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Best ESIM for Travellers and Content Creators

Ketki Gadre — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 12:16:49 +0000

Business travellers, professional executives on work trips and content creators move through airports, hotel lobbies, and overseas offices with tight agendas still have deliverables. Each trip outside demands tools that keep them connected without extra effort. Having the best travel eSIM is a saviour in such a scenario.

Mobile access plays a central part in this pace because vital files, business plans, work schedules, and team updates depend on a stable link. Any break in service can interrupt planning and create needless friction during packed work trips.

On my recent trips to UAE, South Korea and Uzbekistan, I have relied on a steady tool that has helped me adapt across borders into new region without delays – eSIM for travellers! ESIM delivers a simple and flexible setup that fits the fast pace of global trips, and it offers a smoother path through each country without heavy preparation. This lets travellers handle their workload without losing momentum while moving between regions. Following are some of the reasons to shift to ESIMs during travel.

Best esim for travel

eSIM FOR TRAVELLERS – WHAT, WHY AND HOW

Reliable connectivity

Travellers whether business or for content, depend on consistent mobile access to handle messages, approvals, and last-minute changes before entering meeting rooms or posting content on social media. A reliable eSIM for travellers ensures uninterrupted connection as soon as the flight lands. This helps the travellers stay aligned with quick shifts in plans while keeping the schedule in order.

The ease of automatic activation supports travllers who do not have time for local store visits. The device links to a local network without extra steps, which is perfect after a long haul flight. This helps create a natural flow during heavy travel cycles.

Smooth transitions across regions

A single trip sometimes include several borders. And eSIM for travellers that support fast movement from one country to the next without delays matters the most. A digital profile that adjusts to each new market brings a sense of steadiness to a packed schedule.

This adaptability keeps communication clear through each stop. There is no pause for hardware changes or unclear instructions. Executives move on with their work while the device handles the rest.

Esims for travellers

Secure handling

Business travellers exchange confidential reports and private messages across departments. Protecting these materials is part of their daily routine. A secure mobile connection supports that responsibility and keeps sensitive details away from unprotected networks.

A digital profile helps limit exposure to risky hotspots because the device connects through trusted mobile systems. This supports a safe flow of documents during important trips.

Cost stability

Travel budgets operate more smoothly when charges stay predictable. Traditional roaming plans can create uncertain costs that affect planning. A digital setup designed for movement across several countries helps keep charges steady.

This clarity helps travellers avoid unpleasant surprises during trips. The office finance teams also appreciates a pattern they can track without guesswork.

Simple Setup

No matter the kind of travellers, every one needs tools that simplify their load. A digital setup installed through a quick scan or QR code gives them a quick and clean start. There is no need to handle a physical card or deal with hardware parts.

This fits the lifestyle of frequent travelers who receive sudden travel plans. They can prepare their device within minutes and shift their attention to the work ahead. This convenience adds value to their entire travel routine.

Esims for travel

Confidence during high-stakes engagements

High-impact sessions call for a clear mindset and reliable access to schedules, documents, and quick updates. A solid digital setup keeps work executives and business professionals grounded. It allows to step into important discussions with fewer concerns about technical issues.

This reliability helps leaders stay focused throughout the day. They can pull up files, respond to urgent notes, and coordinate with staff spread across distant regions. This contributes to stronger performance during important engagements.

Efficient support for hybrid work models

Many companies rely on teams spread across several countries. Executives need uninterrupted access to shared platforms and staff messages to maintain steady progress during trips. A digital profile that adapts across borders supports this structure.

It helps leaders handle approvals, brief teams, and align schedules without delays. This supports strong teamwork across time zones and keeps leadership activities running smoothly. It also helps companies operate in a cohesive way despite distance. Having access to the best travel eSIM makes this possible by giving them immediate access without searching for local plans or swapping cards.

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Crafts of Kutch: 15 Vibrant and Colourful Showstopper Souvenirs from Kutch

Ketki Gadre — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 06:59:26 +0000

The arid lands of Kutch that encapsulate White Rann (Salt Desert) are always brimming with colours and vibrancy at each and every corner. Be it the saddle of the camel or the turban of local men, be it the colourful jewellery of Kutchi women or the walls of the houses, everything is drenched in colours. Hop on board, as I take you on a sensuous journey to the Crafts of Kutch.

Crafts of Kutch

The colourful and vibrant crafts of Kutch are all handmade. The artisans of Kutch behind each of these crafts have perfected the techniques through generations. Whether it is embroidery, metalwork, painting or woodwork, the weaves of Kutchi craft are brimming with innovative designs so that it appeals to the current generation. These handicrafts of Kutch are perfect souvenirs for gifting or as home accessories. Let’s dive into them!

It is possible to see artists work on each of these crafts of Kutch. Most artists work from their homes in Kutch villages. They will be happy to invite you into their homes too!

Beadwork

Gujarat is the centre for Moti Bharat (Beadwork). Bead craft is the art of making household decorative items and jewellery using beads of various sizes and colours. Although the Saurashtra region is more involved in beadwork, Kutchi locals have also adopted this art. Over the years, bead craft has undergone a number of changes in motifs, colours and production of articles which has now been diversified with new forms of motifs and colours.

