Sharell Cook
Sharell was born and grew up in a small country town in Australia. She discovered her love of travel and culture around 10 years ago, when at age 23, she packed up her belongings and embarked on a 6 month adventure overseas.
After traveling around the United States, Sharell headed for London for three months where she joined the typical mass of Australians working there. During this time she managed to take a few short trips around England, Scotland, Ireland, and Denmark. Following this, armed with her Eurail pass, Sharell crossed the British Channel on a ferry and spent 6 weeks traveling around Western Europe by train. She concluded her whirlwind trip with a stopover in Bangkok, Thailand on the way home. The sights, sounds, and smells of this completely foreign place were nothing like she'd ever experienced and completely grabbed her attention.
Sharell ended up returning to Thailand quite a few times in the future, but was soon looking to explore other cultures as well. Some of her friends had been spending time in India and it was with excitement and trepidation that she decided to head there in late 2000. Sharell found it to be a complete assault on her senses, confronting but strangely uplifting and exhilarating. She went back there in 2002, and again in 2005 for 5 weeks working as a volunteer at a centre for underprivileged women in Kolkata (Calcutta).
Sharell didn't know it then, but her life had started heading in a totally unpredicted and unexpected direction. At the time she was on long service leave, which she'd earned from spending 10 years in an uninspiring accounting and research role in government. She was feeling very unfulfilled and completely lacking in purpose and direction, but worse still, had no idea where to find it. However, it's amazing what can happen when you throw yourself out of your comfort zone and open the door to new possibilities. One thing led to another, and Sharell ended up resigning from her job and returning once more to India, where she spent most of the last two years. She did a range of things from run a guesthouse in a small beach tourist town, to work on the set of a Bollywood movie.
In future, Sharell will be living in Mumbai (Bombay), where she plans to focus a lot of her time on writing for Suite101 and also becoming fluent in Hindi. She considers India to be her second home now, after challenging her in so many ways and teaching her so much. It's a fascinating (and at times frustrating!) country, filled with incredible traditions and contrasts. Sharell feels very fortunate to be a part of it and looks forward to sharing it with everyone.
When Sharell's not writing, she enjoys drawing, reading, music, food and wine, relaxing at the beach, and spending time among nature. She also has an interest in natural medicine and therapies.
Latest Articles
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Shopping in India
India is a shopper's paradise with so many exotic goods on offer. From jewelry to pottery to paintings, there's something to suit all budgets lavish to inexpensive.
Apr 22, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Goa's Best Honeymoon Hotels
Picturesque Goa, with its tropical weather, is emerging as a hot wedding and honeymoon destination. Here's where to stay to have a honeymoon to remember.
Apr 17, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Exploring the Mountains in Manali
Manali, with its serene backdrop of the Himalayas, offers a blend of tranquility and adventure that makes it one of northern India's most popular tourist destinations.
Apr 16, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Delhi's Paharganj Tourist District
Traditionally known as a backpacker's haunt, Paharganj will captivate the attention of any visitor to India with its sights, sounds, and smells.
Apr 15, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Visiting Shri Siddhivinayak Temple
Have a wish that you want fulfilled? Pray to the elephant headed Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, at the Shri Siddhivinayak temple in Mumbai.
Apr 14, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Where to See Tigers in India
Seeing a tiger in its natural environment can be a huge thrill and is a much sought after experience by visitors to India. Here are the Top 3 best places to spot one.
Apr 12, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Exploring Old Kathmandu
From Thamel to Durbar Square, wandering the streets and discovering old Kathmandu will keep you busy for hours or even days. Here's a guide as to what you'll see.
Mar 8, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Experience Culture in Calcutta
Kolkata (Calcutta) is no longer just identified with slums, destitution, and the inspiring work of Mother Teresa. It has a rich culture waiting to be experienced.
Feb 16, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Indian Eating Etiquette
How to eat in traditional Indian style, with your fingers while sitting on the floor, and get the most enjoyment from your meal.
Feb 11, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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Lesser Known Beaches in India
To experience the beauty of India's beaches away from the crowds, head to these lesser known beaches.
Feb 11, 2008
- Sharell Cook
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