One question I get asked all the time, is where to take friends and family from abroad in Mumbai. I’ve always thought of Mumbai as a city with not much to see for foreigners. Goa, Kochi, Jaipur, Pondicherry or even Delhi seemed like better suggestions for people wanting to see India. But over the years, I’ve collected experiences in my own city that are worth sharing too. So for all those year round visitors - cousins, aunts, school friends and more, here’s a comprehensive list. All of these places / activities have been experienced by me, multiple times, so I can vouch for all these personally!

A Day in South Mumbai

South Mumbai is one of the few areas of the city that remains decently preserved. Its art deco buildings and wide roads will have anyone fooled. It’s also home to the maximum number of the city’s art galleries, old world cinemas and some lovely timeless eateries.

Start the day with breakfast at Kala Ghoda Cafe - drop in at Method.

Go on to visit NGMA, where there’s always a classic show on. Or take a detour and visit the Bhaudaji Lad Museum in Byculla - this one is highly recommended for tourists interested in art and history.

Walk around Colaba causeway, and if you’re lucky you can book one of these walks:

• Looking up in Colaba with Daniel Sequeira

• Walks by Khaki Tours

• Walks by No Footprints

Go on to Tarq, Chemould Colab, Experimenter, Jhaveri Contemporary, Stranger’s House and more. These are all particularly buzzing during Art Night Thursdays or Mumbai Art Gallery Weekends!

If you want to shop, step into MNSH, Jodi Life, Nicobar and more - all around Kala Ghoda.

Get a drink at the lovely Bay View Cafe with a great view of the Gateway of India. Get lunch at the famous Ling’s Pavilion.

Then walk down Colaba Causeway for knick-knacks, walk by the Asiatic Library and the legendary St. Thomas Cathedral. If you’re lucky and it’s winter, NCPA at the Park at Cooperage Bandstand Garden is a fun, free event that gets everyone dancing. Or catch a play, performance or festival at NCPA.

If you’re in the mood to hop across to Churchgate, visit the recently renovated art deco Eros Cinema and window shop at the gorgeous Swadesh. Or get a snack at Bangalore’s famous Rameshwaram Cafe!

Drop into the OG Woodside Inn at Colaba for a drink. And then go on to Americano for dinner. Some other great options are The Table, Rue Du Liban and Otra.

For drinks post dinner, head to KGC Wine Bar or Malido Wine Bar and end the day right where you started.

You can also explore the charming area of Kotachi Wadi with its old-world bungalows and visit 47-A. And if you’re ready to go up to Mahalaxmi and Lower Parel, explore the programs at G5A and get a meal at Mumbai’s best restaurant, The Bombay Canteen.

A Day in Bandra

Start with a stroll down Band Stand (and marvel at the number of people there to catch a glimpse of where Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan live), visit the recently renovated Bandra Fort, then go up to Mount Mary Church and then breakfast at BooJee Cafe, Bokka or The Love Fools.

Bonus Note: On Sundays from Dec-Feb, catch SoundRise or NCPA at the Park at Bandra Fort. Or the Festival at The Steps at St. Stephen’s Steps. You can also check out some specialised Bandra walks via Halou Halou.

Then browse for hours at the neighbourhood bookstores Trilogy or Fictionary. When you’re done, walk down Hill Road for some street-side shopping - a weekday afternoon is your best bet for less crowds. If you get hungry grab paani puri at Elco Market or a puff from one of Bandra’s many bakeries - Candies, Andorra, Bawa Zest, American Express, Hearsch, Mavs or A1. Dessert lovers can stop by Bombay Sweet Shop for some delicious tasters.

Stop for lunch at Izumi, Royal China or Seefah. Walk off lunch in Runwar Village and the lanes of Chapel road looking at the street art and graffiti. Drop in to Fluxus Chapel to browse through some zines, posters and more.

Stop at Subko or Shelter Cafe for a coffee and snack before you catch the sunset at Carter Road with its skateboarding area, chess tables and drum circles.

For dinner, go to La Loca Maria or Bandra Born. Mag st., Gaijin and Kasper’s are also great options.

And if you’re up for a drink and want to check out the night life, Bombay Daak, Sixteen 33, Eddie’s, Bonobo, Woodside Inn, Soul Fry (for karaoke night), Bangg Bar and Idoru are all great options. A hidden one is Radio Bar’s nostalgia Bollywood Nights on Sundays, with the most hilarious 90s music videos and songs!

And if you happen to be around Bandra at Christmas time, don’t miss the lights at Runwar Village and Convent Street.

I’ve written a whole edition on Bandra here, where you can get lots more details on the best things to do, see and eat.

A Day in Juhu / Versova

If you or your guests do happen to stay in Mumbai for more than a few days - or are in the suburbs, there are a few fun things to do in Juhu. Start the day with a walk at Silver Beach, much quieter than Juhu Chowpatty, with the same view. You can also pack a picnic and enjoy the greenery at Pushpa Narsee Park, or take a book and join Juhu Readers at Kaifee Azmi Park.

Go on to breakfast at Dakshinayan and visit the iconic Hare Rama Hare Krishna temple.

Etaarra Coffee House or Ananda Cafe are sweet places to get your coffee fix.

For more beach time, sign up for a coastal walk at Juhu Beach with Marine Life of Mumbai.

For lunch, go to Naga Belly, Sorozaie or Project Hum in Versova. After, visit Leaping Windows to browse comic books and get a drink.

Book a play at Prithvi Theatre and enjoy the parathas for dinner at Prithvi Cafe. Or get a memorable South Indian dinner at Tanjore Tiffin Room. Finish up with drinks at WTF or Woodside Inn!

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Some fun NRI Nostalgia Eats:

• Swati Snacks

• Soam

• Yoko’s

• Ramashray

• Sri Thakkar’s Bhojanalay

• Jai Hind Lunch Home

• Dheeraj Wada Pav

• Bachelorr’s

• Ashok Wada Pav

• Punjab Sweet House

Some good NRI Shopping:

• Bhavya Ramesh

• Dhora

• Shop Lune

• Cottage Industries

• Artisans

• Nicobar

• The Vintage Garden

• Anokhi

• India Circus

• Neelam or Annapurna for snacks to take home!

A few more fun events / spaces to check out:

If you’re here during Mumbai’s “winter” also known as November to March, you can catch some fun events. These include the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Spoken Fest, The Festival at the Steps, SoundRise, Art Night Thursdays…the list goes on.

I never thought I could fit so much that my city had to offer in one newsletter, but here it is! So take it, share it and enjoy yourself the Mumbai way!

Love Shai

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I hope this monsoon has been as joyous for you all, as it has for me. When I say joyous, I don’t mean that every day has been ecstatic, but that the cloudy weather and steady rains have brought with them a calming comfort that underlines my days. A life of straight-lined calm and contentment, according to me, is more satisfying than one with extreme highs and lows.

There are a bunch of lovely shows, books, dishes and more that I’ve been piling up to recommend to you all. So without further ado…let’s start!

To Read: 4 brilliant female authors

If you like novels that are just the right kind of riveting, disturbing and fast-paced - where you’re left wondering at how someone can even think like this, then The Vegetarian by Han Kang is for you. This is not a new novel, it came out in 2007, but Han Kang won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2024, bringing attention to this book again. After reading this one, it’s difficult to read something else, because it all seems boring in comparison.

I rarely gush about a book, but with Orbital by Samantha Harvey, I wanted to highlight every page, remember every line and savour every section. The way she has examined the smallness, largeness, fragility and strength of humanity and Earth from the vastness of space, via 6 astronauts and their interior and exterior worlds is just brilliant. I don't know what else to say about this book, except just read it - you won't regret it.

Dear friend and super writer Meera Ganapathi’s first book for adults is a soul-satisfying read. Whether you tear through How to Forget like I did, or savour it like many others have, her insightful poems and essays, all woven around the theme of walking, will stay with you for a long time.

Good Material, by Dolly Alderton is another good one. I'm blown away by how well this author has put herself in the shoes of a straight man and written in his voice. Apart from that, the content is sharp, witty and enjoyable. Based on a breakup, the book is relatable on many levels and has a few passages about love and relationships that stay with you.

To Watch:

Many people must think of K-dramas as silly, romantic, mindless escapes for women with stars in their eyes. I can confirm however, after my 45th one, that K-dramas are anything but mindless. When Life Gives You Tangerines on Netflix is yet another one of these that proves this. Beautiful moments, never-before-seen situations, unpredictable, real and heart-wrenching - this show has everything. Mother-daughter relationships, a fantasy love story, warm friendships and life’s highs and lows are all showcased so well. You will laugh, cry and recommend it further.

Culinary Class Wars on Netflix is an absolutely riveting watch (once you get past the first episode) for anyone who likes cooking shows.

If you like thrillers, Dept Q is a good one. Well-written, pacy and gripping. Perfect to be glued to indoors while it’s storming outdoors!

Memoir of a Snail is a film that left me in wonder at how beautifully emotions can be understood and translated onto screen in the form of spell-binding art. All about a lonely misfit who collects snails, this story is both heart-breaking and full of hope.

To Browse:

If you love history, then this game is so much fun. Select the event card shown and place it in the timeline in the order you think it happened. Educational and addictive.

An old but eye-opening article on losing weight and how one sees oneself.

This podcast / video on why young men are lost today makes so much sense. In general, if you don’t follow Diary of A CEO already (chances are you do, it’s the No.1 podcast at the moment), I recommend it.

And if you’re interested in browsing through bookshelves, the Himalayan Writing Retreat has put together a neat little list of book cafes all over India. Check them out here!

To Buy:

For everyone trying to lessen carbs, if you haven’t found these yet, you’re welcome! The wraps make for such easy dinner options.

Out of all the plus-size fitness wear brands out there, I’ve found that Spirit Animal fits best and is truly made for people with curvy and unconventional bodies (read short and plus size and not tall like the usual bodies plus size brands cater to).

Out with those hard Birks and in with these Slash O sandals - so comfortable and they look great too. Plus, they get an extra star for superb customer service.

To Eat:

Out of all the new restaurants doing the rounds in Bandra, Gaijin stands out for its fusion Japanese food that’s innovative as well as tasty. The courtyard at the back also ticks all the right ambience boxes.

I know many of us are on a health trip. But so many people are knocking it out of the park when it comes to desserts! If you haven’t already, you must try these 4:

1. The Venus Jam Cake & Mixed Berry Sorbet at Bandra Born

2. The Chocolate Soufflé at La Loca Maria

3. The Revenge Black Forest Cake by Maska Bakery

4. Pedro’s Chocolate Mousse at O Pedro

For the next edition of Ask Shai, I would love to include 3 Reader Recommendations. Send me your favourite things to do, read, eat, buy, watch and more and I’ll choose 3 to feature. After all, the more recommendations featured, the better. Don’t forget to include why you’re recommending them! You can either reply to this email or chat with me via the link below.

I hope you’re subscribing to my Insta page too? I try and post unmissable recommendations there quite frequently, so follow me here.

That’s all for now dear readers! Wishing you a brilliant season ahead. Enjoy the last of the rains as you gear up for festive times ahead.

Till next time,

Shai

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One of the things I’ve been asked most often, both before and after I became a Bandra resident, is ‘Can you suggest things to do in Bandra?’ Below is the list I usually share with them. Now you have it too!

