Just a few weeks into our marriage, we craved a change of scenery—a break from the wedding chaos and the typical hustle of daily life. The idea of escaping into the mountains, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, felt perfect. Without overthinking it, we booked a spontaneous trip to Manali, one of the most beautiful hill stations in India, and packed our bags for the adventure. As our bus wound through the steep curves of the mountains, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement, mixed with the romance of a first trip together as a married couple. We were heading toward tranquility and nature’s magnificence—everything seemed surreal. The pine trees passed us by, and slowly, the roads became snow-clad. Our conversation shifted from casual chatter to discussing the life we were building together, inspired by the serenity of the mountains. Upon arrival, the cool breeze greeted us. Manali had a fresh layer of snow, and we were welcomed with the chill of the winter. Our small, cozy hotel sat in a perfect spot with views of the valley and the Beas River snaking its way through the mountains. It was the ideal setting for our new beginnings, away from the world we knew. As I gazed out the window, looking at the distant snow-capped peaks, I realized this trip was going to be about more than just sightseeing—it was about experiencing each other in a different light, wrapped in the calmness of nature. One of the highlights was our visit to the Hadimba Temple, set in the middle of towering deodar trees. The quiet atmosphere there gave us a moment of reflection—a moment to appreciate how far we had come together, as individuals and as partners. The temple, with its ancient architecture, stood strong, just like the roots we were now building. We rented thick winter jackets and boots, as the snow was deeper than we expected. It was our first real experience of playing in the snow together. We laughed, threw snowballs at each other, and I even attempted to build a snowman. I remember the photo we took that day—it perfectly captured the joy we were feeling, with rosy cheeks and big smiles. After days of braving the cold, we decided to indulge in the hot springs of Vashisht. The contrast between the cold air and the warm water was a welcome relief for our tired muscles. As we soaked in the natural thermal baths, we could feel our bodies relax, the tension melting away. Looking back, our first trip as a married couple was more than just an adventure. It was a reminder that the world is vast, and there’s so much to explore. Every moment felt like a gift—a beautiful start to the lifelong journey we were about to embark on together. With each new experience, we learned more about each other, about our love, and about the joy of simply being present in the moment.
Other submissions
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Bhoomi Patel
The world is becoming full of emerging travelers, so did I want to be the one, it started as one of the “cool” things to do and now it has become a knowing the world or life lessons from experiences, or accepting how the world is, because traveling doesn’t only give you good memories but some struggles too. So now I realized I actually want to be rich but in travel and experiences. When I Imagine, if I had not travelled some of the countries I wouldn’t have known their cuisines, culture or landscapes, but I’m grateful that my favorite food now is Mexican, favorite culture is Balenese, and landscape is Thailand’s. I’m excited if I’m selected in this what will Vietnam 🇻🇳 offer me😊
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Manish Kumawat
My Photographic Journey The world changed dramatically in 2020. Lockdowns, quarantines, and social distancing became the new normal. For me, this period of isolation proved to be a catalyst for a new passion. As I spent countless hours indoors, I found solace in exploring the world through a lens. Photography, a hobby I'd dabbled in, suddenly became a lifeline. It offered a way to connect with the world, even when physical connection was limited. I started by capturing the mundane: the play of light and shadow in my room, the intricate details of plants, and the changing moods of the sky. As the restrictions eased, I ventured out, armed with my camera. The world, once familiar, now seemed fresh and vibrant. Every corner, every moment, became a potential photograph. I found joy in capturing the beauty of nature, the candid moments of everyday life, and the unique character of different places. With each click of the shutter, I felt a sense of purpose. Photography allowed me to express my emotions, share my perspective, and connect with others on a deeper level. It became a way to document my journey, to freeze time, and to create lasting memories. I'm grateful for the challenges of 2020. It pushed me to discover a new passion and to embrace the power of creativity. As I continue my photographic journey, I'm excited to see where it takes me.
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Chirag Ghuman
Discovering Vietnam: A Journey of Military History, Growth, and Culture As a serving Army officer and an avid student of Military history, I am drawn to countries that reflect strength and transformation. Vietnam, with its illustrious past and ambitious future, captivates me. I am eager to immerse myself in its Military heritage, witness its growth, and savour its rich culinary traditions. Having spent time at Indonesia’s Akademi Militer, I now look forward to exploring Vietnam's Military establishments, including the National Defense Academy, to observe their training methodologies and leadership philosophies. The Vietnam War offers profound lessons in strategy, resilience, and the human spirit. Vietnam's transformation into a fast-growing economy is equally compelling. The government's focus on infrastructure, technology, and sustainability highlights its progress. I am eager to explore cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where modernity meets history. As a food lover, I cannot wait to indulge in Vietnam's cuisine, from Pho to spring rolls. Experiencing a country's culture through its food is essential, and Vietnam promises a gastronomic adventure. This journey to Vietnam is about learning, growth, and cultural exchange. I look forward to experiencing its Military legacy, modern achievements, and cultural treasures. Major Chirag Ghuman
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