GLOBETROTTING GRANNIES

For most, retirement is a time for quiet reflection. But for Valsala Menon, 86, and Ramani Menon, 84—octogenarian sisters from Wadakkancherry in Thrissur—it has become a 'passport' to explore the world.

- NAJIYA NAZRIN A

Their latest feat? A month-long journey across eight European countries.

The sisters began traveling in their 70s after moving in together following the death of Ramani's husband. Valsala had lost her husband at a young age.

The duo began their journey with spiritual trips across India with the Adhyatmika Prabodhan Sangam group, and soon expanded to several Asian countries.

Their dream of Europe was ignited during a visit to Kashmir two years ago. "After Kashmir, the desire to see Switzerland became very strong," shares Gayathri, Ramani's granddaughter, who, along with her mother Bindu and brother Gautham, forms the backbone of the two sisters' travel team.

The recent European trip, however, was unexpected.