Bandra is one of those unique areas that everyone has an opinion about. Those who don’t live here love to hate it. They say it’s too far, too crowded, too dug up (this has been true of late and is really annoying). They complain that every new cafe, restaurant and bar opens here - and that they have to travel all the way, every time. They’ll continue to spar with their friends who live here about why they have to come all the way every single time they want to meet them, and the friends will reply with what every Bandra resident says, ‘There are just so many more options here!’

On the other hand, the residents complain that everyone wants a piece of Bandra. Bandstand is full of people from all over India. Subko and Boojee have lines of people waiting on weekends, most of who are not from Bandra, while youngsters crowd up Toto’s, Janata, Yacht and Old Street. Most Bandra locals constantly look for hidden gems and undiscovered spots to spend their time in - because otherwise, Bandra belongs to everyone.

There’s a reason why everyone flocks to Bandra too. Unlike every other suburb of Mumbai that looks the same - you can’t tell Vile Parle apart from Goregaon apart from Charni Road - Bandra’s villages keep it unique. These are Chuim, Chimbai, Pali and Ranwar. Each originally for various industry-professionals (Chimbai for the fishermen and women, Ranwar for the rice farmers and so on) these villages have retained their narrow lanes, old-style homes and charming vibes. These are what set Bandra apart and make her the Queen of the Suburbs. Not to mention, Bandstand, Carter Road, Bandra Fort, Reclamation and Jogger’s Park. Open areas that the world congregates in. The access to celebrity homes and sightings also makes Bandra more tempting than other places for people from every strata of society.

So that’s just some of the history and geography! When an NRI is in town, or a foreigner friend for that matter, this is what I end up doing in Bandra. And I’ve found it to be the ideal day.

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Breakfast at BooJee Cafe. Nothing is more consistent (yet) food and coffee-wise!

Some more breakfast options for when BooJee is too packed:

• Good old Candies (though not every dish is a hit - go for the well-loved chicken mayo sandwiches / rolls)

• Suzette for delicious crepes

• Bokka for a good molgapudi and egg dosa and excellent coffee

• Veronica’s for breakfast and coffee that always hits the spot.

If you happen to be in Bandra on a winter weekend (between November and March) you’ll always find something going on at Bandra Fort. NCPA at the Park or SoundRise usually have events there at this time.

Alternately, if you would like to shop after breakfast - explore The Vintage Garden at Turner Road. Or the range of sustainable shops through Pali Hill - Two Extra Lives, Teatro Dhora and The Shop. For some beautiful, local village-inspired jewellery, check out Shop Lune at Chimbai. And if none of that is for you, Hill Road’s export surplus stores never disappoint for cheap and cheerful outfits: Cherry Fig, No Panic, Cotton On, Fendi and more. Pop-ups are usually always on at Peace Haven bungalow at Perry Cross Road as well. While Why So Blue, PinkLay and more all have their outlets in Bandra.

If you happen to be out and about on a Sunday morning, Kavita Mukhi’s Farmer’s Market at the YMCA ground is a lively place to visit full of healthy, organic food shopping.

Not to mention Bandra Reads which happens at Jogger’s Park every Sunday morning between 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Just take your book and read along with a host of like-minded people spread across the park, then meet and exchange book recommendations at 10!

Lunch at Seefah

Dig into delicious crab fried rice, a Thai seafood omelette and some honey toast. You won’t be disappointed.

Some options for if you don’t feel like Thai food

• Royal China for reliably good Chinese food

• Izumi for the best Japanese food in India

• Pali Village Cafe for Mediterranean cuisine

• Jai Hind Lunch Home (my favourite) for delicious Konkani seafood

• The Tanjore Tiffin Room for reliably good South Indian fare

• Santa Maria for some loaded and delicious sandwiches

• Benne Dosa if you’re in the mood for butter laden, crispy dosas and don’t mind standing in a line!

A stroll to Art & Charlie

Tucked away in the lanes of Pali village is a tiny gallery that usually has an interesting exhibit on. Always a fun thing to do between all the food and drink consumption.

If you feel like grabbing a coffee, the tiny Subko under Art & Charlie is an option. But I would suggest strolling to Vanilla Miel a few meters away and indulging in one of their tempting desserts and strong coffees.

A few more cafe options in case these are packed:

• Mokai - for the variety of Matcha drinks and fun decor

• Subko at Mary Lodge, for the cool gig-worker vibe and delish chocolate croissant

• Method - if you would like to take in an exhibit along with your coffee (Pro tip: they also have some interesting mixers and other events)

• Morii - if you want BooJee coffee and some delicious desserts

• Taj Mahal Tea House - for the non-coffee drinkers. Their variety of tea and decor is great, but avoid the food!

• Shelter x Javaphile - good food and peaceful vibes.

• Punjab Sweet House or Elco - for when you want chaat and aloo tikki instead of coffee

As the heat dies down, stroll through Ranwar Village and Veronica street to see Bandra’s old houses, chapels and street art (including the famous murals of Sri Devi, Irrfan and others). These are spread out over Waroda Road, in tiny lanes off Chapel Road and more.

Or explore the book stores of Bandra. My favourite is Trilogy, a hyper-curated bookstore where the owners recommend their favourite books with post-its. Fictionary with a Masa bakery attached and Title Waves too are great places to spend an evening browsing.

Alternatively, you could head to Carter Road and walk alongside a skating arena, drum circle, chess tables and more. Bandstand offers similar views and vibes, while serious walkers can choose Jogger’s Park.

Sometimes a good play is on at Rangsharda Auditorium or Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir. Or if you’ve had your fill of street art and street shopping, it may be time for dinner!

Dinner at La Loca Maria

Perfect for some gambas, tacos and deconstructed tiramisu!

Some options (in this order) for if La Loca is packed. Apart from the lunch options above, you can also choose:

• Pali Bhavan for arguably the best Indian food in the area

• Gaijin for yummy Japanese fusion food.

• Mag Street Cafe for reliably good food and drinks

• Bandra Born: yum food and great cocktails

• Project Hum if you want super healthy food and you don’t mind a casual space

• Khao Man Gai by Seefah for the yummiest authentic chicken rice

• Soul Fry if you want Goan food and Karaoke too!

• Kari Apla, if you want some unique and delicious dishes

With all that food out of the way, it’s time to explore Bandra’s famous nightlife! From electronic to casual to karaoke, you’ll find it all!

Start with drinks at Woodside Inn, Bandra.

Go on to Sixteen 33, everyone’s favourite neighbourhood bar. Get a drink at Monkey Bar and end at Bonobo.

Some more options:

• Eddies for a casual drink

• Toto’s for nostalgia!

• Yacht, Janata or Old Street for cheap and cheerful drinks

• Bombay Daak - for the best cocktails

• The Den - for a casual drink or karaoke night

• Radio Bar or The Daily when you want to dance late into the night! (Pro tip: Radio Bar has a super fun 90s Bollywood night on Sundays)

By now, you’re spent I’m sure! But if you’ve still got space for a late night snack, here are some options!

• The butter chicken roll from Sheetal

• Kebabs from Ayaz at Hill Road

• Frys with Fries for the greasy snacks you need after a ton of drinks!

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Wait though! We can’t end the food section without mentioning Bandra’s list of lovely bakeries! A perfect bakery crawl would start at Candies, move to Andora, on to Hearsch, then A1 and American Express and would end at Bawa Zest!

If you live in Mumbai, by now you must know 90% of these places, so here’s a bonus list! Gems you may not have heard of: Bandra cloud kitchens, caterers and more.

• Aiyo Patrao is a cloud kitchen that makes delicious Goan-Mallu food

• The Chubbybaker has all your dessert needs sorted! His no sugar, low carb desserts are so good.

• Around the Table is a wonderful supper club and a great way to meet new people.

• Pickle, paddle, football, badminton, basketball, rock climbing and more! If you’re a woman who wants to play sports, regardless of your background in fitness or age, Sisters in Sweat is for you.

• Mavs Cakes and Bakes is a small, sweet little cafe next to Veronica’s, gives a great English breakfast and also caters for Christmas parties and more.

• The Tiny Tub has the cutest mini desserts, including donuts!

• Houses of Bandra, run by Shormistha Mukherjee, is a page where you can learn a lot more about Bandra. She also has walks from time to time, including nature walks and architecture walks.

• Bawa Zest at Hill Road has the yummiest chicken sandos, cutlets and tarts. Perfect for when you’re having people over!

• The Terrace at Bloom Boutique (previously Executive Enclave) has a fun rooftop vibe and is great for a few drinks and starters.

• The St. Stephen’s Steps is a great space to chill at, with beautiful murals and open space. Look out for the Steps Festival that happens there on weekends from November to February.

• Bandra regulars swear by Ashmick’s Snack Shack for Parsi food.

• Papa’s Bombay is an absolutely excellent dining experience - one of the best I’ve had in India. All you need to do, is get a reservation!

• The LoveFools is a super charming cafe, restaurant and event space in a quaint, old bungalow.

• The Bandra Fort is a wonderful space to attend events at or simply sit and watch the sea. Recently done up, it’s all the right shades of blue and green.

• Look out for fun events at Corona Garden and Pioneer House. The Thai Food Fest and lots more pop-ups happen here.

• If you’re interested in pottery, The Pottery Lab on Pali Hill is set in a gorgeous green space and will transport you to the countryside in the heart of Bandra.

• And if you enjoy singing and music, Rising Voices is a lovely choir by Petra Misquitta. You’ll even get to show off those vocal chords at events sometimes.

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  Bandra is a place that changes quickly! While Pomodoro Pasta Bar and Benne Dosa may be trending today, places tend to shut quickly, only to be replaced by the next big thing. So this will be a newsletter I will have to keep updating. Not to mention Christmas in Bandra…now that’s a whole other story!

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I feel like I should apologise for how long and detailed this one’s become! But I hope I could help plan your perfect day in Bandra. Have fun.

Love,

Shai

Writing this newsletter always gives me so much joy. Just like my trip to north Vietnam a few months ago, which I can’t wait to tell you about.

Vietnam surprised me! Buzzing and colourful - with so much to do. Lovely, friendly people and amazing food. I spent two days solo in Hanoi, after which my friends joined me. Two of us then proceeded to SaPa after which I was solo again in Halong Bay. (Let me tell you, doing a cruise solo was definitely a different experience!)

Let’s start with Hanoi.

Vietnam’s colourful capital, Hanoi turned out to be a true delight to explore. Stay in the Old Quarter as most things are walking distance and there are tons of streets to explore in both the French Quarter and the Old Quarter.

A walk by the Hoan Kiem lake reveals groups of middle-aged ladies in tutus and leotards dancing for reels, couples jiving, lots of buskers and locals exercising of course. This area is filled with lovely Instagrammable cafes, eateries with nice views and lots of touristy things to do. Below are some things to do, cafes, bars, restaurants and touristy things I recommend.

Sights to see in Hanoi

The Thang Long Water Puppet Show

This is Tourist 101 in Hanoi. It’s a 50 minute show in Vietnamese that is entertaining to watch because of the skill required to manoeuvre puppets under water. Stories from old Vietnamese myths are enacted by the water puppets and a musical team and it’s an enjoyable experience overall. Pro tip: book the ticket online and skip the queues.

While Ho Chi Minh’s Tomb is a tourist spot recommended by many, I didn’t find it particularly interesting or beautiful. The One Pillar Pagoda too was underwhelming. However, I did enjoy walking through the courtyards and browsing the collections at The Temple of Literature. It used to be Vietnam’s first National university and feels like you’re stepping back in time.

