InnovateUs Magazine - November Issue

ISSUE 6 | NOVEMBER 2013
SIKKIM
SPECIAL
CHINA
KOREA
SOUTH AFRICA
Agriturismo Poggio Al Sole

Your respite into renaissance
CONTENTS
ISSUE 6 | NOVEMBER 2013
05
A Gateway to the Lands of the Gods
The story of a flourishing homestay business in Darap that started from scratch
Leros Vintage Yatch Homestay
33
Sujathas Homestay
35
Eurolingua
09
The Coorgi Legacy Continues
Portraying Gowri Niwas, the heritage homestay of Coorg now being run by the third generation and is a citadel of great family values
39
Hanok Homestay
43
Lebos Soweto Backpackers
13
A Travelers Tibetan Dream
With rising eco-tourism, Zhou Ma strives to make her homestay at Jiuzhaigou valley of China every travelers delight
45
Daviqele Paradise Village Homestay
47
Editor-in-Chief
Arathi Singh
17
The Story of a Sikkimese Heritage Farmstay
A touching account of how one man turned a heritage farmhouse of Sikkim into a hot and happening homestay
Interview: Rashmi Sawant of Culture Aangan
Managing Editor
Sharmistha
Contributors
Avik Bhattacharya Harold Robinson
29
Art & Design

Maddhyam Media
23
Interview: Aaditto Shen of Babli Farm 49
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EDITORS NOTE
Dear InnovateUs Friends, Its just great to be able to reach out to all you wonderful people who have made our digital Mag a smash hit. On behalf of the whole InnovateUs Magazine team, I want to thank you heartily for your overwhelming response. Being an integral part of our brigade for a cleaner, greener planet youll simply love our November issue that covers homestay entrepreneurship drives in exotic locations. Homestays have created a new frontier of economy opening the gateway to sustainable income in areas without the footprint of industry. With ecotourism flourishing everywhere around the world newer opportunities are galore be it Ibiza, India or Indonesia. Besides creating a host of employment opportunities, homestays are true potpourri of rich cross cultural exchange. Its a great way to bask in genuine hospitality besides learning the ways of local people and their lifestyles. Although it is true that poor standard of accommodation and inadequate toilet facilities at times pose as challenges, with freely flowing government funds, future seems bright for the entrepreneurs who create home away from home. Realizing the potential of homestays in developing the rural communities, countries India and Cambodia are assisting in modernizing the accommodation facilities and providing training to the owners so that the guests have experience of a lifetime. In our November issue we have compiled some of the best homestay destinations exclusively for you. There is the Hanok Homestay to make your days in Korea more meaningful with a panoramic view of Korean culture. You could succumb to a Grand Himalayan experience in the Yangsum heritage farm of Sikkim, bathing in authentic oriental hospitality. Our feature on Eurolingua, a homestay to hone your language skill is surely going to help learning enthusiasts across the globe. We have excerpts from Zhou Ma homestay in China where rural adventure knows no bound and Poggio Al Sole, the Florentine beauty of Italy in the land of Renaissance. Whether you plan to visit Cambodia or Sri Lanka, we have all that you need to know, do and experience to have a blast. Our November issue packs the punch of a travelogue besides highlighting the sustainable approaches in creating a better tomorrow. Happy Reading!
Sharmistha
sharmistha@innovateus.net
ADVERTORIAL
Travel: Italy
AGRITURISM POGGIO AL SOLE

Your Respite in the Renaissance
Courtesy: Tripadvisor.com
o matter how imaginative you are, its difficult for you to envisage the full essence of pure Florentine beauty, plentifully strewn around
Fiesole, the Italian hamlet of priceless heritage. Once you reach Poggio Al Sole, a small family operated farmhouse located at the epicenter
of magnificent hillside beside the city of Renaissance, you will definitely experience a rare rendezvous with Mother Nature. Situated 8 kilometers away
Courtesy: Agriturismo.it
05 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013
Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living
from Florence this picturesque farmstay, surrounded by Olive Groves and Cypress Trees, atop a 450 meters hill was erstwhile built as an organic farm. The farmhouse remains until today yielding fruits like cherry, fig, apricot, pear, plums, walnuts and sorb apples. Extra virgin olive oil and saffron are also produced in the farm of Poggio Al Sole. Meals served at Poggio Al Sole always turn extra special with jam and natural liquors prepared fresh from the farm garden yields. The farmhouse alongside the barn retains their countryside looks and has undergone no change as such since it was built in 2003. The barn has a stone faade and can accommodate guests in its three large double rooms with private bathrooms attached with them. The three large double rooms Ginestra, Gelsomino, and Iris look elegant with wooden doors, windows and furniture, reflecting true Tuscan style, complete with terracotta flooring and suave wooden beams. You will particularly enjoy watching the shimmering lights of Florence at night from the ancient porch of the homestay. Although a holiday in Poggio
Al Sole is relaxation at its best,

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 06
Travel: Italy
you may visit other hotspots from this Fiesole farmhouse. Not only is Florence, the seat of art and culture, just a stones throw away but most of the main Tuscan cities could be accessed quickly from Fiesole. If trekking is what you enjoy, the vast hills of Saint Francis and Saint Apollinare with their divine magnificence could be a source of unlimited joy for you. You could trek to the sanctuary of Maddona Del Sasso dating back to the 12th century and once more relive the glorious past. The Medieval castle of Vincigliata lying close by Poggio Al Sole is yet another tourist attraction. A pleasant walk from the village would take you to Maiano, where Michelangelo worked as a young artist. You could walk a little farther reaching Monte Ceceri, famous for Leonardo Da Vincis experiments with flying. Scattered around Poggio Al Sole are numerous citadels of culture, art and entertainment. You could enchant yourself with ballet, theater or open air film shows, making the most of your holidays.
Contact information: Agricola POGGIO AL SOLE Via Torre di Buiano, 4 Fiesole (FI) Tel./fax.055 548839 Cell. 328 7227431 e-mail: poggioalsole@poggioalsole.net Best time to visit: March to May and September to mid-November Tariff (per night): Double room for two with private bathroom and breakfast Courtesy: Agriturismo.it
80.00 - 90.00 Triple room for three guests with private bathroom and breakfast - 120.00
ADVERTORIAL
Travel: Sikkim
A Gateway to the Land of the Gods

