Shreejana Rana, Executive Director of Hotel de L’ Annapurna, talks about the favourites that define her life with Travel & Lifestyle

Shop

Where do you like to shop in Kathmandu?

I like to shop at Tara Oriental for pashminas, Hotel Yak & Yeti Enterprises for mandala silks and Mélange for things for the house.

Ideal shopping destination abroad…

Harvey Nichols in London.

What is the most luxurious thing that you have ever bought?

A Tanzanite ring. I wanted something to remind me of Africa but I didn’t realise just how much of a luxury it was going to be until I saw the price!

Wheels

Your current ride. What do you like about it?

Land Rover Discovery 4. It is comfortable, reliable, and perfect for our uneven roads.

One place you would wish to drive in..

Anywhere in the English countryside.

Read

What is your favourite read and why?

I love any book by my favourite authors. But I do have a favourite poem —‘On Children’ by Kahlil Gibran

Your favourite writer…

I cannot choose between Ayn Rand and Danielle Steele.

Favourite quote from a book

It is in two parts and not from a book but from my favourite poem ‘On Children’ by Kahlil Gibran.

“They come through you but not from you, And though they are with you yet they belong not to you...

You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.”

Food

Your favourite cuisine and why?

Thai. The rich flavours and spiciness are enticing

to someone who grew up eating Nepali food.

Your favourite restaurant in town and why?

Krishna Arpan at Dwarika’s. The food is authentic, the quality consistent and the ambience perfect.

A dish you would love to cook.

Give me a broom and I will sweep the floor. I will do the ironing. Do the dishes. But please do not ask me to cook. I am hopeless!

Destinations

Your favourite holiday destination abroad…

I always look forward to returning to Koh Samui in Thailand. The island is breathtakingly beautiful, the people are incredibly welcoming. It is a great place to unwind.

Your dream destinations…

Maldives. It is the definition of paradise. Coral beaches, overwater bungalows, coral reefs with amazing sea life, secluded luxury resorts, clear blue skies and clear seas. I wish I could hop on a plane to Maldives right now!

Your favourite getaway in Nepal…

Pokhara, without a doubt. I am lucky to be able to stay regularly at the Fish Tail Lodge. Nothing can beat the magical moment of waking up to the heart stopping view of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.

What drives you to travel frequently?

For me, it is the only way I can switch off from my responsibilities and life here.