Travel + Leisure - India & South Asia
LIFE IS A HIGHWAY
Planning an overdue road trip? We’ve gathered some gadgets that’ll make your vacation fun, and at the same time, keep you safe.
1. DASHCAM 70MAI SMART DASH CAM PRO
Dashcams are fast becoming an essential accessory. Not only can you capture the beautiful landscapes you tread, but they’re also useful in documenting any untoward incident.
The 70mai Smart
Dash Cam Pro has a
2K+ QHD resolution, a two-inch display, an accelerometer for detecting emergencies, a parking surveillance mode, lane departure and frontal collision alerts, GPS, and voiceand app-based control systems. `12,999; amazon.in
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2. CAR CHARGER PORTRONICS CARPOWER ONE
Gadgets are integral to a long drive. But you also need a way to charge said gadgets. Enter CarPower One. This 200W inverter includes two USB ports, a cigarette lighter socket (if you’d like to plug in other accessories), and also a proper 220V AC socket. `3,499; portronics.com
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3. COFFEE MAKER WACACO PIPAMOKA
The freedom a road trip brings sometimes gets cancelled out by a lack of creature comforts, like good coffee. This manual (just twist to brew) coffee maker slips into a small bag, includes an insulated travel mug, and has an in-built stainless steel filter. All you need is some hot water and a pack of your favourite grounded coffee. `3,557; wacaco.com
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4. SMART ASSISTANT AMAZON ECHO AUTO
Here’s what you can do with the Echo Auto—control music playback on Spotify, Amazon Music, and other apps; make calls; ask for directions; set reminders; run Alexa Routines (pre-defined commands), including a location-based trigger, etc. Voice assistants are fun at home, but on the road, they can be lifesavers! `4,999; amazon.in
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5. JUMP STARTER HUMMER H3
Nothing like a dead battery to derail your travel plans. Especially when you’re miles from civilisation. Keep an emergency kit in your car, and include the Hummer H3 Jump Starter. It’s got enough juice for 10 jump-starts of a mid-sized car or a compact SUV. Drive a larger SUV? Check out their H8 model. `5,999; hummerindia.com
In what ways has your life changed in Amsterdam since the pandemic broke out?
My life has changed quite a bit from the travel and business perspectives.
For the last three years,
I was constantly on the go, travelling between countries. Since that is no longer possible, my business has shifted. We are able to do everything online, but now, I am spending more time in one place.
As a social media influencer, how have you adapted your content to this situation?
Social media is always changing, so I am constantly adapting to what my audience wants to see from me. I always strive to give them value and to not only entertain but [also] to empower them. Also, TikTok is my latest obsession!
Has this period led to any change in dynamics between you and your husband Oleg?
We feel more grounded and at peace. It’s great to take a step back together and realise what our goals in life are and what we want to do with our future. In general, it’s been so great for us to spend more time together and with our dogs, and to put everything into perspective.
What is your source of new experiences or inspiration amid the global travel bans?
[I’m] Finding inspiration in my own city.
Your style/fashion mantra for these days.
Comfy! I live in athleisure.
Any skills you’ve picked up lately at home?
Tie-dying!
Your top three recipes to make at home.
Jackfruit biryani, pancakes, and a simple dal and cauliflower.