reader…your posts are quite refreshing and well-written! You probably have more than 500 followers but Im nominating you for the Liebster Award! http://africanahgirl.com/2014/06/24/the-liebster-award/
    Please answer my 11questions and let me know? Plus, it would be lovely for you to nominate 11 other bloggers and do the same for the cycle to continue…Happy blogging!

    Reply

    1. Africangirl, thank you very much for thinking of me for the award. I am truly honoured! I might not have time to ‘play’, but I shall certainly showcase it on my awards page. You can access the page from the image widget on my sidebar.

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    1. Aww Sally, thank you for the lovely comment! Your blog is one of my favourites too, and it has been a pleasure getting to know you through your ‘lens & pens’! 🙂

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    1. Dear Richa, thank you very much for the kind nomination. And congratulations to you too! I shall showcase a link to this nomination on my awards page.

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    1. Ah, thank you Russel! Always happy to connect with people with “long lists of places to visit”! Let me warn you that the list only gets longer 🙂

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        1. Hi jeppe & Katja,
          Thank you so much for the kind nomination! I shall showcase this on my awards page and link to your site. Just popped over to your blog and loved what i saw….I look forward to following your journeys.

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  63. Madhu, I just discovered your blog and wanted to send my thanks–I love your fresh perspective on traveling! I also love that you have a love for interior design–I’m an interiors photographer and can definitely share your passion here 🙂 Cheers, and I look forward to many more of your stories and adventures!

    Reply

    1. Just popped over to your site(s) to take a look and was bowled over by the quality of your photography Suzie! Honoured and delighted by your visit and comment, truly 🙂

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  64. Madhu, Just stumbled on your blog – love it!! I’m a new blogger myself and feel I’ve discovered a whole new world out there. Thanks for sharing your insights.

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    1. Loretta, thank you! A pleasure to ‘meet’ you. I wish you good luck with your new blog. Hope to see you around.

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  65. Your writing and photography is magical! I adore travel and you and your blog are an inspiration!! Glad I stumbled upon you. All the best! Gus

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  67. Thanks to you! It is my site. ‘Not quite sure how to link it to Gravatar. As Americans say: “working on it” 🙂
    Take care
    Brian

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      1. Thank you Madhu! I think it’s done!
        Shukriya (?) (one of the few words I remember in Urdu! 🙂

        Reply

  68. Hi Madhu. (Does Namaste apply?) Can’t but love your blog: I was born in Karachi, of a long line of anglo-french adventurers from Chandernagor to Calcutta to Benares to Gwalior to Jowrah where my grandmother was born. Siding the streets of Calcutta and Paris is not jus fabulous, it’s poetry. Thank you again for the instant trip(s). Merci beaucoup.
    Brian

    Reply

    1. Brian, Namaste! 🙂
      What a lovely compliment! I am so happy you could relate to my posts the way you did, and that you made the effort to stop by to tell me. Thank YOU! It is feedback like yours that makes the time and effort I put into this blog worthwhile.
      PS: Is this your site? Might be wise to link it to your Gravatar.

      Reply

    1. Happy you do, thank you Gopal! I look forward to following some of your adventures as you follow your urge to wander 🙂

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  72. Madhu, I found you through my Reader, and I’m so glad I did! While I’ve only begun to scratch the surface of your wonderful blog, I am loving everything I am seeing: the content, absolutely; the layout of your theme, lovely; even the customization of the taglines for the widgets you use, fun! I started my search using your “Destination” dropdown menu and was hoping I’d find France in that list. Lucky me! From there, I read your post about juxtaposition. Enjoyed it so much, I came right back to your about page to tell you my thoughts and to let you know you now have a new follower. Continued success with your blogging adventures. I’m looking forward to reading more.

    Reply

    1. I am so glad you found me and led me to your wonderful blog SPFischer. Many thanks for the generous compliments and the good wishes. I look forward to seeing you around.

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    1. Yes, I went for a complete makeover! 🙂
      Happy to see you here Jerry…..has been a while. Hope all is well with you.

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    1. It is, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make up lost time. But if you want it badly enough you can too. My tag line is ” For those who can dream, there is no such place as farway!” and I totally believe in it 🙂 Thank you for stopping by.

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  75. Just had another look at this page and saw your reference to Paul Theroux . I really enjoy his books but there are times when he does get to be a bit churlish. lol

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  77. Way back when I had a ‘real’ job I travelled around the good old USA and saw many things one wouldn’t necessarily pay for but fascinating just the same. For example, I was unaware a large Amish population thrived in Willard, Ohio. I crossed into Tijuana on foot and purchased a plastic Bart Simpson… Years later I’m married with teens (now), dogs and little free time or resources. But I have great hopes for world travels after the kiddies go off to college. That is our plan.
    I thank you for your blog, it allows me authentic glimpses into the beyond.
    Here’s to seeing the world, blogging and dreams of travel.
    AnnMarie
    newbie blogger

    Reply

    1. And here’s to all those dreams coming true Ann! I started traveling late, so that should hold out hope for you 🙂 Thank YOU for taking the time to share your thoughts.

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  78. I have a 24 hr layover in Cairo on my way to Canada the end of April. Wondering if you have any suggestions on how to make the most of my day spent there.. incorporating the pyramids is a must!

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    1. Hi Emily…happy to meet you 🙂

      An itinerary would depend on when your 24 hours begin.