I avoided the Hoa Lo Prison, but a local did mention that the walls still hold the energy of everyone who suffered there, so to feel the depth of all the prisoners from Vietnam’s various wars and dark ages, it’s the place to visit.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is stark and striking in all its grey glory. But by far, the most fun thing I did in Hanoi was an Air BnB experience walk around the French Quarter with a local guide called Coffee, History and Architecture of the French Quarter. Our guide took us to the lovely T Loading cafe, the church, all around the French Quarter where we passed the Opera House - including gates where you could still see bullet holes, Hang Trong as well as a famous ice-cream place for the creamiest softie cone Kem Trang Tien! This walk is a must-do in Hanoi.

Train Street, though very hyped, is worth doing. It’s a strange yet fun high to be cheering along with strangers from all over the world as a train cuts its way through the city centre, oblivious of all the chaos around it. Don’t forget to place your beer bottle cover on the track for it to be flattened as a souvenir! I also really enjoyed sitting in a street side bar in the Old Quarter and people watching.

A hair spa is worth getting in Hanoi. It’s just as relaxing as the reels promise. The one I went to was Serene Spa. Street shopping is great value for money and the Old Quarter is full of lovely little art galleries that you can browse. The people are by and large friendly and willing to bargain a bit. Good massages are also easy to come by - like in Thailand. For more tips, see my Vietnam notes below!

Hanoi’s Cafe Culture

Hanoi is full of beautiful cafes to explore and watch the world go by. Like Tranquil Books and Coffee, a charming space stacked with books from floor to ceiling, with a customer or staff member playing a classical tune on the piano. Browse their massive library and choose from their cute bakes and merchandise.

Followed by Mira Florist cafe which is like sipping cafe at a florist’s surrounded by gorgeous blooms in every shade.

The Note Coffee, while mainly for Instagram is also entertaining - mostly to see what everyone is writing to each other and many of them are funny. Tourists and travellers have a good sense of humour.

Loading T Cafe next to St. Joseph’s Church is just gorgeous. A space full of history, in a home that used to shelter several families in Vietnam’s Communist era, this cafe is full of corners that you’ll want to tuck yourself into and never leave. The egg coffee here is super yum.

You’ll also find lots of branches of Aha Cafe when you want a quick coconut coffee (more like a dessert) and some WiFi!

Food! Hanoi’s Highlight!

When it comes to Vietnamese food, I didn’t just want to eat spring rolls and pho! So before visiting - Ms Yummyface @curiousaboutvietnam helped with a lot of tips and fun places to eat. Following her lead, we enjoyed some authentic dishes at:

My Pho - not a fancy place, but what a good meal!

BahnMi25 - for the REAL thing.

Bun Bo Nam Bo - for a not so well-known, yet very tasty dish

BunChaTa - for that authentic smoky bun cha.

King Roti - for a delish to-go snack

Some other must-visits, which are a bit more fancy include:

Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine - for brilliant food and an even better view of the lake.

Gia - If you like trying Michelin-starred restaurants on your travels, then sample the unique dishes at Gia, all served complete with the ingredients showcased separately along with the stories behind them.

Tam Vi - this was the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant - all the reels of which we had been bombarded by! And it was definitely worth it. Offering set menus, the flavours are rich and the food light and satisfying.

Note: The Vietnamese eat a lot of pork, so many of these dishes are pork-based.

Fun spots to grab a drink

Gallery Bespoke Cocktail Bar - great ambience, delish cocktails.

Little Shelter cocktails - perfect to pre-drink at before dinner.

Sol Sky Bar - this is a must visit for their sun-downer happy hours! The hotel it’s in - Hotel Solaria is also a favourite for its excellent hospitality and location.

Walk among the clouds - SaPa

My next destination was quite a contrast to bustling Hanoi.

A short car ride or very comfortable train ride away from Hanoi lies SaPa. Take the VicSapa train for an old style Victorian coach, super clean toilets and great service.

SaPa is a beautiful hill station in Northern Vietnam that sits in the clouds. With Vietnam’s tallest mountain Fansipan, tourists can hike, take cable cars and enjoy the views. The hotels here are usually lovely, facing the mountains. The one I stayed at was particularly magical: Hotel de la Coupole - McGallery.

While there’s not a lot to do in SaPa, unless you’re hiking, the town offers some charming spots for a drink or a hot bowl of pho. Moana Sapa is everyone’s favourite photo opp spot. You can also shop for handmade lanterns, puppets, jewellery and clothes.

Breathtaking Ha Long Bay

I then went for a wonderful, relaxing cruise in Ha Long Bay - all by myself which turned out to be better than I thought it would. I met some lovely people, made a few new friends and was pampered by the superlative staff of VSpirit cruises (the best one according to me)! Jimmy, the host, while cracking some dated jokes, was also positive, vibrant and energetic. The spreads were wonderful, we were taken kayaking, enjoyed cocktail hour, live music at dinner and made our own spring rolls at a cooking class.

My Northern Vietnam sojourn ended in a massage chair at the airport. I must also mention this super helpful travel agent here who ensured our pick ups and drops were seamless with great drivers and that all our bookings were all smooth.

Vietnam notes: keep this in mind!

• Local restaurants have yellow boards - so look out for those.

• Download Grab for everything - not just transport, but you can order food to your hotel room as well.

• Tip drivers and bell boys 50 to 100 Dong.

• The research is worth it - not every meal or cafe is necessarily amazing.

• The roads - especially crossing roads and the weather in summer are worse than Mumbai if not the same.

• Vietnamese hospitality is wonderful.

• Book whatever you can online on Klook or Viator to skip queues.

• Vietnamese people don’t like the number 4 - so you often won’t find it in elevators.

• They also don’t like putting a mirror opposite a bed - or putting chopsticks in the middle of your bowl!

If you’re off to Vietnam, I can’t say I don’t envy you. I’m waiting to visit Danang, Hoi An and Hue next!

Until then, hope this helps.

Love Shai

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I’ve been meaning to write this edition of Ask Shai since January but life got in the way. Here it finally is, thanks to a writing accountability project called The Writing Practice by good friend and fellow writer Ankita Shah.

This is a project that harnesses the power of community by blocking time just for writing every alternate day and holding you accountable to your goals. Ankita has always been a disciplined writer and her own newsletter Life, Annotated is an enjoyable one.

This particular edition of Ask Shai is about a fun and easy holiday option. I brought in 2024 in God’s Own Country and wanted to share a select list of all the activities, places and dishes I enjoyed.

One note though before we start. While I’ve always had a good time in Kerala, I’ve never experienced the kind of heat and humidity I did this time. Despite the fact that it was December / January, the temperature continued to climb (35 degrees) and the humidity was so high (80%) that my asthmatic lungs were struggling throughout.

Locals say that it’s cool-ish only in June and July during the rains. So those of you who can’t handle heat may want to plan a trip around then!

So here goes…

The best dish I had in Fort Kochi was the famous green mango fish curry, prepared expertly at Fusion Bay. While this place is on every tourist list, leading to long waiting queues, one can see why. All the dishes were stellar and the interiors were fun.

A reliable meal can always be had at Oceanos, where I had delish coconut chilli beef and grilled prawns.

One of the most authentic Kerala ‘sadyas’ I had was in a village at Vaikom, two hours away from Fort Kochi. Served on a banana leaf and full of a variety of seasonal, well-prepared veggies, this was lip-smacking and not too heavy.

We enjoyed a nice view of the backwaters, as we washed down some delicious calamari and Chicken 65 with a cold beer at another of Kochi’s old favourites - Seagull Cafe.

For fancier meals, I would suggest Brunton Boatyard or Xandari Harbour. While for quaint old-world charm, the Fort House restaurant is a good choice.

Breakfast at Teapot Cafe was quite lovely, as we were surrounded by a collection of teapots, stripped walls, knick-knacks and sleeping cats that added to the ambience.

The pizza at David Hall was authentic and delicious. The beautifully lit garden and lovely art gallery also helped.

Some more recommendations an army of friends swore by, but that I didn’t get to were:

• Paragon in Lulu Mall for best biryani and caramel custard

• Pai dosa (in Kochi city) for lip-smacking dosas

• French Toast for breakfast

• Mings Wok in Panampilly Nagar

• Mãi House Heritage Hotel

If you do end up visiting any of these, would love to know how they were!

When it comes to things to do, Fort Kochi is overrun with art galleries and cafes that often combine to form ‘art cafes’. Mocha Art Cafe, Pepper House, Kashi Art Cafe and Lila Art Cafe are some of the bigger and better known ones. Lila Art Cafe in particular has lovely spacious interiors and a delicious creme brûlée.

For a soothing Ayurvedic massage, Ayurveda Sanctum is a good choice. The rooms are clean and the practitioners know their work well.

In Kerala, a backwater cruise is a must and most choose the waters of Allepey or Alahpooza to explore. Vaikom however is less known but equally charming and is closer to Kochi. Don’t miss the second part of this cruise where they take you in a smaller boat down the most narrow canals ever, where branches and leaves caress you every few meters.

No Kerala experience is complete without a kathakali performance. The unique bit about the one in Fort Kochi is that you can also watch the performers painting their faces for an hour before the performance, getting into the role slowly. This requires some patience, but is quite a fascinating act to watch. They also explain the eye movements and mudras in detail.

If you want to buy breezy kaftans and kurtas, The Craft Tree with 5 branches across Fort Kochi is full of charming clothes and is well-priced.

Jew Town is always fun to walk around with its 450+ year-old synagogue and fascinating history.

Ginger House Hotel is a great space to stop and have a drink, take some photos and marvel at the statues. I wouldn’t really recommend the food here though - it’s more like a break from walking around Jew Town, to enjoy the view.

We visited this lesser known but interesting Syrian Christian church famous for its disruptive exterior design. Walking into various churches as we explored the area was one of the highlights of visiting Fort Kochi.

The best part of visiting Kerala is shopping for goodies that remind you of your holiday. Some must-buys include:

1. Delish prawn and pork pickles

2. Banana chips - all the kinds!

3. Organic soaps, these make great gifts.

4. Spice packets, including star of the lot - Malabar peppercorns

5. Coconut oil

6. Essential oils (I got a lovely Green Orchid one)

7. Ready masala powders for Chicken 65 and more.

8. Meat lovers can also pack steaks and sausages from here, as it’s known for the best b**f.

Overall, Kochi is a vibe. Comfortable cotton clothes, roomy tote bags, spicy prawns and chilled beer seem to go perfectly with the balmy weather, charming churches, green by-lanes and backwater cruise boats passing by. If you don’t mind rivulets of sweat running down your back 24x7, this is the perfect getaway to slow down, appreciate art, get a massage, eat some great food and shop for local delicacies.

I do enjoy writing these newsletters about destinations, so expect more of these - your one-stop-reads for where to go and what to do! As always, feel free to share this with anyone who may be going to Kochi soon.

Until next time :)

Shai

December is December-ing - which means jam-packed calendars full of birthdays, festivals and vacations. It’s the kind of month that makes me relish my few evenings at home more than usual, when I ponder on the year gone by and look forward to the year to come.

As we edge into 2024, here are some quick recommendations to keep your holiday season rocking.

Let’s begin by sorting out your Christmas celebrations!

Speaking of celebrations, if you haven’t tried the dips from AKS Kitchen yet, you’re missing out. Any gathering will be richer for their delicious pesto, tzatziki and 3-layer Mexican dips. Don’t forget the home-made baked lavash.

If you’re having a party, check out this cute cocktail idea, this cheese platter idea and this bookshelf decor idea. A lot of work, but worth it for the fun vibes and memories.