The story of flourishing homestay business in Darap that started from scratches
amazed at the way eco-tourism has impacted economy of an entire state. Darap Cherry Village, Gods own land located at six kilometers away from Pelling, famous for its breathtaking beauty, is a nerve center of village tourism today. There were always some scattered initiatives here and there to promote tourism in Sikkim however it was Sushil Tamang, the founder cum president of Darap Eco Tourism Committee, who galvanized the locals together, propelling tourism business to a whole new level. With a background in hospitality and catering, Sushil, realized the immense potential of Darap as a tourists paradise. He noticed that none of the hotels in Pelling belonged to the people of Sikkim but were owned by rich merchants staying at some other part of the country. Right from the onset, Sushil wanted to do something thatd benefit the local people providing them with the opportunity to secure sustainable income. A home away from home Today if you visit this halcyon hamlet of Darap Cherry Village located at 1600 meters above the sea level, you are bound to
The call of the wild Are you tired keeping pace with the hustle and bustle of metropolitan milieu? With eco -tourism flourishing across the globe, you could now reclaim your peaceful recluse in the rugged mountain terrains enjoying the comforts of home
away from home. The business of homestays has gained popularity in leaps and bounds today, creating sustainable opportunities for the marginalized section of the society. If you crave for some adventure in Sikkim, the least populous state of India, youll be
get captivated by the hypnotic charm of this Himalayan abode. With 20 homestays right at the epicenter of primordial, lofty mountains kissing the sky, your days and nights in Darap are going to be pure bliss. The honest hospitality of the spartan mountain folks is pure joy that no hotel in the world could offer. There are more than 20 home stays registered with Darap Eco-Tourism committee that enables you to stay with the family of local people amidst picturesque wilderness of the Himalayas. The homestay entrepreneurs of Darap Cherry Village work together to promote tourism in the area and Sikkim government offer grants for home improvement. The idea is to make the tourists enjoy the comfort of home away from home. The drive that started with Sushil in 2005 has come a long way opening venues of rich cross cultural exchange for visitors from every corner of the globe.
A holiday of downy dreams Darap offers your soul the much needed respite, far from the madding crowd. You can sip your butter and salt tea in the evening relaxing on your couch while the glorious Kanchendzonga, a cascade of blood red hue, salutes the setting sun in your backyard. Night tiptoes in on linnets wings as you enjoy your romance with Roxy, the local hooch made from Rhododendron or Maize. You can enjoy the happy afternoons with your newly acquired extended family members making Momo the Limboo way. Be it bird watching, trekking or cultural sightseeing, Darap Cherry Village necessarily has something to suit your taste buds.
A cultural entourage If you love exploring the rich cultural diversities of the past frozen in the folds of time, Darap wont disappoint you. A half days hike could take you to the sacred Khechuperi (wish fulfilling) Lake (16 km), reinvigorating your senses in divine ecstasy. Make Pemayantse Gompa (09 km), your next destination and listen to the timeless language of silence. The Rabdentse ruins (10 km) near Pelling could leave you awestruck with its rich trove of relics from the past. You can rediscover your mystic self in the Netham cave, located at a height of 10000 feet. Trekking to the cave could be an experience of a lifetime inundating you with peace seldom experienced before. The uncontaminated scenic beauty of nature acts as tired minds balm uplifting your spirit few realms above the mundane. As the sun gradually reclines westward, amble aimlessly amidst the village and witness the simple ruNovember 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 10
Travel: Sikkim
goodness running down your gullet. If your heart craves for some action, there is enough to send surges of adrenaline pumping through your system. You can go mountain biking over the rugged, hilly, terrain ending up thrilled to the bones. Adventure sport is different game altogether in the primeval world of mountains where excitement never ceases. Be it swimming, meditation or plain pure picnic, Darap Cherry Village has the right infrastructure to guarantee the most rewarding payoff of unabated entertainment. For all you homely folks, there are various arrangements to make your stay a marvel. You may pick up local language classes or teach yourself cooking exotic Limbu delicacies. For serious bird watchers, its a paradise out here frequented
ral life of the Sikkimese people. Listening to the folk song of Sikkim under a star clad night sky beside bon fire with occasional sips from your glass of Tongba could be a liberating experience. Fun unlimited at Darap Cherry Village Are you an acute angler? Well, be ready to handle the challenge of Asala fish or Snow trout, a local delicacy that tastes out of the world. One whole day long picnic beside river Rimbi could be so gratifying that you wont really mind even if the frantic Asala evades your clutches at the end. Evening barbeque beside the stream could get peppier with Chaang, the traditional beverage of Sikkim. Your tryst with nature could get deeper as you milk a cow with those very fingers that fly dexterously on the keyboard. You think thats tricky? Sure it is but wait till your Limboo friend offers a helping hand saving you from the ordeal. Take a sip of that rich, warm, unpasteurized drink of the Gods enjoying every bit of
by multifarious species of winged hooters and whistlers. If youve never ever got a chance to weave carpets with your own hands, Darap could reward you with even this rare experience. As you embark on a jungle trek to Rani Dhunga, better be prepared for the glimpse of God. The view of Mount Kanchendzonga, from the mountain turret is so sublime, so very ethereal that youll be filled with a deep sense of reverence thats impossible to experience in any concrete jungle of the world. For people dedicated to com-
munity services, there are plenty of opportunities to spread awareness among the mass. You can be a part of cleanliness and sanitation drives to keep the mountains unpolluted from city junk. Health awareness programs and student career counseling are orchestrated with passion by local community based organizations on a regular basis. Accolades well earned The honorable Chief Minister of Sikkim, Dr. Pawan Chamling is in all praise for Darap Eco Tourism Community. The excellent work thats been done so far has not gone unno-
ticed as they received the award of excellence for tourism development in 2011. The sincere and diligent efforts of DEC have come to fruition as economy of the Sikkim has sharply scaled up resulting in better lifestyle for the locals. At least once in a lifetime you should visit Darap Cherry Village to be able to appreciate fully the divine glory of Mother Nature. The ancient village spreads a brilliant splendor of magnanimous beauty thats simply impossible to resist. Contact information: Cherry Village Homestay Resort and Holidays
Mobile: 9733235441 /8768350508 Email:

darap.cherryvillage@gmail.com sushil_ghising@yahoo.co.in
Website:
www.cherryvillagehomestayresort.c om
Best time to visit: March through May, September to November Tariff (per night): Single: Rs 1,950 - Rs 2,650 Double: Rs 2,200 - Rs 3,650 How to reach: Nearest airport is Bagdogra (144 km). Darap is located approximately 135 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. You could visit Darap easily from any part of Sikkim and North Bengal as the area is pretty well connected today. Whether you want to reach Darap from Darjeeling(93 km), Kalimpong (95 km), Siliguri (139 km), Bagdogra or Gangtok (121 km), shared jeep services are galore alongside reserved taxis. Darap in just 1015 minutes drive from upper Pelling. Picture Courtesy: Cherryvillagehomestayresort.com
THE COORGI LEGACY CONTINUES

Portraying Gowri Niwas, the heritage homestay of Coorg now being run by the third genera on and is a citadel of great family values.
13 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013 Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living
Travel: Coorg
The Call of Coorg Coorg, the administrative district located in Karnataka, India, a travelers paradise, rightly resonates with Shakespearean wisdom One touch of nature makes the whole world kin. Located at the Western Ghats, this beautiful land has it all. Be it disparate wildlife, primal charm of dense and dark woods, or scintillating waterfalls, Coorg captivates the attention of visitors in a spell too hard to resist. Bejeweled by a range of mountains surrounding the district, it is rated as the number one coffee producer in India. The most enticing local dwellers are Kodavas, the modest children of the river Cuvery. Famous for their hospitality, the land is frequented by tourists from every corner of the world. A Gorgeous Homestay that Rocks You could experience the wonderful hospitality of the land first hand at Gowri Nivas. If you want to spend your vacation in luxury albeit without pinching your pocket, this wonderful homestay located at Madikeri, the capital city of Coorg, is a rare delight. The luxury resort offering affordable stay is real Coorg comfort at its best. Located at the foothills of Tadiyendamol, the highest peak of the district, its a heritage homestay thats
more than just a business venture. Gowri Niwas portrays the perfect picture of deep family values carried forward from one generation to the next. Currently Bopanna and his wife Mathu, the third genre custodians of Gowri Niwas are determined to uphold the same level that Sri Appaiah, the granddad of Bopanna had cre-
fingertip is located amidst a green paradise. It seems to be a perfect hybrid of the world of nature with modernity at its best. Complete with running hot and cold water, cable TV and attached bathrooms, the rooms of the beautiful Shangri-La lets you embrace the wild without compromising on your urban lifestyle.
ated way back through sheer resilience. Having had traveled to various countries, Bopanna not only continued the legacy with flying colors but actually excelled to a great extent today. Your days at Gowri Niwas are surely going to be memorable experience of lifetime. The highly furnished resort with every modern amenity at your
The chef of this homestay knows full well that the way to your heart moves through your stomach. The litany of traditional dishes prepared to pacify your taste bud is sure to bowl you over. Meals are sure to get peppier with spicy curries, delicious bamboo shoots and royal mutton pulao. The signature dishes of Coorg like Pandi curry, a mouth watering
Courtesy: Gowrinivas.com
preparation of pork and Kaipuli Pajjior bitter lime chutney are pure gastronomical pleasures. Although the halcyon picture of happy domestic dabble with gourmet food and a great place to live is irresistible, Coorg has a lot more to offer beyond the confines of suave docile comfort. You could do much in this wonderful land to make your vacations filled with loads of tangy fun.
Spending Holidays With Incessant Fun When your heart desires thrill, frill and excitement unlimited, pick up some high adventure sport like trekking, surfing, rock climbing or canoeing. There is every facility in abundance to make your outdoor adventures an explosion of adrenaline. A visit to the Abbi waterfalls near Madikeri would sooth your nerves after all the high adventure. Mukkodlu, Mallali,
Ipu and Chelavara falls are widely known for their rugged beauty. You might as well catch a glimpse of some famous movie star as lot of Bollywood films are being shot here throughout the year. In the deepest recess of forest Birunani you could see the Sarathabbi waterfall raging down in a torrent of full force. Its a breathtaking sight of rare beauty that shouldnt be missed at any cost. Coorg is famous for coffee and
Travel: Coorg
visiting a coffee plantation could be a worthwhile experience. A guided tour to trace the entire metamorphosis of coffee from berry to brew could be great fun and a knowledge enhancing experience. Spending a morning with elephants could be the craziest experience indeed. Dubare Elephant training camp runs elephant interaction programs and youll be taught to bathe the biggies in river Cuvery and feed them breakfast with huge balls of raggi and jaggery. Those interested in jungle safari could visit the Nagarahole National Park considered to be the best natural habitat for the Asian elephants. No matter how much you are thrilled by the safari dont miss on paying homage to the 30 feet high Buddha of Namdroling golden temple. Spanning across a wide area, the monasteries are residence to Tibetan monks of different orders. The whole place exudes a genuine Tibetan look and feel ranging from the smell of freshly prepared Momos, Thupkas to prayer wheels, incenses and exotic hand weaved carpets. Theres so much to see and do that things might just get perplexing for you at times. Its thus best to rely upon your widely experienced hosts at Gowri Niwas while preparing your itinerary. Hosts of the heritage homestay will ensure that you spend each day of your vacation in pure ecstasy and are able to make the most out of your holidays. If you want to get the flavor of real Coorg, book your stay at Gowri Niwas. This is your chance to experience an enchanting India. Contact information: Gowri Nivas PO box 138
New ext Madikeri Kodagu 571201 Phone: +91 08272228597, +91 09448193822 (Bopanna), +91 09448493833 (Muthu) E-mail: gowrinivas@yahoo.com gowrinivas@gmail.com Website: http://www.gowrinivas.com Best time to visit: October to April Tariff (per night): INR 6000 (includes all 3 meals for 2 persons) INR 1600 (for Air conditioned dormitory, includes 3 meals for one person) How to reach: Nearest national airport is Mangalore terminal (143 km). You can hire a taxi from Mangalore to Madikeri for Rs 2,500. Thalassery, Hassan, Kannur and Kasrgod are the nearest railway stations, approximately 115 km away. Madikeri is also well connected by KSRTC buses plying regularly from Kerala and Karnataka.
Courtesy: Gowrinivas.com
Travel: China
The Valley of Nine Villages If you are looking for some authentic rural adventure, ready your rucksack for a trip to the Nine Village Valley. Its a world heritage site, stretching over 72000 hectors in the Jiuzhaigou valley of China where thrill never seems to cease. A huge national park with cascading waterfalls, glorious snow caped ranges and oily blue lakes remains a star attraction among tourists with wanderlusts across the globe. Deriving its name from the nine picturesque villages dotted around the valley, it could overwhelm you with cornucopia at being able to witness mother nature in her royal glory. With a huge number of visitors arriving each day at this Tibetan string of hamlets, homestay business had shot up sharply over the last few years. With flourishing tourism, local folks are being able earn a decent livelihood today, resulting in gradual upsurge of economy. Delightful Zhou Ma Homestay of
Your journey shall remain grossly incomplete without a stay at Zhou Mas homestay. Zhou Ma and Ke Zhu, two enterprising Tibetan have converted their cozy home into a homestay to reward the tourists with the local fragrance of
Courtesy: Zhuo Ma's Jiuzhaigou Home-Stay
A TRAVELERS TIBETAN DREAM

