Chatting with lively vendors has enriched my travel experience’

A passionate globetrotter, Ekta Mohanani Kamra, who has travelled to
different mesmerising locations, gets candid with The Pioneer as she shares
her travel experiences this week for our Travelogue segment.
Subodhini Purohit
Ekta Mohanani Kamra is a passionate globetrotter who has strolled through the beautiful alleys of Paris, danced the night away in Ibiza, discovered the historic charm of the United Kingdom, and soaked up the tropical beauty of Bali, among many other captivating destinations.
For her, travelling is more than just visiting new locations. It allows her to immerse herself in different cultures, meet interesting people, and get new ideas on life. “It’s also a moment for self-reflection and determining what is actually important to me. Ultimately, travel enhances my life with amazing experiences and beloved memories,” she says in an interview with The Pioneer.
As an Indian, she is used to delicious, spicy food, so savouring basic foods like tomato bread or boiled potatoes with Sriracha sauce was a thrill. She adds, “Each cuisine has its own distinct charm, making every meal a brand new adventure.”
She had an amazing time in Dubai and Abu Dhabi! In Dubai, she went on a desert safari and explored the breathtaking Dubai Miracle Garden. Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, “I had the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Qasr Al Watan palace and go kayaking in the enchanting mangroves. Both sites provided an ideal blend of adventure and culture, resulting in an amazing experience.”
Aside from that, her journey to Udaipur included an exciting off-the-beaten-path excursion. She proceeded to the calm Chuda Shikar Oudi, which is around 37 kilometers from the city. “There, I took an incredible safari ride and immersed myself in the thrilling animal experience. Later, I enjoyed a delicious meal with my companions under the beautiful stars. The afternoon was packed with the thrill of a Polo match, and I finished the day with a fun night of dancing.”
Las Palmas, the vibrant capital of Gran Canaria in Spain’s Canary Islands, is one such city that always surprises tourists with its culture and traditions. She says, “The Carnival of Las Palmas was a highlight, with extravagant parades, vibrant costumes, and energetic music that filled the streets for a week. I really enjoyed immersing myself in the local celebrations, where traditional Canarian music, with its own folk songs and instruments, created an unforgettable ambiance.”
She has not encountered any terrible situations, but one such occasion was caused by heavy traffic. She relates, “When I travelled to Bali during peak travel periods, the traffic congestion in South Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Ubud was absolutely insane!”
Interaction with locals frequently provides the tourist with information about the location. “Interacting with locals on my excursions has been quite enlightening. Whether it’s chatting with colourful merchants at a crowded market or seeking advice from kind strangers, the genuine warmth and hospitality I’ve encountered have definitely enhanced all of my travels, making them unforgettable.”
The most important thing to have while visiting new areas is a book travel guide, which may sound traditional, but she believes it comes in handy while travelling. “I enjoy reading short travel guides that provide unique insights into local culture and history, as well as practical recommendations and detailed maps. These guides are ideal for anyone planning a quick city getaway or a
longer vacation,” she says in conclusion.