Traditionally glass beads were used in beadwork, however, to lower the production cost, nowadays plastic beads are being used. The beads are tightly held together with plastic thread and tied to form designs.

Kutch village famous for Bead Work: Bhujodi, Rann Utsav Tent City (Dhordo)

Bead art items range: INR 250 onwards

Bead work jewellery | One of the best crafts of Kutch

Hand embroidery | The best embroidery of Gujarat

Hand embroidery in India is synonymous with every state and some of the famous works include Katha work, Chikankari work, Phulkari, Aari work, Zardosi work and many more. Hand embroidery in Kutch uses colourful threads, mirrors and other embellishments. The regional techniques used in Kutch embroidery include – Soof, Kharek, Pakko, Rabari, Jat and Mutwa. Women in each community embroider using specific stitches and motifs as a form of individual and community expression.

Pakko work and Rabari work is more popular amongst the visitors. ‘Pakko’ means solid and this stitch is characterised by compact stitches of square chain and double buttonhole stitches. It uses mirrors and a unique black outlining using satin stitch. The Rabari embroidery originates from the Rabari community, which uses mirrors of different shapes and sizes along with a complex pattern of chain stitches. A number of colours are utilised for decoration.

The utility items made using hand embroidery include bed sheets, table runners, cushion covers, bags, wallets, etc.

Kutch village famous for Hand Embroidery: Hodka, Gandhi nu Gaam (Ludiya)

Hand Embroidery items range: INR 100 onwards

Handmade blouses, purses and other Kutchi handicrafts

Rogan Art | Crafts of Kutch famous worldwide

Rogan Art seems to have descended to Kutch from Persia over 400 years ago. The art is now practised by only one family – Abdul Gafur Khatri of Nirona village in Kutch. Abdulbhai is a celebrity of sorts as his art has a place in the White House, United States of America. He is also a recipient of the Padma Shri Award. His most famous painting is ‘Tree of Life’. Read more about Rogan Art Nirona.

Rogan Art is a freehand artwork that requires extreme patience and skills. Rogan Art uses oil of castor seeds which makes an oil paint-like consistency of paint. Natural colours are then mixed in the oil. This coloured paint is later used to paint on different kinds of fabric using a metal stylus. Geometric designs, motifs and various other designs are drawn freehand. After painting, the fabric is sundried.

Due to the freehand nature, it could take days and weeks to finish a painting. The paint is known to be extremely long-lasting and does not fade in spite of multiple washing. Contemporary art has found its presence on kurtis, purses and stoles.

Kutch village famous for Rogan Art: Nirona

Rogan Art items range: INR 500 onwards

Rogan Art Nirona demonstration

Wood Lacquer Art – Famous Kutch handicraft

Wood lacquer uses tree glue that is extracted and mixed with natural dyes and used as a design on wooden items. The artists use a small hand-operated lathe and a cloth to colour the wooden items. The items range from wood crockery to showpieces and stand out due to their colourful designs.

Kutch village famous for Wood Lacquer Art: Nirona

Wood Lacquer Art items range: INR 250 onwards

Wood Lacquer Art at Nirona | Crafts of Kutch

Leather work – Best Kutchi handicraft

The Meghwal community which practices leather art in Kutch brought this art form from the neighbouring state of Rajasthan. Leather work is one of the timeless crafts which has grown to combine traditional methods of design with modern functionalities. Items made with leather include footwear, bags, cushion covers, and artefacts. The Kutchi touch to all of these items includes mirror work and colourful embroidery.

Kutch village famous for Leather Work: Bhirandiyara, Bhujodi

Leather work items range: INR 500 onwards

Juttis made from Camel Leather

Mud work | Lippan work of Kutch

Mud work, a traditional mural craft of Kutch, is locally known as Lippan Kaam. Lippan means adorning things with hands, is the craft that traditionally uses mud and camel dung for decoration. The art is mainly practised by the Rabari community and has been in use for decades to decorate the interior as well as the exterior of their homes called Bhungas.

The artisans make it even more attractive by adding mirror embellishments to these designs. Inside the bhungas, because of the mirrors used, a single lamp lights up the home considerably. The designs in mud work range from local flora and fauna to geometric designs which are then painted in colours. One of my favourite artists for Mud work is Iram Mara.

Kutch village famous for Lippan Work: All villages in Kutch

Lippan work items range: INR 500 onwards

A traditional Kutchi house – Bhunga with mud work

Lippan kaam | Mud work of Kutch

Kutchi Silver Jewellery

Along with colourful outfits that are embellished with mirrorwork, Kutchi silver jewellery is a show stopper too! The folks of Kutch are high on jewellery and leave no body part that can be bejewelled. The reason behind this is that silver jewellery is part of the culture and traditions of Kutchi men and women. Each tribe wears different jewellery that has specific designs.

Being a nomadic tribe in earlier times, the Kutchi people invested in silver jewellery that could be worn all the time and sold if the need arose.

