WOW,Part-2

Well, apologies for the delay in coming up with the second post to this series. So, in today’s edition of Words of Wisdom, I am going to burst the bubble of perfectionism. Shocked or Surprised? Well, read more to get a sense that in this rut of being a perfectionist-you may be eroding several other pleasures from your life.

Perfectionism is great at the outset. Everyone loves a spic and span home, shoes kept in order, files all well stacked up, an office presentation just too good to be real, a party oh-too well planned and so on. But in this rut to have everything shout out perfection- are you becoming harsh on self and others or for that matter annoying for others? My two cents on this is that sometimes it is just good to allow some room for growth and improvement. Not that you don’t need to give your best but that doesn’t mean that you lose it like mad in case something goes slightly off to your plan. Well, hold on. Sometimes you may have to express your anger to ensure you get what you want but if this chase for perfectionism is making you less tolerant and less patient and constantly leading to worry and stress, I think you need to watch out as it may leave you with traits which have long term negative affects on the quality of your life and then it may just not seem worth it.

So, enjoy your life, give your best but always leave some room to breathe and let others do the same too.

WOW, Part-1

Well, believe it or not I am launching a new series titled, “Words of Wisdom”. Actually, I will strive to not lecture but talk about the subtle changes I have incorporated in my life which have made a positive impact on my life and overall, have made me feel good.

Strong believer of sharing stuff for the benefit of others. So, today I am talking about retail therapy or the lack of it. For everyone who knows me- knows I have always loved to shop and obviously, I still do but without a doubt I am a much better shopper than I have been. Here are few handy tips coming with sheer wisdom for you to shop better for we all are running out of space to store at home.

1. Handling the Sale Season- Developing a strong will power comes with time. The power of really measuring your options such as do you really need it, is it really different to what you have, will the style last long enough and so on. Do not just give into the sale price because before you know it- you would have collectively spent a lot more in the excitement of shopping at sales.
   
2. Mix and Match- Believe it or not, you closest is full of creating magical looks, sometimes all you have to do is mix and match your looks. This is where investing in classics comes handy.
   
3. Dig Deep- This is that one habit which has been the most beneficial. I am consciously trying to take clothes out from the back of my closet and not necessarily picking up from the ones I wear often and are kept in front. This truly helps in not getting bored of my looks and ensures wholesome use of my clothes as well as reduces the need to shop more as I am putting together different looks every now and then.

And don’t forget the ultimate rule of Marie Kondo on clothes sparking joy because if they don’t- you know what to do! Hope this helps, until next time- Have a fabulous week ahead.

Life Crisis

Well, you may be thinking why doesn’t the heading signify any age bracket or possibly throw light on the elderly in the neighbourhood because we think crisis occur only mid-age onwards. 

Crisis doesn’t just strike you mid-life or at an advanced age. It could be at any phase in your life in my opinion. But what you need is a zest and determination to get up and bounce back. In many cases the routine seems mundane and boring and the motivation to move forward seems like a daunting task. But that is exactly when we need to pull up our socks. We need to look for that one spark that will ignite our day. It could be something as basic as being hooked to a book.

As human beings, we need to constantly strive for growth. Now this growth shouldn’t be drastic, comparative with those around or stressful. It can be our own unique journey of progression. We need not become obsessed with materialistic goals and neither have absolutely no vision at all. What it means is that we need to just get better than what we were yesterday. 

I realized I am usually the one who is always pulsating with new ideas and have been very enterprising but there came a phase sometime back where I just didn’t feel like the above. I just wanted to start my day with a blank slate, go with the flow- do the routine tasks and be thankful for the simple pleasures like enjoying my newly done cozy room. 

This phase also made me realise that I do enjoy the simple pleasures like tossing a healthy salad, decorating my room, cleaning up my closet, distributing things I no longer use, planning the daily meals and so on. I consciously made a decision to not hop on to flights mindlessly, to cancel on plans that I didn’t feel up for and avoid negative conversations which don’t do any good. I must say all this contributes to us positively in some or the other way. 

This isn’t a note of someone depressed but it comes from someone who wants to strive for a life which is a good mix. A mix of the fancy and not so fancy. I do enjoy my holidays, shopping sessions, night-outs and so on. But I also truly enjoy my morning yoga, evening walks, home-cooked meals, deep conversations and so much more.

Talking about yoga, that truly is my new love and I hope this one is for good as it has become my most looked forward to activity in the day. I love the hustle, I love to work hard but every now and then, I love to slow down because I don’t wish to run through with the pleasures of life. So, why not pause to reflect now instead of at 40: am I able to holistically enjoy my life or not?

