Food & Health> Three Nutritious Juice Recipes

Image: A refreshing mocktail of fruit juices

Image copyright: Tanya Munshi

While the argument on whether certain fizzy drinks should be banned continues, we recommend some great alternatives that are tasty and nutritious.
Samyukta Ganesh, a consultant dietician based in Cochin, offers three low-cal fruit juices. These are made from fruits that are available throughout the year, ensuring that you quench your thirst and fill your tummy.

Apple, pomegranate 'n' tomato juice
Serves: 1 glass

Ingredients
~ 1 apple
~ 1 cup pomegranate seeds
~ 1 medium-size tomato
~ 1 cup crushed ice

Method
~ Wash, peel and dice the apple.
~ Dice the tomato and add it to the apple and pomegranate in the blender. There is no need to de-seed the pomegranate, just remove it from the skin and put it in the blender.
~ Add water for a fine consistency. Do not strain the juice.
~ Add crushed ice and serve

Health tip: Apples and pomegranates are rich in iron and potassium. Apples are also rich in fibre that gives a feeling of fullness, while tomatoes are a great source of vitamin A. "This juice contains essential vitamins and minerals which are required by the body," says Samyukta.

Sweet lime and pineapple juice
Serves: One glass

Ingredients
~ 1 sweet lime
~ 4 pineapple slices
~ Crushed ice

Method
~ Remove the skin and seeds from the sweet lime and put it in a blender.
~ Clean and chop the pineapple and it to the blender.
~ Blend well and add enough water for fine consistency.
~ Do not strain the juice.
~ Add crushed ice and serve.

Health tip: Sweet lime and pineapple juices are good sources of Vitamin C and are rich in fibre. "This juice is delicious, refreshing and contains essential micronutrients such as potassium, magnesium and zinc, which are necessary for proper growth and development of the human body," says Samyukta.

Papaya, orange 'n' carrot juice
Serves: 1 glass

Ingredients
~ 1 cup papaya
~ 1 medium-size orange
~ 1 small carrot

Method
~ Wash the carrot and dice it. Remove the seeds from the orange and papaya and dice them.
~ Add the diced carrot along with the papaya and orange in a blender.
~ Blend well.
~ Add water for fine consistency.
~ Add crushed ice and serve.

Health tip: Papaya, orange and carrot juice are rich in beta carotene and vitamin C. Samyukta adds, "Beta carotene is an essential nutrient for healthy eyes. Yellow fruits such as papayas and oranges are anti-cancerous and are also rich in vitamin A."

Quick tips
~ Add sugar if you're not watching your weight. In case of a weight control programme, add a low calorie sweetener like Equal. Add only one tablet.
~ Straining the juice will result in loss of fibre which is the real part of the juice. You throw it away; most of the nutrients are gone.
~ Use fruits bought freshly from the market, as the juice will stay fresh and not spoil under humid conditions.
~ Wash them thoroughly and deseed wherever necessary.
~ Fruit juices should be consumed within a day of preparation.

Juice versus fizzies
"Fresh fruit juices contain essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and are rich in fibre, hence they are healthy. Colas are carbonated beverages and should be consumed only in limitation or be completely avoided as they lead to obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis and nutritional deficiencies of protein, vitamin, calcium and iron in the body. In fact, colas contain large number of empty calories as compared to fruit juices and their high acidic content lead to acidity that eventually leads to ulcers in the longer run," concludes Samyukta.

Published in Rediff.com, on September 12, 2006
Link: http://in.rediff.com/getahead/2006/sep/12juice.htm

Beauty> Fade Those Dark Cricles Away!

A common beauty and dermatological complaint, dark circles make you look much older than your age. Here are some tips to cure dark circles effectively.

What Causes Dark Circles
In medical terms, it is called ‘oxidizing haemoglobin’ where tiny blood vessels spread around the delicate skin around the eyes. Since the capillaries are too small, the red blood cells clog up in a single line in order to pass through. As a result the enzymes present in your body break down the red blood cells, including the haemoglobin. This leaves a dark blue-black colour around the skin area. Since the skin around the eye area is thin and the capillaries are closer to the skin, dark circles are more visible around the eye area.

Home Remedies For Dark Circles
o Place used and refrigerated tea bags on your eyes for about 15 min.
o Before going out, apply concealer, foundation cream and powder to cover up those dark circles.
o Get into the healthy habit of eating well, sleeping at least 6-8 hours and drinking lots of water.
o Practice yoga exercises such as palming. Rub the palms of your hands together till you find them warm. Then gently place them on your eyes for about 2-3 minutes. Repeat this exercise as often as you want.
o Place a metal spoon under cold running water for a few minutes, dry off the water and hold the spoons gently to your eyes for at least 60 seconds.

Beauty Remedies For Dark Circles
o Cool half a cucumber’s juice in the refrigerator. Apply a few drops of lemon juice and gently apply around the eye for about 10 minutes and rinse.
o Apply thin slices of cucumber on your eyes for about 5-10 minutes to soothe and cool your eyes.
o Make a paste of turmeric powder, tomato juice and lemon juice, apply it around the eye area and wash off 10 minutes later.

Medical Remedies For Dark Circles
o If the dark circles persist for a long time, it’s time to visit an ophthalmologist or dermatologist.
o You could use certain medicated Vitamin E creams meant for treatment of dark circles around the eye area.

