Page 16 - Travel + Leisure India & South Asia (January 2020)

Slow

Travel

D IS C O V E RI E S ALL ABOARD THE CALIFORNIA
ZEPHYR IN THE US
The great American railroad saw a steep decline as automobiles
took over the country in the 1920s. Many trains (such as the
Havana Special, Phoebe Snow, Colorado Eagle, and more)
were gradually discontinued as a result. But not the California
Zephyr. A daily service that runs between California in the west
and Illinois in the east, it takes you through seven US states.
On this journey of three nights and four days—51 hours and 20
minutes—the scenery changes constantly. From the canyons of
Utah to the forests of Colorado and the cornfields of Iowa— the
view from the window is all you need for company. amtrak.com

GO LOCAL IN ALPUJARRAS,
SPAIN

In Alpujarras, the southern foothills
of Sierra Nevada, life is still largely
about taking long walks with the local
shepherds, the aroma of almond
fields, traditional tapas, and plenty of
cheese and wine. With guided walking
tours, it is possible to immerse
yourself in the unspoiled rural beauty
of Andalusia. Sample and learn to
cook Alpujarran cuisine, explore
Moorish water channels, stroll through
olive groves and orchards and the
Laroles Valley for scenic views, visit
the silk weavers in the region, stay
in a stonehouse in the hamlet of
Mairena, and taste the local way of
life. ramblersholidays.co.uk

TAKE AN OLD-SCHOOL CRUISE IN KERALA

Kettuvallams, or in more modern terms houseboats,
have played a significant role in the backwaters
lifestyle of Kerala. From carrying grains and spices to
simply navigating through the vast Vembanad Lake,
these vessels have stood the test of time. Today, with
thoughtful initiatives such as one undertaken by CGH CLOCKWISE: JOE RAEDLE/STAFF/GETTYIMAGES; ALAN DAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY/ALAMY; COURTESY OF CGH EARTH
Earth, it is possible to experience the glory of the olden
days in the backwaters of Kerala. Onboard one of the
Spice Boat Cruises, life is made up of sweet nothings—
fisherfolk indulge you in traditional meals and stories
from god’s own state. What’s better? These boats are
powered by solar energy and vegetable oils to prevent
harm to the ecology of the lake. cghearth.com

HANDPICKED SAURABH RAI PREFERRED HOTELS & RESORTS
BY A LIST Soneva Fushi, Maldives: Earthy and sustainability-oriented ethos, they’ve perfected the art of ‘unplug and reboot’.
The Leela Palace Udaipur: Unbeatable location, on Lake Pichola and minutes from the old city; sheer simplicity
and slowness of life inspire happiness.

14 TR AV E L+LE I S U R E IND I A & S O UTH A S I A | J A N U A R Y 20 20