Guide to Mysore Dasara

October 21, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.co6 Comments

Nyambura.co - Guide to Mysore — Amba Vilas Palace, Mysore

Mysore, the erstwhile capital of Karnataka is a well-planned city with wide, clean roads, expansive gardens and stunning colonial architecture.

Nyambura.co - Guide to Mysore Dasara — The Palace of Lights

Places to see

Mysore Palace – The beauty of the illuminated Amba Vilas Palace in Dasara is beyond compare; All the beautiful streets of Mysore lead to the Palace and are decorated to form a capricious canopy of lights.

Kukkarahalli Lake – Located close to Mysore University, Kukkarahalli lake was created in 1864 by Krishnaraja Wadiyar to provide irrigation for land beyond the city. The lake is a treat for birdwatchers, over 176 birds migrate to the lake for a winter roost.

Place to stay

La Villa – Created by Patrice Avossa and Magoo Bourgoin, a former artist at Yves Saint Laurent, Paris – La Villa is an elegant bungalow in the midst of a well-loved garden and the place to stay when in Mysore.

Places to eat

The Old House – All the wood-fired oven pizzas on the menu are delicious and are a must-have. Watch the turtle swim in the pond while you wait for your pizza.

Just Gelato – The proprietors of the gelateria have learnt the craft in Italy and bring you rich, creamy, flavourful gelato in unique flavours. Do not forget to pack flaxseed chocolate brownies for the road.

Lalith Mahal Palace – The stunning baroque dining room is a treat to the senses, as is the delicious Dasara Thali. You can also partake in afternoon tea and explore the lovely garden.

The Green Hotel – The former Chittaranjan palace built for Mysore princesses is now a not-for-profit, eco-conscious hotel. The staff are wonderful and justly complement the understated charm. A wonderful place for breakfast, the rich aroma of freshly baked bread greets you as you walk in.

Places to shop

KSIC Mysore Silk – Resplendent Mysore silk sarees are woven with pure gold/silver and make wonderful keepsakes.

Oriental Arts – This antique store is a wonderful place to buy lithographs and fine china.

Would you like to know the unique essence of Mysore? Here is a hint.

Night-time Ritual – Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate

October 15, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.co1 Comment

Nyambura.co - Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate contains the goodness of coriander seed oil, cucumber fruit extract, rosemary oil, turmeric root extract and calming lavender oil. The light-textured concentrate smells wonderful and makes for the perfect night-time ritual, leaving your skin soft and replenished in the morning.

Secret Tip – Rub some onto your hands too! The concentrate nourishes your skin and gives it a healthy glow.

Buy it here and let me know how well it worked for you!

Nyambura.co - Precious

Barkcam – How to take great pictures of your dog

October 7, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.coLeave a comment

Barkcam is such a great app! It comes with a repertoire of sounds that dogs respond to such as the roar of a dinosaur, the jangle of keys, the ringing of a doorbell, etc.

When you click on the button to play a sound you also simultaneously trigger the camera’s shutter-release, instantly capturing your pet’s innocent reaction.

You can even edit the captured photos by adding filters, speech bubbles, funny costumes and creating memes!

Download the app here.

P.S. If you are looking for ideas in pet photography, here is one of my favourite books – ‘The French Dog‘, a beautiful photo series capturing the life of dogs in France.

Meet Inslee Haynes

September 29, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.co2 Comments

Illustrator Extraordinaire Inslee Haynes talks to us about her favourite era, the celebrated calendar girl and exciting art projects!

Nyambura.co - Meet Inslee Haynes

Loved your blog ’14 Reasons to..’, It’s such a hilarious take on the world of the millennials. If given a chance which era would you rather live in, à la ‘Midnight in Paris’?

I would choose the 1950’s! I absolutely adore the couture gowns from that era. I also love how delicately the women posed. They posed which ever way made their waists look the most delicate. And I don’t hate it. As much as I am a proud female entrepreneur, I do love a lilting pose with the hands floating inexplicably below the chin like little doves that happen to be attached to the wrist.

Nyambura.co - Meet Inslee Haynes Tell us about your bold and Uber-Glamorous (she looks so glamorous munching on fries!) alter ego Daphne..Will your life in a few years mirror hers?

One could only wish! The trouble with creating a fabulous alter ego is just that – she’s fabulous. While i’m lugging my groceries up my NYC walkup apartment, Daphne is somewhere sunny, wearing a plunging back one piece and being served frozen margs every hour, on the hour. Let’s just say if in a year i’m no longer a regular at Duane Reade i’ll call it a victory.

I love how you write the calendar girl’s thoughts for each month, What are your thoughts for September?