Published in Tips4me.com, on May 14, 2007
Link: http://www.tips4me.com/tips/beauty/others_main.asp?file=/tips/bodybasic/eyes.htm

Travel> Why you can't miss Munnar

Image1: A cottage up in the hills

Image2: A quaint place for prayer

Image3: View from our hotel room

Image4: Cloud of green, the tea gardens at Munnar
Image copyright: Tanya Munshi

Munnar
Far from the crowds lies this haven of green. Its smooth, winding roads are a pleasure to drive on, the pitter-patter of raindrops on your windshield for company. The time is just right for Munnar, considering the swish of wipers is possibly all you will hear now, aside from the occasional birdcall.
If you want to make the most of a weekend trip, start early from Kochi. This 140-kilometre drive can be covered in a leisurely 3-4 hours, complete with a couple of coffee and wada breaks at small restaurants along the way.

A flower 12 years in the making
I had the opportunity of seeing the famous Neelakurinji flowers years ago, when I visited Munnar on a school holiday. This unique species blooms once every 12 years, from mid-August to December. Coming up in their thousands, the tiny blue flowers overwhelm the entire hilly area of the Eravikulam National Park. This year, coupled with Onam, Munnar is flooded with local and foreign tourists, all here to catch a glimpse of Neelakurinji.
A huge mob of tourists, choking roads leading to the Park, made it difficult for us to trek up the hills and see the flowers in bloom again. Amidst these blossoms, mountain goats known as Nilgiri Thar or Ibex also share the limelight. Capturing this flora and fauna is a photographer's delight.

Take time for a cuppa
We couldn't enter the Park, but we managed to buy some fresh tea. Near the entrance to the Eravikulam National Park is an exclusive Kanan Devan Tea outlet, with a variety on offer. For instance, Green Tea is priced at Rs 75 for 250 grams, while Madupatty CTC Leaves costs Rs 45 for 500 grams. What's more, during the drive, you can spot several other estates with outlets selling tea. It is disheartening to see plastic packets ruining the greenery of Munnar, although forest officials are doing their best to keep the area plastic free. This is a magnificent holiday spot and, as tourists, we ought to be careful with what nature gives us in such plenty.

Where to stay
Munnar is dotted with hotels and resorts for all budgets. Most bookings can be made booked online. Rates are currently up, thanks to the crowds coming in to see the flowers.
Although the best time to visit is from September to February and April to May, Munnar is breathtaking in the monsoons between June and July. As you drive up, there are springs and waterfalls all along the way.
You could check out Las Palmas or Hotel Hill View. At the former, a deluxe room costs about Rs 2,400 (plus taxes). A room at the latter should be about Rs 1,000 (plus taxes), and includes a complimentary breakfast.

Contact:
Las Palmas: NH 49, Devikulam, PO Munnar 685 613. Phone: (04865) 264218.

Hotel Hillview: Kannan Devan Hills, Munnar 685 612. Phone: (04865) 230567 / 230882.

Fast facts for travellers
Distance by road to Munnar from Cochin: 140 kilometres.

Nearest railway stations to Munnar:
Kochi -130 km
Kottayam -142 km

Nearest Airports: Kochi (130 kilometres) and Coimbatore (156 kilometres).

Season: September to February and April to MayOff season: June to August.

Published in Rediff.com, on September 25, 2006
Link: http://specials.rediff.com/getahead/2006/sep/25slid.htm

Fashion> There's power in your dressing

Dressing up neatly will always be important, more so in a corporate sector. This is not to say that you should dress up neat to work and be shabby at home. Every place and setting requires certain decorum. If you can strike a balance, nothing like it. Whether you are a manager, an executive, a doctor, an interior designer, a writer or an architect — dressing up to work in style can make your colleagues and clients look up to you.

Men
Men look best with neat hairstyles, though long hair for men is in, but it does not suit everyone. Men who are tall and well built can carry long hair better. They can sport such a look even at work, provided it is neatly gelled or tied into a ponytail with formal wear. Shaving, well-trimmed finger and toenails are equally important. If you can get yourself a good face clean up, a body massage and pedicure and manicure, nothing like it. If you think you can carry off bright colours, irrespective of your complexion, go ahead. If you want to play it safe, stick to basics. Go for crisp white, lemon yellow or light blue shirts. Compliment them with black, brown or steel grey trousers. These days, flat front trousers are in. Avoid baggy type trousers to work. Don't forget to match your shoes with your belt. Both should be of the same colour. Always wear polished shoes to work. Carry a neatly ironed handkerchief at all times. Remember; in power dressing, small details matter and people do take notice.

Please do justice to your body type, irrespective of whether you are fat or thin, tall or short. Avoid wearing shirts bigger than your size or loose trousers. Make it a point to wear fitting clothes. If your job requires you to wear a tie, stick to the silk ones. Polyester and synthetic ties show poorly on you. On weekend dressing, well fitted jeans, a white kurta and brown suede shoes/slip-ons look classy. Pay attention to your accessories at all times.

