P for Pondicherry

Do you ever, when you read a book or see a film, dream about going to that exact place? I do. My vivid imagination can take me on a spin and wander off to the weirdest places. I dreamed about traveling to the foot of Ngong Hills with Robert Redford when I saw Out of Africa, I was totally on that Beach with Leonardo, and I was strolling the alleyways of that little village in France with Meryl Streep in Julia&Julie.
But by all means: sometimes I also think: Never. Ever am I going to go to that place!

When I first read Life of Pi, this name came up. I had heard it before and the uniqueness had made me curious. And then, reading about it - even more. Pondicherry. The place Pi lived in India before he left with his family for a new future in Canada. Now, let me just say that my dream destination is not being alone on a small boat with a tiger.. Going to Pondicherry on the other hand... Yes. That I would like to do.

Life of Pi

Pi in Pondicherry

Very moving scene from the film. Pi and Anandi at the pier, Pondicherry

Pondicherry is on the south-east coast of India, and is often described as a quiet little town. I have never been there (but want to go) - so you may or may not trust my words on this..:-) It's history as a French Colony is visible with boulevards, colonial heritage buildings, street signs in French and the cuisine. And it has a coastline with beautiful beaches and piers. (from where Pi left on the ship)

It seems to me that Pondicherry, (fondly called Pondy), has an intriguing mix: French colonial heritage (some buildings from the 18th century), Tamil culture and a touch from many nationalities - all in a small but varied town. I have been told that the town is built based on very organized city plans, and you can find clean streets, churches, temples, and gorgeous houses painted in cream, yellow, pink and grey with vivid flowers - a beauty for the eye.

There are quiet beaches and peaceful resorts to the north and south of the town, and Pondy seems like the perfect base if you want to explore the whole area.. (f.ex if you, like I do, would like to visit Tamil Nadu). It is close to Chennai, and there are a lot of options for your stay like: beach resorts, heritage hotels, high class hotels or neat Ashram Guest Houses (perfect for the spiritual seeker). Whether you are interested in history, culture, spiritual inspiration or shopping- you might find something in Pondy! And for you foodies and beach lovers - yup, for you too...   

Peaceful Pondicherry - I would like to Give time a Break (their slogan) and I do hope to visit one day! Not in the far future. Seems like a good place to be. If you have similar plans please do check out: the website of Tourism. Pondicherry.

So, from party- ing with the Olympic Gods yesterday, to strolling in Pondicherry today... We sure travel fast and wild, dear reader? And it doesn't stop here.. Tomorrow we are off to yet another dream destination.. Q... here we come!

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1-30 April I participate in the A to Z blogger challenge, and this post is written as a part of that. My theme for the challenge is Dream Destinations. I hope you had fun coming along. Please stay tuned for a new destination tomorrow:-) 

Go to atozchallenge.com