With rising eco-tourism, Zhou Ma strives to make her homestay in Jiuzhaigou valley of China every travelers delight
rural Tibetan life. Zhou Mas mother Ama, an ever smiling epitome of rural simplicity is the vigilant caretaker of this exquisitely decorated lovely wooden cabin. Located at a distance of 10 kilometers up the valley, there is this Zhou Ma Homestay that welcomes visitors with warmth any time of the year. Zhou Mas spic and span cabin with three spacious rooms and western toilets offers the comfort of home in a distant land. You could spot a smiling Zhou Ma in her grey cab the moment you are at Jiuzhaigou after a tiring two hours drive from the JiuzhaiHuanglong airport. Shell drive you over the serpentine, rocky path amidst prayer ensigns and bushes of flowers to your destination next; the homestay that promises lovely respite. Living Alone in the Bee Loud Glade
Courtesy: Hostelworld.com
The beautiful cottage, situated at the summit of a hill, offers a

Courtesy: Touristlink.com
Courtesy: Deweyhammond.com
Courtesy: Hostels.com
grand view of the Nine Village Valley. At this homestay your mornings shall be misty pristine with pure honey colored sunlight filtering though the faade of fog. Every night, you can spend hours watching a wide vista of million stars atop, twinkling from a jet black sky. Youd be in fact amazed that so many stars exist in the heavens as it is extremely unlikely to chance upon such a clear sky in the pollution ridden cities. However beware of frost bites while on a star gazing spree as it could be quite chilling outside at night.
Eat Drink and Be Merry

