The Lockdown Got the Better of Me, and I Drove off to Ooty!

Travel was my only resort when it came to a peaceful escape from work, daily burdens and mundane life. And, that’s exactly what I missed the most during the whole of the lockdown period.

Oh! How I would crave for a long drive down a highway, a trip to a windy beach or a cosy stay in the lap of the mountains.

While work kept me going during the early months of the lockdown, and I even managed to travel a fair number of times for work, nothing could appease my longing for some leisure travel. In the meantime, the airport lounges (which I would otherwise enjoy sipping on a Cappuccino!) didn’t feel the same anymore ‘tween all the safety measures.

Well, as soon as the lockdown rules were lifted, my traveller feet itched to get out of the stay-at-home scenario. I quickly planned a short weekend getaway into the hills. In no time, my bags were packed and I embarked on an enthralling drive from Bangalore to Ooty through a panoramic view of nature.

The soothing climate and the breath-taking scenery could finally put my heart and mind at ease. I was excited to be on the road again!

The drive felt all the more refreshing with a few pit stops at the highway Dhabas for some delicious local food along with the “much-needed” travel selfies (Oh! I missed them so much!)

The Lakeview Hotel served our weekend paradise for the next two days at Ooty. We were overwhelmed by their incredible hospitality and mouth-watering delicacies.

By the end of the getaway, I realized that travelling is not the same anymore. The effect of COVID could be vividly felt at every step. I did miss the good old days when I could stop anywhere and enjoy the simplest of things. However, this trip not only rejuvenated my soul but also gave me the confidence to restart travelling, upon adopting new travel norms. Now, nothing can stop the traveller in me from exploring places. Coz, travelling keeps me alive!