Jewellery includes oxidized jewellery, brass jewellery and other materials. Jewellery items include – earrings (for different placements), nose rings, necklaces, waist belts, anklets and toe rings.

Kutch villages famous for Kutchi Silver Jewellery: All villages in Kutch

Kutchi Silver Jewellery items range: INR 250 onwards

Copper Bell Art

Scrap tin and iron are converted into utility items by the Luhar family of Nirona. The speciality of these copper bells is that they are made by beating strips of metal to the desired shape and interlocking the pieces. Each piece makes a different noise.

Traditionally these bells were used by cattle rearers to help the herder identify its cattle. Nowadays they are used in making home decoration items like wind chimes and keychains.

Kutch village famous for Copper Bell Art: Jhura, Nirona (Main Bazar, P.O Nirona, Tal: Nakhatrana, Kutch)

Copper Bell items range: INR 250 onwards

Copper bells made from scrap metal in Kutch

Ajrakh Block Print

Hand Block Printing is traditionally a Gujarati craft. Gujarat is the oldest and biggest centre for this artwork. Having seen this artwork come alive at Anokhi Museum Jaipur, I have major respect for this art, especially because of how tedious it is.

Ajrakh is a type of block print that is practised in villages of Kutch. Azrakh is an Arabic word for indigo, which is where the printing got its name. The colours of a true Ajrakh textile are fast. The cloth is made in a sixteen step process of washing, dyeing, printing, and drying, which requires a high level of skill and concentration in order to keep colours fast and even. Pomegranate seeds, gum, Harde powder, wood, flour of Kachika, the flower of Dhavadi, alizarine and locally cultivated Indigo are just some of the natural resources that printers use in this craft. Ajrakh patterns use complex geometry to create architectural forms of Islamic architecture’s intricate jali windows and trefoil arches.

Nomadic communities – Rabaris, Maldharis, and Ahirs wear Ajrakh printed cloth as turbans, lungis, or stoles.

The contemporary products made with Ajrakh Block Print include ladies’ suits, men’s kurta, bed sheets, pillow covers, purses and footwear.

Kutch village famous for Ajrakh Block Print: Ajrakhpur

Ajrakh Block Print items range: INR 1000 onwards

Ajrakh printed cloth – Famous crafts of Kutch

Bandhej | The pride of Gujarat

Bandhani, Bandhej or tie-dye is a traditional Gujarati clothing style. It is a special dyeing technique to produce a design on a cloth. The word Bandhani comes from ‘Bandhan’ which means tying up. Thus, it has special importance in marriages where Gujarati brides wear a Bandhani saree called Gharchola and the groom wears a Bandhani turban.

Plain cloth is tied tightly using thread in multiple locations. Post dyeing it results in a complex pattern comprising dots, squares, waves or stripes. The most gruelling and complex design of them all is using mustard seeds for tying known as Rai Dana Bandhej and made on silk fabric.

Traditionally, bandhani work was limited to cotton fabrics using natural dyes, however, due to huge demand, the tie-dye is made of a variety of fabrics and now uses chemical dyes.

Kutch village famous for Bandhej: Abdasa, Mandvi, Mundra, Anjar, Bhuj, and Nakhatrana

Bandhej items range: INR 500 onwards

Bandhej saree | Tie & dye saree

Knife Work

There are two types of knife-making traditions in Kutch – the Chari and the Chappu. The Chari has a steel or iron blade and a handle made from wood, plastic, or brass. The Chappu is composed of the same parts with an added spring that allows it to fold. Some artisans specialize in crafting the blade, some in casting the handles, and others in polishing the final product. In this system, each knife is the result of many artisans’ collaborative work.

Kutch villages famous for Knife work: Nani Reha, Moti Reha

Knife work items range: INR 500 onwards

Wood Carving

The crafts of Kutch have another wonder called wood carving. Teak wood and local babul is used for the wood carving. The wood is chiselled as per the design. The wood surface is polished and the product is ready. Wooden stools, cradles, jewellery boxes and other utility items are made.

Kutch village famous for Wood Carving: Ludia, Dumado, Dhordo

Wood Carving items range: INR 500 onwards

Wood carving work of Kutch

Kharad Weaving | Age-old crafts of Kutch

Kharad Weaving belongs to the pastoral communities of Kutch wherein they sheared hair from their camels, sheep, and goats to weave utility products to shield them in winter. They traditionally weaved with undyed wool of sheep, goat and camel for essential items such as camel udder bags, tiffin bags and sacks for carrying grain which were tightly woven so that they were water and insect-proof and no grain could escape.

Traditionally kharads were used for warmth on floors and for special gatherings of people and meetings. People would bring their rolls of carpets for an important occasion to give comfort as well as to show respect. Kharad lasts long due to the tough fibres.

Kharad were later made into different patterns and colours due to which the kings of kutch took notice. Rugs for palaces were commissioned and that is when this art form got its recognition and sustained over centuries. The Kharad weaving is nowadays used for rugs, carpets, bags, and mats. Check out the Instagram account of Kharad Weaving to order online here.

