Know Before You Go: India with Travel Writer Fiona Caulfield

This week Melissa is joined by Fiona Caulfield for a vibrant and captivating conversation about travel and experiences in the country of India. Known for its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, India is a sensory overload that leaves travelers wanting more. 

Fiona Caulfield is a true connoisseur of all things India. Her journey began when she left her high-profile career in consulting  and embarked on a life-changing adventure in India, pursuing her passion for travel and authentic experiences. 

Over the past decade, Fiona has become an expert on Indian crafts, communities, and travel. Through her "Love India Travel" brand, she offers handcrafted travel books filled with expert advice. Her desire for authentic experiences and talent for 'treasure hunting' have allowed her to immerse herself in the country, and now she offers recommendations to others to do the same. 

Indagare is also collaborating with Fiona on an upcoming Indagare Insider Journey to India, focusing on Rajasthan, including visits to Udaipur and Jaipur in the fall of 2023. Visiting indagare.com/insiderjourneys to learn more. 

And on Destination Hacks, Melissa highlights even more shopping recommendations from Fiona for finding the best handmade crafts, jewelry and more in Jaipur, Kolkata and New Delhi. She also shares a few of her personal favorite spots for craft and design!

If you want more information on the shops and markets mentioned in this week’s episode, click on the links below: 

Jaipur:

• Nila House: Non-profit dedicated to promoting India’s textile crafts in a gorgeous, elegant stone structure designed by architect Bijoy Jain
   
• AnanTaya: Contemporary craft shop by Ayush Kasliwal featuring home decor from young designers and craftspeople, as well as vintage pieces
• Gem Palace: One of India's oldest jewelry houses selling handcrafted jewelry since 1852
• Gems Paradise & Tholia's Kuber: Fantastic jewelry shops on Mirza Ismail Road
• Phool Mandi: Flower market near Changi Takasal Gate selling bundles wrapped in saris, open from 6:00 am - noon

Kolkata:

• Mallick Ghat: Flower market underneath the eastern end of Howrah Bridge, open from 5:00 am - noon
• Kumortuli: Traditional potter's quarter in northern Kolkata

New Delhi:

• Datskar: Non-profit market dedicated to supporting traditional artisans selling textiles, pottery, jewelry and more
• Kamala Crafts Shop: Traditional crafts shop of the Crafts Council of India that works directly with artisans
• Good Earth: India's leading design house selling luxury home products and apparel
• Kashmir Loom: Studio in New Delhi selling embroidered cashmere scarves and throws

If you want to read any of the books mentioned before your next trip to India, here is a list referenced by Melissa and Fiona:

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

Honor by Thrity Umrigar

White Tiger by Aravind Adiga

House of Jaipur by John Zubrzycki

The Anarchy by William Dalrymple

The Ramayana (India's most beloved epic tale)