Women
It may sound repetitive and clichéd, but a neat haircut, monthly face clean ups/facials, pedicure and manicure are a must for a complete power dresser. Just imagine, your clothes are neat, but your feet are dirty, unkempt and you've not had time to remove the nail polish, which is chipping off. For a frequent new look, tie your hair differently or comb it in a different fashion. One day a bun, the other a pony tail and so on. Keep make-up and accessories to the minimum. Also avoid shocking or florescent colours. Crisp cotton saris with block prints look very elegant. Plain cotton salwar-kurta, with a silk or georgette printed duppatta look classy. Carry a brown, tan or a black leather bag to office. You should be able to fit in — a diary, cell phone, comb and small knick-knacks with ease in your bag. Wear shoes that you will be comfortable in. Avoid high heels. Power dressing to work does not mean wearing expensive and branded clothes. You can be dressed simple, but if you're neat and well groomed, you will be called a power dresser.

Published in The Hindu, Kochi, Pondicherry, Trivandrum & Trichy
Link: http://www.hindu.com/mp/2007/04/26/stories/2007042601320300.htm (Kochi edition, April 26, 2007)

Travel> Worshipping at the Temple Towns

Image1: Temple mast

Image2: Rock Fort Temple, Trichy

Image3: Sri Brahadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

Image4: Sri Brahadeeswarar Temple window

Image5: Ceiling in the Nandi temple

Image6: Temple at Trichy

Image copyright: Tanya Munshi

A visit to Trichy and Thanjavur is always a reminder of India's diversity. As you walk through the most exquisite temples in Trichy, an atmosphere surcharged by the presence of thousands of worshippers surrounds you. It affects you most when you see the young and old, rich and poor, standing in queues for a personal communion with their beloved deity.

The Lord above
Trichy is known for its temples, while Thanjavur is popular both for its temple architecture as well as its silk saris. In Trichy, you trek up 400 steps to receive blessings from Lord Ganesha inside the Rock Fort temple, said to be thousands of years old. As the steps simmer in the scorching heat, people run up them. The experience awaiting them is worth the effort.
Besides, the view is breathtaking.

Divinity for all
Trichy and Thanjavur can be visited over a weekend by train from Cochin. The famous Sri Brahadeeswarar temple (or Bragatheeswarar) temple is a special place. It is said that Chola king Rajarajan Cholan dedicated the temple to the Dalit or downtrodden sections of society -- possibly the first step towards the eradication of caste in the country.
Compared to many other temples and religious monuments in the country, this one is less commercial.
An interesting thing to do is walk through the temple complex in a mundu or veshti (traditional garment worn at the waist) like the locals and discover the serenity within.

It casts no shadow
The Sri Brahadeeswarar temple is said to leave no shadow on the ground. You can't help but marvel at the vision of those who built it. Just how ahead of the times were they?
This world heritage monument is a must-see. Equally amazing is the precision and longevity of the paintings on the ceilings, all in natural colours.
Another must is a visit to the Thanjavur palace. The upkeep is not up to the mark but, interestingly, a part of the palace is still used by the royal family. One of the souvenirs to pick from the palace museum store is a reverse glass painting done in the Thanjavur style.
A visit to Thanjavur is a call to learn more about India and her infinite beauty. An invitation not just to indulge your wanderlust, but also to grow spiritually.

How to get there
Trichy and Thanjavur are well-connected by air, rail and road.

Trichy (or Tiruchirapalli)
The local bus service is available round the clock and connects most tourist spots. You can catch it from the central bus stand or the Chinthamani or Mani Guard Gate bus stand. If travelling in a group, it is better to hire a cab. Better still, an air-conditioned one. It is hot and humid in Trichy from May to September. Indian Airlines offers direct flights to Trichy from Chennai and Kochi. There are also good rail connections with other southern cities and towns such as Ernakulam, Madurai, Chennai and Tuticorin.
Web site: http://www.trichy.com/

Thanjavur (or Tanjore)
The nearest airport is Trichy, about an hour's drive away. You can also drive down from Chennai or cities like Ernakulam, Thiruvananthuram, Bangalore and Kochi. By rail, Thanjavur is connected to Chennai, Madurai and Chidambaram.
Web site: http://www.thanjavur.com/

Distances
Trichy: 65 kilometresMadurai: 200 kilometresChennai: 350 kilometres

Published in Rediff.com, on August 28,2007
Link: http://specials.rediff.com/getahead/2006/aug/28slid.htm

Beauty> Sunny Side Up!

The monsoon has taken a break. The skies have cleared and suddenly the weather has turned hot. The umbrellas that served us well during the monsoon have now been brought out to shield us from the harsh heat. To fight off the harsh rays we can apply proper sunscreen lotions or creams. They offer protection from the harmful ultra-violet rays of the sun.

Choosing sunscreen lotion or cream depends on the skin type. For instance, for oily skin, alcohol-based sunscreen lotions are advisable. And someone with normal or dry skin can go for any of the sunscreen lotions available in the market. There are also physical sunscreen lotions, like the ones we see the cricketers applying on their face, especially on the area around the nose, as this is the most sensitive part of the facial skin.

SPF factor
To make your choice of sunscreens easier, just check out the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) on such products. The SPF number indicates the duration you can stay out in the sun without harming your skin. Higher the SPF, better the lotion works for you, as sunscreens provide excellent protection from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Tanning, which is an immediate effect of premature ageing, wrinkling of skin, pigmentation are some of the harmful effects.
Open shoes are best during these hot days, as they allow your feet to breathe. It also helps reduce smelly feet, especially because sweat dries up instantly in open shoes.

