Joanna James
Chennai has much to offer the curious traveller, the culture buff or even the shopaholic. Explore ancient temples, relax on sun-kissed beaches and wander around the busy city. Savour the hustle and bustle, witness the local culture and taste the exotic food.
The locals of Chennai are deemed to be extremely friendly and will warmly welcome visitors. Made up of mostly Tamils, the population also consists of Punjabis, Jains, Gujaratis and Sindhis, who can all converse well in Tamil, and render a colourful concoction of varied cuisine and culture to savour in Chennai.
Guests at centrally located properties including those of Citadines Apart'hotel will find exploring the city’s iconic landmarks easy. If you are in the habit of making a schedule, do include the likes of Fort St, George which constructed during the British Raj is today the administrative complex of Tamil Nadu. There are a number of well-located service apartments in Chennai which you can choose for not just a comfortable stay but easy exploration of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Attractions to be added to your list include Santhome Cathedral Basilica housing the mortal remains of St. Thomas, Mamallapuram harbouring relics from the Pallava Dynasty of the 7th and 8th centuries, Kapaleeswarar Temple one of the oldest shrines in Chennai and the Five Rathas. You should also visit the lovely beaches and shopping bazaars which are a huge lure for tourists.
ECR stands for the East Coast Road, a hip tourist attraction boasting a range of theme parks, restaurants and other tourist attractions. Watersports too are available in plenty with the likes of speedboats, paddle boats and water surfing; you can even explore the backwaters and hire a scooter for easy exploration of the area. One of Chennai’s most famous weekend getaway locations, the ECR is loved for its gorgeous environs; this is where you can enjoy long relaxing drives, stunning sunsets and a chance to truly unwind and be happy in the tropics.
Chennai boasts the world’s second longest beach, which is the Marina Beach. Although not as popular as those in Goa, these beaches are just as beautiful and ideal for swimming, water sports or just relaxing under the shade of a palm tree. Explore Marina Beach and the continuous Coromandel Beaches promising you stunning coasts and breath-taking views to cherish. Not to be missed is Elliot’s Beach located in the city, better known as Bessy Beach the place is best known for the Velankanni Church and Ashtalakshmi Temple located there.
T-Nagar is Chennai’s saree shopping centre, and really you will be stuck for choice when on a saree shopping spree within the city, well-known for its variety of the beautiful swirls of fabric. George Town is another popular venue where you are treated to a multitude of vendors offering sarees in varied hues and colours. Chennai is also admired for its selection of gold jewellery, renowned for its collection of traditional temple and vintage jewellery designs the place is a ‘bling’ shopper’s paradise.
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