My idea of travel is to not experience the destinations as a tourist or a traveller.

I want to live like a local. I want to do things that an average person living in the town/city does daily. It includes not eating at a fancy restaurant but at everyday breakfast places, using public transport, taking walks, talking to neighbours, and similar stuff.

For now, that’s how I think one can truly ‘Live the Place’ over ‘Visit the Place.’

Madikeri Town

I love small towns. They are highly native and have a character. This helps me experience my idea of travel to its best.

Madikeri Town didn’t disappoint in making me understand Kodavas’ lives. At this point, I have the town’s map in my mind. That’s how much I’ve roamed around the town.

The tourist spots were a little overcrowded (that’s a turnoff for me), so I couldn’t feel the vibe. But the local spots were good. Random viewpoints, filter coffee places, chocolate shops, breakfast places, etc.

Madikeri has a calm vibe. The place is away from noise/pollution, so it’s a good town to rest or slow down time.

People here are kind, welcoming, and reciprocative. You just need to start a conversation—they’re happy to help or talk.

I checked out petrol bunks, the district hospital, police station (from a distance, lol), bus stand—all pretty decent.

I visited local coffee and chocolate stores; spoke to them about how they make these homemade chocolates, wine, and coffee. It’s a shame I didn’t visit the coffee plantations due to the rain.

Speaking of rain, I hoped it wouldn’t rain so I could roam around. But it’s a waste if you don’t experience Coorg’s rain—Rain is when you see its true beauty. I’m grateful I chose to travel despite the heavy rain. It was memorable.

I didn’t attach many pictures here because I dedicated an issue to pictures and pictures alone. You can see it here:

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What’s up with my life?

• I have had the longest two weeks of 2023. My work, my sport, my socialization, everything doubled, and I hardly had time to rest. I feel low on energy. I am a bit occupied this week too, but will try to rest more.

• Most of my friends turned 25 in the last 2-3 months—it feels strange. Funny how little milestones throw you into a thinking spiral. I’ll be 25 in October, and I hope to see it as just a number when my birthday comes.

• I’ve realized the downside of being too harsh on myself lately. But haven’t figured out what to do about it yet. Work in progress.

• There was a time I envied people’s success. Now I’m glad I’m just happy for them and nothing else.

• I have come a long way in setting boundaries. I have been conscious of how much power and control I give to people in my life. Going good.

• I want to try a new hobby. Suggest me something.

• My physical and mental health is getting better. Touchwood.

My next trip

I’ll be in Pune from June 27th-30th.

If you happen to be in or around Pune, drop me a message. We’ll hang out.

Opinions

I love appreciation and criticism. I believe that people should share thought-out opinions often. It creates room for wider perspectives.For example:If you love this newsletter, tell me. If you see some flaws, tell me. I’d rather choose an opinion (even if it’s something that doesn’t please me) over silence.

Okay, it’s not a coincidence that I shared an example of this newsletter.

I have a favour to ask: I need your opinion on Vikra’s Café.

Yes, Vikra’s Café is my public diary and I write what I want to express, but I also respect each reader’s time reading this newsletter. I want to make it worthwhile for them.

So if you have feedback for me, I’d love to listen.

If you enjoy this newsletter, please talk to your friends about it. Share it on your socials, share it in your groups.

I want to reach more people with my thoughts.I want to hear more opinions. Be it appreciation or criticism.

Until next week!