Imagine waking up to the somber sound of Tibetan bugle in the morning proclaiming the sacredness of a fresh new day. Take a sip of fresh yak butter tea prepared by Ah Ma, reclining on your spotless king size bed to kick start your day. A hot shower could work wonders to begin with rejuvenating you in a whirlpool of pleasure. If you adore adventure, horse riding on the treacherous, rugged terrain could fire up some adrenaline in your body. Riding is surely going to make you famished so just jump in Zhou Mas cab for a ride to A Bu Lu Zi , the Tibetan Restaurant that serves gourmet food. Meet the chef Ke Zhu, younger
brother of Zhou Ma in action and savor an extra helping of delicious Yak meat marinated with red pepper and salt making you feel warm in a jiffy. Wash down a sumptuous meal of Yak meat and mashed potatoes with tea made from mouth watering Yak butter. If interested in home cooked food, look no further than Zhou Mas homestay. You could eat breakfast, lunch and dinner with home grown stuffs to your hearts content. Now is the chance to experience typically Tibetan staple diet of Barley bread with wine. Plain and light Tibetan food is usually prepared from pure natural ingredients and is anyInnovation and Information for Sustainable Living
time healthier than the junk urban populace is accustomed to. Blood sausage made of goat blood, beef and mutton along with garlic and Zanba or roasted Barley cakes are rare delicacies not to be missed. The homestay is frequented by visitors from every part of the globe and youll find people from Germany, Australia and India dining together over quite a chat. Both Zhou Ma and Ke Zhu can speak some English and are fluent in Mandarin besides Tibetan. Trekking in Jiuzhaigou could be fun as the steep mountainous paths take you meandering by Alpine forests and blue, green Turquoise lakes. Out of the nine Tibetan villages of the valley, only seven are still populated and you can collect souvenirs and local handicrafts for your loved ones back home. Youll simply love every moment of your stay at Zhou Mas home stay in Jiuzhaigou valley. While retiring for sleep after an especially eventful day in the hills youll murmur this is it before dozing off with a feeling of content thats impossible to describe by words. Tashi Delek!
Travel: China
Contact information: Zhuo Ma's Jiuzhaigou HomeStay Village 2 Shang Si Zhai, Zhangzha Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan, China, 623402 Tel: +86 13568783012 Email: jiuzhaicooking@gmail.com Website: http://www.abuluzi.com Best time to visit: April to October Tariff (per night): $ 26 How to reach: There are direct flights to Jiuzhaigou from Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing. There are direct bus services from Chengdu too.
ADVERTORIAL
THE STORY OF A SIKKIMESE HERITAGE FARMSTAY
Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living Courtesy: Leaplocal.org
Travel: Sikkim
The Mountains Mesmerize Sikkim, the second smallest Indian state after Goa, is so rich in myriad shades of natural beauty that tourism simply booms in this picturesque Himalayan foothill. Scattered across four districts North, South, East and West, this ecological hotspot has remained a favorite destination of travelers from every corner of the world. The flora and fauna of Eastern Sikkim are richly diverse with deep forest slavishly covered by Oak, Pine, Fir, Chestnut and Maple trees. A Beautiful Heritage Retreat Do not forget to book your stay in the Yangsum Heritage Farm if you ever plan to visit East Sikkim. Its a lovely farmhouse built way back in 1983 that has been converted to a cozy, comfy, homestay. The snowcapped mountains in Sikkim keep alluring visitors from different part of the globe each year in a spell thats too hard to resist. The abundance of wild life, lush forests, somber Buddhist monasteries and snow caped hills has boosted tourism business to an unimaginable height today. To ensure that tourists have the best time of their lives, the government of Sikkim is coming up with innovative strategies to promote tourism perennially. Homestay business has flourInnovation and Information for Sustainable Living
A touching account of how one man turned a beautiful ancestral farmhouse into an increasingly popular home stay.
ished ever since Sikkim started charting at the top of the list of biodiversity hotspots. Reclaim Lost Paradise in Yangsum Yangsum Heritage Farm is a homestay run by Thendup Tashi, Dorjee Laden, and Pema Chiki belonging to the Tsechu Tharpa family. The heritage house was refurbished in 1966 with the pledge to make it the most comfortable abode of the incessant herd of tourists. Imagine staying in a wooden cottage from the fairy tales with every arrangement of creature comfort at beck and call, surrounded profusely by the snow caped Himalayan
range. Your hosts Thendup and his wife Pema shall make your stay worthwhile with sincere, oriental hospitality that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Youll be served with garden fresh fruits and vegetables from their own organic farm that you may enjoy along with the grand view of Kanchenzonga. This most inviting cottage is surrounded by wide verandas that offer a panoramic view of Gods own world. With four capacious double bedrooms ostentatiously decked with semi-attached and en-suite bathrooms, the Yangsum cotNovember 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 24
dated by natures calm, still beauty. Alleviate your spirit in the mystic silence of the Pemayantse monastery. This ancient Buddhist shrine of worship, a dwelling of 108 lamas, belongs to the Nyingma cult of Tibet. If you are the one who is charmed by antiques, now is your chance to witness the most curious oriental brica-brac. If you visit the monastery somewhere around February, you might be able to see the main festival of the monastery when colorful religious dances are performed. White Water Rafting: You can have a thrilling splash in the meandering Tista and Rangit rivers. Market Amused: The look and feel of local Sikkim marketplace with its kaleidoscope of colors and fresh smelling vegetables is something you should not miss. Mondays and Thursdays are filled with din in the marketplace and you could see local artisans at work carving wooden furniture, making baskets and weaving colorful rosettes on carpet mats. The Chef in you: Cooking is sure to become a different experience when the Tharpa family holds your hand helping you make your first yummy momo delight. You can well imagine the luxury of fetching the ingredients that you need from your very own backyard.
tage offers sweet and affordable indulgence in terms of stay. There is a lovely suite at the top floor with a wide stretch of verandah to make your moment of languid memorable. The interiors of the cottage are paneled with wood to reward you with the luxury of snug comfort when it is chilling outdoor. Colorful cushions and carpets woven with indigenous Sikkimese fabric add to the lavish ambiance of the rooms heightening their exotic looks. You can have a real blast picking up fresh guavas and pomegranates from the tree to appease your taste buds. Indulging in hom ema de momo s and thupkas midst the 44 acre forest of Pines, Himalayan Alders, Chestnut, Cherry and Magnolia is undoubtedly an experience even the Sultans would covet. The jagged surface of the terrains dotted by ample Rhodo25 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013
dendrons quivering in the cool mountainous breeze gives you a glimpse of paradise. Yangsum cottage with its forte in organic farming cultivates bananas, oranges, pears, apricots, mangoes, avocados and cardamom. Beside fruits crops like paddy, millet, maize, sweet potatoes, ginger, garlic, cabbage, tomatoes and cauliflowers are produced in plenty. Depending on whether you seek solitude or hubbub of activities, the Tharpa family could help you prepare your customized itinerary. Make the Most of Your Stay Yukspm-Dzongri-Gochela: Take a nine days trek to Gochela, basking yourself in the raw, scenic beauty of Tshoka and Phedang mountains. Experience with awe the breathtaking sunrise from the summit of Dablakhang and travel the Piag Chu valley inun-
Travel: Sikkim
Courtesy: Sostinternational.com
Travel: Sikkim
The Farming Feel Yangsum Heritage Farm-stay could get even more meaningful with you getting a firsthand experience in organic farming as an apprentice. You could snap a few photos of your gardening gig and post them to make your friends gawk eyed. Farming with a little flamboyance is no harm after all. When Thendup started his homestay venture, he was quite clueless as to how itd fare. As a strapping young lad who has just completed his education in Kolkata, Thendup was eager to start something of his own. Being endowed with a natural ability to gel well with people he would enjoy taking travelers on excursion to different places during his earlier days. Today, he has given shape to whats been once a heritage farmhouse into a full-fledged, sprawling homestay with all modern amenities of life. Thendup employs local youths to accompany his guests to exotic locations thereby generating sustainable income for them as well.
Contact Information: Courtesy: Sikkimtour.in Yangsum Heritage Farm Rinchenpong, Hes not only looking after his West Sikkim 737111, India ancestral home today but creating a solid bridge of cultural Cell: +91 094 34 179029 exchange between so many E-mail: countries besides generating yangsumfarm@yahoo.com sustainable income opportuniBest time to visit: ties for all. All the year round barring the Yangsum Heritage Farm is in- monsoon months deed a worthwhile experience for anyone. You could be rest Tariff (per night including all assured that after visiting Sik- meals): kim, life would become a trifle Rs. 3,985 Rs. 5,825 more worth living on our beautiful planet. How to reach: Rinchenpong is about 135 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway station and 130 km from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Budget travelers can avail share jeeps till Jorthang either from Siliguri S.N.T. bus stand or Gangtok and from there travel to Yangsum Heritage Farm (Rinchenpong) by car.
Courtesy: Grea ndiangetaways.com
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Interview
"Strengthening sustainable livelihoods through rural community tourism. . ."

She is the one who refused to ruminate idly over the past but drew inspira on to create sustainable development for rural communi! es through Culture Aangan. Rashmi Sawant, the leading lady in the entrepreneurial league to promote rural tourism revives the colorful cultural courtyard of India.
Tell us a bit about Culture Aangan. Whats the concept behind the interesting company name? Every village home has the Aangan (courtyard in front of it). There is Tulsi vrindavan in the centre. The Aangan is a cultural hub; a lot of daily activities take place in the Aangan - from drying pickles to teaching the child to scribble its first alphabet, to organizing a pooja or a wedding. The Aangan thus projects the Indian way of life in its totality. Hence Culture Aangan (culture courtyard). How did you discover a need for homestay tourism in the marketplace? In a homestay driven tourism business, a large number of
So every enterprise is unique. How have you hardwired' Sustainability into Business? Every activity that is developed under Culture Aangan is of the people, by the people and for the people. You have a strong presence on social media. What digital marketing platforms are you on and how has social media helped Culture Aangan grow over the last few years? Frankly , its just recently that I requested this lady Rakhee Ghelani to handle the social media marketing. She is fabulous. She has great travel experience and knowledge. I realize that it is a slow process but effective. Whats next for Culture Aangan? Getting firmly rooted but sky is the limit.
stakeholders are direct beneficiaries. What is the most satisfying thing about running your own socially responsible business? I have been able to develop the idea into a scalable model. What has been the most difficult/ challenging aspect of getting your brand off the ground and how did you overcome that? Its still a challenge. Getting a million people to know about the value based experience in Rural Tourism. What sets Culture Aangan apart from your competition? I believe that every person has a rightful place under the sun.
Beauty Picks of the Month
Exposure to harsh sun, pollution and our hectic daily routine end up damaging even the healthiest of scalps leading to thinning of hair and other related problems. SoulTree (www.soultree.in),Indias first and the only range of certified natural personal care products has created Ayurvedic Hair Revitalising Triphala shampoo that provides root nourishment and at the same time strengthens weakened hair. Triphala Shampoo from the hair care range of SoulTree is made without commonly used sulphates, silicones, mineral oil, and harsh detergents. This natural remedy for hair care conditions and improves hair texture so as to reduce hair fall due to breakage and removes dandruff. Known in Ayurveda as the Triphala (three fruits), fresh extracts of organic Aamla, Bhibitaki and Haritaki, bring their cleansing and strengthening properties into this hair vitalising shampoo. The shampoo also contains the regenerating properties of Henna, Shikakai and Bala blended into a natural protein base to nurtureyour hair from root to tip. Regular use prevents damage, premature hair loss, and leaves your hair clean and naturally soft. A subtle floral fragrance of the shampoo infused with a dash of spice refreshes you. The product is priced at Rs.350 for 200ml. SoulTree products can be found at TheKirana Shop, MeharChand Market, New Delhi and Naturally Yours, Pali Hill, Mumbai among other stores that stock natural and organic products. Also available online at Jabong.com.
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Sultry Skin
Rustic Art Organic Aloe Vera Gel
This organic Aloe Vera Gel has lemon extracts as preservative, thus ensuring that it is completely pure. It absorbs quickly, without leaving behind any stickiness. It has natural astringent properties that control acne by balancing excess oil. It is anti septic and heals skin inflammation, infections, allergies, blisters and even insect bites. It can be used to heal baby nappy rashes, as an after shave gel and as a night gel. No Animal Ingredient/ No Animal Testing, soft on skin, suitable for all skin types, completely handmade, free of chemicals. Price: Rs.170 ($3.06) for 200ml
Rustic Art Organic Sunscreen Lotion

