My Last Vacation: Embracing Culture and Adventure

Exploring the Flavors of Munich: Oktoberfest 2019

The last vacation I took was in October 2019, just a few months before the world was enveloped in the shadow of the Coronavirus pandemic. The destination? Munich, Germany, for the annual Oktoberfest celebration. It was a trip filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the hearty flavors of Bavarian cuisine.

My journey started off right with a hearty helping of beer, the primary attendee at an Oktoberfest without missing the pretzel, a beloved German food staple, and a half-roast chicken. The traditional sing-alongs and dances of Bavaria were a delightful experience, though I did realize a bit too late that many locals also opted to don traditional Bavarian clothing, adding to the vibrant cultural experience. If I return, I’ll make sure to buy a traditional outfit myself.

Cultural Immersion in Paris: The Louvre and Beyond

Following my Bavarian adventure, I made a short journey to the storied streets of Paris, France. The trip included a thorough exploration of the city’s rich museums, with the Louvre and Versailles being the highlights. The Louvre, housing thousands of priceless works of art, was a sensory overload of history and culture. The opulent Hall of Mirrors and the immense collections at Versailles took my breath away.

The trip to Versailles also included a memorable encounter with a grumpy cat lurking around the gardens—a lively and unexpected sight that brought a smile to our faces. Additionally, the planning of another trip in February 2020 was a testament to our love for the city, which unfortunately had to be postponed.

Deep in the South of India: A South Indian Adventure

For our next escapade, we chose the culturally rich region of South India. January 2020 brought us to the ancient city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, where my friend and I celebrated Thala Pongal, a traditional harvest festival. The highlight of the trip was visiting my friend's hometown, where we got to meet a baby cow and learned about the spice trade from the locals.

Our itinerary was a mix of tourist and local experiences, including a visit to the vibrant Mall and the Keezhadi exhibit, which offered insights into the city’s history. Even as we soaked in the local snacks, there was a lingering sense of anticipation for our next trip, which was momentarily suspended as we faced the postponement of our Deepavali plans till hopefully this year.

Relaxation in Corfu: A Last Flirtation Before Lockdown

My final vacation memory is anchored on the serene island of Corfu, Greece. On September 30, 2020, I enjoyed a much-needed break by lounging on the sunbeds. The peaceful ambiance and warm sunshine provided a refreshing break from the fast-paced travels and the looming uncertainty of the future.

These trips, each unique in their own way, have left an indelible mark on my memory. Whether it was the rich flavors of Bavarian beer and food, the mesmerizing beauty of the French countryside, the cultural insights in South India, or the serene pleasures of a Greek island, each experience has enriched my life and broadened my horizons.