      But yes the Pyramids are unmissable, so I would start with that and the Sphinx. (The solar barge museum nearby is fantastic too…might require more time than you have). Then drive back to Cairo and head to the Museum and straight to the room with Tutankhamen’s breathtaking treasures (also unmissable and least crowded around lunchtime. I hear security is high around there at the moment, so entry might take a while).

      With those under your belt, you could divide the rest of your time between a mosque or two (Ibn Tulun was a favorite, although not as grand as the Citadel) and a wander in the Khan el Khalili (rushing in and out might not really be worthwhile though) and end with a nice meal at Al Azhar park or on Zamalek island.

      If you can find time, a late evening walk on Al-mo’ez Ledin Ellah street is highly recommended. Start early if you want to visit any of the sites on the atmospheric road and stay till the lights come on. We went just before the uprising and it was safe to walk around late into the night. I am sure it still is. Hiring a good driver for the day will certainly help fit in more. A guide might be helpful, but is not really necessary if you are game for some research beforehand.-

      Aah, that stirred happy memories of our four days in the city! Hope your visit is just as much fun 🙂

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  80. I love the blog Madhu, and the places!
    It’s about time I visited a few more countries!

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      1. Me too – but my new shop is keeping me busy! It’s a wonderful place to work too!

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  81. This is quite an inspirational blog Madhu! One look at February’s post, and i knew i have to follow this. wish this blog is much rewarding for you! It speaks volumes about your passion.

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    1. Delighted that I was able to convey some of my passion Ana! Many thanks for stopping by to tell me so 🙂

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    1. Just a change of theme Ian. This is ‘TheStyle’ which is a premium theme, but there are a couple of free ones that are similar if not this dramatic, like ‘Imbalance 2’ & ‘Expound’. Also if your existing theme permits it, setting your post format to ‘gallery’ (in settings for a global change or in each post window) will show only excerpts on your front page similar to my old theme. Have fun experimenting 🙂

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  83. Hey Madhu this is Prince, I am running regional magazines in Tamilnadu. We launched our first regional magazine Coimbatore Hangouts on October 2013, and now expanding to Chennai with Chennai Hangouts. Soon we are planning to expand all over India. I read your articles and it was awesome. Can you write for us too? We are a monthly magazine and we have dedicated websites for every city we are operating, currently we have coimbatorehangouts.com and chennaihangouts.com is currently under construction. My mail id is princemohamedkhan@gmail.com….

    Thank You…

    Reply

    1. Hi Prince,
      Thank you for the generous compliments. Shall check out your websites over the weekend and let you know if I will be able to add any value to your project. Good luck regardless 🙂

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  84. So happy I stumbled upon your blog! The wonderful writing only compliments the beautiful photographs you take. I look forward to following along on your future adventures.

    Happy travels!

    Reply

  85. Is your e-mail still correct, I sent a poem for your sister and her family to be shared by all, i wanted to make sure you got it! let me know sister, I think it will bless them!

    Reply

    1. It is, but I can’t seem to locate your mail. When did you send it? Regardless, I am touched by your thoughtfulness Wendell. Thank you so much.

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  86. Hello Madhu! I absolutely adore travel blogs and I’m delighted to find someone from India blogging about their travels! It will definitely a treat to follow your blog! And I read that you love desserts, well, who doesn’t? 😉 But if you’d like to try making a few, do check my food blog! Happy new year !

    Reply

  90. Thank you for following my blog! happy that you like it 🙂 what an interesting blog you have 🙂 for sure will be back here ! have a nice day 🙂

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    1. Thank you for showering me with blog love dear Annet! I accept with much gratitude. But I am afraid I will not be able to post a dedicated acknowledgement. They will be duly showcased on my awards page with a link to your blog. Your kindness is much appreciated 🙂

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    1. Dear Upasna, I am touched and honoured that you thought of me! The award will be duly showcased in my awards page. Do check it out. I truly don’t have the time to acknowledge each award individually. Apologies and many thanks 🙂

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      1. I can completely understand Madhu. The paying it forward bit can be quite a tedious process.
        But I did want to let you know how much I look forward to your posts, and this was just my way of doing so.
        Even though I started mine as a Food Blog, I find myself wanting to build the Travel section more and more; your work is a tremendous source of inspiration to me 🙂

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  93. Just stumbled upon your blog. I must say you write really well and travel bloggers like you really do inspire me since I have only just begun travel writing. I hope you travel amply in the years to come! 🙂 Do also have a look at my blog if possible. I would love some honest feedback. Cheers!

    Reply

    1. Sarita, I appreciate your visit and your kind comments. Thank your for the good wishes and for the follow. Just hopped over to your blog and loved what I saw. Look forward to interacting with you around the ‘blogosphere’ 🙂

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  95. Hi Madhu,

    We are pleased to invite you to join the League of Bloggers. The League of Bloggers is an invitation-only program of the best bloggers across genres as follows:

    ABOUT LEAGUE OF BLOGGERS
    This is a grouping of the best bloggers across genres.

    WHO IS A BLOGGER? Anyone who publishes content on user-generated interactive media. This includes WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Flickr, Twitter, YouTube, Vimeo and other similar platforms.

    WHO MAY BE A MEMBER? Membership is open to quality bloggers only. An annual review will decide who is in and who is not. And a badge will be provided for the year to select members. There is no cap on the number of members though.