Smell good
Beat the heat by keeping yourself fresh and cool. Use soaps with mint and menthol extracts, which can give you're a refreshing feel. Needless to say, cosmetic powders are like blotting papers that soak up the sweat, while deodorants will keep you smelling good all day long!
Pick up some trendy sunglasses to look cool in the sun. Do not compromise on your eyesight by picking up some cheap imitation ones.
It is always safe to buy branded sunglasses from proper optical retail outlets as such glasses are tested in their respective labs before being brought to the showroom for sale.
Cottons and linens are the best for hot and sunny days. You could try out summer cool fabrics that allow your skin to breathe.

Bottle it up
Dehydration is one of the most common health risks one could run into, during hot days. Drinking lots of water and staying away from the sun as much as possible are the ways to prevent dehydration.
Always carry a bottle of water or juice with you where ever you go. Don't forget home made drinks such as lassi, buttermilk, and milkshakes! If you're running out of ideas of what to drink, pile onto the coconutwalla down the street and drink the delicious tender coconut water, which is rich in nutrients and minerals.

Published in The Hindu, Kochi, Metroplus on November 18, 2006
Link: http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/thscrip/print.pl?file=2006111802030300.htm&date=2006/11/18/&prd=mp

Fashion> Through the Looking Glass

The bespectacled look is not out any more, thanks to Jassi. But there are glasses and glasses. Knowing what type of lens will do justice to your eyesight and age is a prerequisite for treating your eyes well.

Glass lens - Glass lenses make your frames heavier. The glass lenses are reflective, can break easily and are less prone to scratches. If you want to save on your pair of glasses, you can stick to glass lenses.

Plastic lens - Normally known as CR-39, plastic lenses are preferred as they are light , making the overall frame easy to wear and unbreakable. But if you don't take care, the plastic lenses run the risk of getting scratches. These types of glasses are mostly recommended for outdoor people, and students.

Photochromatic lens - These are mostly available in two shades - grey and brown. Such glasses are soothing to the eyes, especially in the outdoors, the lens change colour to grey or brown. Once you're indoors, the glasses changes back to being colourless. Such lenses suit people who spend a lot of time outdoors and for the elderly. But such lenses are usually not used for children, as they may lose out on clarity at a young age, as for the fashion conscious, they are miles away from these lenses.

Monofocal lens/ Reading Glasses - These are single vision lenses meant for reading. Usually such type of lens is used by people above 40. The Chinese ready-made numbered glasses are slightly cheaper than the custom made glasses.

Bifocal lens - These are mostly used for distance viewing, as well as for prolonged computer usage. This is mostly preferred by homemakers, and the elderly. In fact, bifocal plastic lenses maybe more expensive than bifocal glass lenses.

Multi-focal lens, also known as progressive and Varilux - These lenses are available with different powers for different viewing distances. For television viewing - long distance, for computer viewing - intermediate distance, and for reading - near vision.
Such lenses help the eyes focus all the three different viewing distances with ease. Varilux is a type of multi-focal lens.

Anti-glare/anti-reflective lens - The correct phrase is `anti-reflective lens', though people know it as anti-glare glasses. Such glasses provide 100 per cent protection from the UV rays of the sun/ computer screen. These lenses come handy for computer users and during driving. Anti-reflective glasses prove to be helpful especially at parties where you don't have to remove your glasses while photographs are being taken. Contact lens users can wear these glasses as zero powered glasses at work, or simply to make a fashion statement.

Fashion statement and utility are probably the only reasons for buying a pair of sunglasses. It is safer to buy branded sunglasses from proper optical retail outlets as such glasses are tested in their respective labs before being brought to the showrooms for sale.

Latest style in sunglasses - The style and design of sunglasses will depend on the shape of your face and complexion. For women, broad frames with light shades are in, whereas men prefer broad frames with darker shades.

Believe it or not, but a majority of the contact lenses users are women. The main purpose of wearing contact lenses is for cosmetic purpose, than for utility. Also because, women make an effort to take care of their lenses and are also more comfortable wearing them. While men usually are in a hurry and don't spare much time on their lenses.

Care for contact lens - Most of the contact lens care regime is mentioned in the pamphlet of the lens solution bottle. Make sure your hands are washed clean with soap and water. After every use of the lens, clean the lens container and let them dry in the open for a while. Before and after every use of the lenses, always rinse the lenses.

Published in The Hindu, Metroplus, Kochi edition on November 11, 2006
Link: http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/thscrip/print.pl?file=2006111102010300.htm&date=2006/11/11/&prd=mp

Travel & Food> Goa Restaurant Guide> Horse Shoe

Image1: Interiors of Horse Shoe

Image2: Sans Rival
Image copyright: Tanya Munshi

Horse Shoe
Just 5 minutes away from Viva Panjim, you can walk down to Horse Shoe in Fontainhas. Owned by Vasco, Horse Shoe is an Indo-Portuguese restaurant, that must feature in your trip to Goa. We had the mouthmelting Chocolate Mousse and Sans Rival (made of cashew nuts, cream and eggs) and black coffee.

