'Karikku' is a web series on YouTube that has become quickly popular among the Malayalam viewers. Ameya Mathew, actress who appeared in a recent episode, too has earned a legion of fans in no time. Hailing from Thiruvananthapuram, Ameya is a model and actress who also loves travelling. “Visiting places gives an opportunity to unwind. Journeys are a big relief while leading a hectic life,” says the celebrity, who reveals to Onmanorama her favourite trips.
“Travelling can have a positive influence on our thoughts, habits and outlook. Each voyage offers a special joy and satisfaction. A journey is the best medicine to set the mind free,” she says.
Ameya prefers to set on trips to destinations rich in culture, history as well as beautiful scenery. “There are many such places on earth and I love learning about the traditions, food and the people belonging to each country,” says the actress.
A lover of adventure
Apart from setting out on journeys fraught with danger, Ameya loves engaging in adventure sports. She has done rock climbing and trekked in the forest crossing wild rivers. “I often join friends in adventure trips,” says the star.
“My friend Rinoy Sebastian travelled across India on a Swift car. His trip and experiences inspired me to dream about journeys to many destinations in the country,” according to Ameya.
A memorable adventure trip was to Wayanad. “The drive right through the deep jungle and a wait to catch a sight of wild elephants at night will always remain in my mind. On another occasion, I went to Wayanad as part of a photo shoot for an advertisement. It was for a theme park named ‘E3’ and there were number of adventure rides. The views of Wayanad on a zipline left me astounded. It was my first adventure trip and I became a fan of such ventures ever since,” reveals Ameya.
Trips with family
Apart from adventures with friends, the star enjoys travelling with family members also. “As my mother is a teacher, we go on trips during all holidays. A recent journey was to Illikkal rock along with my cousins. When we set out from Kottayam, I had limited knowledge of the place, having seen only seen some photos. But the real rock swept me off my feet. As a lover of adventure, it was a fulfilling engagement for me,” Ameya adds.
It was a beautiful place. “I felt like we were in heaven. When the mist and wind subside, stunning scenery appears before visitors. The climb by foot was steep and difficult. That thrilled me. Jeep services through the rocky path too was fun,” according to the actress.
School-college excursions
Even though she loved travelling, Ameya did not get too many opportunities to visit places during her schooldays. “I studied at Kendriya Vidyalaya and there was not even a single memorable trip, though I did visit Ooty, Mysore and Kodaikanal during this time,” she says.
“Later, when I was an MA English student at Mar Ivanios College, we went to Kodaikanal. There were few students on this excursion but along with teachers and friends we enjoyed the journey thoroughly,” remembers Ameya.
Her choice
There are people who prefer to visit other nations than destinations in our own country. “But I feel we should first learn more about the land we live in. I love travelling across Kerala. Bengaluru is another favourite which I have visited several times. Another satisfying journey was to Nandi Hills, a picturesque spot. The Cubbon House, large gardens and the Yogeeswara Temple are the attractions here,” says Ameya. Delhi is yet another place where the celebrity enjoys travelling to.
Wherever she goes, Ameya studies the history, lifestyle, cuisine and the culture of the place. She also makes new friends. “So, I choose a new destination for every trip,” adds the young woman.
Dubai trip
Ameya’s first trip to Dubai was to take part in a shoot. “Every sight there amazed me. Moreover, I could meet many of my old friends after a long time,” says the actress.
“The high-rises in the desert, the Burj Khalifa dominating the landscape, Palm Islands and shopping malls were captivating. Dubai looks more beautiful at night when colourful illumination comes alive,” says Ameya.
Favourite place
When she feels like setting out on trip suddenly, Ameya heads to Munnar. “It is among my favourites thanks to the weather, sights and proximity. It is where I travel to whenever I feel stressed,” according to the ‘Karikku’ star.
The greenery, mist, tea gardens, wide expanse of the hills and the cold help Ameya ease her work pressure.
Dream destination
Manali was Ameya’s dream destination till she travelled there recently. “Every person who loves travelling should visit Manali at least once. It turned out to be more beautiful than I had imagined. Apart from natural beauty, the place draws adventure seekers too. I enjoyed paragliding, mountaineering, hiking and cycling there,” says the internet star.
Paragliding was a new experience for Ameya. “The return trip from Manali was a happy affair as I could fulfil my dream,” she adds.
Now her next dream destination is Canada. “Earlier, I wished to head to that country for higher studies, but the plan did not work out owing to various reasons. However, I have decided that Canada would be my new dream destination. I wish to enjoy the sight of Niagara waterfalls and other attractions,” concludes Ameya.