    WHAT WILL WE ALL DO? Lots of stuff. Engage with brands and companies collectively. Promote one another. Learn from each other. Have meet-ups. Make a joint pitch to advertisers and sponsors. And have a lot of fun together.

    SIGN UP AT https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1qEP3BWv2wTz4QGkFXip7lL5H6qOaFYDaQHVpLufib3M/edit

    JOIN US ON FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/groups/blogleague.

    The idea of the League is to proactively engage with one another. We would like all of you to share suggestions and ideas to make the most of this initiative.

    Look forward to having you on board.

    Cheers…

    Ajay Jain
    http://kunzum.com
    +91.9910044476

    Join us for coffee at the Kunzum Travel Cafe, T-49 Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110016. http://kunzum.com/travelcafe.

    Reply

    1. Thank you Ajay. I am honoured to be part of your group. Have registered online. But am unable to find a like button your Facebook page! Happy travels 🙂

      Reply

  96. Hi Madhu,
    so happy to have stumbled upon your blog, it’s full of amazing places on my to-see list, thanks for sharing!

    Reply

    1. Thank you Bipasha. Hope you are able to visit all those places yourself and soon. Thank YOU for reading and sharing your thoughts 🙂

      Reply

  98. Hi Madhu, nice to meet you. I’ve been travelling a little around your blog and can’t wait to delve into it more. I was very interested in your post about Delhi, and some of it’s history. A fascinating city. We loved it. I’ve written several posts about it in case you’re interested. (Just put Delhi in the search bar). We’re currently in Patagonia with very slow internet, but when we move on I look forward to exploring more of your wonderful blog.
    Thank you for following our blog, and for the ‘likes’. I hope you enjoy the stories of our journey, both inner and outer.
    Namaste
    Alison

    Reply

    1. Thank you Alison. I look forward to interacting with you around the blogosphere too 🙂 Have a great time in Patagonia.

      Reply

      1. Madhu, I haven’t seen any entry or any results – I thought we was going to get an email ..
        Where can I get the winners entries ??? It was fun .. and I was sure that there was more interesting entries than mine. Thanks for joining me.

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  100. Hi Madhu,

    sorry if I’m using a comment for this kind of message, but I couldn’t find a contact form or email address in your website :\

    My name is Nikolai, i am helping out marketing agency to find bloggers suitable for their campaigns, and your blog looks like a perfect fit for what they’re looking for.

    Do you think you could be interested in receiving offers about advertisement on your website?

    Reply

    1. Dear Nikolai, Apologies for the late response. And thank you for the proposal. I am not able to post advertisements on this site. Shall keep you informed when I decide to move to a self hosted site.

      Reply

  101. Hi Madhu,

    I came across your blog through James (“Plus Ultra”) a while ago and thought, I’d just say hi. By chance I just saw now, that for this week’s “Weekly Photo Challenge – Good morning” we both posted about Varanasi. I am a passionate traveller, writer and photographer and started my travel blog a while ago.

    Reply

    1. What a co-incidence that we both chose Varanasi! Thank you for stopping by. I am delighted to meet you and look forward to following your journeys 🙂

      Reply

  102. Hi Madhu,

    A big hello from Scooze!

    I’m Eral Ravi, co-founder of Scooze – a New Delhi based startup. Scooze (www.scooze.com) is a platform which helps people run their own online magazines on topics they love.

    We love your blog ”https://theurgetowander.com/”, so we’ve created a sample magazine of your blog posts on Scooze. You can see it here – “http://www.scooze.com/magazines/the-urge-to-wander/articles” Do let us know if you like it (or don’t).

    Scooze can help you….

    1. Drive traffic to your blog from your Scooze magazine

    2. Engage your readers by curating videos, blogs, news stories you like from across the web in your Scooze magazine

    3. Discover great stories by subscribing to other magazines on Scooze

    We’d be honored if you’d…

    · Make your own magazine on Scooze

    · Be part of our ‘Early Adopters’ user group

    Would you be interested in being one of Scooze’s early users? Do let us know.
    Thanks and happy scoozing!

    The team @ Scooze
    Shantanu, Ravi, Aashutosh n Shashank

    Please Reply to me @ ravi@scooze.com

    My Linkedin Profile – http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=21710679&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

    Reply

    1. Ravi,
      Am traveling at the moment and need time to think about it. My first reaction however is dismay at the changed titles of some posts. Wouldn’t be happy associating with a site that alters content without permission.

      Reply

  103. I am awarding you the Versatile Blogger Award for the quality of your work. I realize that it is a tremendous amount of work to accept this award and of course do understand if you do not have the time to do so! Jejeje, it’s taken me months to getting around to accepting this myself!
    Congratulations! Keep up the good work. I enjoy your work immensely!

    Please refer to the following for instructions:

    http://locagringa.wordpress.com/2013/09/25/versatile-blogger-award/?preview=true&preview_id=1968&preview_nonce=85323bf80e

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much Loca Gringa! And apologies for the belated response. Have added your link to my awards showcase page 🙂

      Reply

  106. Madhu, when I first created my blog you followed and I thank you for that, but recently you seem to have returned. Namaste and thank you to the most beautiful (and most well.travelled) lady in all of the sub-continent. Nice to have you back, Lakshmi, goddess of beauty – and thank you for all your travels and your blog 😀 xxxx

    Reply

    1. Blush, blush!! 🙂 Thank YOU Mjollnir.
      Wasn’t aware that I had stopped following you! I happened to follow you to Paris and got a bit busy on my return. Hope to catch up with your Paris photos soon, and if I don’t go gallivanting again 🙂

      Reply

      1. I know the feeling – I’m off back to Scotland in five weeks and I’m just back from the Balkans. non-stop! 😀

        Reply

  108. Hi Madhu

    I like your blog. It’s great. 🙂
    We are looking for bloggers who write on travel. Can you please share your e mail id so that we can contact you.