Quite an upmarket restaurant, Horse Shoe is an ideal spot for a quaint anniversary celebration. It is said, during courtship if a young man brings his lady to Horse Shoe to proclaim his love for her, that means he is serious about her. Nice thought, isn't it?

On that note, we savoured the deserts and browsed through the menu. Horse Shoe has some of the most exotic international dishes to offer, including popular Goan relishes.

Location:
Horse Shoe,
Restaurant and Bar
E-245,
Rua De Ourem,
Panjim,
Goa
Phone: 0832-2451788/ 5644044

Overall Rating:
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Travel & Food> Goa Restaurant Guide> Viva Panjim

Image1: Kingfish Masala fry

Image2: Look out for this board to spot Viva Panjim

Image3: Butter Garlic Squids
Image copyright: Tanya Munshi

Viva Panjim
Recommended by Lonely Planet, The Rough Guide and the Footprints, Viva Panjim is a Goan family restaurant at Fontainhas. It may take you some time to trace this restaurant in the lanes of Fountainhas, but it's worth the effort. With the delicious Goan food that is served hot on your table, you will forget the world.

"Viva Panjim is one of the most popular restaurants in Fountainhas, known for its Goan cuisine," says Ana Maria DeSouza Goswami a fellow Travel Expert (for Goa) for Yatra's Raahi.com. She further adds, "Viva Panjim is situated on the ground floor of Linda's house in Fontainhas (Latin Quarter). She serves excellent Goan food. I suggest you order (for two), prawn curry rice (1 plate), 1 fried reacheado masala king fish and 1 butter garlic squid, with a drink. The bill should be around Rs. 300/-. " Since she recommended that we visit this place, we recommend it to you!

Viva Panjim offers you an old world charm where you will come across the good old friends of the neighborhood visiting Viva Panjim for beer and prawns. It clearly showed that afternoon is a time for rest and more importantly meeting friends.

Try out the butter garlic squids, kingfish fry, rice and the Goan prawn curry to taste the Goan flavour. A cosy restaurant with an air conditioned, non-air-conditioned and a tiny outdoor seating is a delight. A meal for two, should be around Rs. 300/-. Viva Panjim opens as early as 8:30 in the morning and Sundays are a days of rest.

Location:
Viva Panjim
House No. 178, Rua 31 de Janeiro,
Behind Mary Immaculate High School,
Panjim
Phone: 0832-2422405

Overall Rating:
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Travel> 5 Things to do while visiting Hyderabad

Image1: Light and Sound Show at Golconda Fort.
Image2: Inside Ramoji Film City
Image3: Bangles at display at Churi Bazar
Image copyright: Tanya Munshi
Be it a trip for business or pleasure, few places offer you more sights, sounds, history and activities than Hyderabad. Here's a quick list of what you simply can't miss.

Bangles and trinkets
It would be a crime not to visit Chudi Bazaar (the bangle market), right next to the famous Charminar. It offers a mind-boggling variety of bangles in every conceivable colour and material -- glass, plastic, lacquer, gold, pearls and silver. A pair of glass bangles cost as little as Rs 10, while lacquer ones could cost about Rs 120. Do not leave without some Karachi mehendi or henna (Rs 5 per cone). Bangles look far more beautiful on hennaed hands.

Shopping tips
Check out a shop called 'Fine Bangles' for lacquer and heavily decorated bangles, and 'Meena Bangles' for glass ones. The lane is dotted with shops on both sides, open from 11 am to 11.30 pm. Remember to bargain hard.

Pearl shopping
No trip to Hyderabad can be complete without purchasing some fine pearl jewellery. Each shop has its specialities and it's better to check out several before making up your mind. For black and purple pearl earrings with zircon and platinum finish (priced between Rs 180 and Rs 250), visit a shop called 'Princess Pearls'.
Pearl junk jewellery costs between Rs 100 and Rs 200 at 'Sri Jagadamba Pearls', while pearl bangles cost around Rs 400. 'Krishna Pearls' is another place near Charminar known for genuine pearls. It has branches at most five-star hotels in the city.

Addresses
. Princess Pearls: Shop No 5-4-666/1Peshwari Plaza, South AbidsNear Hotel Saptagiri, Hyderabad.
. Motilal Jewellers and Pearls: Opposite Madina buildingPathergatti, Hyderabad.
. Sri Jagadamba Pearls: 2-4-26, MG RoadOpposite Mahatma Gandhi statue, Secunderabad-3.

Eating out
The word biryani usually springs to mind the minute someone mentions Hyderabad, but there's lots more cooking in its kitchens. The best biryani, of course, is served at Hotel Paradise Persis on M G Road. You could order some Mutton Kebabs to go with it.
Address: Hotel Paradise Persis, M G Road, Hyderabad -- 500 003. Phone: (040) 27843115. Dinner for two costs roughly Rs 200.
To savour the amazing range of cuisine Hyderabad offers today -- from biryani and Chinese to sizzlers -- visit Palace Heights on Abids Road. The roof-top restaurant offers an unique view of the old and new quarters of the city on either side. The manager will help you spot the Charminar and the Golconda fort while you wait for your dinner. Also admire the nawabi decor of the place, complete with portraits of nawabs and maharanis.

