Travel. Explore. Celebrate Life.

Published in the Sunday Indian Express Magazine - Eye on 29 December, 2024

With the Travel Explore Celebrate Life podcast, we had one simple goal:

to celebrate the joy of travel and inspire others to see the world.

When we started our podcast, Travel Explore Celebrate Life, Veena World’s Chief Product Officer Sunila Patil and I had one simple goal: to bring our travel stories to life, sharing insights, experiences, and conversations that capture the essence of exploration. And after more than 150 episodes, the podcast has evolved into something truly special, with each episode reflecting our passion for travel and storytelling.

Along the way, we have had the privilege of featuring fascinating guests, diving deep into their unique travel insights and expertise. 2024 featured 40 Travel Explore Celebrate Life episodes, and now feels like the perfect moment to reflect on some of our favourite discussions. These episodes have resonated with listeners, sparked curiosity, and inspired countless travel dreams.

Scan to listen to Travel Explore Celebrate Life

Border-Gavaskar Trophy Special

This episode is where cricket meets travel in the most exciting way possible. Sunila and I took listeners on a journey through the five iconic Australian cities play host to the legendary Border-Gavaskar Trophy. But this wasn’t just about cricket - it was about uncovering the vibrant culture, landmarks, and unique adventures each city offers.

We began with Perth’s stunning beaches and outdoor attractions, followed by Adelaide’s laid-back charm and Barossa Valley’s renowned wines. Brisbane’s riverside beauty and cultural vibrancy stood out, while Melbourne impressed with its arts scene and buzzing café culture. Finally, Sydney dazzled with its iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and unforgettable experiences.

Svalbard: The World’s Northernmost Archipelago

In this episode, Sunila and I ventured to the edge of the world - Svalbard, an Arctic wonderland where icy landscapes meet fascinating traditions. As one of the northernmost inhabited regions on Earth, Svalbard offers a blend of unique cultural quirks, breathtaking adventures, and unexpected delights that make it a must-visit destination for explorers.

We delved into some of Svalbard’s curious policies, like its ‘no birth, no death’ rule - a testament to the challenges of living in such an extreme environment. Adventure seekers will love Svalbard’s offerings, from dog sledging and snowmobiling to witnessing polar nights and exploring the Global Seed Vault. With its rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, Svalbard is a destination like no other.

Explore Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Anand Yedery, from Cathay Pacific, to dive into the vibrant city of Hong Kong. Known for its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and endless charm, Hong Kong is a destination that truly has something for everyone. With Anand’s insights, we dove into Cathay Pacific’s rich history and then moved into the heart of Hong Kong itself.

From the bustling streets of Mong Kok to the serene trails of Dragon’s Back, Hong Kong offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. This episode was packed with travel tips, insider knowledge, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for anyone planning a trip to this dynamic destination.

Say Bonjour France: Beyond the City of Lights

In this episode, Sunila Patil and Sheetal Munshaw, Director India at Atout France, take listeners on a journey through the hidden gems of France. While Paris often steals the spotlight with its iconic Eiffel Tower and romantic charm, France is a country brimming with offbeat destinations that are equally captivating. This episode dives deep into those lesser-known treasures, showcasing why France is a year-round destination for every kind of traveller.

We explored the French Alps, a haven for adventure seekers with world-class skiing and scenic retreats, and the picturesque Provence, known for its lavender fields and charming villages. From the vineyards of Bordeaux to the cultural vibrancy of Lyon and the seaside allure of Côte d’Azur, this episode highlighted France’s diversity beyond Paris. Whether you seek adventure, culture, or gourmet experiences, France has it all.

The Peruvian Exploration

Peru is more than just a country - it’s a rich mix of history, nature, and vibrant flavours, as Sunila and I explored in this captivating episode. Drawing from Sunila’s unforgettable trip to Peru, we unravelled the many layers of this South American gem, highlighting its diverse landscapes, ancient wonders, and unique culinary heritage.

We explored Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, from the beaches of Miraflores to the bohemian charm of Barranco. Sunila shared her adventures in Peru’s diverse regions: the Amazon rainforest, the Andes highlands, and the coastal deserts. Highlights included hiking the Inca Trail, visiting Machu Picchu, flying over the Nazca Lines, and indulging in Peru’s fusion cuisines, from Nikkei to Chifa, paired with the iconic Pisco Sour.

Wine 101: Tours, Tasting, and Tips

In this episode, I sat down Apurva Gawande, a wine connoisseur from The Curated Wine, to explore the fascinating world of wine. We tackled common misconceptions, like Apurva’s reminder that ‘just because a wine is expensive doesn’t mean it’s good,’ and shared tips on decoding wine labels and asking the right questions to sommeliers.

Apurva’s insights made wine approachable for both beginners and enthusiasts, offering guidance on pairing wines, selecting the perfect bottle, and embracing the joy of tasting and learning. Whether you are curious about wine or a seasoned aficionado, this is your guide to exploring the diverse and flavourful world of wines!

Exploring 28 Foods Across 28 States

India’s culinary heritage is as diverse as its geography, and in this episode of Travel Explore Celebrate Life, Sunila and I embarked on a delicious journey through our 28 states. We explored the iconic dishes that define each region.

From Bengal’s soulful Machher Jhol to Kerala’s aromatic Appam and Stew, we celebrated the diverse ingredients, cooking techniques, and local stories that make Indian cuisine so rich. Whether you are a foodie or someone curious to connect with India’s traditions through its cuisine, this episode is a feast for the senses and a source of inspiration for your next culinary adventure!

Howzit South Africa

South Africa is a land of vibrant diversity, and in this episode of Travel Explore Celebrate Life, my friend Alpa Jani and I explored what makes it extraordinary. From the breathtaking views of Table Mountain in Cape Town to the scenic Garden Route’s lush forests and pristine beaches, the country offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

We also delved into South Africa’s culinary treasures, including the iconic Braai (barbecue), flavourful Biltong, and the street food favourite Bunny Chow. So tune in to discover why this dynamic country belongs on every traveller's bucket list!

Smart Parenting: A Guide to Travelling with Kids

Travelling with kids doesn’t have to be a challenge - it can be a rewarding adventure. In this episode of Travel Explore Celebrate Life, Sunila and I shared insights and strategies for making family travel memorable and enjoyable. Sunila recounted heartwarming stories from her daughter Sara’s childhood trips, illustrating how travel creates cherished memories and strengthens family bonds.

We addressed common concerns of Indian parents, from managing schedules to handling unexpected hiccups, and provided practical tips like packing essentials and planning itineraries with downtime for kids. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip with kids, this episode will help make your journey smooth and meaningful.

Exploring Switzerland: Zermatt and the Matterhorn Alpine Border Crossing

In this episode of Travel Explore Celebrate Life, I was joined by Devika Abraham, Country Manager of Zermatt Bergbahnen AG, to explore the breathtaking Alpine region of Zermatt and the iconic Matterhorn Alpine Crossing. The Matterhorn, one of the world’s most recognisable peaks, served as the centerpiece of our conversation, as we delved into its rich history and cultural significance.

One of the highlights was the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, a spectacular cross-border cable car journey that takes travellers from Zermatt in Switzerland to Italy, offering panoramic views of the majestic Alps and an unforgettable mid-air border-crossing experience. This episode celebrated the unparalleled beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures of the Alps, inspiring listeners to dream of their own Alpine escape.

Thank You!

Travel Explore Celebrate Life has been as much about our journey as it has been about connecting with you, our listeners. Thank you for being part of our travel community, and we look forward to exploring more of the world together with you. Until next time, keep Celebrating Life!