Traveling & Rejuvenation
Interview by: Ganeev Kaur, SPA Intern
Being a Sikh Couple and Traveling:
Manmeet and Harpreet, a Sikh couple, treasure their tradition of visiting local Gurdwaras while traveling. In Thailand, they embraced the vibrant Thai Sikh Community and relished Guru Ka Langar with delectable Thai cuisine, leaving them with fond memories. The inclusive atmosphere, where announcements were made in Punjabi, Thai, and English, deeply touched Harpreet, making them feel at home.
Their journey continued to Myanmar, where Manmeet found his favorite Gurdwara. Although the Sikh community there may be small, their spirit of Seva Bhavna shines brightly, actively helping others in need and spreading Sikh values. Beyond their own community, this small but mighty group took the initiative to educate and introduce Sikhi to locals, fostering understanding and respect among cultures. Witnessing such devotion reaffirmed Manmeet and Harpreet's faith in the power of Sikh values to inspire and uplift communities worldwide. Their travels have humbled them with a shared sense of unity and love transcending borders. Guided by Guru Nanak's teachings, they embody the essence of Sikhism, serving others and spreading universal compassion. This couple's journey is a testament to the profound impact that travelers can have on the world when guided by the principles of their faith.
The beauty of traveling, according to Harpreet, is that everyone seems happy. Manmeet and Harpreet have only had positive experiences while traveling. There are people who are curious, and that’s okay! Harpreet claims it’s as simple as breaking the ice and saying hello to spark a conversation. As you break the ice with a smile, it opens up the dialogue. Manmeet and Harpreet even met one of their closest travel buddies and now lifelong friends, Marilyn and Danny.
Tips & Tricks:
Manmeet and Harpreet, seasoned travelers with a wealth of experiences, generously share their invaluable tips for enhancing your travel adventures, from planning to your return!
Master the world of airline points and travel websites. Discover the benefits of accumulating airline points and explore essential travel websites. Among Manmeet and Harpreet's favorites are:
Chase Sapphire Reserve: A credit card offering great rewards.
Vacationstogo: For exploring exciting cruise options.
Skyscanner: Ideal for finding affordable flights.
Kayak: Your go-to for comprehensive travel packages.
TravelVue: A platform for discovering new destinations and experiences.
Travel lightly, pack smartly. When it comes to packing, remember less is more. Manmeet and Harpreet advise against overpacking and suggest opting for dry-fit clothes, which are lightweight and easy to handwash during your journey. Embrace minimalism and leave unnecessary items behind.
Embrace the local language. Learn a few simple greetings in the languages spoken in the places you visit. Manmeet emphasizes that knowing just a few phrases shows locals your genuine interest in their culture and opens doors to more engaging conversations.
Stay vigilant and aware. No matter how experienced a traveler you are, being conscious of your surroundings is crucial. Stay cautious with your belongings and avoid carrying anything too valuable. Being aware can help prevent potential mishaps and ensure a smoother journey.
Keep important information handy. Always have backup copies of essential documents. Manmeet and Harpreet recommend leaving copies of passports, licenses, and travel insurance documents with loved ones back home. Having this backup can be a lifesaver in case of any unexpected situations during your travels.
With these travel tips from Manmeet and Harpreet, you can elevate your globetrotting experiences, making each adventure more enjoyable, culturally immersive, and hassle-free. Happy travels!
Top 5 + Remarks
Embracing the spirit of wanderlust, Manmeet and Harpreet have thoughtfully compiled their most cherished destinations. From the captivating landscapes of Iceland to the cultural splendors of India, and the allure of Thailand, Portugal, Switzerland, and Greece, their travel choices beautifully reflect their love for exploring the diverse facets of our world.
Manmeet's Top 5 Countries: Thailand, Switzerland, Iceland, India, United States
Harpreet's Top 5 Countries: Thailand, Portugal, India, Greece, Iceland
For those who are interested in following Harpreet and Manmeet’s journey or are curious about their past travel experiences, you can follow Harpreet on Facebook & Instagram and Manmeet on Facebook.
About the Authors:
Harpreet Kaur, an Emmy-winning filmmaker, and Manmeet Singh, her activist husband have traveled to over 75 countries together. Whether together or separately, the two make it their mission to indulge in the chaos of hopping from place to place while enjoying different cultures and scenery.