GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Are you turning 18 soon and just starting your life as a motorcyclist? Most of the teens are filled with enthusiasm and hold a different excitement for bike riding. That's quite obvious as the adrenaline rush of turning 18 keeps the soon-to-be-adults on the tips of their toes.

Are you excited to start riding but don't know how to get started? In this space, we've put together some key points to ponder on if you're a newbie rider, also acquainting you with important terms like basics of riding, bike maintenance, and bike insurance.

1. Choose your model and learning space wisely:
As you start anew, you must choose the best-fit model. It should not be too bulky or heavy; rather, it should be modest, lightweight, and easy to handle for you. After all, you will be riding the bike, so you cannot compromise convenience over physical appearance. The second step is to choose the learning space where you can start riding. It is not advisable to get on the heavy traffic roads of India for a beginner. So, better choose the roadway with flattened or open ground, less bumpy, and with fewer vehicles around; this will help you make your learning process hassle-free.

2. Learn about the components & functionalities:
You cannot glide on the road directly without having basic knowledge about your bike. Be proficient with the parts of your bike and understand their working. You should know the fundamentals like the clutch lever, gear shifter, rear brake, throttle, side stand, accelerator, etc. Anytime, good research can help you uncover the unknowns, and this information can surprisingly come to your rescue if your bike faces any faults.

3. Buckle up and get started:
Get on your bike, make sure you side up the middle stand first. Give ignition, roll on your clutch, and adjust yourself in a comfortable driving position. Shift your gear in neutral, wait for half a minute, and let the engine start properly. You need to be alert at all times and keep the clutch, gear shift, brake and accelerator in rhythm to allow the bike to move smoothly. If you are not confident with your driving skills, take some learning classes from a certified motor training school.

4. Maintenance of the bike:
Like any other machine, your bike also needs the care to provide you with a smooth and safe riding experience. You can do this by scheduling an appointment for complete bike servicing and washing that will boost the performance of your bike. In addition to it, just as life insurance covers your damages, your bike needs BIKE INSURANCE to shield it from any mishap. But are all the two-wheelers owners meeting their responsibility of safe riding? Unfortunately, many of them don't even hold a valid two-wheeler insurance policy. So always be a responsible rider and carry a valid insurance policy for your bike.

5. Ace it with practice:
Be it a bike or any other activity, 'practice' is the key to excellence. Practice safe driving and follow all the traffic rules when on roads. Always wear safety gear like helmets, gloves, bumper jackets before hopping on your bike. Remember that the greatest pleasures can be enjoyed only if you’re safe and sound.

6. Be alert – potholes ahead on the road:
Be a responsible driver, and don’t let the excitement turn sour due to recklessness while driving on bumpy roads or ignoring potholes and stray animals on the roads. There are no magic tips to manage these situations. The only solution is to avoid them by slowing down your speed. There is no other secret.
Lastly, keep patience along with your enthusiasm, and don't rush while learning. You'd look cool on a bike, but always remember that life is more important than the ride. Follow the rules and invest in an ideal bike insurance policy for the comprehensive security of your asset.

Click HERE to know about the bike insurance plans that are best for you.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

There is no doubt that the relationship of an Indian with food is above and beyond anything else. We don't just love the food, we worship it. Every time someone talks about food, and we get all nostalgic and tempted about it. Food is possibly India's biggest obsession.

Travelling from place to place to explore the best food and culture is another trend which is quite popular in India. If you are a foodie and looking for some famous cuisines, there are boundless cuisines exploring options you can find. Below are the best 5 amazing food tours you must try as a food lover.

1. Mumbai: ‘The city that never sleeps’ holds a speciality in street food as well as fusion dishes. In the city of nightlife, you will find a whole range of cuisines served at night too. Some remarkable famous signature delicacies are Vada Pav (local trademark snack of Mumbaikars), Pav Bhaji, Misal Pav, Dabeli, Bombay style Chowpatty Bhelpuri, and whatnot! Savoury food with a hint of Maharashtrian spices and taste is all you need to bless your tastebuds.

2. Old Delhi: It won't be wrong if we call Delhi as ‘food capital’ of India! Historical places, super delicious food, and politics are in the blood of Delhi. Delhi is famous for its street food and traditional cuisine of 'Purani Dilli' (Old Delhi). The famous landmark, of course, is ‘Paranthe Wali Gali’ in Chandni Chowk. The series of shops selling varieties of parathas make it the most happening food destination.

