Shivya Nath's Blog: The Shooting Star, page 15

Wild, Adventurous and Quirky Things To Do in Jodhpur.

While researching my trip to Jodhpur earlier this year, I came across Jodhpur-focussed blogs and websites regurgitating the same top 10 things to do in Jodhpur, the same Jodhpur sightseeing ideas. So it became my mission to go beyond the typical ‘things to do and see in Jodhpur’ lists and dig deeper for cool and unusual experiences in the blue city.

On a late afternoon, under the warm blue sky, we scrambled up an overgrown trail, past tiny wildflowers and large rocks, until the majestic Mehra...

What No One Tells You About Writing and Publishing a Book in India.

I can hardly believe that just over a month ago, my debut book, The Shooting Star, finally hit bookstores. All those years ago, when I scribbled in my diary that my dream was to become a writer someday (among other dreamy professions like astronaut and detective), I never really meant it. I never really imagined that I’d have a published book with my name on it.

In the past couple of weeks, I’ve walked into plenty of bookstores, pinching myself as I saw my baby The Shooting Star on their new...

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa (ETA) for Indians: Requirements and Tips.

About this post: Many countries now offer visa on arrival for Indian passport holders – and the Sri Lanka ETA (e-travel authorisation) which serves as a Sri Lanka tourist visa for Indians is among the simplest, fastest and cheapest to score. In this detailed post on the Sri Lanka visa for India, I simplify the Sri Lanka visa process for Indian citizens, including the Sri Lanka visa on arrival, ETA processing time and what to expect at immigration at Colombo airport.

15 minutes. That’s all it...

Sometimes We Choose Life, Sometimes Life Chooses Us.

I still remember the call that in all likelihood, changed the trajectory of my life. There I stood, in the queue for the gondola ride to the Giant Buddha statue in Hong Kong, earphones plugged in, listening to Death Cab for Cutie, exploring a city all by myself for the first time. I didn’t expect to hear back from them so soon. The female voice on the other end was polite but frank. “I’m afraid you didn’t get the role”, she said as my heart sank.

My book,  The Shooting Star , released last week...

Offbeat Getaways From Mumbai That’ll Inspire You to Rethink Life.

About this post: Looking for offbeat short trips from Mumbai, or interesting places to visit near Mumbai? After years of exploring India, I’ve put together this unusual list of weekend getaways from Mumbai – including Maachli farmstay, Mangalajodi in Odisha, Purushwadi fireflies festival, Devrai Art Village, Hideout Farm, Malji ka Kamra and more – that I’m sure will inspire you, rejuvenate you even on a short trip from Mumbai and introduce you to responsible travel in India.

Lately, there’s b...

15 Awesome Hangouts in Mumbai to Chill, ‘Work from Home’ and Enjoy Vegan Food.

I vaguely remember the first time I travelled to Bombay. I was still in my first year of college, visiting my cousin who was studying in the city. The only places I had known until then were Dehradun, Delhi and Singapore… and Bombay felt so different from each of them. I immediately fell in love with the way people hung out on the streets, the late night drives along the brightly lit Marine Drive, the quaint little restos we dined and drank at, and just the relaxed, laid back vibe of the city...

My Journey From the Cubicle to a Nomadic Life – Now in a Book!

Last monsoon, I sat holed up in the same room, gazing at the swaying palm trees through the large windows, trying to make sense of the words scattered in my mind and across my notebook. A jasmine-scented breeze wafted in to shake me out of my daydreams. As the pitter patter of rain filled my ears, I worked furiously to pen my words, my stories, my journey.

This monsoon, reliving my susegade digital nomad life in Goa, I am delighted (and in equal parts, nervous) to share that my first book – T...

If I Were a Season, I’d be Monsoon.

About this post: For a long time, I ran away from the monsoon in India. I had no idea how beautiful the rainy season could be, how rejuvenating monsoon travel could be. After years of fleeing the monsoon in India, I now chase it with all my heart. This season, I’ve collaborated with Radisson Rewards to seek memorable monsoon moments across the country and can’t wait to share them with you!

I lie on my back, floating alone in the pool, soft raindrops gently falling on my face. Palm trees rustl...

Best Places for Stargazing and Meteor Showers in India.

About this post: After years of chasing dark night skies for stargazing in India, I’ve put together this post with my favorite places to spot shooting stars and catch meteor showers in India – along with recommendations from an Indian astrophotographer. Whether you’re looking to catch the Geminid Meteor Shower in India, sleep under the Milky Way, witness the Perseid Meteor Shower in India or just spots shooting stars, this India stargazing guide will help you find the best spots! 

A few days...

What It’s Like to Travel Solo When You’re in a Relationship.

About this post: It is a common assumption that female solo travel is only for single women. That female solo travellers go it alone for lack of company, not because they want to. So I decided to pen this solo travel blog post, on what solo travel for women is like when you’re in a relationship, and why you should travel solo despite your relationship status.

Update 2018: After 7 years of travelling the world – 5 of those without a home or permanent address – I’ve written a book about my jour...