    Reply

  109. Hi Madhu,

    Congratulations on Eric’s blog pick and I will peruse your blog..it sounds very interesting, as I love to travel, too! 🙂
    Lauren

    Reply

  111. So many beautiful destinations and amazing cultures ~ truly enjoyed reading your blogs. Looking forward to reading more of your adventures.

    Reply

    1. Thank you. I look forward to having you join me on my virtual journey Rogene! You need to link your Gravatar to your blog.

      Reply

  112. What a pleasure it has been going through some of your posts.
    I am so glad I chanced upon your blog; and I look forward to following some more of your adventures.

    Reply

    1. Thank you Kirsty. That is from Suzhou, China.
      Appreciate your stopping by to tell me. Hope to see you around 🙂

      Reply

  115. Okay, that worked! I tried on the other two most recent posts on separate days. I am going to go back to them and try again now. But I wanted to say I’d been thinking of you the other morning on my walk about how I hadn’t “heard” from you, then when I came home I had an email from your post. I’d been thinking I’d better come write you a note the way you did when I “disappeared” because it was so sweet of you. 🙂

    Reply

  116. Hi Madhu! I have tried two days now to post a comment, and it’s not letting me. So I’m trying a different page now. 🙂

    Reply

  117. Hi Madhu, thanks for stopping by my blog, the follow and the comments. Nice to ‘meet’ you too 🙂 Looking forward to more pics from Paris!

    Reply

  121. My-o-my! Madhu, your blog is a wonderful treat! Both pics and stories already have me in need to explore more. I’ll definitely do so later today. I’m so excited your link led me back to a great blog such as yours.

    Reply

    1. Appreciate your kind words Uzoma. Look forward to seeing you around. And due apologies for the delayed response 🙂

      Reply

  123. Not surprised you love design. The design choices of your blog are superb. The pictures look lovely. You don’t have to say you love travel. It’s so clear you do.

    Do glance at my blog if inclined. It’s the story of the awakening of a spent nation written in verse at http://www.nirbhayasindia.com

    Reply

    1. Thank you. Just popped over to your site and I am glad to note that you aren’t another believer in the “India Shining” myth 😀 Look forward to interacting with you around the blogosphere.

      Reply

      1. Oh yes, very keen to interact with you too. Am on twitter too. Are you ?

        Reply

          1. Am in danger of becoming a twitter addict. It’s a hot bed of politics you know. By the way I am a peace “fanatic” and get to interact with Pakistanis too over there. My twitter I’d is @nirbhayasindia in case you land up there

            Reply

  124. I can admit that I don’t have the financial means to travel as much as my hearts desires so I guess I’ll live vicariously through you and your journeys into the intriguing. 🙂

    Reply

    1. Thank you Jen. You could always start late like we did. Hope you do. In the meantime, happy to have you jump aboard with me on my journeys 😉

      Reply

  125. Glad I found your blog! I’ve enjoyed reading about your travels and look forward to reading about your future travels. I’m a former nomad now back in the 9-5 world, and I wish I had enjoyed my time abroad more now that I’m back in the U.S.

    Reply

    1. I read out your comment to my workaholic husband! We spent a major part of our lives slogging our butts out. Yes we can afford to travel today because of that, but time sadly doesn’t stand still. Thank you for your lovely comment. I look forward to seeing you around 🙂

      Reply

    1. Thank you Si. And apologies for acknowledging this so late. I did respond to your email, and register online. Have been way too busy to contribute meaningfully though.

      Reply

  127. Hi,

    I would like to have a Guest blogpost or Article link for my Company Travel site. I would like to have my links to be posted on your site.

    Can you please provide me the pricing plan for the same?

    Thanks
    Arjun

    Reply

    1. Flattered to be asked Arjun, but I am afraid I shall have to decline. I only post links and reviews of properties and agents I have personally used and recommend. Thanks all the same.

      Reply

  128. I love the look and feel of you blog and hope you keep on enjoying your journeys! – but I’d like to see your interior designs too (one day)!! I used to be a graphic designer – and now work with wood.. but my interests are travel and interior design / exterior design! (crazy life)!

    Reply

    1. Thank you Stephen. Perhaps I should start another design blog. But I find it hard to keep up with this at the moment!I did post some images of a stone table I designed as part of an exhibition here, if you are interested 🙂

      Reply

  135. Congratulations Madhu! You won the contest. Email me your address and I’ll mail you a copy of the book. My email is bumbas24@yahoo.com

    The entries are in and the winner has been chosen. First, thanks to all the brave and intrepid readers who read these posts , felt moved by civic duty, and sent in their n0minations for the most objectionable word in the world. Well, (and there’s another one, WELL!) a number of the entries were very objectionable. AWESOME was was an AWESOME entry, and even writing it now bothers me. LIKE was also like a REALLY good choice for a bad word.

    But basically, the judges, who went through all the entries with a fine-tooth comb that had a couple of teeth missing, basically they decided on BASICALLY.

