Apologies for my absence over the last couple of weeks but I was given the opportunity to visit India and it wasn't something I could possibly miss as I'm sure you would agree. As you can imagine, I fell head over heels in love with the place. The people were so friendly, the driving insane and the food so good! I was in heaven.

Exploring India was an adventure every day. I used the Love Guides as my bible to explore with and allowed it to point me in the direction of all of the wonderful experiences that Delhi and Mumbai have to offer. I just loved jumping in a Tuk Tuk and whizzing around to see Temples, Forts and Markets. I was so inspired as a designer as I was inundated with patterns and colours, from tribal arts to colourful saris, from ancient architecture to modern trendsetting shops. It really was an incredible experience. After discussing with tradesman in the markets and discovering beautiful homeware stores I can't wait to plan my next trip back so that I can start sourcing some fabrics and artefacts for my future projects.

I thought I would make it simple and list a few of my favourite, must go to places for both Delhi and Mumbai. Of course I haven't seen everything and I simply must go back so that I can discover more but for now these were a few of the best bits, so if you are heading that way go check them out! Oh and couple of them are my own discoveries which can't even be found in the guides!

Delhi:

Nappa Dori has fun innovative leather goods in Hauz Khas
Maison15 in Santushi for homewares including beautiful linens and fabrics from India and other gems from Bali and South Africa
Dang a brilliant jewellers using semi precious stones at very reasonable prices in Hauz Khas
Travel in a Rickshaw to explore Old Delhi
Visit the beautiful calm temples within Lodhi Gardens
Peruse the Craft Museum and eat at their amazing restaurant, Cafe Lota for lunch.

Mumbai (I only had a few days so didn't venture as far as I would have liked):

Trishna for dinner, I was recommended it for the best Kulfi in town and it really was
Bungalow8 for very cool and trendy designers, both fashion and homewares, underneath the cricket stadium
Elephanta Island to see the amazing 4th century cave temples, get there first to have the place to yourself!
A tour of the slums, totally eye opening in a very positive way
Apartment 9 for interiors, fabrics etc, tucked just behind the Taj Palace Hotel