TRAVEL &
TOURISM
WANDERLUST
EXPLORATORY INTERVIEW
with Reeti Trivedi
I have travelled extensively in
Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh,
I have always sought a new
experience every time. From
staying with the shepherds on
a secluded mountain top to
being hosted by a member of
Kashmiri royalty in his family
owned heritage hotel, from living
out of tents or experiencing the
humble charm of a home stay,
I have accumulated a wealth of
memories and friends. So, travel
helped me make friends, discover
a hidden side of the world and
a hidden side of myself as well.
I could step out of my comfort
zone and push myself.
A
sserting her right
to entertainmentenriched solo
traveling, Reeti Trivedi
Pandharipande, a
lecturer of English and Mass
Communication, a journalist and
an eminent contributor to New
Delhi-based Outlook Traveler
Guide shares her experiences and
passion for travel. Reeti has been
an avid traveler, mountains being
her true calling. She believes
“Travel is as much about the
people you meet as it is about the
sights you see”.
1
What fascinates you
the most when u
travel?
Discovering something new about
the world and myself and of
course meeting people. Although
96
Up Till October 15, 2015
2
Being a woman, are there
any precautionary steps
that you take before
planning your trip?
I love to take solo trips. I have
travelled to London for a month,
stayed, worked and travelled
in Himachal for 40 days, done
a project in rural Orissa, and
explored forests around my city.
Here are a few ways in which you
can minimize the risk:
•
Keep your wits about yourself
and trust your instincts.
•
Before travelling to a new
place ask around among your
friends and acquaintances
if they have visited it and/
or have any local contacts or
references.
•
A continued enquiry about
the weather, places to stay,
see, eat, etc, is essential
before you go.
•
Try connect to locals
there, sometimes a local
recommendation can reveal a
hidden gem.
•
Try and understand the
culture and local customs of
the place you plan to travel.
While travelling, be in your
most comfortable outfit.
•
While the jewellery-laden look
is a strict no-no, something
discreet such as a delicate
gold ring or small earrings can
serve as your last insurance in