Southern Style Cooking: July 2022

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Destination of the Day

Udaipur, India

No longer in the shadow of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage City of Jaipur, Udaipur has evolved into a heritage hot-spot and top tourist destination in Rajasthan. This isn't surprising, as the romantic city of lakes and palaces invariably delights visitors with its enchanting setting and evocative regal history. The Mewar royal family has done much to preserve the legacy of their ancestors, who founded Udaipur in the 16th century. In addition to this stately splendor, Udaipur is a laid-back city that offers great value for all types of travelers.

Things to Do

The City Palace Complex—including the City Palace Museum—is Udaipur's star attraction; it's the largest palace complex in Rajasthan and provides incredible insight into the life of the royal family. If you love to shop, Udaipur is famous for its distinctive miniature paintings (the origin of which can be traced back to royalty), though you will also find an abundance of irresistible handicrafts in the city's markets. Of course, simply taking a boat ride on Lake Pichola or wandering the city's neighborhoods are some of the most enjoyable things to do in Udaipur. Do allow some time for a day trip or two into the surrounding countryside—there are some interesting options, including ancient forts and temples.

What to Eat

Distinct from predominantly vegetarian Rajasthani cuisine, the local Mewari cuisine in Udaipur features an assortment of rustic meat dishes, as the royal rulers of the region were avid hunters. Laal Maas (spicy red mutton curry) is the most famous dish, while fresh fish from the region's lakes is part of the cuisine, too. Vegetarians, on the other hand, can try regional specialties such as Gatte ki Sabji (steamed chickpea flour dumplings in a tangy tomato and yogurt curry) and Dal Bati Churma. See our round-up of the best restaurants in Udaipur for dinner with a view.

Where to Stay

The majority of Udaipur's accommodations are situated on Lake Pichola's east side, in the Lal Ghat, Gangaur Ghat, and Chandpole areas bordering the lake. This is in the heart of the old part of the city, so you'll have easy access to the main attractions. Across the bridge, the northwest side of Lake Pichola around Hanuman Ghat is quieter, but hotels proliferate. The benefit of staying on this side of the lake is that you'll be able to see the City Palace across the lake.

Vacation Like a Pro

If hot weather isn't an issue, the Gangaur festival takes place in April and is the biggest festival of the year in Udaipur. The three-day Mewar festival, dedicated to showcasing the region's culture, is held alongside it and is a fun experience.

Sharell Cook
Contributing Writer

Your Packing List

Udaipur's narrow lanes are ideally explored on foot, so do bring comfortable walking shoes. If you're visiting during monsoon season (late June through September), consider packing a pair of rainboots or quick-drying sneakers. We recommend Bogs Kicker Loafers, which look like your favorite casual sneakers, but with a twist: they're water-resistant, so your feet stay comfortable and supported when the weather isn't looking its finest.

Dress standards are fairly conservative in Udaipur. It's respectful to keep your shoulders and legs below the knee covered. Ladies, if it's hot and you want to wear a sleeveless top or dress, solve the problem by throwing on a shawl when necessary.

Planning your visit around the Gangaur festival? Be sure to pack lightweight, loose clothing and a sun hat.

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No visit to York, England is complete without stopping off at The Shambles, a tumble-down medieval street complete with cobbled pavements and overhanging buildings. Regularly voted the U.K.'s most picturesque street, The Shambles is now home to plenty of independent shops and tiny cafés. Some even speculate that the street was the inspiration behind Diagon Alley, and there's certainly plenty of magic remaining in its history-imbued charms.