This month’s Calendar Girl is caught in a whirlwind moment between NYFW shows. One of those moments when everything is just on point and the paparazzi are loving it. I wish I could say the same! While I will be attending some NYFW events, my life will not be as glamorous as hers. In a way, September is the calm before the storm. As we transition into October, the holiday rush begins and the requests for commissions really flow in!

Nyambura.co - Meet Inslee Haynes What exciting projects are you working on at the moment?

At the moment I have been busy illustrating some of my favourite looks from New York Fashion Week! This season I was drawn to all-white ensembles, specifically looks by designers Jason Wu and Zimmermann.

Nyambura.co - Meet Inslee Haynes

Tell us about some of your favourite projects..

I recently branched into designing fabrics with my friend Roxy, founder of Society Social! We are still in the beginning stages but it is so exciting to see her bring my artwork to life in a whole new way! It’s also fun to see how the colors compliment Roxy’s designs.

Follow Inslee Haynes’ sketchbook for more of her beautiful illustrations.

You can also take a look at ‘Master’s of Fashion Illustrations‘ by David Downton, a book Inslee recommends to everyone who loves fashion-illustrations.

Lucy Halcomb of ‘Lucy_Mail’

September 10, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.co1 Comment

Lucy Halcomb is an accomplished web designer at Bobbi Brown NY and the talented artist behind ‘Lucy_Mail’ – an Instagram account that showcases beautiful, Gouache-illustrated mail envelopes.

Nyambura.co - Lucy_Mail — Summer Reading

In a Q&A with Nyambura, Lucy tells us how it all began and what inspires her each day –

What impelled you to create such wonderful art on outgoing mail?

I’ve always loved sending and receiving mail. It’s so nice to come home and check your mailbox and get something other than bills and catalogs. I started painting Valentines and Christmas cards every year for a few years and sending random pieces of mail to friends, when one of them, Nim, suggested I document my outgoing mail. So I got an Instagram account!

Have you received similar hand-painted mail from your recipients? If so what was the one you couldn’t stop smiling about?

Once my friend Trey mailed me a beautiful box of postcards. It was such a nice surprise!

Your art is an inspiration to many and I’d like to know who inspires you? Who are your favourite artists?

This is a tough one! I love looking at artist’s process work and sketchbooks. I love James Jean’s in particular. I follow several illustrators on Instagram, and I enjoy seeing their little sketches of daily life.

A lot of your mail has illustrations of delicious food on them. As a person who lives to eat, I must ask – What is your favourite comfort food & What has been your most memorable meal?

I was born and raised in Alabama, so I love Southern food: fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, greens, chocolate cream pie, etc. My most memorable meal is the one I eat with my family every Christmas morning: a spiral cut ham, cheese grits, breakfast casserole, curried fruit, asparagus casserole, Sister Schubert Parker Rolls (a regional speciality) and my Uncle Dan’s famous chocolate mousse. Ugh so good. I look forward to it all year.

And lastly, What would your Dream Job or Dream Life be? – Would you give it all up to run a beach shack in the Caribbean? Or is New York truly where you belong?

I’m enjoying New York right now! Though I would like to spend more time on the beach. Hoping to retire somewhere on the Gulf of Mexico.

Follow ‘Lucy_Mail’s Instagram account here.

Inspired to start your own series of hand-painted mail? Step #1: Order a supply of Gouache right away!

Tatcha Aburatorigami – Japanese Beauty Papers

September 10, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.coLeave a comment

Originally known as ‘Hakkuchi-gami’, Abaca leaf paper was used to protect delicate gold leaves widely used in furnishings and crafts for the nobility. In the 1800’s, Geisha accidentally discovered the Aburatorigami’s remarkable ability to revive the skins’ natural glow and the Aburatorigami culture flourished.

A similar chance encounter, led Tatcha’s founder Vicky Tsai to create her first product and bestseller – Tatcha Aburatorigami.

Much thought has been put into their creation – The gold-flecked Japanese Aburatorigami are enclosed in a delightful paper package.

They work like magic and are a must-have for everyone.

Haven’t tried it yet? Order your supply of Tatcha Aburatorigami here.

Guide to Goa (in the Rains)

September 10, 2015July 21, 2016 Nyambura.co4 Comments

Nyambura.co - Traditional Portuguese Home — A Traditional Portuguese Home in Panaji

Goa is lush and verdant in the monsoons; It’s a wonderful time to experience the beautiful countryside, traditional Portuguese architecture and the near empty beaches.

Nyambura.co - Sussegado in the Monsoon — Sussegado in the Monsoon

It is also the perfect time to enjoy delicious and fiery Goan cuisine in traditional Goan establishments.

Nyambura.co - Hotel Venite — Hotel Venite, Panaji

Places to Eat

Ritz Classic, Panaji

The lunch thali here is not to be missed. The servings of fried fish, mussels, prawn and fish curry are fresh and delicious.

