While everyone is familiar with the Taj Mahal in Agra, it is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the many historical structures, buildings, and landmarks all over the country. The structures and buildings are the remnants of the rich and storied history of the country, both before and after India's independence in 1947. These structures, which range from stunning temples to magnificent palaces and mausoleums, are an important part of India's culture, heritage, and identity and while it's important to preserve these structures, it's also important to preserve the history of India and it's influence on the rest of the world. Many of these structures are also part of UNESCO's World Heritage site, which has helped preserve them for the future.

Humayun's Tomb is especially significant because its architecture was later used as the blueprint for the Taj Mahal - one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Mirak Mirza Ghiyas from Persia was commissioned to build the tomb in 1569, just after the death of the Mughal emperor Humayun in 1556. The tomb is built on a 25-acre plot that has a four-sided garden, which is then divided into 36 smaller squares. Sadly, during the partition of India and Pakistan, Humayun's Tomb was used as a refugee camp for a few years and sustained quite a bit of damage as a result.

Qutub Minar, the tower of Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, was built by the founder of the Mamluk dynasty, Qutb-ud-Din. His son-in-law Iltutmish added a fourth story and embossed it with stones. It was later damaged by lightning and King Firoz Shah Tughlaq commissioned repairs and added a fifth story. The first three floors are made of red sandstone while the two upper floors are made of marble and sandstone. The intricate carvings from Quran on each floor will leave you amazed. 

The Red Fort is a stunning example of traditional Mughal architecture that has been expertly blended with Persian and European influences. The fort was originally built with lime plaster, but as it started to peel, the British painted it red. The Pearl Mosque was built near Emperor Aurangzeb's chamber. The Red Fort campus features a fusion of Persian, European, and Indian architectural styles.

The Purana Qila is an excellent example of architectural harmony between Muslim and Hindu styles. Sher Shah built the Qila and surrounded it with a city. Humayun, Talaqi, and Bara Darwaza are the three gates of the fort. Sandstone was used to build each double-tier rampart. The gates were surrounded by a moat through which the Yamuna used to flow once upon a time.

Sher Mandal is a historic building situated inside Purana Qila. It was built by the Mughal emperor Humayun as an observatory, library, and pleasure house. Sher Mandal is octagonal in structure and consists of two stories. The floors are made of marble and the building is constructed of local red sandstone. Both floors are crowned with a verandah that runs around the perimeter.

The legendary poet Mirza Ghalib's haveli is one of Delhi's most remarkable structures that is often overlooked. Ghalib's house has sandstone floors and Lakhori bricks, with arched corridors enclosing a courtyard on three sides. The structure represents the architectural style at the end of the Mughal era. Unfortunately, only a portion of the haveli was acquired and restored by the government; the remainder has fallen into disrepair.

After relocating his capital from Agra to Shahjahanabad, Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of the Jama Masjid (Old Delhi). It took about six years to build in red sandstone and marble. The interiors are reminiscent of Agra's Jama Masjid. The courtyard floor is sandstone, with marble strips indicating prayer positions to the average citizen.

The Tughlaqabad Fort was built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty in Delhi, to keep enemies out and to serve as the king's capital. Its double-tiered bastions and massive ramparts are architectural marvels. Inside the fort were grand mosques, an audience hall, and beautiful palaces in an Indo-Islamic style.

Mirza Muqim Abul Mansur Khan, also known as Safdar Jung, is buried at the Safdarjung Tomb. It was made of sandstone and marble, and after his death, his son Nawab Shujaud Daula begged the Mughal emperor to allow him to build a tomb for his father in Delhi. The tomb was designed by an Abyssinian architect to look like Humayun's Tomb.

 

It's baffling, I must say. A few years ago, getting nails done wasn't a fad in the country, but now, forget the women in their late 20s and 30s, even the school kids are getting acrylic extensions and gel nails. 