Made of all organic and natural substances that protect the skin from sun damage, this lotion is an all-in-one skin care before you step out in the sun. It is gentle, safe and effective with SPF 20+ and the goodness of Jojoba Oil, Grape Seed Oil, Multani Mittti, Coconut Milk and Aloe Vera. No Animal Ingredient/ No Animal Testing, soft on skin, suitable for all skin types, completely handmade, free of harmful chemicals. Price: Rs.750 ($13.5) for 80 ml
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Travel: Greece
LEROS VINTAGE YATCH HOMESTAY

Theres nothing Greek in spending your vacations on a vintage yacht after all! Just imagine whiling away with your time amidst olive green sea bobbing up and down in a princely boat. Leros Vintage Yacht Homestay in the Dodecanese chain of Grecian islands could be your destination for the best of aquatic adventures. Tricia, a historical yacht built at around 1938 is going to be your home in a place that believes in slow tourism. Seldom will you get a chance to remain so close to nature in a serene picturesque island of almost ethereal beauty. Tricia is built to offer all the urban comforts that your mind could be longing for. Complete with one double cabin, and a single cabin with two individual berths, it has a large salon area that replicates a plush living room. The gallery for meal preparation is spacious with gas oven and electric stove. Nevertheless do not harbor the impression that this is a luxury boat. Tricia could make you experience the rustic life of a seasoned sailor. There is no dearth of excitement though in the beautiful
Staying in a boat could be a very humbling experience indeed and by the time your fantastic trip comes to an end youll learn for sure how to really respect nature. Location: Marina of Leros, Lakki Harbour, Greece Tariff: 35 (GB 30) - 60 (GB 51) per night Website: www.responsibletravel.com/ accommodation/9381/lerosvintage-yatch-homestay-ingreece
island of Leros. The fascinating sixteen kilometer long Leros marina is a place where adventure never ends. You could go for swimming, indulge in adrenaline intensifying water-sports or just devour Greek delicacies in any of the restaurants.
ADVERTORIAL
Travel: Sri Lanka
SUJATHAS HOMESTAY
Address: 16/8, Samadhi Mawatha | Ampitiya, Kandy, Sri Lanka Hotel website: http://kandy-homestay.com Experience genuine Sinhalese warmth and hospitality in Sujathas homestay, a charming hub of comfort in Kandy, a major city in the central province of Sri Lanka. Located in a tranquil suburban amidst cheerfully chirping yellow bitterns, Sujathas Homestay is fully equipped to serve visitors with every creature comfort at
35 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013 Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living
beck and call. A mere ten minutes drive from this accommodation could take you to the epicenter of activity; the city center of Kandy. The cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy, is beyond doubt an ideal place togain first hand experience of authentic Sri Lankan life. Sujatha and her husband Roney could help you with insiders information thatll come handy while preparing your tour plan. Be it sightseeing or enjoying traditional Sinhalese lunch, attractions are innumerable in the second largest city of the country. The very best of tea and spices are available in Kandy that could satiate the epicurean needs of the most fastidious. In Sujathas homestay your needs are taken care of really well. The hosts being well traveled understand full well how to professionally manage the show. Whether its a request for customized diet, late departure or mealtime adjustment, they are always happy to serve you with a smile. No wonder this happy homestay has gained immense popularity within a very short span of time. It is way cheaper than hotel accommodation and therefore extending your vacation is no way going to pinch your purse. With room rates ranging within $22.00 to $ 36.00 depending on the room type with complimentary
breakfast facility alongside is definitely your moneys worth. Its undoubtedly the best place to begin your tryst with Sri Lanka.
Picture Courtesy: Kandyhomestay. com
Travel: Sri Lanka
WATERFALLS HOMESTAY
Staying with lan in Ella, a beautiful, sleepy Sri Lankan town is possible if you know about the Waterfalls Homestay. Its a picturesque guest house located at the outskirts overlooking the hills. You could enjoy a breathtaking view of the misty, arcane hill tops every morning with your steaming cup of brew. Waterfalls Homestay, a paradise on hills is a small three bedroom guest house thats built on two levels. The colorfully decorated rooms amalgamate style with natural beauty, making your stay in Ella a memorable one. Spotless double beds, alongside ensuite bathrooms offer homely comfort in the dark, deep hills. The common living room is plush with a tiny space reserved for cooking and outside verandah offers the grand sight of a cascading waterfall. You could sit on a hammock or chair for hours savoring every bit of the delightful drama of nature. Strolling amidst the dark dense forest and lakes is something that you are going to enjoy during the quite evenings. The amicable staffs of Waterfalls Homestay could surely help you in preparing your local sight-seeing itinerary. You
Image courtesy: Tripadvisor.in
Image Courtesy: Holidaysinsrilanka.net
could also find a good number of cafes and restaurants to make your lazy evenings alive. Waterfalls Homestay offers you the paraphernalia to connect to the busy world outside if need be. There is internet connection to let you skim through your mails and satellite television to let you catch the news. Indulging in the luxury of Ayurvedic massage is something that you should try
at least once to reward your senses with pure, divine delight. Finally when your tuktuk arrives to take you back to the station where you had alighted on your day one in Ella, youd be visibly sad leaving behind some wonderful memories of your life in Gods own land.
Location: Watagodawaththa, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka Website: www.waterfalls-homestayguesthouse-ella-srilanka.lakpura.com
Language Holiday Homestays
Image courtesy: Eurolingua Institute
Learn foreign languages in tutor's own home

