Paper Plane Diaries

I went camping ONCE and now I feel like a pro.. or at least I did, until the next one fell apart. Do you ever do something once and do it so well that you think you are a natural?
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I have been dreaming of camping somewhere during the Fall season and I had found the perfect place (nearby) – Bon Echo Provincial Park. It was a major fail! Cases started going up again, the only guy who had a tent couldn’t make it, another one got pulled into work – clearly the odds were against us.
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That’s when I realized I don’t have a tent, a sleeping bag, any of the cooking stuff, don’t know how to set up a tent, or start a fire, and was HELLA uncomfortable using those campground toilets (I am traumatized). That’s when it hit me, I am no pro, I am a noob!
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So instead of camping we ended up doing a day trip to the park and it was super fun. The park was entirely golden from the fallen leaves and it was just so peaceful. We took a canoe out to Mazinaw Lake and spent a few hours on the water. Hiked up the Mazinaw Rock and on my next post I will show you what I got up to…

One of my best finds in Toronto was the Aga Khan Park where the Aga Khan Museum and the Ismaili Centre is located. Have you heard of it?
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The glass dome structure you see behind me is the most beautiful feature of the Ismaili Centre, designed by the architect Charles Correa. It is referred to as the crown jewel and if you saw it from the inside you would know why. When you enter the main prayer hall inside, beautifully lit by the natural light flooded through the crystalline glass dome, there is a feeling of spirituality that surrounds you.
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Not only did the Islamic architecture and the reflection of the Ismaili community captivate me but so did the mesmerizing Aga Khan Park it’s located on. On that summer afternoon, the bees were buzzing around the lavenders, the magnolias and rose glow barberry as the flowers danced in the light breeze. The garden and the fountains designed by architect Vladimir Djurovic to reflect “Gardens, beneath which rivers flow” as mentioned in the Quran, created an atmosphere of tranquility. I spent the entire afternoon strolling through the park, visiting the museum and enjoying the live music inside.
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Moraine Lake is one of the most amazing lakes in the world! The vibrant color of the lake and the surroundings immediately captivates you.
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This glacially fed lake is set at an elevation in the valley of the Ten Peaks, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, nature trails and rock piles. There is a canoe/kayak rental on one side of the lake which is probably one of the most photographed spots in Banff. Moraine Lake offers a few elevations from where you can get a birds-eye view of the enchanting beauty. I climbed one of the rock piles like a mountain goat and soaked it all in. There are also a few hikes that offer magnificent views of the lake e.g. Moraine Lake Lakeshore, Consolation Lakes. Or try kayaking on the turquoise waters - heavenly!
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Also, a moment of silence for the money I had to spend to buy this hoodie from a souvenir shop, because that fancy leather jacket was not cut out for September in Alberta.
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5 “OTHER” THINGS YOU SHOULD DO AT AN ALL-INCLUSIVE:
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🗺 Explore the resort – Resorts offer more than just the beach and the buffet. A lot of times, resorts have local markets, beautiful gardens, lookout towers and much more. The last resort we went to, we found a small garden where we went every morning and drank our coffee in peace.
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🛶 Find water activities – There are many water activities that are usually part of your package, make sure to take advantage of it. It was so much fun kayaking and sailing with a catamaran in the Caribbean.
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🎭 Check out the shows – Each resort has its own entertainment team and they perform throughout the day. Find out when there will be live music at the lobby or at the restaurants. Perhaps a dance challenge at the pool? Or just grab a can of bug spray and check out the night shows that include fashion shows, dancing or even water aerobics.
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🛵 Take a short trip – If the resort is close to a city, try to find out the cheapest way to get there. Maybe a taxi, bus, scooter or a classic car? Walk around, find out about recommended restaurants from beforehand so you can give it a try and get your souvenirs at a reasonable price (if you know how to haggle). Or get a local expert to show you around!
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🏡 Visit a local family’s home – This is a tricky one because of covid but if you can manage to find something like this where a local invites you to their home, you can truly learn about their culture and their lives. This may even open opportunities for you to contribute to the wellbeing of that community if you see a possibility.