Kutch village famous for Kharad Weaving: Sanjotnagar, Kuran

Kharad Weaving items range: INR 500 onwards

Kharad Dhurries | PC: Navin Fafal (@kharad_weaving_kutch)

Kala Cotton Weaving

Kala means Black and it is called so due to a black tinge of black colour in the undyed cloth. Kala Cotton is one of the few genetically pure cotton species remaining in India. Kala cotton is a purely rain-fed crop, organic and indigenous to the Kutch region, which makes it more tolerant to temperature fluctuations.

Kala cotton is not frequently used in the textile industry as there are spinning and weaving challenges due to its coarse nature as compared to genetically modified Bt cotton.

Clothes made from Kala Cotton are more comfortable in hot temperatures which is why there is a certain clientele that swears by these products. Shirts, pants, kurtas and bags made from Kala Cotton are available at some markets in Bhuj. Also, read – Is Bhuj worth visiting?

Kutch organization famous for Kala Cotton Weaving: Khamir

Kala Cotton Weaving items range: INR 1000 onwards

Kala Cotton Kutch | PC: Khamir

Applique work | Dhadki Work

Appliqué is the process of sewing smaller pieces of fabric onto a larger background fabric. Appliqué work actually originated where the clothes were ripped and needed fixing to appear decent and classic. it is one of the most popular crafts of Kutch.

The artists in Kutch sew different fabrics on the garment to make bedspreads and quilts. Block print designs and Ajrakh design blocks in different colours are used to make them look vibrant. Traditionally the nomadic communities of Kutch used this technique who did not have enough money to buy new bedspreads and used waste pieces of garments to sew into quilts to keep them warm.

Locally it is also known as Dhadki work.

Kutch villages famous for Applique Work: All villages in Kutch

Applique work items range: INR 250 onwards

Dhadki work of Kutch

Sustainable tips for buying Crafts of Kutch & Photography in Kutch villages

Carry a bag while shopping and avoid plastic bags.
Encourage shopkeepers to pack fragile items in a newspaper instead of bubble wrap.
Do not bargain too much. The artisan’s livelihood depends on this.
If you enter the artist’s home, be respectful of the belongings. Remove footwear before entering and ask for permission before clicking pictures.
Photography of women in some villages is prohibited. Always ask for permission before clicking.

Read More articles on Souvenirs:

Read More about the Handicrafts of India:

Disclosure: I was invited by Gujarat Tourism and the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to explore Vadnagar. However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and of my own. Special thanks to the team for taking take of everything during this trip.

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Daroonjinish – Sabai Grass Handicrafts

Ketki Gadre — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 13:23:37 +0000

Sabai Grass Handicrafts have taken modern homes by a storm with innovative and beautiful designs that give an edge and look extremely aesthetic.

I heard about this Bengali word – Daroonjinish last week while having a conversation with Poonam. That was the word she taught an international traveller who was visiting India for the first time and I did not think of anything more apt. Daroonjinish is translated as ‘Wonderful Things’.

The word was so stuck with her that she decided to name her Sabai Grass handicraft venture the same. I was fascinated to learn about the venture and what it does while having a chat with her. So much so that I decided to write a blog about the noble cause.

The story of Daroonjinish – Sabai Grass and more

On one of her trips to India, Poonam decided to explore the countryside of her home state – West Bengal. While travelling around, she came across a few villages and was intrigued to see their work of making baskets. She decided to stay with the locals and learn more about their source of livelihood.

The local artists practising basketry using Sabai grass were masters in their work but lacked the opportunities to market their products. While they sold their products in a few local markets, Poonam saw their calibre which was way beyond the norm.

She realized their potential and decided to launch Daroonjinish – a perfect representation of the wonderful things these local artisans made. The venture would serve as a platform through which the artisans could sell their products in exhibitions and through e-commerce platforms.

Daroonjinish inspiration - local artists | PC: Daroonjinish Photo Bank

What is Basketry?

Basketry or Basket weaving is the craft of making objects by weaving or coiling together materials like grasses or twigs into three-dimensional artefacts. The resulting objects are called baskets. Basket weaving is one of the widest spread crafts in the world, and it is difficult to say how old it is and where it originated from. All of the basketry is handmade using small tools.

Basketry can be divided into four types

Coiled basketry which different types of grasses and pine needles
Plaiting basketry which uses palmyra palms and yucca
Twining basketry that uses roots and tree bark
Wicker and Splint basketry which uses reed, cane, willow, oak, and ash

The craft of basket weaving exists throughout the Indian subcontinent as a form of livelihood for the ethnic communities who have been thriving on this for generations.

The state of West Bengal is popular for its expertise in art and craft which include terracotta, basketry, paintings, jute items, textile craft and so much more. Basketry from West Bengal is especially striking and this blog talks about it.

PC: Pixabay

Baskets of West Bengal

Bamboo Basketry is the most ancient craft practised in West Bengal. However, grass called Sabai is also used in the craft. Sabai grass has the potential to be dyed in the desired colour and is a finer material to work with as compared to bamboo.