I've always been a lover of nail polish, but most of my life—well, at least the college years—I've had only black nails. In fact, one of the two names I had jotted down for my blog back in 2013 was "The Girl with the Black Nail Polish". No kidding, I swear.

Later as I got more comfortable with colours, I went for red nails, and then grew fond of pastels. Eventually, now, I am okay with most colours except royal blue, green, and yellow. There was a phase in my life when I would paint my nails regularly, but that eventually faded with the kind of effort it took. 

All of a sudden, in what seemed like a blink of an eye, girls around me started "getting their nails done". I thought those were acrylic extensions at first, but later I was introduced to this amazing concept called gel nails. 

When you get a manicure, your nails are coated with regular nail polish and dried in a dryer. But what if you're a busy person and want to save some time? That's where gel nail polish comes in! Gel polish is similar to traditional nail polish, but it's a lot more durable and doesn't chip as easily. When you want to take it off, you just need to put on some nail polish remover and the gel polish will dissolve. On the other hand, traditional nail polish will need an acetone-based chemical to be dissolved away.

Another difference between gel vs regular nail polish is that gel polish needs to be cured under a UV or an LED lamp, while regular nail polish is dried naturally. 

Now the answer you're looking for...

Well, it depends. Maybe you can try it once and see for yourself what difference it brings to your outfits, mood, and perspective. For me, gel nails make me feel decked up and complete (when it comes to my looks). The shine on the nails can be seen even in photographs! They last long...between three to four weeks without chipping. Just the nail growth can make the polish move upwards, which eventually will look unattractive. However, chipping is rare. 

If you ask me, it totally depends. For someone with a work-from-home job, it might not be worth it, but for those who step out, socialize and do a lot of clicking, gel nails would complement your look. They retail somewhere between Rs 400 to Rs 2000 for ten fingertips. That may be expensive for some, and affordable for others. 

I'd suggest giving it a try. Pick a festive season such as your birthday, festivals, events or trips and get your nails painted. That way, you'll have neat nails during the peak time plus you won't regret it later.

There's one hidden cost behind gel nails: The removal of the polish requires additional charges, and although I could peel it off my nails, most probably you'll have to visit the salon after a month to get the polish removed! For a good salon, the charges for gel nails are around Rs 1200+ with Rs 400 as the charge for the removal. So keep this hidden cost in mind before you prep yourself. 

Go for darker shades initially to avoid turmeric staining. We don't want any disappointment at the very first attempt now, do we? If you hate long nails, cut your nail short and hit the salon. You'll find your nails grow gracefully along with nail polish.

I honestly loved the fact that my nails would shine at all times, irrespective of the occasion. I may not get it just for the sake of it, but perhaps during my birthday or a festival or a trip, I might just go for it! 

Goa is one of the most preferred travel destinations in India that lures travellers back forever with its picture-perfect beaches, thrilling activities, lively parties and laid-back vibe. But if you've never been to Goa before and only have 48 hours to spend, there are still plenty of things you can do to make your trip memorable. Even a short trip to Goa is not just about the three Bs - beach, bikinis and booze - but about the vibrant culture, delicious food, and the sites and music. Don't be fooled that it's just a small state only known for its beaches. Goa has so much to offer that you'll fall in love with it the moment you get to experience it for yourself! So, if you're looking for an itinerary for 2 days in Goa, here are the things you should make it a point to see and do...

Start your morning off with a peaceful walk along Baga beach - you'll be able to enjoy the sound and sights of the sea without all the crowds that show up later in the day. If Baga beach is too crowded for your liking, Calangute beach is only a mile away and offers a similar experience. Once you've worked up an appetite, there are plenty of food shacks along the beach serving Goan cuisine as well as international dishes while you soak in the stunning sea panorama.

Mojigao is a great breakfast option located in Assagao known for its relaxed and rustic vibe. This forest cafe celebrates the quintessential susegad lifestyle. With its salads, smoothies, granola, juices, and coffee,  this green paradise is a great place to take a break from the everyday hustle and just relax. (Also a pretty place for all those remote working folks!)