I am not even going to ask. The Canadian Rockies has to be on your bucket list no matter where you are in the world! There are so many marvelous sites out there that it’s hard to narrow down which ones to tackle first, but if you ask me, I suggest you start at the heart of it – Banff National Park in Alberta.
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When it comes to jaw-dropping hikes at Banff, one of the easy but quite busy ones is the Johnston Canyon Trail. The drive itself is lush and scenic, and with the right playlist you will feel an indescribable ecstasy. The trail takes you through forests, then on metal bridges that take you over turquoise pools, amongst rugged cliffs and bring you to a stunning waterfall – Johnston Canyon Lower Falls. This is the first overlook and if you venture a little further through a tunnel on the canyon bedrock you can get a more intimate view of this mighty waterfall.
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I was in Banff for a day and a half, so I didn’t get to do as much as I would have liked to but whatever I managed to see has left me wondering - if there is a place on Earth as beautiful as this one, how much more beautiful can heaven possibly be?
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Located a short boat ride away from the Tobermory shore, is the uninhabited island known as the “Flowerpot Island”. It’s pretty obvious where the island gets its name – the rock pillar formations from the dolomite cliffs, rising from the turquoise water of the Georgian Bay with plants growing out of it, as if it were a flowerpot. There are two stacks and it is a gorgeous sight from the lookout points with the seagulls circling the flowerpots.
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Flowerpot Island is part of the Fathom Five National Marine Park which consists of about 20 islands in total. There are two private tour boat companies - and Bruce Anchor Cruises that offer a few tours around the island, without you having to walk around on land that has so many snakes that you really have to watch your step.
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Alternatively, you can take a jet boat or a glass bottom boat to get to the island where you can set out to explore all that it has to offer, from lighthouse to sea cave to rock formations. You can either opt for the shorter trail, Marl trail to get straight to the flowerpots but I highly recommend the Loop trail that offers so much more!
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Back to exploring the hiking trails in Ontario starting this month. Can’t tell you just how excited I was on the first hike. My brain was turning into mush from being in lockdown for the past few months and it felt so incredibly good to be outside in nature.
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If you are looking at going hiking during this time, make sure to check the park website as many places now require reservations. Keep in mind that some places have a time limit as well based on the nature of the hike so people can practice social distancing. Honestly, I prefer it this way because a lot of people don’t maintain these norms despite the risks (sometimes I am those people, we are not programmed to act this way so it’s takes time to adapt).
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We did lose track of time though and had to rush during the last bit but it was really beautiful. The fact that it wasn’t crowded made the experience even better. It was like being a kid in a candy store 🍃

Never have I ever been this excited about visiting local parks and beaches. Just like planning vacations, it has now become a mission to find uncrowded parks with a good view and a strip of beach.
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This one is from a weekday walk at East Point Park to get some fresh air, after being cooped up in the apartment for a few days. The trail takes you through a forest setting along the lake and you end up at a small rocky beach. We sat in the peace and quiet for some time and watched the sunset.
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The orange beaked bird that guards Merlin’s cave at Tintagel. Merlin, the wizard mentioned in Arthurian Legend who set the Excalibur in the stone – you will find his face carved into the rock face. We entered this sea cave during low tide, hoping to make it to the other end that opens to the West Cove. However, when we reached the opening to the sea, water started filling up the cave and I swear it was quite an adventure getting back to the beach.
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The cave starts off with a sandy flat ground but slowly starts to get rocky and really dark. It’s a little frightening but exciting to make your way through the cave and the view at the other end is absolutely stunning.
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As we are all in desperate need of some magic, thought I’d share something about Merlin. Just remember, better days are coming.

