The Road from Prayagraj: A Second Trial The morning after our symbolic lunch-breakfast, we began our departure from Prayagraj. It turned out to be just as challenging as our arrival. Crowds of pilgrims, like three days before, were trying to leave the city alongside us. We had to take a bus to Varanasi with no […]
Where the Fires Burn: First Encounters with Varanasi Read More »
If you’re new to the Maha Kumbh Mela, you may want to start with my earlier posts:Madness or Faith? A Pilgrimage to the Maha Kumbh Mela explores the initial plunge into the spiritual chaos,while Exploring Hinduism’s Greatest Festival – Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 dives deeper into the rituals, symbolism, and scale of the event. The
To Be or Not to Be: On the Eve of the Great Bathing Read More »
If you’re new to the Maha Kumbh Mela, you may want to start with my earlier posts:Madness or Faith? A Pilgrimage to the Maha Kumbh Mela explores the initial plunge into the spiritual chaos. Morning in Allahabad The next morning, after a leisurely Indian-style breakfast — with mango lassi and various kinds of paneer (a
Exploring Hinduism’s Greatest Festival: Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Read More »
On the Road to Something Vast Passing through Govardhan, where we stayed only briefly during the day, we headed toward our next destination — a place as vast as unpredictable. For those far from Hinduism, among whom I still confidently count myself, on the third day of our pilgrimage through India, we set out for
Madness or Faith? A Pilgrimage to Maha Kumbh Mela Read More »
Hare Krishna – Hare Rama. It sounds almost like “Christ is Risen – Truly He is Risen.” Hare Krishna – Hare Rama: A Familiar Sound Hare Krishna—Hare Rama. It sounds almost like “Christ is Risen—Truly He is Risen.” I embarked on a journey through India with only the vaguest understanding of Hinduism. I remember how
The Divine Heart of India: Vrindavan, Krishna, and Rama Read More »
My first night in Delhi’s Tibetan Quarter completely shattered my ideas about what’s “normal.” We ended up in a dark, showerless room with nothing but a small plastic jug to use instead of a tap. The floor hadn’t seen a mop since Krishna’s time. I wasn’t just hesitant to wash there but afraid to enter.
Delhi Shock: My First Night in India Read More »
Dedication “Which god do you like?” — a question from a statue vendor in Varanasi. This chapter of my journey is dedicated to my beautiful family, who accepted my decision to leave for six months. And to the incredible new friends I met along the way. To Nastya and Mykola – the main guides on
The Word Was with God: How India Found Me Read More »
First Impressions of Bali Discovering Bali began as I stepped off a smooth five-hour flight from Hanoi into Denpasar’s modern and efficient airport. Quick bureaucratic processes made the arrival seamless, and the atmosphere immediately felt like a prelude to the island’s unique charm. My journey started with a weeklong training in human pedagogy called Mzianeti,
Discovering Bali: A Journey Through Culture, Nature, and Spirituality Read More »
The Rice Terraces of Tegallalang: A Living Heritage Creating an insider’s guide to Bali means venturing beyond the tourist trails to discover the authentic heart of this enchanting island. Through local connections and serendipitous moments, I’ve gathered insights that transform a simple visit into a profound cultural immersion. Tegallalang Rice Terraces Any insider’s guide must
Sacred Paths and Hidden Treasures: An Insider’s Guide to Bali Read More »
Embarking on a Hanoi travel experience is stepping into a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern vibrancy. During my two-day visit, I uncovered the charm of Vietnam’s capital through its historical landmarks, serene lakes, and even unexpected adventures like navigating local hotels and salons. Day 1: From Dong Van to the Heart of
Hanoi Travel Experience: Discovering the Best of the Capital in Two Days Read More »
