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For a cosy sojourn

Photo: S. Subramanium

Lighter the better Don’t weigh yourself down with too much luggage

Vacations are on and the city is on the move-- visiting friends, relatives or on a holiday trip. Outdoor enthusiasts move to cooler climes to beat the heat while for ‘traditional’ travellers, it’s time to make the customary visit to granny’s village. But all travel aficionados insist on one thing -- that it isn’t the destination that matters, it’s the journey.

For a comfortable and safe journey, the wiser lot focus on a list of travel tips that can make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Train journeys can be made pleasant if we focus on a few simple tips.

“I like to travel light. A small suitcase and a bag is ideal luggage and I prefer the upper berth as it is more private and gives you the joy of stretching out even in the middle of the day,” says Bhaskar.

People content with omelettes for breakfast and thalis for dinner do not have to go hungry. But if you’re fussy, do pack some home-cooked food that won’t go stale. Bread, jam, pulihora (tamarind rice) puri-aloo or other homemade snacks and fruits will serve the purpose. Tea and coffee junkies can revel in the continuous supply of the beverage from vendors who wander through train corridors. Make sure to carry small change to pay every time you have a cuppa. “If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid buying cooked food from railway platforms,” warns Purnima, a regular traveller.

While travelling, most people retire to bed early at night. If you don’t belong to this genre, carry books and your i-pod to keep yourself entertained. Board games and cards are fun if there are more than two people with you. Earplugs or headphones can be of great help to filter out the noise of the train and sounds of fellow passengers talking or snoring.

Since Indian trains are often not the cleanest, don’t forget to pack hand wash, toilet papers and antibacterial hand wipes. Cash in all denominations will spare the confusion while paying for food, to porters and the taxi or auto fares. Wear something comfortable as you will be spending a long time in the same clothes and may also have to sleep in them. Do not get off the train for too long, even at prolonged halts at major stations and if you do then keep tabs on the time. “Being on one’s guard all the time is essential. It is also good to avoid accepting eatables from co-passengers or share personal details with them,” says Sunil.

If you have hired a private vehicle to visit your native village, the first thing you must do is to have it checked and make sure it is in top form. Have a qualified mechanic check the vehicle’s vitals: brakes, battery, fluid levels, tire pressure, light bulbs and any other parts that need regular maintenance. “For meal, stick to roadside dhabas that serve fresh lip-smacking food. The food stuff here is safer than what is served in deserted inns.

A little care and caution can make your journey a delightful experience. Bon voyage!

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