I captured this photo of a grey heron at the beach in Cayo Santa Maria. It was standing still, completely upright for such a long time, I was amused how it did that. I wonder, if a human being stood still for that long would people think that the person is crazy? Probably. Am I going crazy because of this quarantine? Maybe.
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When I approached, it was striding away from me until it decided to spread its beautiful wide wings and take flight. It was a sight to behold – so elegant and such a perfect creation. Sometimes I wonder how everything is in harmony and maintaining an ecosystem without even realizing it. That gives me hope. Together, we can beat this virus.
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I am grateful for -
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All the doctors and nurses who are working diligently, risking their own lives to provide care for the sick. Also, the researchers who are trying to find a cure for this virus.

The frontline employees who are stocking the grocery stores, pharmacies, and so on.
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The Engineers and technologists who are ensuring that people are able to work from home seamlessly, streaming services are working and people can call their loved ones without any interruption.
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Tell me what you are grateful for?
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My inbox is flooded with emails from , and sending me updates on all the bookings I made for the year. If you are on the same boat as me and had multiple trips booked, you are probably worried about refunds and rescheduling.
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I know how you feel and this uncertainty is a bummer. These companies are in the eye of the storm trying to sort through everything when policies are changing every single day based on the COVID-19 situation. They are, however prioritizing requests of customers who have trips coming up in a week and sending out regular correspondence to keep us updated. Calling them may not be the best option right now but you can leave them an email if you are worried and they will get back.
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I am hopeful that when everything calms down a little bit with airlines cancelling their flights we will get to know how we can get travel credits or refunds for our trips. We’re all in this together ❤️

The Earth has tilted on its axis and winter has comfortably settled down in this hemisphere. Now would be a good time for you to slow down and appreciate the good things in life.

Here's a list of things I am grateful for:

Ammu (my mother)! Her selfless love and unwavering support is unparalleled.

Opportunities. I am not just grateful for the opportunities that presented themselves but also the fact that I was able to identify them.

My friends who continue to empower me and uplift me. Without each and every friend that I have made in my journey so far, I don't know where I would be. Also, they make fun of everything all the time. That helps too.