    Yes, BASICALLY. You see BASICALLY is a BASICALLY a boring word: Unnecessary and BASICALLY a pain in my you know what.

    The winner is Madhu, the blogger who suggested BASICALLY after a careful consideration of perhaps five minutes. Madhu, by the way, has one of the most interesting and lovely sites on WordPress. Check it out if you’ve never seen it.

    Madhu wins a free copy of Up in the Bronx. Some might object that Madhu is too nice a person to receive such a prize, but basically she is a strong soul and we hope she will be able to withstand the storm.

    Reply

    1. Stephen, apologies for the late response. Like I said over at your page, I am delighted to have won your novel as my prize! Just mailed you my address. Look forward to reading “Up in the Bronx” 🙂

      Reply

  136. hiiiii my wander lust is seldom quenched. your blog can certainly take me to places. great blog, vibrant pics . shall visit time and again

    Reply

    1. I appreciate your kind words Maulika, thank you so much.
      Shall try my best to follow your posts with the help of Google translate 🙂

      Reply

  148. Dear Madhu, your answer for my Bridges contest is correct, I just had to delete your answer from comments, as I don’t want other people to find it that easy :-). But you are in for ballot.

    Reply

  152. I happened upon your blog and wow, what a pleasant surprise. Amazing photography and stories. I’m looking forward to reading your posts in 2013.

    Reply

  155. Oh, also. How do I make ‘Home’ link to the most recent post?
    Thanks,
    G

    Reply

  156. Namaste. Thank you so much!

    All I need to know now is: 2. How do I have it in the order I want?
    By order I mean, I’d like it to be: HOME (on the left), then ABOUT, then AWARDS.
    (Not order relating to dropdown).

    Let me know if you can.
    Thanks Madhu. Much appreciated.
    Gigi

    PS I think where I was getting stumped was I had the pages widget on the sidebar also.

    Reply

  157. Hi Madhu

    We have the same first name (except mine ends with ‘r’) and we’re using the same theme, Chateau.
    Would you be able to help me with something, please?
    1. How do I put some menus on top, like ‘Home’ and ‘About’ etc, as you have managed to do?
    2. How do I have it in the order I want?

    I’d really appreciate your help (I have searched places in Support etc, and asked the WordPress gang, but no one’s bothered).

    Keep up with your great site!

    Thank you.
    Gigi

    Reply

    1. Hi Gigi, with pleasure!
      You need to first create pages for a menu that has content (like my about page, index and Blog roll). Here is the link:
      http://en.support.wordpress.com/pages/
      Next you add these pages to your primary menu – accessed from ‘appearances’ -‘menu’ on your dashboard.
      Link: http://en.support.wordpress.com/menus/
      The above site also has instructions on creating a static link with drop down menus (like my Destinations, Photo Challenge and memories links) as well.
      Good luck with your customisation 🙂

      Reply

    1. Apologies for the late response Katy, I missed this comment somehow! Thank you so very much for the nomination and your kind words. Honoured, truly 🙂

      Reply

  159. Very nice blog you have here! Travel quenches anyone’s thirst for adventure, knowledge, and that wonderful fleeting feeling of being everywhere and yet nowhere at the same time. 🙂

    Reply

  160. Oh my god! It was like I was telling about myself (not the desserts though)… Only difference, I am not able to travel as much as I’d like to…. but now, I have your blog to fly with… take care and… keep flying… godspeed!

    Reply

  164. Your bio about yourself speaks to me completely … at least the part about travel, not so much the interior design (in fact I’m quite terrible at interior design 🙂 For me as well, travel and the pursuit of adventure border on obsessions. I have enjoyed reading your posts so much that I wanted to let you know that I nominated you for the Wonderful Team Member Readership Award. Please see the following link: http://thelifebus.com/category/adventure/ for more details on how to spread it around if you choose to accept it. Congrats, your blog deserves it.

    Reply

  166. Hey! Its a wonderful blog. I loved the pictures from china..

    I am looking for an authentic Buddha picture. would my search end with urs? Can you share a couple of ’em?

    Reply

    1. Hi Aparna, thank you and pleased to meet you 🙂
      Depends on what you mean by authentic. Check out the Laitan Buddha (on the right sidebar) and my own little granite statue from the Travel Theme challenge ‘White’
      Have several more from Nara and Kamakura (Japan) and Nongping (HK) that I still haven’t posted, apart from a couple from museums. Let me know what exactly you are looking for.

      Reply

        1. Oops, seem to have missed this! Apologies Aparna.
          I have images of a couple of giant bronze seated Buddhas. No stone ones unfortunately.

          Reply

    1. Those bridges are from Suzhou, China and connect the two banks. There are narrow alleys between those buildings that are not visible in the picture. Thank you for your interest Keith 🙂

      Reply

    1. Thanks again Anna! Shall get to the awards in time 🙂 I am awfully behind, and am off again to Cambodia and Lao in December!

      Reply

    1. Thank you so much dear Sarah! I am touched that you think me deserving! Look forward to getting to know you better 🙂

      Reply

    1. Just about catching up with comments on this page as you can see 🙂
      I am afraid the dinner party will have to wait till I return from SE Asia. Thanks again Meredith.

      Reply

    1. Oh thank you Afzal! i am flattered that you think so 🙂
      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment.

      Reply

  180. ☆ ♥●••´¯`•.☆.•´¯`•.☆.•´¯`•.☆ ♥●
    …./\„,„/\
    …( =’;’=) ~Have a Delightful Day
    …/*♥♥*\
    .(.\.. . . /.)