Cafe Venite, Panaji

This eatery has a wonderful, bohemian vibe, great music and flavoursome Goan seafood platters.

Cafe Baba au Rhum, Anjuna

‘Baba au Rhum’ is a quiet cafe run by a frenchman, Leo Michaud and his wife, Dayini Michaud. They make delectable chocolate croissants (pain du chocolat).

Curlies, Anjuna

‘Curlies’ has a beautiful view and is a great place to unwind over a refreshing ‘Virgin Mary’.

The Best Beaches

Candolim

This easily-accessible, white-sand beach is clean and free of litter.

Anjuna

The cove at the end of the beach is safe for swimming and always manned by lifeguards.

Morjim

The beach for spectacular sunsets and long walks.

Nyambura.co - Thalassa — Catching the last rays of the Sun at Thalassa, Vagator

Two Forts and a Church

Immaculate Conception Church, Panaji

The striking church is a rite of passage for all Goan tourists and is always crowded. The best way to enjoy the lively promenade is to set oneself up on a bench facing the church and talk to old Goans about times gone past.

Fort Aguada and Fort Chapora

The scenic route flanked by luxuriant paddy fields and breathtaking views at the top of the forts make it a worthy addition to any travel itinerary.

Nyambura.co - Lilies in Goa — Lilies – Born of the Rain

Places to Shop

Wendell Rodricks, Campal

The flagship store in Campal stocks a great selection of linen prêt wear; Perfect for the Goan weather. They also have minimalistic yet elegant evening wear, the likes of which only Wendell Rodricks can create.

Paperworks, Campal

Look carefully and you will find wonderfully designed wrapping paper.

Nyambura.co - Guide to Goa (in the rains) — Quaint Cafe in Sangolda

Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Are you a fan of the movie Divergent?

September 10, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.co1 Comment

I always look forward to catching the latest, favorably-reviewed action movie each week and was surprised I missed Divergent last year. In fact, I don’t even remember watching the teaser; Must have been a weekend of big releases.

One of my favorite places to relax is an old tea room, which incidentally has a TV screen that’s set to HBO on days of non-major sporting events. One such day, I was able to catch the first few scenes of Divergent and couldn’t wait to watch the rest. The idea of a futuristic simulation test administered to 16-year-olds, the results of which help them choose a Faction – a community that plays a specific role in a dystopian society, piqued my interest.

I finally watched it last week and was enthralled by Veronica Roth’s captivating story of a 16-year-old who comes to terms with being hunted for her inherent brilliance and seeks skills not just to survive but to thrive, amidst great personal loss.

The incredible story-line is bolstered by a tightly scripted plot, high adrenaline stunts and credible acting. Shailene Woodley is remarkable as the hunted protagonist Tris and is ably supported by other stellar actors such as Kate Winslet who plays Jeanine Mathews – the crazed, self-appointed preserver of the Faction system, with chilling accuracy. This is also undoubtedly Shailene’s best performance since The Descendants; She beautifully portrays both the vulnerability and strength of Tris’s character with unmatched grace.

And starring as Four, is the dreamy and perfect Theo James.

Watch it here, if you haven’t already.

Read it here, if you haven’t already.

Liz Climo’s Animal Cartoons

September 10, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.coLeave a comment

Liz Climo, a storyboard revisionist at The Simpsons, also moonlights as a cartoonist, creating endearing animal comics that portray innocence, love and friendship.

Her lovable comics have also evolved into whimsical books for children such as ‘Rory the Dinosaur: Me and My Dad‘ and ‘Lobster is the Best Medicine‘.

For more of Liz Climo’s comics take a look at her Tumblr page here.

P.S Liz recently posted a fun, ‘colouring comic‘!

Here is my rendition in watercolour, I’m calling it ‘The Little Brown-Green Bird’.

How to find the perfect book

September 1, 2015February 6, 2016 Nyambura.coLeave a comment

Despite being a member of a vast and well-stocked 70-year old community library, I found it difficult to chance upon books that appealed to my interests.

I deeply missed the joy of discovering a new author, the excitement of reading a new book and the promise of a new literary adventure.

Until I found ‘Goodreads’.

‘Goodreads’ is an app that recommends new tomes based on the books you have read and reviewed. What I like most about “Goodreads’ is the accurate descriptions, they are succinct and yet tell you all you need to know. The reviews by fellow book lovers also help you decide if a particular book is the one for you. What’s more you can even check it’s availability on Amazon.com and order your copy right away. Or if you have access to an impressive library, like I do, add the book to your ‘To-Read’ section and retrieve the information when necessary.

Try it here – Goodreads for Android and iPhone.

On my ‘To-Read’ List are ‘The Girl on the Train‘ and ‘The Introvert’s Way: Living a Quiet Life in a Noisy World‘, What’s on yours?