Address: Hotel Palace Heights, eighth floor, Triveni Complex, Abids. Dinner for two could cost between Rs 350 and Rs 450.

What to see
Few cities offer a bigger range of historic and modern sights.

Charminar
Synonymous with Hyderabad, the minar -- which stands for the intermingling of Hindu and Islamic traditions -- is imposing by day and breathtaking when lit up at night. Walk up the rather steep and narrow staircase for an exciting view of the city. Tickets: Rs 5 per person.

Golconda Fort
A marvel of military architecture, the fort was once considered impregnable. Today, of course, it welcomes you through its imposing gates, winding alleys and residential quarters before taking you to the Fateh Darwaza or Victory Gate. If you clap your hands at the portico, the sound reverberates miraculously inside the King's chambers on top of the hill. The story of the fort and the different rulers who walked there comes alive in superstar Amitabh Bachchan's voice, as part of an exciting light and sound show every evening (Rs 40 per person).

Salar Jung Museum
Home to one of the largest and most precious collections of art and curios in the world, belonging to the late Hyderabad nobleman, Salar Jung III. From his personal heirlooms to articles reflecting the history of the city, it includes the refined porcelain, bone china, sculpture, clocks, manuscripts and furniture. Admiring it all could take a whole day, but make time for the special museum clock. Like a cuckoo clock, a toy soldier pops out to sound the gong every hour. The clock draws a small crowd to a special viewing area, complete with seating arrangements and close circuit TV.
The museum is open from 9.45 am to 4 pm on all days except Friday. The entry fee is Rs 5. Cameras have to be deposited at counters outside though. Phone: (040) 2457643.

Ramoji Film City
Do not be surprised if you find yourself on a red London bus in Hyderabad , driving around the Taj Mahal and what looks like a Mumbai slum and Mysore's Brindavan garden. Suspend all disbelief for these are mere sets at Ramoji City, a unique theme park-cum-film facility.
Several movie hits, including the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Karan Arjun, were shot here. Situated on the outskirts of the city, its parks, joy rides and stunt and comedy shows make it a favourite picnic spot (Entry: Rs 250 per person).
Show timings. Opening Ceremony: 9.45 am. Alampana Theatre: 12.30am and 3.45 pm (two shows daily). Wild West Stunt Show: 1 pm and 4.30 pm. Closing Ceremony: 5.30 pm
Phone: (8415) 246555/ 246333
Web site: http://www.ramojifilmcity.com/

Laser show at Lumbini Park
Named after the birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini Park along the Hussain Sagar lake looks up at a giant standing Buddha in the middle of the lake. With its Japanese rock garden, dancing fountains and a huge floral clock, it attracts large crowds. Every evening, a laser-light show (Tickets: Rs 30 per person) uses a water screen to project and narrate the history of Hyderabad. After the show, take a stroll down Necklace Road to complete a perfect evening.

Published in Rediff.com, on August 22, 2006
Link: http://specials.rediff.com/getahead/2006/aug/22slid.htm

Travel & Food> Goa Restaurant Guide> Café Mambo - Beach Club

Image: Café Mambo - Beach Club

Image copyright: Tanya Munshi

Café Mambo - Beach Club
As a tourist I should be going gaga about Café Mambo, but somehow my experience has not been very good. Since I’ve had heard so much about Mambo's, I thought of giving it a try. My husband had already been to Mambo’s earlier and he was aware about the service, yet he let me form my opinion.

According to me, Café Mambo is a popular joint for Indian teeny boppers, but as an Indian you don’t feel at home when you enter Mambo's. Mambo’s hasn’t left any great memory, especially with regard to the poor service offered. I personally felt that Indians are not too welcome in a place like Mambo’s which is more open to international tourists. I have nothing against international tourists, they are our guests in our country and more than welcome to visit often. But I don't see why domestic tourists, (if they have the money to spend), should not be catered to, on time.

I had a Chocolate Mousse, which cost Rs. 50/-(from a self help counter), drinks extra. I think, only drinks, seesha and small eats are served at your table (not the desserts.)

Entry fee for Mambo's is Rs. 500/- for a couple, food and drinks, extra. The positive part was we got to dance for a couple of hours, till the music got boring. Mambo's needs a music face lift to keep the crowd grooving for more.

Location:
Café Mambo – Beach Club
Baga - Calangute,
Phone: +91 832279895http://www.titos.in/ and http://www.titos.in/mambo.htm

Overall Rating:
Ambience - * * * * *
Service - *
Presentation of food & drinks - * * *
Quantity of food served - * * * *
Quality of food - Strictly okay!
Price - ****

Travel & Food> Goa Restaurant Guide> Lloyd's

Image1: Crumb fried prawns

Image2: Lloyd's at Candolim

Image3: Pork Chops

Image copyright: Tanya Munshi

Lloyd's
If it’s authentic Goan food that you’re craving for, we highly recommend Lloyd's at Candolim. The speciality of this restaurant - there is no fixed menu. Everything is the fresh catch of day and prepared by Lloyd's mother.

The crumb fried tiger prawns were huge and delicious, the pork chops and xacuti - out of the world. And may we add Lloyd’s became one of our most frequented joints in Goa, especially for the simple ambience that makes you feel at home, and of course Lloyd's company.