And if you’re not having a party, but going out instead, this list of restaurants with special Christmas menus will sort you out. A perk of being on this foodie WhatsApp group, which has a waitlist for good reason!

Stuck for a gift? Cute gifting ideas include: these quirky and vibrant sunglass pouches from Desi Drama Queen, these fun tabletop messages and personalised stationery from Dots & Doodles, always a good idea.

On the nights when you just can’t attend another dinner or wedding soiree, curl up with this Great Nepali Novel, filled with mythology, madness, politics and history. Smriti Ravindra’s The Woman Who Climbed Trees, follows a young bride’s journey from India to Nepal as she navigates a new country, a new family and her share of trauma.

All my K-drama sisters - I have a new obsession and addiction. C-dramas. After watching a beautiful one called Hidden Love, I binge-watched this super cute love story called Falling Into Your Smile, set against the backdrop of e-sports and pro-gaming in China. It may seem childish at first, but before you know it you’ll be falling…

While you’re scrolling Instagram, here are some accounts you’ll be happy to encounter on your feed. Cooking For Levi is a charming one where a chef dad is constantly enriching his gourmand toddler’s palette, Jaurji Comedy will constantly have you in splits, especially if you’re familiar with Arabs and Foraging Wisdom is the quote aggregation account everyone needs.

And if newsletters are your thing, you’re going to love these in your inbox:

- Marie Andrew’s Out of the Blue: her writing is always relatable and always stellar.

- What to Read if: this one’s for those who love reading and book recommendations.

- Sarah Campbell’s Tiny Revolutions: bite-sized bits of writing that will make you smile.

Moving on to some shopping and dessert suggestions. A great combination if there ever was one.

I swear by all Laneige products - but the Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Acid face wash, toner and serum combo blew my mind. They feel light and clean and smell so good!

This sustainable brand has a bunch of comfortable and fun dresses at very reasonable prices.

This fudge by Atmosphere Kombucha makes a great gift for the health conscious and is also good to store for a guilt-free snack. Has no artificial flavours even though it comes in packs.

The Tiny Tub desserts are the cutest and one feels slightly less guilty eating them coz of their size. It also helps that they’re on Zomato and can satisfy any 5 pm cravings. Try their jam tarts and lemon donuts if you haven’t already.

While the Chubbybaker makes desserts that taste as cute as his name sounds. Crumbly shortbread biscuits, gooey brownies and light yet doughy poiee.

Since there’s so much happening in Mumbai city over the next few “winter” months - including exhibitions at NMACC, Soundrise gigs, NCPA at the park, Mahindra Blues Fest and Lollapalooza, follow Ask Shai on Instagram where I’ll keep you updated via my stories. So whether it’s an art night or a concert or workshop - you can make the most of these months.

And lastly, I’ll leave you with a fun thing to do while using Google Maps. Go to Street View, check the upper left-hand menu to see if there’s a clock icon. If you click it, you can see any previous street views that Google has captured. So you can go back to many locations and actually see what they looked like 10-15 years ago!

Until next time, Merry Christmas and a very Happy 2024 to you all.

Lots of love,

Shai♥️

All of you who know me, know my obsession with K-dramas, Korean food and Korean skincare. My dream of visiting Korea was finally fulfilled with my mom’s 40th b’day gift to me - a 12-day holiday together to Seoul and Jeju. So this is the newsletter to mark, save, share and star for when you or anyone you know plans to visit. Also, this one is long and detailed and you might have to open it in a new window!

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Let’s begin.

I have never done as much research for any travel, as I have for Korea. I read the Lonely Planet Seoul from cover to cover, made copious notes, watched dozens of vlogs, read scores of blogs and scrolled through multiple reels. After all this, I still feel like the research wasn’t enough. So some disclaimers: please check the most recent information. Often we’ve found things changed after COVID, closed due to public holidays, closed temporarily for shows - or nothing like what the vlogs show them to be (vibes / places have changed). As with all travel, the more recent the information, the better.

Soul City: Seoul

Seoul is a LARGE city, divided into many neighbourhoods and in every area, there’s something worth seeing. But be warned, not everything you read about may be a must-visit. Here are the sights my mother and I enjoyed:

• Gyeongbukgong Palace: Seoul has 4 grand palaces - and they all look pretty similar in terms of style and architecture. This one was the biggest and a must-visit for first-timers.

• Insadong Culture Street: Full of souvenir and craft shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants, this is a lively area - where you’re bound to catch a performance or two.

• Myeongdong street food market: Though one of the most ‘touristy’ areas I’ve encountered, the vibrancy of this area and all the crazy street food on display are attractive. Here you’ll find octopus being grilled, steaks on fire, all sorts of waffles and custard-filled treats and lots of fried deliciousness on sticks. This is also a great place to shop for all beauty and skincare products. All the stores including Nature Republic, Hollika, Tony Moly, Etude House etc. have deals and sales.

• Bukchon Hanok Village: If you’re prepared to climb a fairly steep set of streets, then this is a charming village filled with the old-style ‘hanoks’ or Korean homes. Good photo ops and nice views.

• N-Seoul Tower: Again, very touristy - beware of the snaking, 2-hour long cable car queues and steep sets of stairs going up to the tower. Once you reach, it’s fairly gimmicky as well - but the views of Seoul make it worth a visit.

• Starfield Library and the Gangnam-style hands: This floor to ceiling library in the same complex as the Coex Mall in Gangnam is quite beautiful. The Gangnam style hands statue in front of it, is a bonus photo op.

• Gwanjang Market: Seoul’s oldest market, this is teeming with stores from souvenirs to bedding and is famous for its mung bean pancakes.

• Dongdaemun Design Plaza: Something to do if you’re in Seoul for an extra day - this Zaha Hadid designed building sprawls like a spaceship and houses a museum, design lab, park, shops and a cafe.

• Ikseondong: a series of parallel, tiny streets with hanoks converted to little shops and restaurants. Walking distance from Insadong.

• Hongdae Shopping / Food street: Buzzing with students, this is one of the more fun streets to explore, with clubs and pubs down alleyways and ‘Noraebangs’ or karaoke rooms as well as game arcades everywhere.

Hello Jeju!

A small island in South Korea, I’ve wanted to visit this place ever since I watched my second k-drama and my favourite one - Something in the Rain. When Son Ye Jin cycles on a street with the ocean as a dramatic backdrop and finds peace in a small cafe in Jeju, I knew I had to come here. And it’s every bit as charming as I thought. Now packed with museums, parks and activities - it’s a lush green and deep blue break from the buzz of the city. Some must-sees:

• Arte Museum: Not to be confused with the other museums of contemporary art etc, this is by far the best digital art museum I’ve seen. Hyper realistic visuals, amazing use of AI and superbly engaging displays.

• The Teddy Bear Museum: Funny, slightly gimmicky, but worth a visit just for the novelty of watching teddy bears in weird situations and learning about their history.

• The Haenyo Museum: The women divers, unique to Jeju Island are UNESCO world heritage intangible living legends. At one time, they were responsible for the economy of their villages and made their society a matri-focal one. They can hold their breath for 3 minutes at a time without oxygen and harvest the ‘wet fields’ or the ocean for abalone, octopus and other sea creatures that fetch a good price. You can still see them perform some rituals, sing and dive at the Seongsan Ilchulbong crater - though when I went, they had cancelled the performance due to high tide.

• The Pink Muhly fields at Hueree Park: If you’re going to Jeju in late Sept, early Oct, you can’t miss these fuzzy old-rose coloured plants that bloom in rows and bunches, called Pink Muhly.

• Innisfree House and the O’sullock Tea Museum: Lush green gardens, delicious matcha desserts and the chance to make your own soap. It’s all here.

• Dongmun Market: If you’re living in one of the hotels near the airport in North Jeju, take a walk to this night market and watch as the vendors dance to K-pop.

• Hyeopjae Beach: While Jeju has many beautiful beaches, this one is perfect to catch the sunset from.

Jeju is a large island to navigate and if you’re into hikes and treks, there are a TON of options. However, I would suggest hiring a taxi for the days you’re there, in order to make the most of the island.

Basics before you visit:

• The currency here is KRW (Korean Won) and is available in 4 denominations (1, 5, 10 and 50,000)

• Some basic Korean phrases are ‘Ann-e-yong-sayo’ (Hello), ‘Gam-sa-mida’ (Thank you) and ‘De’ (Yes). A nod while greeting anyone always works well.

• Download the following apps: Papago (saviour), Naver maps, Kakao Taxi (like Uber). Papago is the most important as it helps to translate menus / signs as well as have conversations with locals who don’t know much English. Naver maps works much better than Kakao maps.

• Check the weather - Seoul can get quite cold / windy.

• Wear walking shoes only - there’s a lot of walking.

• Expect self-service and pack accordingly - carry as little as possible because there’s a LOT to buy here. Also, Korea is not a country that’s big on service. There are no bell boys or porters to carry luggage. Taxi drivers also grumble if they have to load luggage. Hotel reception staff too are not especially helpful or friendly.

• Carry a fork if you’re not used to using chopsticks. Restaurants provide long spoons for rice and broth but most don’t give forks.

• Check for public holidays while booking - for instance, restaurants are shut during Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving holiday in late Sept-early Oct) and taxis are not easily available either.

• Carry wet wipes or portable bidets if you’re not used to toilet paper, as some public restrooms and hotel restrooms don’t have inbuilt bidets.

• If you want to make the most of your holiday, check Air BnB Experiences for unique and memorable activities like cooking classes, pub crawls, food experiences with locals, renting Korean outfits and more. I booked a pub crawl in the Hongdae area and it was a lot of fun, dancing and chilling with other foreigners who wanted to experience Seoul’s night life. A football match between Korea and Japan was going on the same night, which added to the insane energy.

• I also booked an experience where I wore the traditional hanbok. Much easier and smooth than I thought it would be - and the photos were just lovely.

• There seems to be no roaming plan that offers unlimited internet, but there’s wifi everywhere.

• To give you a perspective of how much money you need, Korea is more expensive than Thailand, but less expensive than Singapore.

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Some essentials during your visit:

• Share dishes and coffees (carry paper cups) portion sizes are large - even of coffees.

• Buy the T money card from a 7/11 or any convenience store - they are not available at subways or bus stops.

• If you have a senior citizen / child with you - check walking and climbing routes in advance for any monuments / sights. Many places have a lot of climbing to do with not very easy access to elevators (like the N Seoul tower).

• Check for restaurant and cafe etiquette. Many places are self service - one has to fetch one’s own side dishes, water etc and always return the tray to the counter. Orders too are placed at the counter, often via a form.

• When you ask hotels for taxis to and from or driver hires - don’t say ‘car’, say ‘taxi’ - when you say car they assume that you want to rent a car and drive.

• When a taxi has red signage, it means it’s free. Green on the other hand, means occupied.

• When flying in Korea, airlines screen your check in luggage and then ask you to wait for 10 mins while they screen your luggage for any banned items. This is normal and they’re not singling you out.

• People in red jackets, also called ‘Red Angels’ are tourist guides who are found in areas like Hongdae and Myeongdong. Look out for them - they’re helpful with maps and tips.

• Look out for different kinds of taxis - there are super premium ones that start at KRW 7000, which are the more expensive ones.

• Those who like their coffee or tea sweetened, beware. There is no SUGAR to be found anywhere. Sugar sachets are hard to come by, most cafes offer pumps of sugar syrup! So carry your own packs of Stevia.