The Solid Type!

The Bold Type has been trending on Netflix for a while now and chances are slim that you would have missed watching the series! Though at different stages in life, one has been hooked on to the “Sex and the City” and “Gossip Girl” series, post which one is always hesitant whether one will take to another series through and through!!! I will be honest, initially it did require a bit of an effort but now I am clearly hooked to it. So much so that I got inspired to write about it as well.

Well, most of these shows though invite enough eyeballs and fans, there is always a section of society that comes up with harsh criticism. Though I am yet to come across pieces on, “The Bold Type” but I am sure there would be someone dissecting it left, right and centre. I don’t necessarily have a problem with that but I feel a fun watch should be taken in the spirit it is intended to cater. There are definitely some bold instances and personalities in the series but so are they in real life too. Also, it touches upon and openly discusses about some important issues, for it is the “BOLD” type!

Let me focus on what I enjoyed and loved the most as I am currently just nearing the close of Season 4!

1. New York City– Everytime I have seen the skyline or the streets of New York in the series, I have just wished to be magically transported their in no time. The buzz, the vibe and just the coolness- has been very pleasing and inviting. I too want to sashay down its streets in fancy heels and softly curled hair with coffee in a hand and on a mission to get somewhere asap!
   
   And yes, checking out a new bar every now and then or perhaps trying something fun and unique with my girlfriends in the city would be a big YES for me!
   
2. Girl Power- I cannot stress enough how therapeutic is just being around your girls. Yes, we do love the men in our lives but the time spent with the girl gang is unmatched. Just watching that bond on the show has been a delight and has made me remember and treasure all the fabulous women in my life more than ever! Whether it is salon date together or just knocking at each other’s home post work- best time is guaranteed even doing nothing!!!
   
3. Fashion and Beauty Inspiration- I will be honest I relate most to Sutton’s (show name) dressing style. But overall the series is high on some good fashion and beauty trends. I have fallen for good eye make-up ever since I have seen the gorgeous looks spotted by Jacqueline Carlyle (show name). Well, office wear gets a whole new meaning in the series and I am not complaining for I too choose to dress well to work well.
   
4. The Big Boss- The show thankfully for a change shows that you can be lucky with a good boss as well. Not all of them are tyrants. And Jacqueline is just the boss you would dream off. She is confident, secure and excellent at what she does! She stands up for her employees and is just so inspirational to work with. Well, icing on the cake being she is willing to take risks no matter what!
   
5. Beauty and Brains– These girls are undoubtedly well turned out but there is more to them than just that. They take some bold life decisions, don’t hesitate to not follow the herd, be change makers and yes, stand up for what they believe in.
   You may not necessarily agree with all their decisions nor did I but maybe we don’t agree with everyone all the time!

Waiting for Season 5 already!

Image Credits: The Bold Type official instagram page (@theboldtypetv)

Memorable Eat-outs in Hyderabad

Hey everyone, apologies for having been missing in action but well, I am back with something fun and exciting!!!

As work takes me to Hyderabad multiple times-I thought why not share with you all some of my favourite meals and places you must check out when in Hyderabad next! Trust me, the food in the city wouldn’t disappoint you even a bit! So in no particular order, here are few of my recommendations…

1. The Food Court at Ikea,Gachibowli- Well, I was damn hungry so the meal here was a good respite. This makes it to my list for the different experience it offered and is worth exploring specially when you have had a hard day shopping!!!

2. Fab Cafe, Banjara Hills-Hyderabad is also lucky to house this gem! I absolutely loved their twist to the mainline dishes. My favourites here include the Tri-Grain Papdi Chaat Medley, Spicy Sprout Filled Golgappa and Chocolate Cake.

3. The Glass Onion, Boulder Hills Golf & Country Club, Gachibowli- Truthfully, I have never really had a bad meal here. Each time around, the taste and presentation have been on point. While evenings here are amazing with the golf course in the backdrop, the Sunday Brunch is equally fun and leaves you with much to choose from! On a regular day, I would definitely order the Quinoa Avocado Chaat and Broccoli Cheese Kebab!

4. Ulavacharu, Jubilee Hills & Gachibowli– It serves authentic South Indian Telugu cuisine and is a good place to taste the local food. However, to be honest I have had both good and ordinary experiences here but the reason for that I blame on poor ordering. So, be very clear with what you want and they would be happy to help!

5. Exotica, Banjara Hills- I absolutely love their Mughlai and North Indian food. Their Roti Pe Boti and Galouti Kebab are absolutely divine. For me they are among the best for North Indian food in Hyderabad! And to add to that, the ambience of the place is pleasant and soothing!

