Voices of Zafigo is where we ask women who are living in a city, what their tips and advice would be for women travelling to the city for work or for leisure, especially for the first time, that could help make their travels to the city better, safer, more interesting and more enjoyable.
If you’re keen on sharing your own tips on a city you live in for fellow female travellers, write in to us at [email protected].
What’s your name and your current profession?
My name is Namrata Juneja, and I’m a features writer.Tell us a bit about yourself:
I have lived in Bangladesh, Dubai and for the past four years, Delhi, where a large part of my family lives. I just completed my Bachelors in Design and Communication from the National Institute of Fashion Technology. On a completely unrelated note, I spend my spare time making music, which is a huge part of my life.What are your tips and advice for a female traveller to New Delhi that can make their stay, either for work or for leisure, safer, easier, better and more enjoyable? Anything about the city that may be different and unique that she should be aware/careful of?
Delhi is a rich and happening city but it is known to be unsafe, especially for women. While this is true, you just need to remain aware of your surroundings and you’ll do just fine (and have fun, at that too). Always keep maps handy, so that when travelling by public transport, you have a fair idea of where you’re headed. I’d say stick to auto rickshaws and cabs, and if you’re feeling a tad adventurous, you can try the metro. Steer clear of local buses. South Delhi is relatively more open and safe, so you can wear what you want – especially in areas like Khan Market, Hauz Khas Village and Saket. When venturing to other parts (like the West, North and East Delhi), dressing conservatively is advised.What are your recommended top three (or more) must-try experiences and activities for a female traveller in Delhi?
Hauz Khas Village is the place to hit up for an exciting nightlife. They have a plethora of bars, restaurants and a bunch of live gigs and events that are always happening. Additionally, Cyber Hub in Gurgaon also hosts a large number of well-known restaurants and concept chains. For thrift shopping, I’d suggest Sarojini Nagar and Janpath. They’re chaotic but bright and cheery, and if you look carefully, you can find some great deals on clothes and accessories. There are groups like Delhi Food Walks and Delhi by Cycle that were created solely to help tourists explore the city, especially Old Delhi, an area filled with historical monuments and sumptuous traditional food. You can find out more here.What are your recommended top three (or more) must-try foods?
Chandni Chowk for chicken kebabs and paranthas (or paratha, an Indian flat bread). Karim’s at Karim Hotel in Old Delhi is famous for their non-vegetarian dishes, especially the mutton burra. Order some piping hot rotis to go with it. Manju Ka Tila in North Delhi for a spot of Tibetan food. Don’t leave without trying the dry la-phing (mung bean jelly noodles with chilli), pineapple beer, and spinach and cheese momos (dumplings) at Big Apple. For North Indian fine dining, I’d recommend Gulati at Pandara Road. Try the butter chicken. For Italian eats, The Big Chill Cafe is one of Delhi’s oldest and most popular joints. They do a mean Oreo cheesecake too.
We will be launching Zafigo’s City Guide for Delhi soon. Stay tuned!
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