Wont it be thrilling to learn Portuguese in Portugal or Italian in Italy? Eurolingua seems to have revived the Indian Vedic system of Gurukula education once more, where one had to take lessons staying put at the home of the tutor. Eurolingua foreign language institute is providing a most singular opportunity to people from every corner of the world willing to learn a new lan39 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013
guage. Besides formal language learning, there are a whole lot of activities including excursions and sightseeing that gives firsthand experience of a new culture to the learner. This unique approach of merging learning with lifestyle is a flagship program of this institute that started way back in 1993. One to One language holiday homestay has helped
countless students, entrepreneurs and language enthusiasts in gaining mastery over their desired language. The knowledge imparted by this system, opens up a broader vista of understanding that is not limited to linguistic but encompasses different cultures. Formal lessons are well structured though to guarantee learning. However students get
Image courtesy: Eurolingua Institute
the privilege of fixing their own language within a very short timetable as per their conven- span of time. There is no age ience. Nevertheless this sched- bar to adopt the wonderful ule has to have 15 to 20 hours homestay course of Eurolinreserved exclusively for learn- gua. ing in a week. Students belonging to an age The primary advantages of this group of 16 to 75 years can pick approach towards learning lie up the language programs ofin the fact that a student can fered by the institute. The study in his own pace besides course is segregated into levels getting ample opportunity to starting with beginners and converse in the newly acquired ending in advanced. prowess. A host of languages are offered The bonding that develops be- by Eurolingua that includes tween the mentor and mentee is quite exemplary in this Improcess. The learner stays with the mentor sharing meals with the teachers family. Sightseeing and interaction with native dwellers create a strong foundation stone facilitating learning manifold. The language homestay programs are pretty affordable. Spread between a time span of one to four weeks the lesson plan gives students opportunity for self studying and practicing the language with native speakers. This helps in developing superb fluency in the
Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish and Ukrainian. One-to-One Homestay fees starts from Euro 1185 Euro 6215. The fee includes: one -to-one personalized language tuition, private room accommodation with all meals, local sightseeing, social activities, and airport/rail reception and departure. Mentors often teach in small batches of two to four people if the participant wants their family members to be a part of this program. Needless to say that the novel pedagogy rolled out by Eurolingua has gained immense popularity over the last two decades. For more details checkout: http://www.eurolingua.com/ programmes-mainmenu-100/ language-programmes/ language-homestaysworldwide-mainmenu-472
Image courtesy: Eurolingua Institute (Facebook page)
Travel: Cambodia
CHANNA'S ANGKOR HOMESTAY
You cannot resist the call of Cambodia with its innumerable hues from history; a telltale sign of a glorious past. Archeological archives indicate at the rich cultural heritage of a city that was once ruled by the Khmer dynasty. Modern Cambodia is hip and happening, offering loads of entertainment to the great number of tourists visiting this land of art and culture. Your trip will however remain grossly incomplete if you do not experience Chan41 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013 Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living
Travel: Cambodia
nas Angkor homestay. Located four kilometers from Siem Reap, the city of the colossal Angkor Wat, this homestay is doted upon by international visitors. Ideally located to offer maximum convenience to the travelers planning to visit the iconic vestige of Angkor, it is cozy yet cosmopolitan. Wealth of amenities like family rooms, airport transfer service, laundry facility and smoking bay could make your stay a delightful affair. Being well connected, you could easily access the city center, Angkor village, important hospitals and other town facilities. The rooms are spic and span with great interiors, offering ace luxury at a cheaper price. They have facilities like attached shower rooms, washing machines, exclusive dining space, twenty four hours internet access and complimentary packaged drinking water. A recuperating massage therapy at the garden could help you rejuvenate your senses after an especially tired day. Channas Angkor homestay is definitely your own quantum of solace in the hustling and bustling Siem Reap, merging comfort with cost-effectiveness successfully. Location: Angkor Archaeological Park | Trapeang Ses, Siem Reap, Cambodia Website: http://www.channasangkorhomestay.hostel.com Picture Courtesy: Tripadvisor.com
Travel: Korea
HANOK HOMESTAY: A TURNING POINT OF KOREAN TOURISM
Image courtesy: English.visitkorea.or.kr
With the ever increasing boom of tourism in South Korea, the government has initiated the Hanok homestay program that would surely give hotels a run for their money. South Korea being a popular destination of international tourists has opened this new venue thatd enable its visitors in getting first hand experience of traditional Korean culture. Hanok homestay project spearheaded by the ministry of culture, sports and tourism is also
expected to pump some fresh blood into the economy of the country. The prospect of staying in Hanok or a traditional Korean house is a welcome opportunity to promote cross cultural exchange and friendship between different countries. There is however some initial hiccup over the investment needed for converting homes into homestays that is being addressed by the Jongno-Gu administration. A host of pro-
Image courtesy: Agoda.com
Travel: Korea
motional events have been introduced to popularize the network of Hanok homestays so that the burden of initial investment could be removed from the shoulder of stakeholders. The Giwajip Hanok stays are a rare blend of aesthetics with comfort. With dark grey ceramic roof tiles known as Giwa in Korean and cream white walls, they somewhat assume the look of traditional Buddhist pagodas in full splendor. The interiors are decorated with traditional Korean fixtures and offer cozy comfort of home. Although the end users targeted at are primarily foreigners, domestic guests are also welcome any time of the year. There is plethora of opportunity for visitors to hobnob with the locals and experience traditional tea ceremony, calligraphy and take up language courses. The privilege of indulging is authentic Korean food definitely going to be one of the star attractions. Institute of Traditional Korean Food offers a unique opportunity to facilitate tourists in preparing gourmet Korean dishes all by themselves. Be it experiencing the Hanok (house), Hansik (food), Hanbok (clothing), or learning to play a traditional Korean musical instrument, visit to Korea is surely going to be worth ones salt with the Hanok Homestay drive. Staying in a hanok will cost anywhere between 70,000. 50,000 and
Innovation and Information for Sustainable Lining
November 2013| InnovateUs Magazine| 44
Travel: South Africa
LEBOS SOWETO BACKPACKERS
Image courtesy: Tripadvisor.com
Address: 10823A Pooe Street Orlando West Johannesburg 1804 South Africa Backpackers and adventurers who find it impossible to resist the attraction of wild African Savanna often find it difficult to get cheap yet comfortable accommodation. However, if you are in Soweto, the suburbs of Johannesburg, South Africa, you could rely on Lebos Back45 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013
packers blindfolded as your trusted home away from home. Its a homestay beyond homestay that is going to inundate you with colorful adventures making each day of your stay more vibrant. You could join in cycling and walking excursions, play soccer matches with locals and pick up Tsotsi Taal (local dialect) having a gala time in the wild subtropical highland.
This cool, funky and colorful homestay is charged with life from morning till night as travelers keep pouring in from different parts of the world. The staffs are extremely friendly and cooperative with a natural bent for hospitality. There are cozy single and double rooms along with dormitories and you could avail attractive group discount as well. Students are also given concessions so that travelers on shoe-string budget
Travel: South Africa

could enjoy Lebos. their stay at Lebos Backpackers the proud recipient of Tourism Investment Award 2007 could give you a unique experience thats larger than life. Havent you started packing your bags yet?
The cute and comfy hangout area of Lebos is a courtyard of cross-cultural exchange in the true sense. Those with a flair for meeting new people would find it especially enchanting, being able to see a mini world filled with multifarious people. You could chill out unfazed with a couple of drinks, watch TV or play pool to your hearts content with the new friends that you make. The snug, makeshift lounge area built around a sunken fire pit is the best place to unwind with other travelers. Whether you are a guitar strumming buccaneer or a grave family man, differences are blurred into oblivion here, making you feel like being a part of a global family.
Image courtesy: Hihostels.com
Image courtesy: modernoverland.com
Image courtesy: Business.joburgtourism.com
DAVIQELE PARADISE VILLAGE HOME STAY
Travel: Fiji
made from the homestay at a reasonable price and you really dont have to look anywhere else. The villagers are simple amicable folks and youll love being in their company, learning their ways. Youll be fascinated by the clear blue sea that merges with the sky, the divine sunrise, the somber sunsets and the vast beaches. There is provision for whole lot of activities including snorkeling, water-sport, hiking, trekking, diving or plain and simple sunbathing. With its rich natural resources Kadavu is gradually extending beyond the age old professions of agriculture and farming towards tourism. You could be preparing therefore to experience fantastic Fiji at its best. Location:
Mt. Washington, Kadavu, Fiji
Fun doesnt seem to end at the islands of Fiji and if you are willing to try your tryst with nature far from the pandemonium of cell phones and stock markets, Kadavau could be your destination next. This third largest island in Fiji is famous for its perky parrots, enormous Iguanas and countless coconut trees dotted along the coast line. If you want to enjoy your stay to the fullest,
do not ever give Daviqele Paradise Village home stay in Fiji a miss. This homely accommodation managed by a hospitable Fijian woman named Raijeli lets you take a close peek at the real Fiji. Imagine ambling through the Kadavau village with a tribal tour guide ready to answer to your numerous questions. All arrangements could be
Booking website :
www.airbnb.com/rooms/220137
Interview
"A MINIATURE EDEN FLOURISHES IN THE RUSSET EARTH OF BIRBHUM"