I can go on and on but I will go write in my journal instead. If you like this post, comment below what you are grateful for!
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Walking through the Nature Trail at was mesmerizing. This picture specifically reminds me of “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost. I have read it so many times back in school that bewitched by the scenery I kept thinking –
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
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I felt solace in the woods, walking through the tall trees as sunlight danced off the leaves. Most of my friends went down the zip line while some of us stayed back to take a detour and explore a little bit further. Do you prefer an adrenaline rush or a peaceful walk?
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Rum and Cigar are at the core of Cuba’s national identity and fuels its economy. It’s hard not to come back from Cuba with a Cohiba or Montecristo and a bottle of .
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On our trip to Cuba, we booked a day trip to Havana with excursions. The tour guide was exceptional at storytelling and everything was so well planned. We stopped somewhere between Varadero and Havana at a piña colada hut that hands down serves the best piña colada ever! A tropical blend of coconut milk, sweet and tangy pineapple juice and blended with ice served in a pineapple shell. It doesn’t get better than this.
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Growing up, I have heard many stories about Cuba. The Cuban revolution, Che in his black beret, Castro and of course the well-known saying - “¡Hasta la victoria siempre!” So when I arrived in Havana, I was bedazzled.
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Strolling down the narrow streets, under the overhanging balconies of brightly painted colonial-style buildings of Havana is an unfathomable feeling. The whole city is always pulsing to the music playing all around with the occasional salsa dancing by the locals to entertain the tourists. Don’t forget though, it’s very easy to fall prey to the scams in Havana so stay alert.
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When I think of Cuba, one of the first things that come to mind are their “classic cars”. Especially in Havana, you will see them everywhere – 1950 Cadillac, 1951 Ford, 1951 Buick, 1952 Chevrolet and so many more! All of these repainted and repurposed.
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These vintage cars embodies the history of a city frozen in time. They carry stories of the U.S. trade embargo, the ingenuity of the Cuban people in keeping these running and gives Cuba its uniqueness.
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If you find yourself strolling in Havana, rent a convertible and take a ride during sunset along the Malecón. It’s a surreal feeling!
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Types of people at Dundas Peak:
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💍 People who choose this beautiful but extremely crowded tourist spot as a stage for elaborate proposals and photoshoots.
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💞 Couples who are on a date and choose to sit right on the hanging rock for a long time having a romantic moment, while a huge lineup of people wait behind them to get a photo of themselves sitting on that exact same spot. Canadians are too nice, so nobody says anything and just waits patiently.
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📸 People who hike solo but also has a whole setup of camera, tripod and remote for next level photography from one rock ledge while they sit on the other.
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🚶🏽‍♀️ People of a much older generation, swiftly walking past me as I pant and struggle to climb uphill 🤷🏽‍♀️
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It’s all part of the wonderful experience!
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Algonquin Park is another one of Ontario’s treasures. Being the oldest and the 3rd largest national park of Ontario, it offers many hiking trails that take you to magnificent lakes and viewpoints.
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This is a view from Booth’s Rock which was about an hour long hike and of moderate difficulty. Yup, Algonquin Park maps will tell you everything about the hiking trails so you can pick and choose. We came across so many breathtaking views along the hike that an hour long hike easily turned into 3 hours.
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One tip I have for you guys going to Algonquin Park is that during the fall season it’s extremely busy, so get there as early as you can. And take lots of photos because you would want to cherish that memory.
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When the leaves start to turn crisp and golden, you know it’s time to get on the road and find a spot to view the gorgeous fall colours. While Ontario has many spots like that, Dundas Peak is one of the most popular lookouts.
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At this point it’s safe to say, Hamilton is blessed with so much natural beauty and I have loved exploring every bit of it. Hiking to Dundas Peak through the Tew’s Falls side trail takes you to a rocky outcropping, that many have endangered their lives trying to take that perfect selfie shot on. Sometimes you will even catch a glimpse of a turkey vulture soaring above the lush forest of the gorge, adding on to this spectacular view.
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Chasing waterfalls in the city of Hamilton is my favourite thing to do in the summer. Having over 100 waterfalls and cascades, Hamilton is often referred to as the “City of Waterfalls”. How beautiful is that name?
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This one is Tiffany Falls. Even though this ribbon waterfall is named after the district’s first doctor, all I could think about is “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. Audrey Hepburn in her little black dress with her long cigarette holder. Just the name itself makes me think about something charming and beautiful.
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Tiffany Falls is roughly a 10 mins walk from the parking lot and that takes you right to the bottom of the falls. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also climb up the side path that takes you to the top and brings you to the upper Tiffany Falls or Washboard Falls. Isolated from the crowd, this spot is serene.
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Alright, I am in the Devil’s Punchbowl and I have to tell you, this is a much better view than what you see from the top. You can’t even see the lower falls from the viewpoint which is where I am right now.
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Getting here was a tad bit tricky. If you stop at the farmers market and follow the blue marks on the trees it will lead you down a steep valley into the creek bottom. From there, you have to take a very rocky path to get to the lower falls of the punchbowl and a little further up is where the rock face aka the upper falls is.
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I highly recommend you find the path to the bottom of the falls. I guarantee the view will blow your mind! Also, does anyone else think I look like "Rosie the Riveter" here?

I start my journey from home - Bangladesh. I don’t know how many of you have heard of this country because just the other day, a nurse in Toronto seemed more shocked by the fact that Bangladesh is a country than my extremely high triglyceride. Apparently, I eat too much rice which can raise triglyceride levels. Turns out even though she was completely unaware of the existence of Bangladesh she did know that people living in South Asian countries tend to consume white rice on a daily basis in large portions. Guilty.
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There is a famous proverb “মাছে ভাতে বাঙালি” that translates to “Bengali by fish and rice”. I am not sure why and where this proverb came to be. Maybe because Bangladesh is home to hundreds of rivers and tributaries so fish is in abundance and as I mentioned earlier, so is rice.
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