Korean Food: eat 24/7

It’s all as yum as it looks! A typical Korean meal will consist of a broth of meat, veggies and noodles - sometimes served with a small bowl of rice and lots of side dishes like kimchi and spinach. Some must-eats include:

• Tteokbokki - rice cakes in a sweet/spicy sauce

• Hotteok - pancakes, could be kimchi pancakes or honey ones

• Bindatteok - mung bean pancakes

• Fish cakes - soft fish kebab like pieces on a stick

• Custard filled toasts / donuts / waffles

• Japjae - glass noodles with veggies

• Gimbap - the Korean version of sushi

• Kalguksu - handmade noodles

• Cold noodles, usually served in the warmer months

• Mandu - Korean dumplings, usually stuffed with pork and quite large

• Egg Drop Toast - a popular breakfast item - though an egg + toast breakfast is not really a thing in Korea - they eat noodles, broth etc for breakfast

• Rameyon! There are a ton of flavours to choose from - so for all those hopeless ‘ramentics’, you’ll be in food heaven.

While all the restaurants we went to served fresh, tasty food - one that stood out was Myeongdong Kyoja in Myeongdong and on the Michelin guide for 7 years in a row, this one has a long line and rightly so - that kimchi and those dumplings are something else!

Most restaurants have stoves / hotpots in-built on the tables or heaters hanging above tables to grill food or keep it hot. Quite a lovely concept and I wonder why this hasn’t caught on in India.

When it comes to beverages and snacks, the variety is mind boggling. From Baskin Robbins flavours you’ve never seen before like chocolate mousse and strawberry cubes, to unique Oreos to mango and lime flavoured colas - Seoul has everything. Makegolli (rice wine), local beers and soju (Korean gin / vodka like drink) are popular alcoholic drinks here. While K-Marts and 7/11s will have endless shelves of rameyon and wafer options. I used my Papago app to translate everything!

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Korean Skincare: glow like the Koreans do

While all Korean skincare doesn’t suit Indian skins, I’ve found that some really do. Once I started using the light yet hydrating serums and creams of Laneige and Belif, I’ve never looked back. However, these brands are harder to come by in Korea. Mostly one sees what’s popular or trending at that time with locals. Some brands I had researched and ended up buying were:

• SK II Vitamin C Repair serum (two friends swore by this one)

• Beauty of Joseon Relief Sunscreen

• Beauty of Joseon serum kit

• #OOTD Vitamin C serum (hit with the locals)

• COSRS Advanced Snail Radiance Dual Essence + Eye cream

• COSRS Skincare pads

• Dozens of snail essence face masks

• Etude House Glass Tint lipsticks + eyeliner

• Brushes, face massager and other accessories from Olive Young

I also went for a facial at OHUI WHOO Spa in Myongdong, where the beautician used over 11 WHOO serums / creams / cleansers on my skin. Definitely glowed for a bit after. While it’s steep, I do recommend it - they put on leg massagers for you during the facial and it’s all quite enjoyable.

Final thoughts: Korea is every bit as vibrant and fun as I imagined it to be. After watching 35 K-dramas, the language feels so familiar, as does the food and so many of the locations. Koreans, while not friendly, are largely kind, sweet and will help you if they can. The majority of people we encountered did not speak English, so the language barrier is probably what has prevented Seoul from becoming a tourist hotspot like Hongkong. There are helpful signs everywhere - tourist police and Red Angels, showing that they do want to welcome tourists. There’s a lot of walking and travelling around to do as it’s a large city - and everything needs to be translated - from direction signs to packaged food - so come prepared and you’ll have a blast!

Last but not the least, look out for tall and handsome Oppas and stylish women wearing delicate, pretty outfits and shoes who all look like they’ve stepped out of a K-drama and live your own fantasy like I did.

Till next time <3

Shai

I’ve missed being here - what can I say? There’s a ‘Notes’ folder on my phone that’s constantly being filled with recommendations for you all. Plus this Instagram account I try and post on regularly.

But, every time I think I’ll sit down and write an edition of AskShai, something else comes up. And it’s this ‘something else’ I’m constantly fighting. To be able to do the things I really want to - like write my personal essays or bring you this newsletter!

For now, I’ve managed one of the two. So let’s dive right in - there’s LOTS to catch up on.

First off, some lovely things to do in Mumbai you may or may not have heard of:

1. Reading Communities: Mumbai has 4, newly-minted, quiet reading communities. In SoBo, Bandra, Juhu and Borivali. First conceived of at Cubbon Park, Bengaluru, this space lets readers can enjoy like-minded company and maybe even make new friends.

2. Art Walks by Art & Wonderment: Run by art enthusiasts Alisha and Nishita, this lovely initiative holds regular art walks and takes groups on detailed tours of art galleries mushrooming across Mumbai. This is fun because you’re offered a unique perspective and insights into the artist and their art. Plus you almost always meet a fun bunch of people. When they’re in collaboration with Mag St Cafe, the walks are followed by wine, snacks and a chance to chill with your fellow wanderers.

   

3. Supper clubs: In 2013, we had a great time exploring The Secret Supper Club and Brown Paper Bag’s Turning Tables. Cut to 2023 and supper clubs seem to be back again with Salon, Colaba and House of Mala (this one seems to be super popular). What better way to create new connections than over unique dishes right?

4. SoundRise Live: This music pop-up happens at regular intervals across the city and is open to all. With a super fun vibe, details are usually disclosed a week before. Previous ones have seen kids, pets and the elderly all enjoying the music at vibrant spaces like The Steps, Bandra and Mukesh Mills, Colaba.

Coming to what to watch and read: my favourite!

1. K-drama sisters, please do not miss The Good Bad Mother on Netflix. A great concept, brilliant performances and a gorgeous oppa!

2. If you’re in your 30’s or 40’s and have been forced to relook at your lifestyle for health reasons - then no show will resonate more with you than Wellmania. Light, fun and serious in equal parts, this one is a riot.

3. Because this newsletter has somehow become a bi-annual thing (I promise to change that), I have so many book recommendations for you. Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, Tomorrow, Tomorrow has to be one of the best books I’ve read - or rather heard as I enjoyed this one on Audible. About two best friends and game designers, this book relooks at the concept of love in a unique and unforgettable way.

   

   4. If you’re looking for short stories, based in none other than our beloved Mumbai, No Presents Please by Jayant Kaikini is a fresh look at Mumbai’s lower and middle-class reflected in memorable stories, where a small incident or circumstance changes the character's interior monologue and perspective of the world.

3. And if you’ve had it with this rainy city and want to escape into another world entirely, Celestial Bodies by Jokha Alharthi is a beautiful door into the Oman of both past and present - an unexplored yet familiar culture and country all narrated beautifully via several characters in two prominent village families.

The algorithm has got my taste down pat and keeps bombarding me with tempting trinkets that leave mini craters in my bank account. Two fun items I recommend:

1. The Manifestation Box from @girlgonemystic which may look like something for teenage girls at first glance, but is actually quite sweet and comes with a journal, positive cue cards, a copper glass, crystals and more. After all, being reminded of your goals and dreams every day can’t be bad right?

   

2. This uniform Uniqlo bag that everyone has nowadays is stylish, fun and convenient and deceptively small - it fits all the essentials.

I know, I know - you’re hungry for the food reccos, so here they are:

1. My new favourite lunch place is Project Hum in Bandra. While the space is tiny and simple, the food is the hero - clean, delicious and healthy. Project Yum!

   

2. Minus Thirty’s dark chocolate vegan and sugar-free ice-cream is a fantastic little find - that feeds muggy monsoon cravings instantly, minus the guilt. Easily available on Zomato too!

   

3. These dips are just divine - especially the pesto dip and 3-layer Mexican dip. They pep up any party for sure.

   

4. This quinoa-crusted broccoli at Joshi House, Bandra has my heart. Try it, if you haven’t already.

   

In a tiny addition to this newsletter, I’m also listing some things I don’t recommend! It’s just a few things though, because I want to stick to the recommendation theme.

1. The show XO Kitty: please avoid. It’s not a K drama and it’s not even a good ‘teendult’ show. More like XO Shitty.

2. The FAE Beauty lipglosses. Two thumbs down from me. Not glossy - they don’t stay on longer than two minutes and one has to click the bottom a zillion times before any liquid shows up. No.

Am leaving you with two fun things to listen to: an ‘apology horn’ - a sound that is conspicuously absent from our deafening roads. Here’s what it sounds like!

And this Museum of Endangered Sounds that took me right back to childhood - with the clicks and whirs of old games, phones, discs and more. Gem!

Until next time…

Hugs, Shai

Old subscribers: I’m back, after a long hiatus. AskShai is raring to go after a few months of healing and coming to terms with adulthood and all the challenges it brings.

New subscribers: Welcome! It’s lovely to have you. I hope you will enjoy my recommendations and chitchat.

The last 6 months have been disturbing and calming in equal measures. A personal tragedy left me wounded while the fortress of love and support around me is helping me heal.

Another thing that helps me heal is losing myself in the wonderful world of books, content, films, tv shows and interesting things to do out there, all of which I’m excited to share with you today.

So without further ado, let’s begin.

1. Starting with one of my favourites, a K-drama recommendation. Luckily a LOT of you have already watched Extraordinary Attorney Woo (if you haven’t, and even if you don’t watch K-drama, this is a must-watch), so today, I want to suggest a slightly less watched one - but riveting and interesting nonetheless. 2521 is based on a student of fencing and her first love. Set in the 90s, it captures so much about the challenges of that decade and the pure innocence of a first love. The fencing matches keep you at the edge of your seat - and Nam Joo Hyuk is as always drool worthy.

2. Coming to another favourite, books. This time’s books recommendations go into multiples (so am doing a separate edition on it), but one that really touched me is I Am, I Am, I Am by Maggie O’ Farrell. It’s a book of personal essays where she writes about her life through 17 near death experiences. A novel idea and some inspiring writing.

3. Festivals from India is a lovely way to be in the know of every music, literary, theatre, art and food / drink festival happening in India. ‘Coz we’re always up for a fun festival right?

4. A lesser known TV show that I really enjoyed recently is Barry (available on Hotstar). It’s about a professional hitman, who really wants to be an actor - and how he navigates the two vastly different worlds. Fun!

5. For all my queer friends and straight ones too, The Gay Gaze Bombay has fun parties quite frequently, that include Karaoke, 90s hits and dancing on tables with smiling people who give warm, welcoming hugs. Check it out.

6. If you’ve had enough of reading things on a screen and just want to relax, click this link.

7. There are lots of skincare products I keep experimenting with, as I’m sure most of us 30-somethings do. One that has become a part of my daily routine without question is Mama Earth’s Dark Circle cream. Not a paid promotion, it’s a product I like, as you can see from this almost empty squished tube.

8. In our mad world of fitness trackers, calorie counters and diets - here’s a site that tries to make life a little easier. Eat This Much gives us lots of options on what to eat, based on the exact calories we want to consume.

9. Another fun thing to do when you’re procrastinating. Play this tiled word game. It’s not Wordle, but it’s a few minutes of entertainment.

When it comes to MANY of my food recommendations, I found that in just 6 months, many things I wanted to recommend have closed down or don’t exist anymore! Longevity seems to be a rare feature.

However three new places I went to stood out for the food and the ambience. They’re all in Bandra - where else!

1. Binge: loved many of the dishes, especially the tacos and salmon rolls. The desserts especially are addictive and should definitely be shared. We got the Mango Binge cake and it was really good.