Other delicacies of Delhi food culture include Momos, Kebabs, Chhole Kulche, Paneer Pakora, Mughlai Biryani, and a large variety of chats. Crowned with their signature desserts like Jalebi with Rabri and Kulfi Falooda, Delhi perfectly satisfies your sweet tooth.

3. Ahmedabad / Surat: Gujarati delicacies exhibit homely comfort food with complex flavours, oscillating among sweet, spicy and savoury. Ahmedabad, aka Amdavad and Surat ‘The sun city', are both filled with food streets loaded with huffy-puffy food. As the significant population is vegetarian, here the food is full of vegetarian options. 'Manek chowk' is a prominent place loved by Gujjus. You will get fusion eating options created from traditional dishes, such as Khaman-Dhokla, Surti Locho, Jalebi Fafda, Khakhra, Undhiyu-puri, Khandvi, variety of Farsan, Thepla, and last but not the least is the whole ambit of 'Kathiyawadi' delicacies.

4. Amritsar: When it comes to counting the best of taste, you cannot miss out on the contemporary north Indian food of Amritsar. As you step into the streets of Punjab, the utterly buttery aroma of Amritsari Chole-Kulche, Karah Prasad of Golden Temple, and ghee emerging from Sarso da saag with Makki di roti is mouth-watering.
The food of langar at the Golden Temple is what makes this food tour worth it. A whole ambit of large Amritsari glass of Lassi and buttermilk will drench your heart with happiness.

5. Bengaluru: Famed as the IT hub of India, Bengaluru has preserved and marked its cultural flag with authentic South Indian food and its incredible taste. A quiet morning with a South Indian breakfast is the major ritual of true-blue Bangalorean.
Masala Dosa at CTR, Filtered Coffee, Seafood platter, Idli with four style Sambar, tomato chutney, Medu Vada, Dal Vada, Rassam, the whole trunk of South Indian variety is exclusive here. Wrapping up this south Indian elegance with Coconut Lassi and Payasam tastes straight from a local chef's kitchen.

On a conclusive note, while visiting all these places for your food tour, consider another essential factor of your health and safety. You're likely to catch a 'Delhi-Belly' if you ignore the hygiene factor at the roadside eateries. Avoid drinking tap water or eating uncovered cut fruits as much as possible. Also, avoid unforeseen health issues caused by travelling and experimental food tours by protecting yourself with good health insurance. If already not purchased, you can opt for an ONLINE HEALTH INSURANCE policy before planning your next food trip to any of these destinations. Keep exploring the world on your plate!

Are you looking for an online health insurance? Click HERE.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Going on bike rides in India is an enthralling experience, as our country is home to awe-inspiring landscapes, natural beauty and colourful local rural life. From the snowy Himalayan range to the lush green forests of Kerala, the sandy deserts of Rajasthan, to the beaches of West Bengal, one can never be bored.

As you see, there are many bike routes that any travel enthusiast will be excited to go on, but we have shortlisted the top 5 bike trips you must not miss!

1. To the highest motorable road in the world (Manali – Leh): It is probably one of the most recommended routes for bike trips, and it is famous for all the right reasons. Every second spent away from work and home is worth watching the picturesque scenes pass by. You will come across the beautiful and challenging Rohtang, Gulaba, Khardungla Pass, Dorcha passes on the way. Winter jackets and thermal wear are necessary as the climate is exceptionally chilly.

The tour lasts for about 12 days and 11 nights. The total driving distance is 1055 km from Delhi, and it is worth every mile. The best time for this trip is from July to September. Take refreshment breaks to enjoy warm sips of hot coffee/tea as you en-route towards your destination.

2. The road towards yellow sands and palaces (Jodhpur – Jaisalmer): You cannot possibly find a better way to explore these traditionally rich and rustic cities. These places are all about their palaces, music, dance, and authentic mouth-watering traditional cuisines. It is ideal for bikers who are curious to explore beyond just nature and concentrate on the city's glorious history, rich heritage, and tiny nooks and corners.