6. Sante Spa Cuisine, Jubilee Hills– The food here is made with healthy ingredients without compromising on the taste factor. And for someone like me who is quite conscious of my food intake, a healthy eat-out option is absolutely a great idea!!! Their Valrhona Chocolate Pie with an oat flour base was absolutely heavenly so much so that we ordered it twice and so were the Thai Spiced Fish Cakes!

7. The Fisherman’s Wharf- Well, this place absolutely has my heart. Ask me why? One of the major reasons is that it quickly disconnects you from the city life and that itself is a super reason to keep visiting this place. Their food and drinks are worthwhile as well but trust me, the vibe of the place pretty much takes you to Goa in no time!

8. Feast, Sheraton Hotel, Gachibowli- It totally lives up to its name and makes for a memorable feast. The Sunday Brunch is absolutely worth visiting. Take my pro tip, have a light breakfast and then, have a meal to remember and let it be stretched outing!

9. Yi Jing, ITC Kohenur, Madhapur- This is another top favourite of mine and no matter how many times I have been here, each time around the experience has only been better than before. We swear by Chef Shloke Chhabra’s recommendations and he does not disappoint ever! If you are on a look-out for a quality Chinese meal, this is it!

Here’s wishing you the best meals and experiences in Hyderabad and I look forward to sharing much more with you all!

Love,
Sonali

Time for Tea Party!

Hey, while it is the best time to be on a vacation right now but there is never really a bad time to have friends and family over, right?

So for those like me who have weekdays packed with work, sometimes hosting lunches or late evening plans may seem tough but I truly reckon the new age way to party is to organize fun and tasteful tea parties. Trust me when I say this that I feel people are still not so exhausted to meet in the evening, it doesn’t require so much effort and you are pretty much going to find this concept as a breath of fresh air.

Yes, even the present generation can have fun at tea time. So, here are some tips to help you plan your ultimate tea party-

1. Colour Theme- I always like my main table done up really well so we could fill up our vases with nice flowers- go for pink and white or yellow and white. Else, you could stick to pastels. Make sure some basics like napkins, plates and the like are in line with your colour theme.
2. The Tea- Make sure you have a variety on offer. Don’t forget that Tea has to be the highlight and why not? There are just so many variations available. However, do not serve something you have not tried before, please! So there must be a house favourite which should be pouring. Then lay out the rest for the guests to try-out and to involve them, this could make for a perfect “DIY” activity. Also, keep the essential ingredients readily available such as Milk, sugar, honey and lemon. When in India- Masala Tea be a hot favourite. Another favourite of mine which got to make the list is the Chamomile Tea. What would be helpful would be to display the Tea Menu!

   Also, you could offer some cooler versions like Iced Tea on the menu as well.

3. Food Factor- Like any party, you can’t ditch or ignore this aspect even a bit! Here are some of our recommendations:

   -Scones with Nice Berry Toppings and Whipped Cream OR a Pastry Platter
   -Mushroom Quiche
   -Finger Sandwiches (these are done well at most homes)
   -Cookies (a variety here would sure win hearts)
   -Cake (we absolutely love the Victorian Vanilla Cake from The Daily Gourmet and we usually add some Orange Marmalade to it)
   -Chocolate Muffins (again think no more and use the ones from The Daily Gourmet as they are so easy to make)
   -Fries (everyone loves them no matter what the age)
   -Cheese & Crackers
   -Fruit Platter
   -Last but not the least, no Indian Tea party is ever complete without Samosas so this is a definite winner always!

   

   

4. Dress Code- Well why not? How about nice floral dresses with hats? In case you feel that is a little over the top for you then how about everyone dressing up in white?
5. Value Additions- Soft Music is a good idea and you can have some tarts or muffins as giveaways for all! And keeping some games which can be played as guests sip on their tea is a fabulous idea.

Pro Tip: There would be lots of used tea bags- make sure you station a small bin to dump them. And, warm water must be available throughout!

ON GRATITUDE

Today, I am getting back to writing for my #LoveLife series and would like to share about the concept/attitude of gratitude.

I have to say it first up, having a heart of gratitude is having the key to a happy life. Over the years, I have realized that most of us have this tendency of focusing on things we do not have. For instance, seeing the glass half empty instead of seeing it half full. However, if the focus changes to what we have or who I am- it truly can become a game changer! We shall wake up each morning feeling genuinely grateful for the little things such as the delicious home-cooked dinner we had last evening or the amazing weather in the morning or even looking forward to dressing up for work or most importantly, feeling healthy!