2. Cafe Duco: while the space is really tiny, some of the dishes were delicious, including the pulled chicken and avocado taco and watermelon ceviche.

3. Bandstand Pantry: again, a super tiny space, but with a decent view and some great breakfast dishes.

Hopefully, these places will stick around for a little while!

Ending on a sweet note. Three desserts I’ve been loving recently.

1. Toshin: this mango cake was divine, with a mousse-like filling. Also it looked too good to eat.

   

2. The Whole Truth: Portioned squares of this are so much more fulfilling than regular chocolate. Plus, I love their packaging, copy, design - the works.

   

3. Get-A-Whey: for ice-cream sandwich fans like me, these are perfect. Protein-filled, slightly less unhealthy than your regular one and a once-in-a-while fun treat.

   

Leaving you with these good things and a promise that next time’s newsletter is already in process. Please remember to tag @ask.shai if you use/like/dislike any of these recommendations!

Am so happy to be back. ☺️

Lots of love,

Shai!

The last year for me, was the most challenging one of my life. It was also the year I was pushed to grow more than ever.

When a parent is in hospital for an indefinite period of time, days and nights pass in a blur of anxiety. Your mind is churning with worry, calls from well-wishers, instructions, coordination, ‘what ifs’ and ‘what thens’. But your body is stuck in limbo - in waiting rooms, in queues, in elevators, in hope……just waiting.

The worst part is, when things are bleak, you end up finding fault with every other area of your life too. Oscillating between wanting to go back to normal and wondering if normal is even any good? You have to catch yourself at these times and be kind. You’re trying.

2021 saw a few wins for me too! I drew more boundaries and stuck to them, stopped people-pleasing, worked on my confidence, excelled at my work and even snuck in a bit of travel.

And of the many lessons I learned, the biggest one is that in the end, all we have is ourselves, our relationships and the love we allow ourselves to feel.

This edition is not all deep wisdom and philosophy though. The last few months of the year have also yielded a treasure trove of books, shows, articles, trinkets and things to do and I’m excited to share them with you today.

So here goes!

Please watch this show if you haven’t already. Equal parts funny, emotional, uplifting, warm and entertaining. It’s no wonder that it swept the Emmys. It’s Ted Lasso on Apple TV. You won’t regret it.

This short story is such a fabulous read. Perfect for when you want a break from work but still want to browse.

Something else fun to do while browsing? A moment of interactive happiness with these animals.

I loved this book. It’s a page-turning mystery woven expertly with everyday existentialism. A must-read that continues to have communities across the internet trying to make sense of the ending. I speak more about it here - from to 31:25 to 42:00.

I recommend this active-wear for women, especially the leggings. Here’s a brand that stays true to what it advertises. Buttery soft, great quality and wonderfully inclusive.

This fragrant, handcrafted face-oil is a new favourite among some skincare aficionado friends and for good reason. Aparna’s Apothecary also makes delicious soy wax candles.

Puns of Anarchy is a great game to play with word game fans. I won’t explain it here, you’ll have to take my word for it.

Here’s a fun website that lets you guess which country a dish is from. I got surprisingly few right.

This brilliant radio station and site transports you from your mundane WFH desk/sofa to a chill sundowner by a pool, cocktail in hand.

And here’s some great advice on How to Break Up with A Friend.

Must-dos in Mumbai

The drive-in theatre at Jio World Drive is a pleasant evening activity to enjoy if you haven’t already. With decent acoustics, grass to picnic on, and the open skies, the film is just part of the experience. Book Row B, bring a mat and mosquito spray, load up on snacks and you’re golden.

Mumbai has seen more world-cuisine restaurants opening lately, whether it’s Peruvian, Vietnamese or Cuban. But I still get asked so often about where to get the best North Indian cuisine! Apart from the old favourites, if you’re looking for a luxurious feast, there’s no better place than Jamavar at The Leela. The spread is generous, the meat melt-in-your-mouth, the flavours spot on, the live singers sweet and the ambience beautiful.

For those lurking around Bandra searching for fresh treats in the form of cakes and coffee, BooJee Cafe at Carter Road serves an excellent Espresso Dark Chocolate Mousse cake.

My Quick Gift Guide

Who said gifting season is over? I, for one, have an inordinate amount of close friends and family born in January. Here are some unique, memorable and thoughtful trinkets.

For those who love home accessories with a heart,

For when you just want a little something to make them smile.

For thoughtful fur-baby gifts.

For sweet human baby gifts. PS: I love the amigurumi toys.

For those, who like me, still enjoy personalised gifts.

For those who love making heads turn with their stunning jewellery.

For those who love Ted Lasso and can’t find merch in India!

And now for a secret Dubai recommendation. This charming cafe is also a perfumery. Check out Villa 515 the next time you’re in Jumeira.

That’s all for now! I want to end with a few things that always stand you in good stead when you’re displaced for many days:

1. A little plastic spoon in your purse-kit

2. A purse-kit! Keep soap, a small face wash tube, a spoon as said above, your prescription medicines, headache medicine, a mirror, mints and a pen.

3. A shower cap

4. A portable WiFi dongle (lifesaver)

5. A packet of dry fruits / protein bar

My wish for you in 2022 is that you never need this emergency kit.

Stay well and safe and pre-occupied with the little things. It’s what we’ll all look back and yearn for some day.

Lots of love,

Shai

After my 18th trip to Goa, here’s an updated version of my North Goa recommendations! Many of the earlier ones remain the same and are as good as they were earlier, or as much fun to do - but I’ve added some of the newer places I love.

Let’s begin?

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First, let’s look at some fun touristy things to do. Here goes!

The Goa Museum Run: Houses of Goa & Museum of Goa

One can easily spend half a day in these two museums. Learn all about the charming styles of Goan homes and their histories in an eye-catching building - followed by a stop at Goa’s favourite son, Mario Miranda’s gallery.

Go on to the Museum of Goa - where ocean artist Subodh Kerkar has filled three floors and a garden with interesting sculptures, installations and artwork that makes for pleasurable viewing. Look out for the blue lady who acts like a direction sign, as you drive to the museum.

Cycling in North Goa

This is just as idyllic as it sounds. Rent a cycle from Cycling Zens at 9082555501 (he comes and drops it to where you are) and set out. Take detours in rice fields and spot birds while you’re at it. Just look out for packs of strays who tend to chase you like it’s a game for them. It’s an adventure in every sense!

A walk through Fontainhas or the Latin Quarter in Panjim, ending with drinks at Joseph Bar

Panjim’s charming Latin Quarter is just so pretty - you may want to skip the taxi / car here and simply walk through the lanes. If you book a walk via Soul Travelling a local guide or ambassador will give you some lesser-known trivia and fun facts about the area. End up at Joseph’s - Goa’s oldest street bar - and enjoy a drink as Panjim passes by. It’s a perfect day.

The Lazy Dog at Mandrem

For a super chilled out day in the pool, with cocktails served to you at the poolside, don’t miss this spot.

The Goa Collective Bazaar at Hilltop is a fun Friday night thing to do. Eat, drink, dance and shop of course!

Literati is a charming little bookstore in Calangute. Get a recommendation from the owner or simply browse. You can get a snack here too, while you’re at it and enjoy it in the expansive garden.

Exhibitions at Sunaparanta Goa Centre

Goa, like every other city/state, will always have some interesting exhibitions on. All you need to do is look. Goa Artists Collective is one such account to follow to get the lowdown.

Now for the best part! Restaurant recommendations:

Hosa, Siolim

For a beautiful space full of greenery and art and some outstanding mutton and prawn dishes.

Jamun, Assagaon

With food that never disappoints and calming green interiors.

Grumps, Sangolda

For one of the best meals I’ve had in Goa.

Miguel’s, Panjim

For the most amazing steak and cocktails.

Prana, Mandrem

Best views and drinks, perfect for a Sunday sundowner.

Rare Republic, Siolim

For the best croissants, cakes and breakfast.

Cafe Lento, in Second House

For healthy and yum breakfast options

Al Pomodoro, Anjuna

For a homely and authentic Italian meal and great outdoor vibe

Oya’s Umami, Panjim

Friends swear by the Naga food here. If you like Naga food in general, then ⁠⁠Meiphung or Hungry Hornbill are also delicious!

Mojigao, Assagaon

If you ever have some work to do in Goa, just want to look at greenery while eating - or want some quiet time to enjoy a coffee, this hits the spot. Mojigao also has cottages for guests, an organic jungle gym and yoga classes. It’s like Ubud in Assagaon.

Black Market, Panjim

By far, the best meal I’ve had in Goa. Enough said! PS: don’t miss the Jackfruit Tostadas and the melt in your mouth churros.

Tamil Table, Assagaon

While the food here is tasty and the space trendy, what really takes it away are the cocktails. Well-mixed and so strong - just one is often enough! I had the Kadipatta Gin.

G-Shot, Assagaon

This turned out to be one of my favourite places in Goa and I find myself visiting often. Fresh, flavourful dishes, a friendly dog and a serene hush over the space all add to the allure.

Padaria Prazeres, Panjim

The perfect Portuguese custard tart is available here! If you like soft, crispy and authentic pastilles - look no further. Also, eat at their restaurant, Praca Prazeres for a memorable meal, every time.

Konkni Kanteen, Panjim

For their finger-licking crab recheado and the satisfying Saradura - a Goan dessert with the texture of jelly mixed with custard.

For the best fish thalis, go to Teja, Goan Spice, Amancio, Siolim Deck or Vinayak (yes, it’s touristy but still so good!

Honourable mentions go to: The Second House for great food and good vibes and Villa Nova for a satisfying Italian meal in a luxurious yet homely villa.

For drinks:

For the Record Vinyl Bar, Panjim

To choose your own record and sample some yum cocktails and small plates.

MTW, Panjim

An office that turns into a bar, this is where the buzzing crowd is.

Uddo Life Sunset Bar & Kitchen

Perfect for when you want to watch the sunset with a beer in a calm spot.

Slow Tide, Anjuna

With a fabulous view of the sea, this is the place for a good sundowner and delish cocktails.

Boilermaker, Siolim

For some really fun vibes, mini cocktails and yum chakna.

Ida’s, Anjuna

For the live music and charming ambience.

Hideaway, Anjuna

For a reliably fun night of dancing.

Bar Colddrinks, Bastora

For that sweet Goan outdoor vibe

Bar Outrigger, Panjim

I still haven’t been to this one, but if the reviews are anything to go by, it can’t be missed.

Some gorgeous places to stay include:

Capella Forest Retreat & Homestay for large rooms, good breakfasts, a sweet dog and a pool with a view.

The Postcard Hotel at various locations in Goa is always predictably luxurious.

Elsewhere at Mandrem is a peaceful boutique hotel friends swear by.

Ahilya by the Sea for when you want the luxury villa experience.

Birdsong, Moira for a villa stay with all the feels.

Three tips before I end this post:

First, if you don’t drive or have a vehicle arranged, Goa is tough to get around. I used Goa Miles a few times. It’s an app like Uber and is the most reasonable way to travel. However, be warned - the drivers are unreliable and the cars are often unavailable especially if you’re not in a popular area. They did serve me well though, so thought I’d share it along.

Second, download Urbanaut. They have a HOST of activities to choose from - and if you’re up for it, you can book walking / cycling tours around Dewar Island, go kayaking or even try a Floating Feni experience ! It’s perfect to book activities between meals and drinks.