3. Riding on the salt marshes (Ahmedabad – Rann of Kutch): The short tour is full of surprises. It is the perfect blend of nature, tradition, and escapade. Don't forget to have a night's stay at a Bhunga (mud house) to experience the local lifestyle. Plan your trip during a full moon because watching the full moon from the Rann is considered a liberating moment in life.

4. To the French heritage town (Chennai – Pondicherry): For the people in Chennai, Pondicherry is a great weekend getaway. A ride along the east coast will take you through tranquil sunsets by the beach, along with eye-catching green rice fields and fascinating fishing villages.

Though many people don't take any halts, there are a few underrated places worth visiting on your way to the French town, like the Chunnambar backwaters and the Dutch Fort.

5. In God's own country (Kochi – Ooty): You will feel close to nature in Kerala, nestled in sublime greenery; the tropical place makes you feel alive. The journey begins from the beautiful city Kochi and continues along the Arabian coastal strip with a soothing breeze encompassing your soul, straight towards the hilly terrain of the state.

You will come across several tea and coffee plantations, which produce the best and most expensive coffee beans in the world. Overall, the plantations, beaches, and backwaters will rejuvenate you! The recommended season is summer, between March and May.

A helpful tip: Bike rides are the best way to connect with nature and learn about a region's traditions, food, and art forms. But, you may not know specific state laws regarding tourists and driving, so go through travel websites to stay out of legal trouble. Also, get your bike an essential servicing, carry a basic tool kit and always ensure valid 2 WHEELER INSURANCE before going on such trips.

Click HERE to know about 2 wheeler insurance.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

On a limited budget, going organic and all-natural sounds unusual. Still, the truth is that eating organic is not only better for you, but it is also better for the environment. Let us know, how. Organic food is chemical-free, 100% natural and full of health. In addition, it is environment friendly as natural fertilizers like cow dung or manure and kitchen wastes are used for farming instead of pesticides.

Organic foods are popular among health-conscious consumers, although they might be more expensive than other foods farmed conventionally. Harvesting and managing organic crops is time-consuming for the farmers, thus making them more costly for the consumers. So how can you manage your health and budget wisely? It is certainly conceivable, even though it appears to be impossible. Here are a few ways to manage eating organic foods while on a budget.

1. Shop at budget-friendly stores: The first approach to save money on organic is to shop at the correct place. Stop by the local market on a weekday to see how cheaper local food may be than imported stuff. Deals are constantly available for you to take advantage of.

When you buy organic food at a farmers' market, you may expect fresh and less expensive organic produce than you would find in a supermarket. In this way, you even contribute to promoting the sincere efforts of the local farmers, and you assure maximum profit to the farmers by buying directly from them.

2. Cultivate your garden: You will save some money on vegetables if you grow your own organic produce. You don't even need to have a large garden to grow organic vegetables. You may grow your favourite vegetables in pots, which occupy very little space. Even better, you may choose a raised bed, which is ideal for packing many vegetables into a bit of space.

3. Purchase produce that is in season: Buying produce, even organic stuff, is usually less expensive when it is in season. This is owing to plentiful supply and the fact that it has not been shipped halfway around the world. Seasonal organic vegetables have the advantage of being less expensive, fresh, and more nutritious. If you're not sure when your favourite organic food is in season, check out one of the many seasonal produce guides available online.

4. Consider organic frozen food: Fresh vegetables are always healthier than frozen ones, regardless of the conditions. That isn't always the case, though, as frozen fruits and vegetables are just as healthy and nutritious as their fresh counterparts. Frozen food is collected and frozen at the peak of its season, ensuring that it preserves its nutritional content. On the other hand, fresh veggies lose some nutrients over time when they travel longer distances to retailers. Therefore, consider buying frozen organic food next time you are shopping.

5. Purchase in large quantities: Buying in bulk saves money because most things are less expensive than a single package. However, buying in bulk, even if you don't need it, will result in waste. It exacerbates the problem by removing money from your pockets you can spend on the food you genuinely require.

We hope you no longer have to compromise over the quality of your food simply because your budget is getting in the way of it. If healthy practices are managed efficiently, they can be pocket-friendly, focusing on sustainability and a nourished lifestyle. Healthy practices even include investing in health insurance. When buying health insurance, do not necessarily go by the conventional method; instead, you can buy ONLINE HEALTH INSURANCE conveniently from your smartphone or desktop.

Click HERE to explore our online health insurance services.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.