A heart of gratitude is truly an enriched and beautiful heart for it appreciates and celebrates life. And trust me, everyone loves to be around people who appreciate and are grateful. With gratitude being our foremost attitude not only do we feel good but instead we uplift the spirits of another life too! For instance, it maybe routine for mother to cook, but try and compliment her for the meal and see the big smile on her face!

Also, I feel gratitude reduces the room for complain for you try and look at the good or positive in every challenging situation as well.

Lastly, I would say always be grateful for this life, our families and friends, the person we have become and are becoming and cherishing each and every necessity of life we have been blessed with from our home where we live to the clothes we wear!

Having said this, celebrate the little things in life and you would realize that you are celebrating ever so often. Share your celebrations, involve others in your celebrations, make them feel a part of being the reason itself to celebrate. Also, always have gratitude for the things you wished to own one day and with your hard work have been able to!!!

For me, my heart wells up with joy and happiness each time I think about the trips I have made and I can’t be grateful enough for those plans having become a reality!

P.S. I have and shall continue to have gratitude for all my dreams getting fulfilled. And writing this makes me realize how about some gratitude for having the will and courage to dream itself?

Best,
Sonali

Perks of staying in Pratunam, Bangkok

Well, with the airport less than an hour away, there sure are some fancy perks of staying in the bustling Pratunam area of Bangkok.

 

Talking from experience, I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay at hotels in Pratunam on each of my trips besides the times I have stayed with my friends at their residence in Sukhumvit.

 

Be on a Shopping Spree:

 

There is never a dull moment especially when you are staying in this area. During the day, no matter how much time you spend- you shall still be left wanting for more at the Platinum Fashion Mall. What’s more is that a newer building of the mall has been developed as well. 

From clothes to bags to shoes to accessories to beauty products-this one is an absolute haven for girls and from the point of convenience- there is a floor where you can leave behind the love of your life or even better if he is not accompanying you, then take back something for him from that floor.

One of my personal favourite shops is the Pink Pvssy for their gorgeous and stylish clutches.

Handy Hacks for the Platinum Fashion Mall:

 

1. If there is anything particular you have in mind- seek their Help Desk and they give you the exact shop numbers dealing with the requested category of products.

 

2. Their food court is a must visit, there are ample choices and you would get a very affordable meal.

 

3. Carry a big empty bag as you land up shopping enough to stress your arms and hands- a bag with wheels would be a true blessing.

 

And, for the tech-savy, just few steps away is the Pantip Plaza.

As you step out of the Mall, do grab a slice of Pizza at Crispy Pizza or a Japanese Soft Serve at  Demi Concept or how about some Mango Sticky Rice?

Some of the other malls not too far would be:

 

Almost a 10 minutes ride away would be the very well known MBK Mall and then not too far from MBK are the Siam Malls for all the branded shopping.

And must mention my current favourite- Central World.

 

And, as the sun sets down- the streets of Pratinum also liven up further with the night markets. My recent most discovery was the Neon Night Market- it was quite fun and casual.

 

However, a market I truly recommend for the evening would be Asiatique The Riverfront  which though would be about half an hour away from Pratunam but would be totally worth the visit. There are plenty of shops, amazing restaurants by the river, live entertainment and there is just this fabulous festivity in the air.

Hotels at Pratunam, My picks would be:

 –Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel- you would love their breakfast and land up clicking umpteen pictures here for sure!

 

–The Berkeley Hotel-the room size is a complete luxury and we thoroughly relished all the dishes we ordered in our rooms. The location for me was perfect.

When looking for hotels, make sure you cross-check that it is not too in the interiors or isolated as then you would be far-off from the action. 

 

Binging Big:

Just about five minutes away from the Platinum Mall is this cute place called Hungry Nerd. From their pasta to their burgers- I have always loved everything here.

Another favourite place in this area which we love for desserts is the  B Story Cafe.

 

Hope this information comes handy and connectivity isn’t really an issue with Grab, regular cabs, tuk-tuk and so on.

 

Wishing you an ever amazing trip to Thailand!

xoxo,

Sonali

The Oasis Spa for an experience like no other!!!

Okay then, some of the finest things take time… Hence, this review is coming now- well, I was in Bangkok in February like many of you already know and a ritual of sorts for me is to pamper myself at the top quality and extremely rejuvenating spot- The Oasis Spa.

Once you enter its surreal setting, you’re sure to leave behind all your worries and stress and trust me on this, I always feel when I am here that I am no longer in a city but truly in heaven.

