Describe a faraway place that you would like to visit

• What place is it

• Where is it located

• How would you go there

Well, there are so many places I want to travel. Right now at the top of my list is Ladakh. I know, it’s very cold there, but I heard people say it’s an awesome destination for its rugged snow-capped mountains and flickering starry night skies. A lot of popular Indian movies have been filmed in Ladakh out of which my favourite is Lakshya.

The distance between Phagwara and Ladakh is approximately 800 km. Like many youngsters in India, I want to visit Ladakh on my Royal Enfield Bike. Without a doubt, I want to go on vacation there for at least 2 weeks with some of my adventurous friends who share the love of the outdoors like me. Actually, I don’t think 2 weeks is enough, although staying longer would be too expensive for me.

Ladakh is renowned for its mountain beauty and culture. The mountains in this region do not have any trees, rather they are dry mountains While we are there I think we will take some guided tours to see the picturesque landscapes. I don’t think it’s wise to go travelling to the frozen tundra without an expert local guide.

When we are in the capital Leh, we will take some self-guided tours to see the Nowshera Bazaar, Moti Market, Tibetan Refugee Market and eat at some of the local restaurants to sample some of the traditional cuisines.

I don’t have the entire trip planned yet, especially what we will see and do. It’s all in my imagination based on what other people told me about their vacation there, looking at photos on the internet, and reading about it on Tripadvisor.

I think after my Aunt and Uncle told me about their vacation in Ladakh, I have this itch to go, especially to see the eye-catching Northern sights. I’m sure I can bear the frigid climate. I will stay warm in the hotel by the fireside and sip hot chocolate or coffee all day. I can’t wait to go!

Follow-ups

• Why do some people prefer to travel within their own country and not abroad?

I suspect that they fear what they will encounter in another country, or maybe they don’t have enough money to travel. I’ll say for sure the former. I guess they are insecure when it comes to other cultures and people not like them. Whatever the reason, they are missing out on a world filled with adventurous places to see and wonderful people to meet. I hope one day they can set off and encounter another country to see what they are missing.

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of booking vacations/holidays online?

Hmmm, I’m not really sure about this question? I need a little time to gather my thoughts…..Well, being that there are many travel apps available; I’d say that’s one benefit. As a result, more and more travellers book their vacations online. I too, book my travel using the internet and I wouldn’t do it any other way because I control and manage my decisions. So, if I pick an awful hotel, I have only me to blame. Alternatively, I believe some vacationers like the personal touch travel agents provide them. Also, they don’t have to stress out making the arrangements.

• Do you think people are prepared for emergencies when they go on vacation/holiday?

I for one don’t think I’m ready if an accident would occur while vacationing. I think most people don’t even think about it themselves when they are out of town. I would say though, everybody should have a plan in case an unfortunate event would occur. Things like travel insurance, emergency contacts and numbers, and maybe even life insurance should be included in the plan.