For a hands-on farmstay experience, visit Babli, a 12.5 acres working farm in rural Bengal welcoming guests who have eagerness to explore unique human -nature harmony. Excerpts of an exclusive interview with Mr. Aaditto Shen.
Whats the story of BABLI? BABLI is a rural-action project in interior Birbhum, near Shantiniketan, West Bengal, India. We explore various unconventional farming methods, aimed at rejuvenating the agriculture of the region and countering the process of rapid urbanisation by trying to support the rural culture and livelihood. Our aim is to put in a sustained effort to rejuvenate the fastdepleting forest cover of the adjoining areas, and conserve the threatened flora and fauna of the region, through a minimum intervention process. We also have a GUESTHOUSE - where like-minded people, who want to spend a few days in a unique space, away from the din of city life, can rent cottages of various types and tariffs.
THE FOUNDERS AND PROPRIETORS OF THE PROJECT
Why such a name? Babli was the nick-name of an extraordinary individual an Indian Gynaecologist practicing in England for many years whose untimely death in 1989 shattered her family, specially her mother who survived her. To commemorate her life, her brother-in-law Mr. Bikram Sen, who was the first Project Director, conceived project BABLI and the rest of her family gave it whole-hearted support.
Mrs. Neela Sen, the younger sister of Babli (Dr. Krishna Sen), joined the project a year after its commencement. To define the purpose of the project the alphabets of her name were used to form Bureau for Agro Based / Linked Industries. Today, after years of experimentation since project takeoff, if we tried to re-enumerate BABLI, it might emerge as Belief, transformed into Action, Bolstered by Love & Inspiration. BABLI began as an experi-
Interview
ing the severely depleted forest cover of the region, through a minimum intervention process that is, by allowing the Natural processes of integrated flora-fauna development to thrive though its inbuilt mechanism of complimentative growth, without the intervention of human half-knowledge and greed. Running a self-contained composite farm a traditional system of farming where animal-husbandry, pisciculture, cereal and cash crops, as well as herbs and root-cultivations are carried-out in-tandem whereby, each cultivar/ breed complements or supplements the healthy growth of the other. Finally, we do not believe in charity! So, we have never looked for funding, either private or government, to facilitate any of our work. Instead, we run a GUESTHOUSE where like-minded people can come and stay to get a feel/ participate/ understand and appreciate this unique system, by which human beings can actually live in harmony with Nature! We have deliberately selected an area where nothing much had been growing, in the past hundred years or so. Such tracts of unproductive country-side maybe called negative land. Our intention is to try to positivise such a piece of land, through innovative farming practices. Rural communities in such unproductive areas suffer a slowNovember 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 50
THE RECEPTION & FRONT-OFFICE
ment: Neela and Bikram Sen, who initiated BABLI, were born to a ge n e r at io n inspi re d by Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda and Gandhi. Brought up in the indifference of urban India, they were lucky to have an opportunity to interact with its rural interface. They were deeply aware of the enormous yet severely depleted natural wealth of the countryside, the deprivation of indigenous communities, the apathy or alienation of those who might care and who had the means to offer redress. Here was an opportunity to put into practice what they had always wanted to do develop small businesses employing the land-less to develop new, on-the-job skills, as well as be rewarded for their traditional know-how in agricultural work. 12 acres of arid land was acquired in the outskirts of Village Dwaronda in Birbhum, a
backward district of West Bengal. The project-area is located at the edge of what remained of the Choupahari Jungle an old tract of deciduous forest, that had been severely depleted by human interference. Years of indiscriminate tree felling, overgrazing and neglect had left it essentially nonproductive, lashed by torrential rains during the monsoons and fast moving towards desertification. The objective at BABLI was to convert this negative land into a productive ecosystem and thereby achieve self-sufficiency for the agro-based project. The long-term aim was to help the local land-less farmers to upgrade their skills to gain social and economic self-reliance. Could you tell us a bit about what BABLI farm does? At BABLI we have three primary points of focus: Rejuvenating and reconstruct-
Interview
growth of indigenous flora, and incorporate composite-farming within the jungle that comes up. In a sense, what we have been trying to achieve over the past 24-years or so, is very similar to the present efforts of various other groups under the umbrella of permaculture which is a kind of ecological or environmental design that develops sustainable and selfm a i n tained agricultural systems modeled from natural ecosystems. The main objective is to try and revitalize the soil, by supporting and allowing the Natural ecosystem to rebuild itself, so that the area can become agriculturally productive once again. This rejuvenated soil will, in turn, provide enough opportunity to the rural communities to earn a healthy living by pursuing their traditional vocation of agriculture. At our farm we try and provide agro-based, year-round employment to as many local poor as we can. The guests who visit BABLI get to live within a traditional Indian farm, with traditional villages on one side, and an old jungle tract on the other. They are also enthralled, at times a bit intimidated, by the raw Nature that grows wild, right in the midst of our farming-ventures. Over the years, the GUESTHOUSE at BABLI has become a popular destination for people who are looking for a unique experience. This in turn has allowed us to remain self-reliant sparing us the burden of adhering to the whims of funding-agents! The farm-produce is consumed directly at the project canteen thereby taking out the encumbrance and loss of revenue that comes with the dependence on middle-men. And the guest-house earnings support the staff-salary and other expenses, which enable us to cover the running-costs of the project. What are some of the main challenges about running a socially responsible, environmentally sustainable organization? How did you overcome them? Social responsibility and environmental sustainability are concepts that must be addressed at a macro level. It is highly improbable that either of these vital goals will be practically achieved within a microcosm, such as BABLI, while the rest of the world rushes forward with total disdain for its surroundings! In fact, for many environmentalists 'sustainable development' is an oxymoron - as development seems to entail environmental degradation, in one form or the other! The primary challenge in running an organization that focuses on both these aspects is the fact that the people you work with, which include the staff as well as the guests who visit the project, are constantly exposed to a totally converse
T h e ' M o t h e r ' o f B A B LI: Sri Sahadeb Gupta death since their primary skill-set is agrarian. The lack of substantial agricultural activities, due to the lack of fertility, forces the village communities to migrate to nearby smalltowns. This migration of vital human-resource affects the agricultural productivity even more and a vicious cycle is perpetrated. The unique feature of the region is its red laterite soil. This type of soil is actually quite rich in certain vital minerals and is supposed to have high moisture-retention capabilities; however, in the present scenario, there is a severe dearth of available moisture and organic matter in the soil of this region, which hampers most vegetal growth. The primary reason behind this uncharacteristic lack of moisture and complete lack of mulch, or organic matter, is the indiscriminate deforestation, over-grazing, and illpanned and wrongly-chosen planting of trees, which are all features of recent development in this region! Keeping all this in mind, we at BABLI try to encourage the re51 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013
Interview
worldview. The world they live in is progressively becoming more and more exploitative; driven by the madness and lust of consumption. So, the root concept itself is actually an alien idea, which has very little reflection in the rest of human culture. The challenge lies in convincing the people who are participating in the experiment in one way or the other, that this unique attitude is actually one that is worth striving for! We cannot claim to have achieved our goals, by any means! However, we believe in the process, more than its outcome. So, we try and do our best to showcase, by example, a unique mode of living where we strive to live in harmony with Nature, rather than the one-sided exploitation of natural resources and disdain for every other life form, which has become the mainstay of todays civilization. Our guests, as well as our coworkers from the surrounding villages, see on a daily basis, the ease with which one can actually live, for example, with a bee-hive swarming in front of your nose, without being bitten even once! Or how the many snakes that inhabit the farm, both venomous and nonvenomous, actually aid our agricultural work, by taking charge of rat and frog control and also, the fact that snakes are actually not at all vindictive, contrary to the common belief! Having a living example in
front of them, many who come in contact with BABLI do begin to at least see parts of the whole process in a new light. For us, that little bit of awakening, in each individual, is a lot achieved in this neverending tussle to negate human greed! Who make BABLI Farms ideal clients? Typically, what sort of living experiences do you think your clients are looking for? Not everyone is cut-out for BABLI! For us, there are two distinct groups of people one who will never feel comfortable in a
some of the common characteristics that the individual would have are as follows:They would not come with any preconceived notions that is, they would not be imagining BABLI to by like such-andsuch resort that they had visited. They would have a clear idea about the wild character of the space, and the nature of the work that we try to do here rather than have an illinformed idea, which misleads them to think that they are visiting a tourism-centre. Since the guest-house at BABLI is really an extension of our experiment with living in tandem with raw-Nature; it is not a tourism-resort. People who are squeamish about spiders and ants, and of course snakes and scorpions, would definitely feel out of place in our farm! So, the group that actually do enjoy the charms of BABLI comprise of people who are somewhat exposed to natural spaces either through their childhood experiences in rural/semi-rural areas, or through subsequent exposure through adventure tourism and such, where you have to rough it up a bit. In gist, people with an adventurous spirit, who enjoy new experiences, rather than cushy comforts, are ideal guests of BABLI. What benefit do visitors get out of your farm stay? Guests at BABLI are witness to a variety of agrarian activities from traditional paddyNovember 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 52
Sri Aaditto Shen: The Field-Director space like BABLI. We try and make sure that such people do not end up visiting our guesthouse, since that becomes counter-productive for both parties. While the other group, who will be comfortable in such a space, fit in with perfect ease. Such people usually fall in love with BABLI, and end up becoming a part of our extended family visiting the farmguesthouse at every given opportunity! To fit into a space like BABLI,
gle. But we are also located merely a quarter of a kilometer from a major metalled road. So, guests at BABLI have the pleasure of spending a holiday in a jungle that is close enough to a highway and yet quiet enough to calm their cityjittered nerves. The facilities at the guesthouse are deliberately Spartan to blend in with the basic ideals of the project. However, we take every care to make sure that all essential requirements are met with so that the guests may have a hasslefree and yet unique experience. What Babli farmstay experience is most popular with guests? There are many aspects to the experience at BABLI and each individual has a unique taste, and therefore, they respond to the same space in a myriad set of ways.
The Magic of Nature: The same spot - 15-years later
At the Beginning: The area we procured
The Beginning: A closer look
farming to exotic turmeric cultivation, along with dairy productions, free-range chicken and goat rearing and management of naturally growing fishes in the ponds. People who are more adventurous are free to try their hand at any of the farm work or they might be interested in watching the plethora of birds and small animals that cohabit with us within the wildernessfarm in which case we are more than willing to share our understanding and expertise, to elevate their experience.
On the whole, visitors to the farm are exposed to a rural and truly natural space, which in itself is a unique experience in todays world. As an added attraction, the old and renowned university-town of Shantiniketan, the seat of Bengali culture during the middle of the twentieth century, and the brain-child of the illustrious Nobel-laureate Rabindranath Tagore, is just a few kilometers away. The farm is located right next to an old jungle-tract and the space is itself a veritable jun-
However, the common-ground where all these varying tastes and interests of our guests seem to merge is probably the peace and quiet that the wild, unkempt beauty of BABLI has to present. The lack of over-arching human intervention gives the space a very unique sense of primeval serenity. That is probably the common ground where every individuals unique taste blends in they all might have different ways of expressing it, but each and everyone who comes to enjoy living within our farm invariably talks about this serenity. In fact, we have a group of guests, who are writers, artists,
9 7
1- Sri Sanat Bauri: The Field & Dairy Head Sri Prodip Mondal 2- Sri Madhu Mal & Sri Mahadeb Bauri (Farmhouser) 3- The Young Lieutenant 4- Staff Winnowing Wheat 5- Managing the Turmeric-Field 6- Sri Ajoy Hnasda: The Santali All-in-One 7- Smt Churki Baski: The Santali Canteen-Staff 8- Sri Asit Kumar Panja: The Meticulous Book-keeper 9- Smt Makhani Soren: Santali Magician House-Keeping In-charge 10- Sri Tara Soren: The Young Field-Champ 11- Smt Lakkhi Soren: Another Santali asset -House-keeping & Field-Work
10
11
Interview
film-makers or photographers by profession, Indian as well as foreign, who frequent our guest-house solely for the sake of that serenity. They come to the project and spend long periods, pursuing their craft in the peace and quite of our mini -forest. What has been the most satisfying aspect of hosting guests in your farm-stay? The most satisfying aspect of running this project, and hosting a variety of guests, must be the pleasure we derive watching the transformation in each individual, as they slowly begin to settle into the space! Most of our guests arrive at the project from one bustling city or the other. When they get here, their minds and hearts are full of all the urban concerns that their daily lives are comprised of. The decibel levels of their voices are tuned at that shrill pitch that is characteristic of cities the anxiety and restiveness of a busy cityculture is replete in their every gesture. However, by the next morning, there is a palpable change in all that! Almost everyone begins to show subtle sings of resignation to the raw Nature that is engulfing them, more than anything else. Though very few are yet aware of the change that is taking place! If a group has come to spend only one night at the project, then the process remains mostly half-baked. They go back to their daily rigmarole
way before any substantial impact has taken effect. But groups who come for at least two nights, preferably three, are bound to show remarkable differences in small things which, for us, tell a much larger story! To begin with, by the second evening, their voices would have come down drastically and on the third evening, they would be speaking almost in a whisper, compared to their usual city-pitch. Every now and then, we would see a guest wandering around
house, has been word-ofmouth. That is also our preferred and most meaningful mode of publicity. Being a very different kind of a space, it is important that people who come to visit have a true perspective so, people who have already visited the farm, and have enjoyed its charm, are the ideal spokes-person they can convey a personalized and intimate picture to other, prospective guests. In more recent times, the internet and our website www.babli.org has made a substantial difference. The very large audience that the Web has access to is unprecedented. It helps us reach out to a much wider cross-section, nationally and internationally. Other than that, as a matter of principle, we generally abstain from publicizing or marketing our venture through other commercial mediums. How can we arrange to stay at your farm? Again on principle, we do not have any arrangement for viamedia reservations at the BABLI guest-house. That is, all bookings must be affected directly through the processes elaborated in our website page s ( h t t p s : / / bablifarm.wordpress.com) . Although it is possible for touring-agents or other organizations to make reservations on behalf of their clients the procedure would remain the same. And in such a case, it would be the responsibility of the agent to make sure that the arriving guest has formed a
The BABLI Canteen
t h e f a r m w i t h no special agenda they are merely soaking in the unique experience of a Natural space! Their customary, city-bred habit of time management would have given way to a wanton spirit of peace! This metamorphosis, that we are witness to every now and then, is certainly one of the most rewarding experiences for us. Whats been the most successful promotional/marketing outlet for Babli? The primary form of promotion for the project, as well as for B A S A, the BABLI guest-
The Canteen Interior 1
The Canteen Interior 2
The BABLI Kitchen
clear idea about the nature of the project, its objectives, and also that they have read and understood the various Rules & Regulations that must be accepted before visiting the project. Any additional fees, which the booking-agent will levy, must be charged up-front, and settled directly with their clients since all rates and tariffs at BABLI are always transparent and accessible by everyone. The basic procedure for reservation, as detailed on our website page for Guest-House/ Reservations, are broken into three parts:Preliminary: Understanding the nature of the project Choosing rooms to reserve Making travel-plans Verifying availability Invoicing: Submitting the on-line form for reservation-request Receiving and scrutinizing the INVOICE, over e-mail Payment: Completing the advanceInnovation and Information for Sustainable Living
payment (full-amount for room-reservations), as per the chosen mode of payment (option specified in the on-line form) Receiving and printing-out the Advance-Receipt which is also the reservation-
confirmation document. Cancellations are allowed up to four (4) days before the date of visit as par the CANCELLATION SCHEDULE (http://
bablifarm.wordpress.com/rulesregulations/#cancellation).
The 'Mother' in his domain: Sri Sahadeb Gupta at the service kitchen
Upcoming issue
December issue of InnovateUs Magazine will add some thrill to the winter chill introducing host of natural, blissful, baby care products for your bundle of joy. Ingredients for conventional baby care products mainly consists of paraben based synthetic preservatives, dye and mineral oil. These chemicals act as irritants causing increasing skin conditions in babies. New moms very often go bonkers over the ever proliferating baby lotions and shampoos in the market under the Organic garb. How do you know for sure that these are actually safe for your newborns sensitive skin? Are these products free from side-effects? Or is it just a marketing myth to turn the wheels of a money spinning machine? Our December issue attempts at answering some of these questions besides giving you a glimpse of whats cooking inside a multi-billion dollar baby-care product industry. We present a snapshot of natural baby care products made by eco-aware manufacturers by employing sustainable techniques. We intend to guide you to the path of awareness thatd ensure you make the best choice for your toddlers skin.
Watch out for Shaheen Hirji, the entrepreneur behind Organically Hatched. This womans reason to start her organic venture was more filial than financial. A doting mothers answer to cost effective skin solution.
Oh-Lief natural baby products are relief for young mothers worrying over tummy wax and insect balms. A diverse product line created by Christine Buchanan, a loving South African mother.
With OH Baby skin care, reward yourself with wow moments, choosing from a wide array of natural skin care products that open the door to great health and wellness.
With all this and a lot more, our next issue empowers you with the temerity to manage your toddlers health like never before. Look out for our December edition that will surely educate, elucidate and entertain you to the core.