    Reply

    1. First off sincere apologies for the belated response Coreen. Thank you so much for the nomination! I am honoured and touched by your kindness 🙂

      Reply

  183. Hi,
    Would you be interested in trading guest blog post on our blog, http://onetravelbloggers.com/? We are a PR 3 blog whose audience enjoys reading anything about travel (e.g. “Best spots in Philly”, “Top 10 beaches in Spain”, “How to travel around Tokyo on a budget”, etc). And, of course, you’ll receive a FOLLOWED link to your blog or page of your choice.
    Please let me know if you’re interested. I think you’d be a great fit with our audience, and we’d also like to talk with you about other partnerships.
    Talk to you soon

    Reply

    1. Sorry i didn’t respond to this earlier Trishanka. I doubt I will find the time to do guest posts right now, am not able to manage three posts a week on here as it is! Shall give it a thought once I return from our vacation in December. Thanks for asking, I am honoured and flattered 🙂

      Reply

  185. Beautiful blog. I’m following you. I don’t think you have to accept but I want to nominate you for a lovely blog award so my followers will find you,’ I found you through Manu’s nomination.

    Reply

    1. Carla, I have no idea how I missed your comment! Have been neglecting this page of late. Thank you so much for the follow and the nomination! I am so touched and honoured that you would think of me 🙂

      Reply

    1. Hi Julia, thank you so much for the visit and comment. And apologies for the belated response. I have been a bit overwhelmed of late, but that is no excuse. Thanks again. I look forward to seeing you around 🙂 Off now to read that post.

      Reply

  187. Lovely, evocative and poetic! Look forward to tagging along — albeit virtually — on your travels.

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much Brinley and sincere apologies for the belated response. I look forward to the pleasure of your company on my journeys 🙂

      Reply

    1. I have been very very remiss in responding to comments on my blog and I apologise profusely. I do appreciate your dropping by and leaving a comment. Thank you 🙂

      Reply

  192. Your Passion can be clearly seen and is very well appreciated as i can see a long list of followers and a huge blog hits count. I even found out your interest in reading too. While i was making some random click at wordpress to read some nice content, i found your comments and likes at more that 70% of posts i visited.
    I was wondering if you could help me to have the same. You will love them too i feel. Specially this one

    http://pratpor.wordpress.com/2012/07/25/heavenly-blessings/

    Reply

    1. Thanks for the comment Prateek! I appreciate the fact that you have thoroughly analysed my site 😀 I shall surely check out your poetry, think I prefer the Hindi ones, but I can assure you I don’t have a magic wand that will increase your stats dramatically 🙂

      Reply

      1. Will be waiting for your response then. Who knows, what magic your visit will cause. I write both in hindi and english and both poetry and prose. Hope to see you soon.

        Reply

  194. Madhu,

    This Saturday morning I returned to your blog and was reminded of the amazing artistry in the photos, the adventures of your travel, and the social conscience embedded in your work.

    You have created an exceptional body of work here.

    Thank you.

    Tom

    Reply

    1. Tom, I am overwhelmed by your generous words! Thank YOU for taking the time to read and comment. And also for leading me to your inspiring blog 🙂

      Reply

  198. I was going through some of your posts. I liked reading them. I also enjoy traveling and photography.
    following you for more wonderful posts.
    Have a nice time. 🙂

    Reply

  199. Provocative, powerful and piercing sphere, my friend! With your photographic talent – the world is blessed to have as inspiration. Much peace , light and success, Madhu.

    Reply

  204. Hey 🙂

    I’m back from J&K. Thought I’ll let you know.

    Will begin travelling through your posts again! I finished Egypt and I think I’m halfway through China 🙂

    Reply

  208. I have forwarded you the Liebster Blogger Award. I enjoy your blog very much and I thank you for the support you send back. HAPPY BLOGGING. I know you have way more than 200 followers, but I still enjoy you very much when the thoughts came to mind.

    Reply

    1. Thank you Miss M! You are right, I don’t qualify anymore, but I appreciate the thought and thank you from the bottom of my heart 🙂

      Reply

  209. Madhu, you are a smart woman and you have been around for a while (on WP I mean). 😉 Jeff and I have problems with header pics and I was wondering if you know how one can define one header photo for blog posts and one (different) for about page… the only thing I have found out so far is this random appearance of two uploaded banners :S. Thank you dear. Btw, is it still scorching hot, or just hot over there.. and how are you dealing with it?

    Reply

    1. Exactly like you set a featured image for individual posts. Click on the set featured image button on the right of your edit page and choose an image that is the right size for your theme. It is 960 x 260 for mine. I see your theme supports that. So where is the problem?

      Reply

      1. Thank you Madhu. You are very generous helping me. Featured image only changes the pic in my post and does not affect my header photo.. it will be a while before I learn how to do that. You are very kind. I hope I did not abuse of your time. Paula

        Reply

      2. It seems to have been working now. You are a genius 🙂 Not everybody is as clever and patient as you are :). Thank you Lady.