It truly is an Oasis of everything pleasant and positive! The tranquility develops as you pass through the gate into an exotic world of beauty, serenity and pleasure. Here you are in company of a place of lush foliage, wooden bridges and walkways, waterfalls, reflective ponds and private treatment villas encompassed in the arms of ancient venerable trees.

The manner in which you are greeted as if they were only waiting for you (even though they keep quite busy), the welcome with fruits, towel and a drink that follows, then the entire process of ensuring you get the most appropriate and effective therapy taking into consideration several factors- everything is dealt with utmost care and professionalism.

I am not new to this spa at all as have been visiting it for years but this time around I wanted a loved one to try it for she is getting married soon. And with the wedding preparations comes enough anxiety and stress, so I thought this would be the most ideal spa date and gift for her! And while I shall take you through our treatments, I must share upfront itself that my lovely was blown away by the services and the experience and towards the close of our trip, said without a doubt that the visit to The Oasis Spa was the highlight of the entire trip for her!

While she opted for the King of Oasis Signature Massage which is a two hours massage and ensures utmost level of release, relief and contentment using a unique combination of “East meets West” massage techniques. It employs kneading, thumb pressure, stretching and compression combined with a warm aromatherapy oil massage and a Thai Herbal Hot Compress. Tired muscles are soothed to allow stretching that removes energy barriers and re-open all the body’s energy pathways. Eventually you find relief from stiff muscles and muscular discomfort, and gift yourself improved sleep and reduced stress.

 

And I this time around went in for the Queen of Oasis Signature Massage which is also a two hours massage combining the best of Eastern and Western therapies to promote a woman’s health and sense of well-being. The ancient oriental massage integrated into this therapy concentrates on the Meridian Lines to detoxify, improve organ function and promote self-healing. The Swedish, Hot Stone and Aromatherapy massage further restores and enhances vitality. It realigns a woman’s life-energy, improves digestion and promotes inner harmony. And you know what? This treatment quite rightly has been compared to doing yoga without the effort while receiving acupressure treatments!

And let me make an honest confession here that the hot stone therapy is absolutely blissful. I also believe that a good spa experience always helps you get some relaxed sleep and guess what? We both woke up totally refreshed post our treatment, still wanting more.

 

I always say this and shall say this again- when in Thailand, a visit to The Oasis Spa is a must!!! The Oasis Spa has over 10 branches in Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations of Bangkok, Chiangmai, Pattaya, and Phuket. This is a special year for the brand as it completes 15 years of excellence in 2018!

Happy Spa-ing you all!!!

xoxo,

Sonali

Address Home: Ten Glorious Years

We reckon the transformation of a house to a home takes place with love in abundance… Hence, one lands up adding some special pieces with much love to one’s haven of love. And we all like being selective and exclusive as far as our preferences for home decor are concerned as this space speaks much about us and our loved ones as well as our personalities.

A brand which has impressed us for many years, ten to be precise is Address Home for each time around we have encountered its offerings, we have only been impressed.

Address Home like most would know-creates and curates a world-class range of premium linen, dining, accessories, lighting & furniture; focusing on quality craftsmanship with an eclectic-chic design sensibility.

And there never has been or nor there would be lack of quality options at Address Home for there is always something for everyone- affluent or aspirational, traditional or trendy. Rajat Singhi, Founder & Creative Director says, “Each customer, each guest in our store is unique, and we respect them for their decorating style. And change is constant in design, especially in India. Our stores are usually in very high footfall areas and we have about sixty percent of repeat customers, who step into our store once every month or two. They want to see newness all the time. So, we have to be on our toes all the time, to keep offering newness and the quirkiness that Address Home stands for.”

The brand takes pride in ensuring top quality and worthwhile creativity with each expansion step that it takes! The brand has grown to 13 exclusive stores in a decade covering 11 cities, and with their online foray they now cater to 300 cities PAN-India and have an international presence with worldwide shipping.

The brand has reached a commendable milestone of completing ten years and reflecting on its journey so far…It all started with converting a car mechanic’s shed into a hi-end retail store at Raghuvanshi Mills, Mumbai. From the look and feel of the store, to lay- outing and visual merchandising, every little detail was seen by Mr. Singhi in person. He reminisces by saying, “It was an amazing success. I remember my first few months when I was there personally, I used to attend to each and every customer and listen to their feedback. It was very enriching to hear them gasp in awe and delight that finally something like this had come to Mumbai or to India for that matter.”

Well, that is quite a success story and here’s wishing them the very best always and hoping to newer chapters of success being added to theirs for explosive growth is expected in the coming years!!!

Also, log on to- www.addresshome.com