Sabai grass naturally grows in abundance in the forest fringe areas of West Bengal, especially in the areas of Pingla, Malda, Purulia, and Azimganj. Mahishamura, a small settlement in the Bankura district, is also known as the ‘Sabai Village’. Various art forms of Bankura are famous and gaining popularity.

Did you Know?

Basketry from West Bengal is very popular in Australia and there is a separate fan base that swears by those products. Professionals from the Government as well as couture specialists have given rave reviews for the Sabai grass products as they use them regularly.

Basket Weaving Process using Sabai grass

While the grass grows abundantly, there are particular months in which it needs to be harvested for making products. Here’s how the baskets are weaved using Sabai.

Harvesting Sabai Grass

Harvesting of Sabai grass is done in the months of September-October. It is reaped then sun-dried and then made into bundles.

Dyeing the Sabai Grass

The grass bundles are dyed using vegetable dyes. The colours are added in proportion to boiling water, soaking the strands in the boiling water with the dye and then drying them in the sun.

Rope Making

The dyed grass is hand twisted and then a cycling ring is used to tighten the twists. The rough edges are removed by rubbing them on the tree trunks. Once twisted, the ropes are then arranged into bundles.

Braid Making

The grass is braided by hand and the rough edges are cut off. At this stage, the grass is also sorted according to its length and quality.

Final products

The braids are twisted and turned to make products such as baskets, mats, table runners, and many other utility products which are durable.

Harvested Sabai grass

Dyed and braided Sabai grass | PC: Daroonjinish Photo Bank

Use of products made from Sabai Grass

Traditionally, baskets have had much functional utility. Recently, it is mainly used for decorative purposes. Baskets (mainly bamboo ones) of Bengal are used for a number of ceremonial purposes. Winnowing baskets are painted with auspicious symbols and are used in the marriage ceremony. Other uses of Sabai baskets are

Baskets and mats are used for serving dry food, such as fruit and roti.
Mats are used to keep hot vessels or plates.
The contemporary uses include laptop bags, tablet purses, tote bags, the base of planters, candles, table runners, etc.
They are even kept as showpieces or decorative items.

Contemporary uses of baskets | PC: Daroonjinish Photo Bank

How is Basketry sustainable?

Traditionally originated art and craft are always sustainable as it is made from local and natural materials. Read about Chendamangalam Handlooms and hand-block printing at Anokhi Museum which is trying its best to preserve these sustainable arts.

Some of the reasons why basketry is sustainable and Daroonjinish took it up as a venture are

Raw Materials

The raw materials include Sabai grass which grows naturally and abundantly in the nearby area. Due to this, the locals do not have to travel long distances on motorized vehicle-saving fuel costs and generating no pollution. Vegetable dyes are used to colour the grass twigs which is extremely sustainable.

Making of products

The products are handmade using a few tools to ease and fasten some processes. Being handmade, the craft doesn’t use any energy. The grass is dried in the open air using natural solar energy.

No Waste

No waste is generated from basket manufacture, although an artist may produce several different styles to make economical use of materials. Grasses are often imperfect, and there are many trimmings that comprise the waste from basket weaving. Since these are natural products, they can be easily composted.

Free of animal cruelty

The art does not use animals in any form and is completely free from animal cruelty.

Gives employment to the local community

The livelihood of the locals who are making these products has dramatically improved. Their economy has improved, giving rise to a better living standard of the villagers. The women who never ventured out of their village are now attending training programs and participating in fairs and festivals showcasing and selling their products.

Employment of local community by Daroonjinish | PC: Daroonjinish Photo Bank

Impact of Daroonjinish intervention on the community

The community made basic products like baskets and mats in their free time. They never thought of diversifying their product range or making appearances in the city bazaars or exhibitions.

Since Sabai grass has more potential to customize into various products, Daroonjinish has started working with the artisans on designing innovative and unique products that have utility. Challenging their creativity with the introduction of Jaipur Blue Pottery pieces has been a stepping stone in making this craft diverse yet giving it an edge over the traditional designs. All of this at an affordable price for the buyer and fair pay for the artisans is the ethical way Daroonjinish is functioning.

The impact has been such that the younger generation is also taking interest in the craft and experimenting with designs and shapes.

One of the many utility products by Daroonjinish | PC: Daroonjinish Photo Bank

How to support the Sabai Grass artisans?

If this article has intrigued you into basketry then I am sure you would like to support the artisans of West Bengal by buying these products. While exhibitions were held before the pandemic restrictions in India and Australia, these products are available at the Daroonjinish online store and are being shipped all over India, Australia, and Germany. They even customize bulk orders for your office stationery or hotels. Keep looking as they launch new products every week. Interested buyers can write to them at contact@daroonjinish.shop.

Read More Posts on Handicrafts of India:

Gujarat: Crafts of Kutch

Disclaimer – This post may contain affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running. For more details please read my Privacy Policy.

My article on Sabai Grass Handicrafts was published in Hello 6E – the inflight Indigo Airlines magazine: June 2022 edition.