InnovateUs Magazine - November Issue

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ISSUE 6 | NOVEMBER 2013

Agriturismo Poggio Al Sole

ISSUE 6 | NOVEMBER 2013

Leros Vintage Yatch Homestay

Art & Design

Interview: Aaditto Shen of Babli Farm 49

Stanton Isle a small, independent, unconventional family business

AGRITURISM POGGIO AL SOLE

05 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

Al Sole is relaxation at its best,

07 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 08

A Gateway to the Land of the Gods

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

Mobile: 9733235441 /8768350508 Email:

THE COORGI LEGACY CONTINUES

15 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013

A TRAVELERS TIBETAN DREAM

The beautiful cottage, situated at the summit of a hill, offers a

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

Eat Drink and Be Merry

Courtesy: Zhuo Ma's Jiuzhaigou Home-Stay

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 19

Courtesy: Zhuo Ma's Jiuzhaigou Home-Stay

Courtesy: Zhuo Ma's Jiuzhaigou Home-Stay

21 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 22

THE STORY OF A SIKKIMESE HERITAGE FARMSTAY

23 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living Courtesy: Leaplocal.org

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 26

Courtesy: Grea ndiangetaways.com

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 28

"Strengthening sustainable livelihoods through rural community tourism. . ."

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 30

Beauty Picks of the Month

Rustic Art Organic Sunscreen Lotion

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 32

LEROS VINTAGE YATCH HOMESTAY

33 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

Innovation and Information for Sustainable Living

November 2013 | InnovateUs Magazine| 34

Travel: Sri Lanka

Picture Courtesy: Kandyhomestay. com

Travel: Sri Lanka

Image courtesy: Tripadvisor.in

Image Courtesy: Holidaysinsrilanka.net

Image Courtesy: Holidaysinsrilanka.net

37 | InnovateUs Magazine| November 2013

Image Courtesy: Holidaysinsrilanka.net

Image courtesy: Tripadvisor.in

Image courtesy: Tripadvisor.in

Location: Watagodawaththa, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka Website: www.waterfalls-homestayguesthouse-ella-srilanka.lakpura.com