Lastly, when we used to visit Goa as drunken 20-somethings, we were never really conscious of leaving it the way we found it. Now that we’re older and wiser, I propose we try and leave it better than we found it. Green areas like Anjuna and Assagaon are being taken over by loud groups of tourists who litter, use plastic bottles, drive rashly and take away everything we like about these spaces. If we can change our habits just ever-so-slightly and shift our perspective - Goa will remain the place we love to get away to. If you want to know more about this, there are initiatives like Save Assagao that are making a dent.

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I hope this list serves you well! If you try any of these based on my recommendations, I would love to hear your experience! Mail, DM or just comment under this post. And if you have any more questions, don’t forget to Ask Shai!

Till next time…lots of love

Shai

I’m writing this newsletter after many months, and I’ve missed it more than I expected to.

The last few months have been not-so-pleasant, to put it mildly. We’ve all suffered some amount of collective and individual trauma and I hope we’re at the tail-end of tough times.

Personally, I am healing from a long-term illness and I want to share a few things that are helping me through the journey. Some thoughts before I begin.

The healing process is a significant one. You’re pushed out of your comfort zone, reminded that life is short, quickly take notice of important goals, relationships and dreams and are then spurred onto action like never before. You solely allow your days then, to be filled by what makes you happy - friends that feel like plump cushions - comfortable and pleasant, dishes that hit the spot every time, shows and films you just know will draw you in and books that will take you to better places.💟

My recommendations below, all heal in their own tiny ways. Because this newsletter is coming to you after a good few months, it’s power-packed with recommendations! Here goes.🤩

I’ve discovered the healing potential of animals late in life. Till about 4 years ago I wasn’t an animal person really - but I’m happy to say that has changed. Open Puppies - footage of puppies shot all over the world, makes me smile.🐶

Travel seems so far away that sometimes the heart literally aches with the amount it’s missed. Flower-filled European lanes, bustling markets in South East Asia, the tall buildings and smooth roads of the Middle East - one can only hope that it’s just around the corner once again. In the meantime, try Travel Remotely. It lets you walk / drive / ride a train virtually in the city of your choice and get a feel of it by listening to local radio. Perfect for healing travel-withdrawal and nostalgia too. Sound on!📣

When you’re healing, it’s no wonder that your favourite place is bed. 🛌 Mine has now been upgraded to a larger size, firmer mattress, bed linen that’s skin and frizzy-hair friendly and a sleep mask. But by far the most comfortable addition was my House of Charu weighted blanket. It weighs 7 kgs but the weight evens out around you. It really is like a tight hug while sleeping. The kind that isn’t tinged with any ulterior motive.

Right when I was drowning in self-pity, this book pulled me out of it, and promptly proceeded to drown me in 1940s WWII torn France and Germany, with a blind girl and lost soldier for company. Some beautiful paragraphs make you stop in your tracks and wonder at how well the writer has woven science, emotion, nature, technology and more into this unforgettable story. I highly recommend All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. I talk more about it in this podcast.

For that 5 PM pick me up, KCRoasters has some delectable, crunchy and just the right level of sweet Pain au Chocolate Croissants. They’re mini - so relatively guilt-free too. I find they go perfectly with coffee and evening sunlight. ☕️ Another healing indulgence is a warm, soft lemon meringue donut from Toast Doughnut Shop. Their OG jam and custard is also yum!

A show I’ve been watching every day that has managed to reel me in and keep me glued, is Kara Sevda. Turkish shows have been all the rage in the past few years, for those in the know - and with good reason. The stunning cast, sprawling homes, gorgeous fashion, unexpected twists, easy to understand language…all of it transports you to Istanbul and these delicate yet complex lives. Be prepared for 2 hour long episodes though - with 36 episodes per season! Each is like a mini movie. Finding the right links on YouTube can prove to be an adventure - but if you pass these tiny hurdles, you’ll see how worth it your efforts are. Here’s the first episode. You’re welcome.

When it comes to skincare, and healing my medicine-induced acne, I’ve been trying a variety of brands but nothing stood out - till I tried this Belif serum. The serum is part of a skincare routine that’s supposed to lock in hydration after cleansing and toning and before moisturising. It’s only been a few days, but the difference is tangible. I’m not just saying this because I love all things Korean, my skin feels smoother, acne seems to have reduced, and the moisture seems to be sealed in by a light coating.

In my own motley curation of newsletters, I’ve come across some lovely, soothing links. One of them is on ambient sounds. This transports you to a setting of your choice while you download and read those tiresome attachments.

Another gem I found, is this portal that helps you reflect on the important stuff. You’re asked to choose a memory from this life - one memory - that you get to spend your afterlife in. What would it be? It’s a great way to pinpoint what’s truly meaningful.

For those of you who are in Mumbai, you may want to try this healing home-made bone broth from Feeding Your Appetite. She also has delicious kimchi, great for gut-health and more. A few months of this goodness and I can feel the difference.

Have you ever looked at a plant (that was alive) and felt miserable? Plants are silent uplifters and wonderful companions to have around at all times. For my Reader’s Recommendation this month, Smriti swears by Nurserybuy - an excellent website for when you want to get plants but don’t have a local nursery to go to.

She also says Harla Arts has a great selection of planters and elegant looking plant sticks, which are not so easy to find in India. To these lovely suggestions, I would like to add Coco Jungle. Plant people, check it out.🌿

And speaking of plants, if you’re a plant / tree / nature enthusiast - or even if you aren’t - this book is an eye-opener! A quick, fascinating read, it’s as close as we’ll get to understanding The Hidden Life of Trees.

To end, some healing rituals I’ve added to my day include oil pulling, dry brushing, getting more sunlight ☀️ and getting active every 20 minutes. Wake Out helps me do this - it’s an app that makes moving convenient and it’s well worth the nominal membership fee.

I’ll leave you all with a soothing Studio Ghibli GIF. You’ll find many more such calming visuals in this edit of relaxing visuals from Studio Ghibli films.

Until next time! 🧿 Heal well. 🌺

Shai

It’s March already! And though it feels like nothing much has changed since 2020, something in the air seems lighter. Or perhaps it’s just the cloud of winter’s smog lifting to make way for the sun.

Either way, I hope this set of recommendations takes you through a sultry, happy March, with bits of cool breeze thrown in for good measure.

Let’s start?

Yes, I know I’m a K-drama addict, but this one will have you marvelling at how wholesome, heart-warming and full of nostalgia a show can be. If you haven’t watched Reply 1988 yet, please do it now - it’s something you won’t regret.

I had three books in mind for my book recommendation this time. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi has won by a fair margin. A story of two separated sisters and the generations after them, this book reminded me of why I wanted to write in the first place. The other two are Three Daughters of Eve by Elif Shafak (another favourite writer) and Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows (here’s a podcast where I spoke about it for The Chakkar).

I saw these perfect summer curtains and I wanted them immediately. It helps that they’re up-cycled and environment-friendly. UseMeWorks has many such thoughtful products.

These Mud and Moon soaps in cooling summer colours have my heart.

So does this gorgeous Dhora jewellery. (Am in love with their store in Bandra - Teatro Dhora) Close friends, look out. There are soaps and bracelets coming your way!

Indian summer wear with light cooling fabrics are myriad and oh so mundane now. Among these I found Labelolee quite interesting and well-priced.

While Indian classical music just got so much more accessible and easy to enjoy, with Ragya, a lovely site that plays ragas according to the time of day it is. Soothing, to say the least.

If you’re looking for a personalised food item, that’s savoury and not a cupcake for once, these customised pizza alphabet slices from Francesco’s look super cute.

And ending this section with my FAVOURITE recommendation of all - the City Guesser! I have spent hours on this, trying to guess the city am watching footage of, based on road signs, people, language, landmarks and more. It’s the closest possible form of virtual travelling I’ve experienced so far.

AskShai’s base may be Mumbai - but like my heart - it is also in Dubai and soon in cities across the world! Dubai friends, feel free to pop in with recommendations.

Here’s one for now: House of Wisdom, Sharjah, is a spanking new library and cultural centre fit for 2021. Just one look at it reminds me of so much the UAE stands for - culture embedded in modernity.

And now for some Reader’s Recommendations.

Aanchal recommends a lovely women-run bookstore, cafe and event space in Singapore, called The Moon. It shines a light on talented authors, creators and makers who have slipped under the radar of the mainstream and looks absolutely delightful. Singapore friends, you’ll love it.

Shefali recommends the BMC Tour happening in Mumbai, where the iconic heritage structure of the BMC is opening its doors to tourists for the first time in 128 years.

Petra recommends the melt in your mouth chicken puffs from The Family Table by Josephs in Bandra.

Nanu drew my attention to a new and promising looking authentic Persian restaurant, in where else but Bandra, called Cafe Mommyjoon. If you happen to order before I do, let me know how you liked it!

As always, I welcome your recommendations as well as suggestions and requests! Coming soon…a guide on some lesser known open air places to hang out at in Mumbai, requested by Shefali. I’ve also done a fair bit of research on skin care routines, which I’m excited to share!

Special thanks to Divia for all her help with AskShai.

And because all good things come to an end, here’s this photograph of a glorious summer sunset from my window to end with.

I look forward to all your comments, suggestions, questions, recommendations and feedback. Till next time…all my love.

Shai

December is here and as we know, Christmas is Claus for celebration. This edition of my newsletter is packed with gifting ideas, party recommendations and delicious food and drinks. Think of it all as my gift to you. <3 On that note, here’s an early Christmas gift I received. My morning coffee is now Santastic! Okay I’ll stop with the Santa puns.

Let’s start with some sweet gifts:

1. These Christmas socks from Mint & Oak are just adorable.

2. This Oye Happy Christmas Recipe Mug makes for a good last minute gift.

3. Buy a plate while you fill one, with these gorgeous plates from The Plated Project.

4. You can also commission a stunning illustration of yourself, any person or space you love from @flowerchild_in. Just give her a photo and she’ll work her magic. Don’t take my word for it - just look at the examples on her Instagram!

5. The Wishing Chair is my eternal favourite gifting store. Everything on their site is wonderful - including this Christmas section. Browse, enjoy.

6. Those with reader friends, the Champaca Christmas Box is a fun one. (Huge hint!)

7. And those with peckish friends, these Snackible Christmas Boxes are fun. (Once again…huge hint!)

8. These magnetic planters from Lazy Gardener are just too cute. Whether your giftee has a green thumb or not.

9. Couples who are still in the romantic phase - you may have seen this, but if you haven’t, it’s a fun one. Lovebook tells your story in the form of an illustrated little book. A conversation starter at the next gathering for sure.

Speaking of gatherings, if you’re planning a weekend getaway, I particularly liked the look and feel of @iranihomestays in Karjat. Worth checking out.

And if you’re looking for more intimate, exclusive gatherings, I’ve always wanted to visit Lovefools at Bandra. They do elegant and personalised meals for small groups. The Vintage Garden, Bandra, apart from being open every week now, has also started exclusive, sit-down meals for small groups in their lovely outdoor space. Divine.

It isn’t a white Christmas for us, but my book recommendation for the month is White Teeth, by Zadie Smith. Fabulous writing on identity, ideologies, race, religion, science and so much more - this is an epic piece of work. Not exactly light holiday reading, but this hasn’t been a light holiday reading kinda year, has it?

And of course, nothing festive is complete without food and drinks. So here’s what you should get. The divine prawn patio and chicken biryani from @thetinytaster. Her food packs in as much flavour and fun as she does.

Or the delicious fish / prawn Goan thali from Salgaonkar’s. It comes complete with a tiny cup of sol kadhi and feels totally authentic. You won’t miss Goa Bhavan anymore.