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Loom Footwear Review – Sustainable Waterproof Sneakers

Ketki Gadre — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 13:17:03 +0000

It was 2015 when I had my first international trip to Rotterdam. Apart from buying the essentials, I wanted to invest in a good pair of shoes which would last long and are sustainable. Unfortunately, there were no options for sustainable footwear then but thankfully those pair of shoes have lasted me for 5 years and have been to 8 countries across the global. Being a proud sustainability crusader, I have no shame in saying that. But after all the travelling across the world plus assisting me on my morning walks most mornings, they gave up amidst the pandemic.

Just when I thought of investing in a good pair of sustainable shoes, Loom Footwear reached out to me! The sneakers claimed to be sustainable, waterproof, all-season comfortable and perfect for all outdoor activities. I was super impressed and wanted to check it out myself. I was happy to know that Loom Footwear services customers from India and I received my pair within 3 weeks!

So here’s my Loom Footwear review and some of the reasons why the sneakers are worth a try!

Sustainable Footwear

The reason I was attracted to these sneakers was that they claimed to be sustainable. The shoes have a Merino wool interior, an H2-Go waterproof layer, and an Excelcast sole. Merino wool is manufactured in the most ethical way from Merino sheep who are reared for their wool. Merino wool is known for its adaptive functionality of being cool in summers and warm in winters. It has shot to fame worldwide for its softness yet its strong nature.

Manufacturing of a regular pair of shoes requires large amounts of fossil fuels, thousands of litres of water, and many chemicals. Loom Footwear has made the shoes with eco-friendly materials and used many sustainable practices to reduce each pair’s carbon footprint by over 500%.

Loom Footwear has used this wool on its interior making it extremely comfortable for the wearer and ensures one never gets rashes while outdoor activity.

Photo Courtesy: Loom Footwear

Waterproof

It is so amazing to have everything in one shoe! Most of my trips are to wildlife parks or heritage sites which involve a lot of walking in all seasons. It is such a pain to use soggy shoes which do not dry out during the trip. Carrying another pair is impossible as I travel light so this is a big advantage for frequent travellers like me.

Loom sneakers are encased in H2-Go waterproof layer which makes it completely waterproof. The manufacturers claim that they are fit for rain, snow, hiking through streams, cliff diving, and puddle jumping, I pour some water over them to see if it fit the claims. And it did!

I can’t wait to try them in a natural environment (I wonder when that will happen though!) *sigh*

Photo Courtesy: Loom Footwear

Comfort

Reading the online reviews, I ordered one size up and it fit perfectly. I could feel the soft sole which is breathable. I took them to my morning walk a couple of times and found them comfortable to walk in. The best thing about their design is the slip-on nature which is my personal favourite (I hate tying laces). Having a merino wool interior, they can be worn without socks. But I prefer to have them on!

The company has used Excelcast sole which is a source of its support and comfort and it delivers high performance while jogging and walking. It protects the joints from shock during high-impact training.

Odour-free

For a traveller like me who swears by wearing only one pair of shoes, they tend to get super smelly. Washing them after ever use is difficult and sometimes I simply forget to do it. Loom sneakers claim to be odour-free and though I am yet to certify that I can be sure of that as it is a property of Merino Wool. Merino wool is antibacterial and hypoallergenic, making it impossible for odour-causing bacteria and mould to grow.

Photo courtesy: Loom Footwear

One for all

Hiking trips and international tend to me make me pack more footwear than I would like as they cater to various functions. But thankfully Loom has got me covered as these sneakers are perfect for airports, hiking, walking around the city, and nature walks. They can even go with good evening outfits and casual dresses.

If this review has made you go Wow, go grab them now! Also because I have a discount for you. Pick up a pair of Loom Footwear’s waterproof shoes today by clicking here. Use discount code EXPLORE10 at checkout to get 10% off on your order. This is a limited offer, so why wait to try these sustainable pair of shoes at an exclusive price. Go to the website now to learn more and get your pair today.

Disclaimer: I received a pair of Loom Footwear’s waterproof sneakers for this review. However, all opinions are my own.

The post Loom Footwear Review – Sustainable Waterproof Sneakers appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

Sustainable Travel Tips for Responsible, Ethical, Low Impact Travel

Ketki Gadre — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 16:54:18 +0000

Sustainable Travel Tips

The world is reeling under the pressure of over-tourism. A destination unheard of suddenly makes it to the ‘bucket list’ of a few thousands of travelers. Flights are born to fly those travelers there and social media bursts with travelers and influencers posting about it. Overtourism has increased so much, it was shortlisted as a Word of the Year in 2018. Maybe the pandemic was born to relax the overtourism? (but that is a debate for another day).

With more and more people getting hooked to travelling almost frequently, it is important to be aware of sustainable travel and how easy it is to practice. In this sustainable travel blog, I already cover sustainable travel tips at the end of every post which is specific to each place I have visited. In this post, I am summing travelling sustainably and how each one of us can be a sustainable traveler.

But for those who don’t know yet, let us address the big question.

What is Sustainable Travel or What is Sustainable Tourism?