Lloyd usually opens his restaurant by evening, which stays open till the clientele keep pouring in (usually till 6am) or till the food gets over. A good meal for two may cost between Rs. 300/- to Rs. 500/-. For us, it didn’t really matter that the food got over, by the time we reached late on a Saturday night for dinner.

Over beer, my husband and I spent many evenings, post dinner (and once without dinner, as it had got over) chatting with Lloyd and his friends. Lloyd's is a hub to meet the locals. I met a chef, got a loads of inputs about Dobermans and Rottweilers from a dog breeder and got to know about more eating out through restaurant owners! In fact, Lloyd's is more popular amongs the locals and it attracts Bollywood stars as well.

Lloyd's is probably one of the few restaurants that is open during off season (starting June/ July till October). An evening at Lloyd's is pure enjoyment - with a drink and of course his mom's cooking! That’s the magic at Lloyd's.

Location:
Lloyd's,
Candolim,
Fort Aguada Road

Overall Rating:
Ambience - * * * * *
Service - * * * * *
Presentation of food & drinks - * * * * *
Quantity of food served - * * * **
Quality of food - * * * * *
Price - * * * * *

Travel & Food> Goa Restaurant Guide> Britto's

Image1: Seafood platter at Britto's

Image2: The menu at Britto's
Image Copyright: Tanya Munshi

Britto's
If it’s a sea food platter with peach ice tea on the side, we recommend Britto’s at the end of Baga Beach. The platter consisted of prawns, baked crab, kingfish fry and oysters. A couple of drinks and a sea food platter will be around Rs. 300/-.

Out of the entire platter, only the baked crab (which was just one piece that you can see), was a let down. It had more stuffing of fish than crab and served rather cold.

One can have lunch/ dinner here, but we opted for this platter and drinks that went well with a book on a lazy day.

Location: Baga Beach end

Overall Rating:
Ambience - * * * * *
Service - * * * * *
Presentation of food & drinks - * * * * *
Quantity of food served - * * * (could have been a little more)
Quality of food - * * * * (the baked crab was a let down)
Price - * * * *

Travel & Food> Goa Restaurant Guide> Zeebop

Clockwise from top: Image 1: Baked Crab, Image 2: Ambience of Zeebop and Image 3: Butter Garlic Squids! - Is your mouth watering yet? :)

Image copyright - Tanya Munshi

The complete foodies that we are, my husband and I after some research, tried out some popular restaurants in Goa. In spite of the reviews by travel guides and magazines, as travellers, we decided to experiment and offer our first hand account. So here goes.

This will be a series of restaurant reviews from Goa, starting from Zeebop.

Zeebop

The ambience is amazing. Cosily nestled in the Utorda Beach, Zeebop is a breather when it comes to beach shacks. The food, though slightly steep was very good. If you’re in a mood for splurging, a meal for two inclusive of drinks, two starters and a main course would cost about Rs. 900/-. The highlight of the menu was butter garlic squids and crab. The crab cost us Rs. 500/-.

I am told that Zeebop looks amazing at night time, when the restaurant is all lit up and with the backdrop of the sea, it adds to the ambience.

Travel tip: Honeymooners, make note of this place; it's worth a visit.

Location:
Zeebop,
Utorda Beach, Opp. Kennilworth Beach Resort.
Phone: 0832-2755333/ 2755977
Email: zeebop@sify.com

Overall Rating:

Ambience - * * * * *

Service - * * * * *

Staff - *****

Presentation of food & drinks - * * * * *

Quantity of food served - * * * * (could have been a little more)

Quality of food - * * * * *

Price - * * * *

Please Note: There are several other restaurants in Goa, which we may not have covered due to shortage of time. But if you have any reviews of restaurants, do post your comments on our blog!

Thanks! :)

T&J

Beauty> Tricks to Handle Oily Skin

Is your skin oily? You need not fret. If you think people with dry or combination skin are better off, you’re mistaken. Having oily skin isn’t all that bad!

Why Oily Skin Occurs
Sebaceous glands produce a healthy lubricant called sebum. When these glands run on overdrive, it results in oily skin. Did you know that sebum actually protects your skin from becoming excessively dry, brittle or cracked? That’s why on a positive note, oily skin is less prone to skin ageing. While oily skin is prone to pimples and blackheads, the good news is that such outbreaks can be controlled.

Skin Care For Oily Skin
o Use a soap-free face wash at least 2-3 times a day. Never over-use a face wash as that will disturb the natural sebum levels of your skin.
o Avoid cream-based cleansers as they will leave your skin oilier.
o Avoid alcohol-based astringents as that may leave your skin feeling stretched. Preferably use rose water or an alcohol free toner/astringent.

Exfoliating Oily Skin
o Use an exfoliating face wash with tea tree oil. Tree tea oil has an anti-septic property that prevents acne.
o Once a week, gently massage a scrub on your face to keep blackheads at bay.
o During a bath, wash your body gently with a soft loofah and a mild exfoliating body wash.