        Reply

  211. You know already that I am impressed, but I meant to ask you what is the best dessert you have tasted ever?

    Reply

    1. Without a doubt, the pink guava icecream with passion fruit coulis, served in a guava cup, that I had in Aprazivel, Rio! 🙂

      Reply

  213. Hi Madhu,

    Keep on travelling, enjoying life and documenting your journey 🙂

    BTW
    Thanks for stopping by The Legion of Door Whores and for leaving a like for one of my images, it is appreciated 🙂 If you have time, please take a look at my blog sites http://reflectionsofchina.worpress.com and http://moreimagesfromme.wordpress.com , I do hope you will take a look and enjoy what you see there!..You have a really nice site here, certainly one worthy of a follow. Thanks again, Regards Mark

    Reply

    1. Apologies for the belated acknowledgement of this comment Mark. Seems to have slipped my attention.
      Thank you for the comment and follow. HAve been enjoying you brilliant images.

      Reply

    1. Thanks again Cornelia 🙂 Appreciate your kindness.
      Have been procrastinating having to deal with my dozen or so awards. Will get to it soon, I promise.

      Reply

  215. Hi Madhu. Thanks for the visit. I just joined WordPress and haven’t quite worked out how to link to other blogs, but will invest time next week. Seeya.

    Reply

    1. It was my pleasure Seeya. Thought I was following you, but it appears not! Look forward to reading your posts and seeing you around here 🙂

      Reply

    1. Just realised I hadn’t checked my About page in some time! Apologies. Thanks again TRS. Will get to this sometime soon. Have a whole bunch to address 🙂

      Reply

  218. Great page you have here Madhu , I update my about page too LOL,
    More power to your blog 🙂

    Reply

    1. Apologies for the late response Jake, seem to have missed this somehow!
      Thank you for the compliment. I love the look of your updated page 🙂

      Reply

  220. Madhu, for our pains, it’s Awards Season and I couldn’t not add your fabulous blog to my list of nominations for the Illuminating Blogger Award, now could I?. It’s the last time, I promise, but I noticed this was one you didn’t have yet, and I always want to tell people about you (not that you need promoting by me, but you know what I mean?). I won’t be upset if you can’t find the time to play, but if you can, pop over to check it out: https://thewanderlustgene.wordpress.com/2012/05/31/confessions-awards-and-the-atlas-game/
    Ciao
    TWLG

    Reply

    1. Aw, that is so sweet of you. I truly appreciate your kindness. Thank you so much and congratulations on yours 🙂

      Reply

  223. Hi Madhu: Remember I told you about my work for Shot@Life? THere just so happens to be another World Mom’s Blog writer and editor who lives in Chennai and just did a GAVI Global Tea Party to promote vaccines! She said to contact her if you are still interested. Her name is: Purnima Ramakrishnan
    Her Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/TheAlchemistsBlog
    Here is info about the tea party: The GAVI global tea party at Chennai
    myworldrevolvesaroundyou.wordpress.com

    Reply

  224. Hey madhu, Just happened to stumble upon your blog….its awesome!! will surely take out time to read all the posts.

    Reply

  228. Hi there, there – thanks for supporting and following my blog – like what I see too …. hope to have you back soon.

    Reply

  231. Madhu, I spent a good part of this afternoon here devouring your images and stories. This is a wonderful and beautiful blog. I am enjoying it tremendously and learning things I didn’t know. Thank you for sharing your travels and your life with us.

    Reply

  234. Hi Madhu thanks for those lovely word hugs 🙂
    beautiful blog, so you love traveling…may you be blessed with lovely, fun and inspiring trips 🙂
    Wish you a lovely day ahead 🙂

    Reply

  235. Took away my breath Madhu. I can see the wheels on your feet – the desire to see the world, and you make it happen! Being in education space, I travel extensively and have been documenting my travels on FLICKR and use the repository to create photoessays on human contexts. You have compelled me to act on creating a travel-blog and performing arts blog. starting!!

    Check my photoessays. I am sure you would love it

    http://sreeniviews.wordpress.com/2012/05/01/work-is-worship-so-they-say/

    http://sreeniviews.wordpress.com/2012/04/15/everyone-has-a-story/

    Thanks..
    if you have time later, my photo repository on FLICKR http://www.flickr.com/photos/sreenivasan/collections/

    Thanks

    Reply

  236. During my on an off blogging hiatus where I can only read posts for short time and can not post anything new, your blog really sticks out. I love your Spain travel, and the way you span the details to places you go to.
    Keep up the great work. Love your blog. Will eventually feature it in the future.

    Reply

    1. Appreciate your thinking of me Paula! Shall try my hardest to participate. feeling rather bogged down right now!

      Reply

  241. Madhu, how are you?
    I am putting up a page for my WIP and wanted to know if I can borrow some of your pictures, I will of course add your link as well. The places you have photographed are so awesome, and I want to make them settings where the story takes place.

    Reply

      1. oh yes definitely, in fact I was just describing my settings now and I have already mentioned that your blog gave me ideas for the settings. It will be up in a little while

        Reply

    1. Welcome, and hope you like it Margie 🙂 Enjoyed what little I saw of yours. Shall return at leisure to read more. Look forward to getting to know you!

      Reply

  243. Glad to have track backed into your blog – we share a similar passion in travellin… hope to interact more with our respective travel ancedotes!

    Reply

    1. Thank you Jai and welcome to my blog! Checked out yours and loved it! look forward to reading about your adventures.
      The destination menu is a list of my categories, and the places I have visited do not show up, unless they have been featured in a post. Will of course be featuring some of the places we HAVE visited in India sometime.
      Another reason is that we took a conscious decision, when we started travelling quite late in life, that we would do the farthest and more expensive destinations first. Also the more volatile regions (still missed Syria :-() Who knows if we will be in any condition for those 30 hour flights in a few years from now or have enough moolah! So….there is a plan. Hope we live long enough to do everything on our list!
      In the meantime I plan to start a weekly feature on my home town and my adopted one when I collect enough fodder. Lets see how that works out. Do hope to see you around.

