Paradise Spice
India is a shoppers paradise. Each region has it's own speciality & cottage industry. The range is
so mind-boggling that the adage "shop
till you drop" takes on a new dimension in India. The Indian bazaars
& flea markets offer a feast of sights, sounds & colours, a heady
mix of the ethnic with the modern. From irresistible bargains of the local
bazaars to the fixed price departmental stores or Govt. Authorized emporiums
- India has a lot to offer to the shopper. Richly coloured silks & brocades,
world famous Kashmiri carpets & rugs, intricate wood carvings &
inlay work, delicate hand painted miniatures, papier-mache, precious &
semi-precious stones & gold & silver jewellery, brass statues, vegetable
dye block paintings , tie & die cottons, blue pottery, hand woven &
bamboo products... the list is endless! You are only limited by your imagination
( and your purse!).India's cuisine is as spicy & varied, as the flavour of Indian life! Food is not simply a
necessity here. Rather, it is a statement of tradition
& culture. Each region has it's own distinct cuisine, so different,
that it's difficult to believe you are in the same country. Tandoori delights
made in clay ovens over charcoal heat, Hyderabadi Biryani in Dumphukt style,
Prawn Vindaloo of Goa & paper thin Dosas of south India are just some
of the few regional gastronomic delights for vegetarians & non-vegetarians
alike. Amongst the sweet treats, the spongy Rasogullas, concentric Jalebis
& saffron laced puddings have perhaps no parallel in world cuisine.
While spices are a way of life here & are used extensively, those used to mild flavours need not loose heart. For, many cuisines can be made mild without sacrificing much of their character. Most hotels offer regular western fare along with Indian specialities. Special Gourmet Tours can be organized on request. Pick up tips from master chefs and carry back recipes.