While Instagram is rife with Christmas puddings, pies and rum-soaked cakes - I’m still old school and like stocking up on desserts from the good old tried and tested ancient bakeries. My favourite remains Merwans. And this lemon tart.

Method Bandra has some lovely unusual desserts. Slovenian cake is one of them - that has the texture of soft bread and the flavour of cake. This art gallery + cafe also does some super cocktail mixes or beverage enhancers, including mango and chilli.

And finally, this Space Cadet organic mulled wine from the Jailwala-Dasgupta home will leave you nice and merry. So will this one from Perch, that comes highly recommended.

I’ll leave you with what I gave myself this year. Among many others: it was this lipstick from Tinge by Sabrina Suhail and this cute desk calendar from Alicia Souza. Liked both.

I’ve started an Instagram account for Ask Shai, as you’ve probably figured out by now. Please follow, like, share, subscribe and all that, if you haven’t already. And if you buy, eat, read anything I recommend, would LOVE to know all about it.

Many thanks, happy gifting, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Here’s to new beginnings and 2021 being the year of celebration. See you at a real party soonish? Until then…

The weather is getting better and it’s a lovely time to be outdoors. Except, we’re not really doing that yet, are we? One great way to steer clear of restaurants, cafes and bars - and still meet outdoors is a picnic! Now given that for many of us, picnic spots are hard to come by, this is still possibly the best way in which to meet friends. And by far, the most fun. Try it - at your neighbourhood park, nearest beach or weekend retreat. A dear friend suggested this idea. Thank us both later.

While you’re at it, here are some picnic accompaniments. Pack them into your basket with those wine glasses, strawberries and chunky sandwiches.

1. Bombay Picnics is a charming little account to follow. This chef hand-picks a lucky few and chooses sweet picnic spots all over Mumbai to try his experiments, including the popular Bournvita Milk Pie. There’s a picnic playlist too. One can’t get enough of those. Like this 90s nostalgia one I made a little while ago.
   

2. Most picnic lunches are incomplete without wine. So for those of you who don’t know about Wine Park yet, here it is! A few wine soul sisters pointed me to this perfect portal. My favourite so far - the French Grenache M. Chapoutier, Belleruche Cotes du Rhone 2016.
   

   

3. Speaking of picnic lunches, here’s a virtual one that’s a cross between Meet Ups and LinkedIn. A networking club that introduces you to interesting people across the world, Lunch Club seems promising so far. I’ve had two interesting conversations via this forum already. Go make your profile! Explore.
   

4. Well this one is not really a picnic must-have, but those of you who like yoga in the outdoors, or yoga just anywhere really, please invest in a Kosha Yoga mat. It’s steep but so worth it - and serving me really well. I need no extra cushioning for my knees, it’s just so comfortable, not to mention beautiful.

   

5. Back to picnics! A great outing for your fur babies too. These organic pet toys from Heads up For Tails will keep them busy while you laze. So far, all my canine and feline nieces and nephews have loved them. They’ve told me so.
   

6. If you’re thinking about what to wear, I’ve found Dipanniki outfits to be comfortable, fun and affordable. While their range is limited, their cuts are flattering. ANDIndia also has some lovely jumpsuits, like this one. Perfect to do this in.

7. A good picnic read could be this Japanese book I read and loved recently. Adapted from a play by the same author, it’s about a quaint little cafe that allows time travel. The only catch? You have to return to the present before your coffee gets cold. Quick, fun and thought-provoking.

8. Next, how could any picnic be complete without food and beverages. If wine is not your thing, consider these easy pour coffee sachets by Blue Tokai. All you need is a flask of hot water, and a mug. And when it comes to food, good old Candies sandwiches still get my vote. Did you know Candies had this Did you Know page? :D
   

9. Maybe your picnic could benefit with a card game or two? Cards vs Sanskaar is the quintessential Indian party game - modelled after Cards Against Humanity, it’s politically irreverent, timely and a ‘party game the nation wants to play’.
   

   

10. And finally, what to carry it all in? Let’s tread lightly and choose this sustainable picnic basket bag from Okhai. It’s cute and can hold cutlery and crockery from home. Don’t forget napkins, a bag for trash, sunscreen and lots of ungainly laughter.

    ---

There! That’s your picnic. What would you like to ask me? Or, as a reader, what would you like to recommend? Am making it easier with this button below. Just tell me with a click.

Leave a comment

One of the many note-worthy recommendations by Ankita, is this site. Given the number of articles we read nowadays, this curated portal promises the best of the best. Give it a shot!

Happy picnicking! Until next time.

Thank you for believing in my motley curation. As a dear friend and I were discussing, I’m saving you all the trouble of going through everyone else’s recommendations and newsletters and condensing it in a (what I hope is both relevant and relatable) little bulletin for you.

For the newbies here - WELCOME! If you haven’t read my first post, this is a disclaimer that none of these are paid promotions. They’re a round-up of things I’ve stumbled upon and have read, eaten, experienced, bought, watched and enjoyed. Either via internet rabbit holes, well-honed algorithms, or conversations with clever friends who have great taste.

Without any further ado, should we start?

For this edition, I want to focus on grandmothers. My grandmothers were two wonderful women - unfortunately I barely knew one and didn’t know the other at all - they both passed away early. But I’m often told I resemble them both, my personality, sensitive nature, eating habits et al. I’ve always associated them with cuddles, stories, gifts, delicious food and hand-made clothes. Here they are - nani on the left and dadiba on the right.

Grandmothers are usually wise, relevant till their last breaths and totally reliable for potions, lotions, notions and motions. Let’s get into a few of each.

• Girija Paati is one such grandmother, advertised for her homemade, age-old South Indian recipes. Another Instagram ad I fell prey to, but vouch for 100%. Delicious tamarind rice paste - ready to mix and eat, molgapudi the way it should be, healthy sesame and jaggery laddoos - and a very reliable, non-advertising voice running through her ads, that really makes you feel like ordering. I for one am a big fan of authentic South Indian food from every region. Everything I’ve sampled, especially at people’s homes, has been heaped with vegetables, superfoods, and so much unique flavour.
  

• Next, look at how beautifully this independent publication has recreated these stellar photos of working grandmothers in their granddaughters today. The Soup always has some relatable, relevant and insightfully-crafted content. Take a look!

• Let’s deviate a bit to grandfathers, shall we? These egg chutney pattice from Bawa Zest by Cheron are the bomb. Founded in 1980 by Khodamorad Zorabian (of Zorabian chicken) they took me right back to the times my mom used to bring back versions of these for weekly snacks, from the RTI at Peddar Road. Hearty, soul satisfying food.

  

• Speaking of ancient wisdom, when it comes to our skincare, we’re going back to simpler, earthy concoctions that rely less and less on chemicals. Though, as I’ve recently learned, not all natural products are effective - here’s one that is. Gifted by a dear friend who does her skin care research (here’s looking at you Shahana) - this Neemli Vitamin C serum is loaded with 25% Vitamin C, it has all the correct logos and certifications, smells pleasant and feels fresh. In this age of serums, this one is a winner.

• Fredrik Backman is out with his latest novel - Anxious People - which seems attuned to a reader like me. And though I did enjoy A Man Called Ove, I enjoyed My Grandmother Sends Her Regards And Apologises a little more, which am recommending to you today. The title has been simplified in the latest print. It’s story of a child who escapes to a fantasy world created by her grandmother, and goes on a journey guided by letters, clues and characters that sit on the edge of vivid fantasy and mundane reality. If, like me, you like a good magical realism novel from time to time, you’ll enjoy this one.

• Sure-shot winners for granny gifts, are these cute hot water bottle covers, perfect for aches, both real and imagined. Another Instagram ad I fell for and am loving is this massage pillow. It’s hooked onto my chair and I’m hooked onto it. I bet a grandma, ma, pa or anyone will be too!
  

• This is not a shameless plug, but if you’re interested in more of my writing, this one-minute-read on Old Furniture and Grandparents is one of my favourites.

So now that we’re done with that - let’s talk about you! What do you want to ask me? What kind of recommendations would you love to see here? Any particular theme I should concentrate on next? What about something you tried from here that worked for you - or something that didn’t?

I’m also starting an Ask Readers section - from my next edition, where I will be choosing and posting 3 special links you guys have recommended, that really speak to me. It could be a podcast, show, essay, article, product, home-chef, Instagram account, you get it…I’ll share your name (unless you don’t want me to) and a short message from you as to why you’ve chosen to recommend it to the world. I love it already! Send, send, send to jewelwings@gmail.com.

There’s lots more fun stuff in store for you. Guest curators, fun Insta Lives (psssst look out K-drama lovers) and maybe even a podcast - if I have enough to say!

I will now sign off with a dad joke. Don’t be shy, remember to ask Shai!

All my love!

Recommendations were my thing: right from what to get a boyfriend (for the now cringe ‘Valentine’s Day’) to what dessert to order in a specific restaurant, I got asked for recommendations by all and sundry - and happily gave them. Castles in the air were drawn, about how I would one day monetise this idea. But life took over and this was pushed into a sock drawer of ‘some-day’ ideas.

So here’s a modest version, of newer and more far-reaching interests that I would love to recommend - whether it’s a beautiful bookstore in Los Angeles, a secret fish place in Dubai, a Korean show I can’t get enough of, or a new coffee shop in Mumbai.

This is literally the message you may get from me if there’s something I’m dying to share with you - an Instagram account, a product I’ve ordered recently that works - or just a happy secret I’ve stumbled upon.

Of course, I’m not an influenza…so nothing here is paid for or ‘in paid partnership with’. Think of it as my quarterly recommendation to you. Like it all? Like some of it? Like none of it? Let me know…I’m open to feedback.

So, those of you who have been my loyal ‘askers’ through the years - this one’s for you.

Starting with this quarter’s Ask Shai recommendations. Here you go:

• A fun Instagram account to follow, if you don’t follow it yet - is swineryy. Laugh out loud posts, especially the ones on ‘Shazia’s dottuhh’.

• Loved this product by Bombay Shaving Company. Specially coz my legs are always marked by scars from scratches and nicks from regular razors. This one was smooth and a pleasure to use.

• Speaking of products, my hair-fall was really bad in the last few months - before I fell prey to an Instagram algorithm-based ad (I swear I’m their dream user - the perfect Social Dilemma hologram person) - for Vedix hair products. These are really working - although my hair does get dry due to the natural products. But the hair-fall has stopped. It took about a month to show results.

• A sweet book I’ve read, and finished in a few hours, was The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa. Part of my Champaca Books subscription box. Highly recommend both.

  

• I cannot do this and leave out a K-drama I’ve been obsessed with. It’s Ok to Not Be Ok is such a beautiful mix of fairytale romance, mental health and just some of the most attractive faces in the world.

  

• I’ve just discovered the world of Studio Ghibli anime and I particularly loved Princess Mononoke. If you watch it, notice the amount of tropes that appear here - themes, names, ideas and concepts that this film has gone on to inspire.

• Gujarati food lovers, this home chef’s thin white dhoklas will steal your hearts.

• I’m totally vibing with this cheap and cheerful lounge wear my mom stumbled upon. Others who spotted in my stories are loving it too!

• Signing off with this beautiful essay (I may have shared before with some of you via email) that left me teary-eyed.

Need more recommendations along these lines?

Ask Shai!

PS: Special thanks to Nandhini who nudged me in this direction and made me open the sock drawer.

Until next time. Cheers!

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