It was time for some city time. We were onto Mumbai, formerly Bombay. A coastal city with an immense amount of commerce, which attracts businesses and people from all over the world lending to a diverse cosmopolitan feel, to the tune of almost 22 million inhabitants.
Gone was the slow pace of staring down a camera lens at wildlife. In its place, we were whisked to a Bollywood dance class to quite literally move us into step with the pace of the city.
Juices flowing, we alighted into the city to see its sights by van and upon foot. Old and new blended together in Mumbai like few other cities. Turning a corner from the push of progression and we were in the heart of a spice market. Chiles drying in the sun on the side of the road, sweet and spicy smells lingering in the air, and the gossip of women, waiting for their generations-old family recipes of dry spice mixes to be finished, filling the air—head on a swivel, I endeavored to take it all in.
Spice Market Mumbai
Lunch was in a candy shop where I half expected to glimpse an Oompa-Loompa. The appetizers were sweets before a savory main course, which was followed by, you guessed it, a sweet dessert. Caffeinated brains and sugary veins propelled us through the rest of our city tour.
Dinner that night was a 13-course meal in Ekaa, a fine dining experience to be marveled at. Each course carefully crafted under the leadership of the head chef, who cut her teeth at Noma in Copenhagen. The cocktails were created with love and care with exacting chemistry. The wine list was on par with the finest of restaurants.
Satiated per usual, we were back to the Taj Palace Hotel for a comfortable sleep before out departure the next day. Our time in Mumbai would be brief but jampacked. I left feeling that it was a city that warranted more exploration… it’s always good to leave something for another day.
Rapa Nui was on my bucket list for a long time so I worried that it would not meet my expectations. Our tour could not have been better. Our guide was knowledgeable and professional with an understanding of the island that made it come alive. I would and have recommended this trip to everyone that will listen.
elisa wright
4 days ago
Having done a trip in the past with Adventure Life, I found picking a trip and customizing it was a breeze and fit everything I wanted
Scott Drayer
5 days ago
Careful service
older gentleman
5 days ago
We had to book within a certain time. Adventure Life came to our rescue as most of the other operators were sold out. We went with the website ad on Big Five Borneo Tour for 6 days 5 nights. Adventure Life was professional, timely and honest about the itinerary for small groups at a reasonable cost. This was our first time with Adventure Life. From the beginning to the end, they were supportive, responded to email immediately and provided emergency contacts through out our stay. As indicated, the deluxe accommodations were luxurious, there were 3 meals a day including early morning coffee was available before the 6am river cruises and evening tea. The itinerary was well laid out, to time and the guides/drivers though different after 2 days for river cruise and for the cave, were experienced, we felt safe. We were lucky to see the Big Four, except the orangutan on our tours at Sukau and the orangutan with the baby was at the poolside of the Sukau Rainforest Lodge. The meals were alright without variety. Wifi was in/near reception area. We stayed 3 nights at Sukau and 2 nights at Utan. The two lodges were different. Utan focused on animals and birds not seen at Sukau on plenty of nature walks, night safaris and river cruises. Utan is a new lodge started in July 2024, smaller, luxurious and intimate. The meals were excellent with a personal touch. Guide was very experienced and willing to take us on more nature walks to see our luck for the animals which were missed. Utan provided knee length rubber boots and binoculars can be rented (try it out before you take on tours). Initially we were disappointed not getting the accommodation at Danum Valley but after Utan experience we had it all. We will recommend Adventure Life to those looking for worry free adventures at a reasonable cost.
