Sunkissed and smitten, Ankita Chhetri recounts her whirlwind romance with the enchanting island of Capri, where crystal-clear waters, picturesque landscapes and la dolce vita left her spellbound, in an exclusive chat with The Pioneer.
Picture this: You’re on a sun-drenched island surrounded by cliffs that seem to kiss the sky and waters so turquoise they practically sparkle. This was Capri, a destination so enchanting it could make even the most seasoned traveler pause and take a deep, contented breath. Ankita Chhetri recalls, “Capri was pure magic! The cliffs, turquoise waters and the Blue Grotto were incredible, but what I loved most was soaking up the island’s unique vibe. Every view was mesmerising.”
But Capri isn’t just about postcard-perfect landscapes. It’s the heartbeat of its culture that captivates every visitor. she shares, “The Italian charm was absolutely captivating! From artisans handcrafting leather sandals to colourful ceramics on every corner and traditional music spilling out into the streets, there’s a calm, beautiful rhythm of life here that makes you want to slow down and savour it all.”
And speaking of savoring, let’s talk food! Capri’s culinary delights aren’t just meals; they’re experiences. “The food was divine! I fell in love with fresh seafood pasta and, of course, their famous Limoncello. Every meal felt like a celebration of flavours,” she beams.
Of course, no trip to Capri is complete without connecting with the locals and Aditi was welcomed with open arms. “The locals were incredibly warm. Our boat tour guide was especially sweet. He went beyond just showing us around, constantly checking to ensure everyone was safe and having fun,” she recalls, remembering the genuine hospitality that turned a simple boat ride into an unforgettable experience.
Speaking of boat rides, let’s dive into the highlight of the trip: sailing around the island. She vividly recalls the moment: “Sailing around Capri was like a dream! Drifting through the crystal-clear waters with cliffs towering above—honestly, it’s an absolute must-do!” Beyond Capri, though, lies her hometown, Hamiltonganj in West Bengal. “It’s so underrated and unique. Nestled near the India-Bhutan border, it’s got perfect weather, amazing food, mountains and pristine rivers. It’s my personal slice of paradise.”
When it comes to lodging, her stay in Praiano, just 15 minutes from Positano, was nothing short of magical. “We stayed in an Airbnb with stunning coastal views—a perfect base for exploring the Amalfi Coast,” she describes, the charm of the place still fresh in their mind.
But when the pressures of work start to mount, she has a favorite retreat to recharge: “Lonavala! It’s close to Mumbai and offers the perfect mix of windy weather, nature, and relaxation. It’s my quick getaway to find peace.”
However, not all travels are without their hiccups. She remembers a particularly nerve-wracking moment in Capri: “My sister and I almost missed the last boat from Capri to Positano! We panicked, shouted, and waved at the departing boat. Miraculously, it came back for us. Those 15 minutes of panic were nerve-wracking, but oh-so-memorable!”
But Capri wasn’t just about the sights and adventures—it was also about slowing down and embracing the present. “The beauty of Capri made me slow down and appreciate the small moments—the waves, the breeze. Watching the sunset from Anacapri felt like time stood still.” Islands, it seems, have a special way of disconnecting you from the world and reconnecting you with yourself. Capri had that serene, timeless quality that left her feeling grounded and free.
As for capturing the experience, Ankita keeps a detailed journal, taking photos and videos to relive the journey. “Capri and Amalfi felt like stepping into a painting. I’ll treasure those memories forever,” they reflect, a nostalgic smile crossing their face.
And when it comes to dream travel companions, she has the perfect pick. “I’d love to travel with Anam! Her energy is contagious and we’ve known each other for years. It would be a fun, crazy adventure!”
Whether it’s sailing the crystal waters, tasting the freshest pasta, or simply watching a sunset from an idyllic island, Capri left an indelible mark on her. And who knows? Maybe they’ll take Anam along next time, and Capri will get even more adventurous.