      Reply

    1. Thank you Debbie! The weekly photo challenge is so much fun! Loved your entry for this week! Shall check out the others soon.

      Reply

  248. Hi Madhu,
    Beautiful blog! I love it. I wish I could travel like you, but I am enjoying your pictures a lot. I have just started blogging, so I don’t quite have the hang of it yet. I am glad you added a link on your gravatar, that is how I got here. I am adding you to my blog roll, I write and your pictures are really inspiring. I can use them to help me write about places I haven’t seen. Keep putting up these awesome pictures!

    Reply

    1. Welcome to my blog Khaula and many thanks for your sweet comments! Look forward to following your writing career as well!

      Reply

  249. Hey Madhu!
    Where do you currently live? I wonder. Recently I quit my job and now I have three months (more or less) sabbatical. When you mentioned about your own sabbatical, how long was that exactly?
    Keep writing and I’m looking forward to reading more stories on your blog!
    PS: I do hope you’ll keep writing, like forever, because I’ve been following some other great blogs for a while and apparently some of them are just being abandoned (too bad).

    Reply

    1. Make the most of your sabbatical Bama! Three months will fly by before you know it!
      I currently live in Chennai in South India. My sabbatical is kind of being extended indefinitely 🙂 I do take on the odd project though, especially if given a free hand. I hope to blog for as long as I can. But life intervenes sometimes and I guess people evolve and look for other avenues of expression!
      All the best with whatever you choose to do!

      Reply

  252. Hello friend,

    Thank you for liking my posts…I read some of your blog here, I truly enjoy your wordsmithing…Do you currently live in China? One of my sons resides there as well. He owns a trading company that manufactures and imports items from China here to the states. I am very proud of him and his fearlessness. http://www.concepttrading.com

    I also have another blog http://igotastorylikethat.wordpress.com where artists send me a photo or picture and I write a small poem or short story to it. If you would like to challenge me, let me know.

    Please keep posting your wonderful work. My writing and new found friends have brought great joy to my life.

    -Peace

    Reply

    1. Thank you for the kind words Sobnyc! I live in India. Your blog is very interesting. Shall think about the collaboration 🙂

      Reply

  253. What a beautiful page Madhu. I have no time to check it all right now , but I clicked “follow” option 😉

    Reply

  255. Hi Madhu…you have a great blog & I would not be surprised if you get featured on Freshly Pressed fairly soon:-) Here’s wishing you do…cheers

    Reply

      1. Kavi, delighted to inform you that my La Boca post got Frshly Pressed! Thank you for the good wishes 🙂

        Reply

    1. You deserve it Mona and I so enjoy your blog! Delighted and honoured to receive the inspiring blogger award from you!

      Reply

  258. Madhu, because your work is inspiring, I nominated you for The Very Inspiring Blogger award. Check it out : http://monahoward.com/2012/03/25/very-inspiring/

    When I wrote this, I forgot to include directions: 1) Include the image of the award on your post, 2) acknowledge the person who nominated you & link back to his/her blog, 3) write a list of things about yourself [usually it’s 7], 4) nominate 7 or more bloggers.

    Reply

  259. Wonderful blog! You seem to be a great traveller and an amazing photographer.
    Will come around your blog frequently.

    Reply

    1. Grateful and honoured that you think me deserving Anne!
      But doubt people want to read any more about me 🙂

      Reply

  268. Ah but have you been to the far side of our fields? It’s a long way. I love your blog and will be following it from now on.
    Love Bones

    Reply

  272. Hello Madhu – how very nice that you stopped-by my blog this morning…thank you for letting me know you were there…now I know you’re here, too. 🙂

    You have a beautiful site…full of exciting places. How fortunate you have been to be able to travel to such places. I will be following you now to see where you go in your many tomorrows. 🙂

    Reply

  273. Thank you, Madhu, for your sweet, sweet comment and for following my blog. I am delighted and honored. 🙂

    Reply

  275. Madhu, beautiful travelogue, love your pictures. I hope you keep traveling so we get to see the beautiful places you visit, and sometimes taste the desserts you dig into.

    Reply

  280. Madhuakka, I wandered by… and will revisit later in the day at leisure 🙂 Beautiful photos…

    Reply

    1. Zoobie Doobie???? Can see you were inspired by yesterdays show 🙂
      Thanks for dropping by to comment..look forward to seeing you around more often!

      Reply

  281. So glad you stopped by my blog so that I could meet you. Your blog is lovely. How wonderful to have traveled to the places you have been, and letting us share in that through your posts.

    Reply

  283. I just discovered your blog and find it fascinating — not to mention that the photos are captivating. I love your header photos. I look forward to seeing more of your work.

    Reply

  284. What a lovely excerpt and what a beautiful photoblog! A great way to chronice your travels. You have been to so many intersting places and captures things with a non-touristy eye. Will surely stop by for more! Thank you for visiting my page

    Reply

    1. Thank you for the comment and the Tweet! Means a lot coming from a professional photographer like you!
      Have altered the comment settings somewhat, not sure if it will help

      Reply

Let me know what you think