After Mojigao, I recommend pit stopping at Babka, for its delicious & soft babka (of course), but also for its other sweet dishes, if that's what you're looking for! A cosy place with aesthetic decor, head to any of the North Goan beaches for watersports next! 

Whether it's Baga, Calangute, Anjuna or Dona Paula, indulge in adventurous activities like windsurfing, water-skiing, kayaking, knee-boarding, scuba diving, banana rides, parasailing, and wakeboarding - to name a few. 

After getting your adrenaline fix, take a stroll down to Sinquerim village where you can explore some history. The 17th-century Portuguese fort, named Fort Aguada, and the four-story lighthouse are popular among tourists for their stunning views of Goa's coastline and rich historical value.

Make a food stop at Wok & Roll or Bomra’s, all located near Fort Aguada. Once you’re full, walk over to Chapora Fort - a very popular historical landmark in Goa known for its breathtaking view of the confluence of the Chapora River and the Arabian Sea. You can also get a view of Anjuna beach and Vagator beach from here. This place is perfect for some Instagram-worthy moments, so make sure to keep your camera ready!

Looking for a little retail therapy on your trip to Goa? Then you're in luck! The Saturday Night Market, Anjuna Flea Market (Wednesdays), and Mapusa Market (Fridays) are all great places to find unique items, souvenirs, and great deals on everything from clothing to household goods. Even if you don't plan on buying anything, it's still worth checking out these markets for the vibrant local atmosphere and the chance to bargain for some amazing deals!

Looking to let loose and have some fun? Then head on over to Tito's Lane where you'll find plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Whether it's the cosy Cocktails & Dreams or the Pink Elephant, enjoy free cocktails/discounts on cocktails as you witness the crazy nightlife of Goa. 

Alternatively, if you're looking for a wild party, then Anjuna beach is the place to be. Hippies and tourists congregate there for trance parties and full-moon parties. If you'd prefer a more laid-back evening, then any of the many shacks on the beaches with outdoor seating on the sand will do nicely. Kick back with a drink or two and enjoy the delicious food while watching the sun set into the sea.

Goa is home to one of the best nightlife in India, so don't dare miss out on the happening nightlife! The best place to end your night is at Las Olas, a Bollywood club that is known for its groovy music. The club runs until six in the morning, so party hard to end the first night in Goa. 

Cafe Bodega is the perfect place to start your day off with a delicious breakfast and a cup of coffee while enjoying the beautiful art pieces on display in the Sunaparanta Centre for the Arts courtyard. After taking in some culture, you can head over to Old Goa to explore its colonial history. The area is full of 16th- and 17th-century cathedrals, churches, and other historical buildings that are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Consider spending your afternoon exploring Goa's Latin Quarter, Fontainhas. It's conveniently located near Old Goa and can easily be reached by bus or car. This area of Goa was highly influenced by the Portuguese and you'll see reminders of this throughout Fontainhas. Meander along the narrow, winding streets and take in all the colourful colonial houses and cottages with their artistic doors, red-tiled roofs, and overhead balconies.

For lunch, I recommend heading over to Mum's Kitchen for some authentic Goan cuisine. They serve excellent dishes like pork vindaloo, mushroom xacuti, prawn curry, and Goan bread. Then, to finish up your Latin Quarter tour on a sweet note, stop by Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro for a Swiss roll or Bebinca (an Indo-Portuguese dessert). It's one of the oldest bakeries in Goa and it's definitely worth a visit!

Nothing screams Goa like the pretty sunsets! Head to Purple Martini, Thalassa, or Titlie. These places get quickly booked, so don't forget to reserve a table! After a sundowner at these gorgeous sea-facing restaurants, head to Hammerzz or Club Cubana and party until 4:00am...or for a relaxed karaoke night by the beach, head to St. Anthony's shack. 

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