More Tips For Oily Skin
o Always bathe with lukewarm water. Hot or cold water will tamper with your skin texture.
o Half an hour before a shower, rub cucumber and lemon juice mixed in a ratio of 1:1 on your face.
o Add a few drops of eau de cologne to your bath water. The eau de cologne will act like a mild astringent thereby cleaning the pores and preventing pimples.
o Apply a clay/fruit mask once a week to keep the glow and not the shine on your face.
o Apply an oil-free moisturiser after a bath.
o Avoid any kind of body butter, mineral oil or petroleum based lotions/creams.
o Before stepping out, apply oil-free sunscreen lotion (SPF 15).

Published in Tips4me.com, on March 19, 2007
Link: http://www.tips4me.com/tips/beauty/others_main.asp?file=/tips/skincare/facialmassage.htm

Beauty> Say Adios to Premature Grey Hair!

Are you in your twenties and already worrying about a grey hair that showed up? Well, there’s nothing to worry about. All you need to do is review your eating and lifestyle habits to get your natural hair color back.

Food Tips

• A bowl of yoghurt a day keeps grey hair away. Basically, you need to include vitamin B in your diet.
• Avoid oily, artificially flavored and colored food products. Heavy-duty carbohydrates in your diet can reduce antioxidants in the body, making the hair dry and brittle.
• Incorporate cashews, almonds, fish and sea food in your diet. These are rich in melanin, iodine, iron and mineral copper that are essential for healthy hair.

Home Tips

• Massage soaked tea leaves or concentrated tea water on the scalp and leave on for about 10–15 minutes after shampoo. Regular washing of hair with tea extract twice a week helps in converting grey hair to black or brown.
• Make your own hair mask! Mix olive oil and a mashed banana and apply it on your hair. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before a wash. Apply this hair mask once a week for about two months and then stop. You can start this routine again after two months.
• Henna leaves if boiled in coconut oil can be applied as a paste in the hair and washed after an hour of application. Coconut oil and henna make hair black.

Healthy Habits

• Tension and worries are the key culprits causing grey hair. Practice physical exercises like yoga to keep tensions and worries at bay. Physical exercises are a must for proper blood circulation. Blood carries oxygen to every corner of your body, giving you a sense of well being and good health.
• Exercises such as toe touching are good for your hair as the blood reaches the head and scalp, promoting hair growth.
• As far as possible, avoid smoking and drinking. Smoking causes premature greying.
• Refrain from using too many hair products such as sprays or gels. Some chemicals may be harmful and can cause greying due to overuse or prolonged use.
• Heavy intake of caffeine — coffees, colas and teas — can cause premature greying. Keep your caffeine intake moderate — one to two cups per day is ideal.
• Brush your hair thoroughly every night before heading to bed. This will promote blood circulation in the scalp and sound sleep, both essential in preventing greying.

Published in Tips4me.com
Link: http://www.tips4me.com/tips/beauty/preview_main.asp?tip=haircare_commonhair

Recipe> Traditional Indian Egg Curry

Homemade Egg Curry

Egg is an universal favourite. While the debate goes on whether it is vegetarian or non-vegetarian, I prefer sticking to it as simply delicious. As a food lover, personally I would never indulge in such debates, eating – yes.

Egg is versatile—it can be had raw (by health freaks), boiled, par-boiled, roasted, curried, sunny side up/ poached/ bulls eye, omelette, scramble and in curry form. When guests turn up all of a sudden and you are low on ration at home, eggs can come handy. A big pot of rice and a large bowl of piping delicious egg curry is the menu to offer.

Ingredients
o Eggs (of course) – 4-6 nos. (Usually, a person will eat two eggs at a go, so it’s wise to add a couple of extra eggs.)
o Potatoes – 2-3 nos.
o Onions – 1-2 medium size, finely chopped
o Tomatoes – 1-2 medium size, finely chopped
o Ginger – 1-2 teaspoons, finely chopped
o Garlic - 1-2 teaspoons, finely chopped
o Turmeric powder – 1 teaspoon
o Chilli powder – 1 teaspoon
o Green chilli – 1
o Salt – to taste
o Garam masala powder - ½ teaspoon
o Fresh coriander leaves – half a bowl, finely chopped
o Water – 1 cup
o Cooking oil – 1-2 tablespoon

Things you need
o Pressure cooker
o Large wok
o Wooden ladle
o Mixer grinder/ food processor
o Pan

Method
o Boil the eggs and potatoes in a cooker. After the first two whistles, switch off the gas and allow the cooker to cool on its own. You can also boil the eggs in a pan of water for about 20 mins. But then you would have to boil the potatoes too. So, in order to save time, boil them together in a pressure cooker.

o Take out the shell of the eggs and make thin slits on each of them. We’re going to fry the eggs in the wok. By slitting the eggs, you prevent them from bursting and splattering hot oil on you. Fry the boiled potatoes in the same oil and set aside.

o In a mixer grinder/ food processor, add the chopped ginger, garlic and onions and grind them into a fine paste, without adding water.

o In the same oil, add the onion-ginger-garlic paste and fry till golden brown.

o Add all the powders – chilli, turmeric, half a teaspoon of sugar and salt to taste. Fry on a low flame till you see the oil separating from the mixture.

o Pour a cup of water and mix everything well. Once the curry starts boiling, gently drop the potatoes and eggs into the curry.

o Cover and let the potatoes and eggs cook in the curry and steam. Add the garam masala and after about 5-7 minutes, serve hot garnished with fresh chopped coriander leaves.