Sustainable travel means finding a way that tourism can be maintained long-term without harming natural and cultural environments. Sustainable travel should minimise the negative impacts of tourism and ideally be beneficial to the area in which it takes place.

Let us go over some sustainable travel tips to become a responsible traveler.

Sustainable Transport

The mode of travel is probably the first thing one thinks of while planning a trip. Depending upon the destination and distance one decides to use the train, bus or flight.

Did you know the flight’s takeoffs and landings create most of an airplane’s carbon emissions?

That is why overland travel is the best option.

Overland travel or Overlanding

Historically, “Overlanding” is an Australian term to denote the droving of livestock over very long distances to open up new country or to take livestock to market far from grazing grounds. But in modern times it relates to traveling on land, covering a long distance, wherein the journey is more important than the destination.

Modes of Overland travel include

Railways: Railways are however the best ways to travel comfortably within a country. They are safe, affordable and give you a good chance to have fun on the run. You can also catch up on that much-needed sleep. This is by far the best way of sustainable travel.

Roadways: Overlanding is also thankfully becoming more popular using campervans or private cars and it is better for the environment than flights.

Public transport: Buses, metro, sky trains, trams, trains are the best means of public transport which are time-saving and extremely ethical to the place of travel. Also, let’s face it, it saves a ton of money and you can get from one place to another in a quarter of the cost if you ride a vehicle or hire a cab. Plus you can catch up some sleep, listen to music or read up a blog while commuting.

Walk/Bicycle: Even better for the environment is exploring the new area on foot or by bicycle. While many Europeans countries use bicycles as their everyday means of transport, as visitors we can at least do our bit to rent them.

Sustainable Travel Products/ Eco-products

As zero waste living is slowly picking up as a lifestyle choice, it is important to start off somewhere with small changes during travel. Here are some great options.

Reusable bottles

In developing counties, the water available at water ports is generally filtered and fit for drinking. In developed countries, tap water is the best choice. Gone are the days when you would have to buy a PET mineral water bottle while traveling. With an estimated 91 per cent of plastic going unrecycled, it’s better for the environment if travelers cut out the usage of plastic altogether.

You will find water filters almost at all tourism locations across Asia and it is highly recommended to carry your own bottle everywhere.

Refilling water is now considered cool and saves a lot of money and is environmentally safe. Sustainable Tourism in Luang Prabang is one such inspiring example of taking sustainability too seriously especially for tourist towns.

Use reusable bottles

Ecofriendly Toiletries

Wooden toothbrushes, chewable toothpaste, bath bars, shampoo bars, organic detergents, wooden combs. The list is unending. There has been a revolution in terms of eco-friendly toiletries not just for the travel community but for regular usage. And if you haven’t taken the ride on this yet, it is high time to switch.

Since we are on the topic of sustainable toiletries, it is important to mention the use of water instead of tissue paper! I just had to say this. Worldwide, the equivalent of almost 27,000 trees is either flushed or dumped in landfills which can be attributable to toilet paper.

Menstrual cups

When the PMS has to strike it will strike. It doesn’t matter whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Laos or admiring the tulips in Netherlands or camping in Rishikesh. Menstrual cups are emerging as the most eco-friendly solution as against disposing of tampons or sanitary pads which may take years for decomposition.

No packaging shampoo and soap bars

Liquid shampoos and soaps are harmful to the environment as they need the plastic packaging to fill them. Post usage they are chucked in the trash cans and on to the landfill site. A few of them may get recycled but most end up rotting in the landfill for years or sometimes in the ocean bed.

Packaging shampoo in a glass or metal bottle doesn’t make sense to a recycling a glass bottle is an extremely energy-intensive process. However, there are a few companies which allow you to return your bottles for cleaning and refilling. This means you buy a product from them and can return your empty when purchasing a new one. You don’t actually refill the container yourself, the company takes it away, cleans it, and refills on the production line. But I feel that also puts a burden of cleaning it.

The best option for this is switching to shampoo bars and soap bars. They either come in paper packaging or jute packaging and do not harm the environment.

Another organic shampoo is using of Aritha, also known as soap nut from India. According to Ayurveda, the nut has benefits for healthy hair and scalp, and been used for centuries as an anti-hair loss shampoo. You can make soap nut shampoo, even at home.

No packaging organic soap bars

Ecofriendly cutlery

As a kid when I used to travel, I remember my mom used to pack spillable food in stainless steel containers and others would be neatly wrapped in a newspaper. Over time, I noticed people shifting to styrofoam plates, use and throw containers, plastic cutlery, basically, something you throw and don’t need to wash or take care of after the eating business.

This has harmed the planet in more ways than one!

Ecofriendly cutlery is the way ahead. From wonderfully flavorful edible spoons to arboreal eating utensils, from compostable cutlery made with Corn Starch to affordable bamboo cutlery, there are many eco-friendly cutlery options to chose from – perfect as the sustainable travel tips. They are high on utility especially while camping or traveling to remote places.

I personally carry a stainless steel cutlery pouch as I do not believe in disposing of anything even if it ecofriendly with alternative options. My pouch has a fork, spoon, straw which can be used anywhere – especially for street food.

