Salzburg, is straight out of a fairy tale
A charismatic businessman with expertise in global product sourcing, Chetan Mathur is a vibrant and a dynamic personality, with a flair for creativeness and innovation. He believes in living life to the full. Apart from work to which he is fanatically dedicated, Chetan loves travelling and also has a varied interest in music and socialising
Chetan is a Managing Partner of Medusa Source, which is a Supply Chain management and product sourcing company working with brands globally. He brings in over 19 years of valuable experience in international marketing and sourcing business.
After completing his Masters in Business Administration and gaining working experience in the corporate world, Chetan joined his family- run business Warp Weft International, which is a four-decade-old product sourcing the company, specialising in home textiles and furnishings. Chetan is currently the CEO of the company.
Chetan has been instrumental in adding value to the growth of the supply chain for some of the largest international brands, department stores and supermarkets. Over the years, Chetan has helped many overseas companies to grow their businesses worldwide by sourcing precisely and at the same time supported numerous vendors to expand their reach in international markets by supplying competitively. With his vast exposure to international markets and wide network with key people in the industry, Chetan strives to achieve new heights every day.
Chetan comes across as a complete family person. He talks about his travel experiences.
Which is your favourite holiday destination?
Salzburg, Austria and London, UK
Why?
Salzburg for its scenic beauty & London for its buzz!
When did you visit last?
Two years back.
What do you like about the place?
Through the city, the backdrop of the Alps and the nostalgic effect of one of my favourite movie “The Sound of Music”, really mesmerizes me. As a kid, I always wanted to visit this Salzburg. This place is “straight out of a fairy tale” kind of setting. The nip in the air, river Salzach flowing through the city and once I did I couldn’t resist myself to go back again. The whole architecture and natural beauty of the city gives a relaxing feeling and that is what pulls me back to this city. Surrounding Salzburg there are wonderful places in the Austrian Alps that one can explore as well.
London – On the other hand London is one city that I can visit over and over; any time of the year. That place is a great blend of historic architecture, the depiction of the magnanimous feel of the British Empire, especially being an Indian. The cosmopolitan mix of people and the pace of the city attracts me. You have got things to see and do for all ages in this city. Even though London would be considered as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but there are all kinds of options for all kinds of people. It’s really a hot spot for tourists across the world. Additionally, since I have business interests in the UK and Europe, London is visited frequently. It acts as a hub for us for the whole European markets. It offers an ocean of opportunities for doing business.
Tell us the highlights of the destination, what should not be missed, what do you recommend to see and do?
Things not to be missed in Salzburg:
- Sound of Music tour
- Visit the Castle for scenic views.
- Visit Mozart Place (for music lovers)
- Ski in the Alps (for adventure seekers)
Apart from the famous sightseeing attractions in London, a few things I recommend:
- Thames Cruise
- Visit Greenwich
- Stroll in Hyde Park / Regent Park
- Nightlife around Camden Town Picadilly Circus and Soho
- Shopping at Oxford Street and Bond Street
London is a great city in terms of safety, transportation, food, stay options and shopping. But it definitely needs better traffic management
Astronomical Clock
Which restaurants do you like to visit over there?
While in Salzburg I have tried a new place a few times I have been there. It’s best to explore the authentic Austrian cuisine in any of the famous restaurants which the locals would recommend. There are plenty of small eateries and cafes that offer a variety of food options and are the best to enjoy the local aroma of the place.
London, on the other hand, is flooded with some of the best restaurants, bars, cafes in the world. It depends on what section of the city you are at. It offers a wide variety of fine dining options, casual places, plenty of English pubs, which can be found at almost all corners of the city. I have tried a new place each time while in London but a few places that I would recommend would be:
Imli – (for Indian cuisine). This place is situated in the famous Soho district. The food is delicious, the setting is casual and prices are reasonable.
Nobu – (For Chinese & Asian Cuisine). Situated in the Mayfair district, the place is a fine dining option but the food is worth it. It’s visited by some of the most rich and famous people of the world.
Which are the good hotels to stay there?
Salzburg has some great hotels and one should choose a more scenic place while there. You can then enjoy the views of the Alps and the whole city.
London has thousands of options. It really depends on what you purpose of visiting the city. It has some all chain hotels, boutique hotels, budget hotels. You name it.
Which is your favourite hotel to stay?
At Salzburg, I would really recommend Hotel Schloss Mönchstein. It has a great view of the whole city.
In London, I love to stay at hotels facing Hyde Park. I look for a new option each time I visit the city in order to explore.
According to you how can that destination be improved?
London is a great city in terms of safety, transportation, food and stay options and shopping. But it definitely needs better traffic management as its getting overcrowded year on year. The public transport system especially the tube is great but they need to really upgrade it now more than ever.
Any interesting episode of your holiday over there which you can share with our readers?
I am really choosy when it comes to hotel options. While selecting a hotel in London at a great location and the price I paid for it, I got a room, which was like a matchbox. I simply live out of my suitcase and something like this was never experienced by me after travelling internationally for almost 20 years. So I would recommend if you have a decent budget for your stay always choose a rated property and check your room sizes especially while in Europe!
What kind of a traveller are you – planning well or more impulsive?
Well planned traveller.
Lastly, what tops your mind when you travel – sightseeing, food or shopping?
Sightseeing, shopping and most definitely nightlife!