The only real voyage consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes; in seeing the universe through the eyes of another, one hundred others–in seeing the hundred universes that each of them sees ~ Marcel Proust

Pondicherry, which thrived as the French quarters in India, still hides within traces of that bygone time.  A walk down its French Quarters alongside the Promenade is a burst of colours.  The ever changing ocean, the quaint colonial bungalows, patisseries, and the lazy sit-down cafes, all in all, a perfect place to relax and truly unwind.

The many hues of the ocean

In the French Quarters – we stayed at the colonial bungalow of a 3rd generation French family in India – Dumas Guest House – and they were one of the most hospitable people I have come across.  Another beautiful place I have stayed earlier is L’escale.  Both these properties are a stone’s throw away from the Promenade and worth the experience.

Our Lady Of Angels Church – from the outside, it may get passed as any other plain looking church, but the interriors with its frescos, glass paintings, chandeliers, and murals say a different story.  Any time of the day, this church remains peaceful and calm; best spot for quiet contemplations.

A 45-minute rickshaw ride away stands another peaceful spot, one which has become much more a synonym for Pondicherry – Auroville and Matri Mandir.  I know we are supposed to go there in search of tranquility, but truth be said, I also go there for shopping of hand-made clothes, incenses, essential oils and houseware along with a helping of the French food that is served in the cafeteria.