Sustainable Accommodation

People often forget the importance of choosing sustainable accommodation while traveling. While it is the choice of most people, my personal preference and recommendation are to go for a local homestay.

Homestays and AirBnBs

Homestays are a wonderful way to know the foreign land in a local way, staying with a local family. The interactions you will have with the family eating local food will carve a beautiful memory of your stay in a foreign locale. This helps a local family to earn some money and you save some!

Housesitting or Couchsurfing

If you plan to stay for an extended period of time in a place, housesitting or Couchsurfing is one the most practical and sustainable travel tips. Housesitting is what a volunteer does when someone asks them to live in their home while they are away on holiday or travelling. Housesitting could be caring for the house, for pets or for the plants of the host. While you may not know the host in this way, you are living in a home away from home!

Luxury and Sustainability

While homestays are a perfect option, sustainability is not limited and there are many luxurious properties which believe in responsible tourism. Properties like Amari Residences, Bangkok and Luang Say Residence, Luang Prabang have made sustainability a part of their regime and even attract tourists with their ethics.

Pack Light, Pack responsibly

Give a break to yourself from lugging around the heavy bags. Did you know the heavier the luggage, the more fuel needed in the flight? I know it may become difficult to do so while visiting a cold country and posing in the same clothes for photographs but one can always be creative to mix and match clothes to make it look different. Also, why not try local shampoo and soap rather than carrying it all the way?

I always thought it is not possible to carry for a trip in a backpack, but trust me it not as difficult.

It is also good to be informed about the ingredients of your favorite products. Avoid packing and using shampoo, toothpaste and face packs with microbeads. Try using biodegradable organic products and ensure you leave the place clean for future visitors.

Say no to souvenirs from nature

I hear so many people say they pick up something from nature instead of manmade souvenirs to keep the memory alive.

BUT.. You have got it all wrong!

Don’t collect stones, shells or sand. It may be a souvenir for you but when you gift it/share its photo with others you are indirectly implying them to collect when they go. Yes, believe it or not, it does leave a little impact.

Remember this tagline? – It’s only one straw, said 1 billion people.

Well collecting souvenirs from nature is something similar.

Instead, shop something local!

Do not collect souvenirs from nature

Shop Local

Whether it is Ao Dai from Vietnam, A block printed saree from India, or a Kimono from Japan, shopping local products support local economies which also means encouraging traditional artists and craftsmen to continue their creativity. That’s a souvenir you must take back home!

If you are a backpacker and do not want to invest in clothes and prints, there are always edible souvenirs to carry with you – tea, coffee, snacks, chocolates, not that’s what I call a yummy souvenir.

Volunteering as a way of travel

Volunteering is the best way to enjoy like a local and earn some money (or not). Not to forget the amazing experience you’ll have for the lifetime for helping a community get water tap or roof for their house or biodiversity restoration or teaching kids in remote areas with no school. I have volunteered at Triund with an NGO in Himachal Pradesh in India.

Give your electronics the much-required break

In the world when we are so obsessed with checking into every place we visit and snapchatting our journey and sharing what we ate on instagram, we are putting away our loved ones with whom we are traveling. If you’re traveling alone and need pictures for the blog/social media put them away till you are back home. Save energy by switching off the devices.

Turn off all electronic appliances when you leave your hotel room (except the refrigerator)

Hotels use huge amounts of electricity to make their property look beautiful. Let’s be responsible travelers and turn off the air conditioning, lights and fans on the way out of our room.

Choosing Eco trips, Wildlife trips, Nature camping

After the last few years, I have been consciously choosing my vacations to places which are close to nature. Being a wildlife enthusiast and nature lover, it acts as a major detox for me, which helps me unwind! Try it, you will love it too!

Thankfully, there are many such tours happening across the world, which helps you connect with nature.

If you love wildlife trips, remember

Do not feed wild animals!

This includes monkeys, cows, birds in urban areas (yes, we have them all in developing countries) yes, in the city. Feeding animals makes them habituated to the food (example: pigeon menace across the world) and they do not put efforts to find food for themselves which nature has designed them to do. Leaving food in the zoo, national park or any sanctuary is a strict no-no!

Sustainable Gadgets

Solar chargers and sustainable laundry bags are some of the most responsible way of traveling if you are a frequent traveler.

Solar chargers are available in all shapes and sizes, depending on the use and be installed on a campervan or carried in your bag. The Grouphug Designer Window Solar Charger has a bamboo frame which sticks using a suction cup and has a built-in rechargeable 3,400-mAh battery that absorbs power throughout the day and night. As a result, it lets you charge your iPhone up to two times and an Android phone 1.5 times.

There are laundry bags and portable machines which wash clothes vigorously and effectively without electricity. Simply fill it with your clothes, add detergent and water, then tap it with your foot or shake the bag. It’ll reduce carbon use and save you money on electricity and water.

Also, check out these really cool Sustainable Travel Apps.

I hope these Sustainable Travel Tips have inspired you to travel responsibly? Do you follow any of these? Or do you do something which I have not mentioned here? Let me know in the comments below!

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