Chennai (Madras)

Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital city is the southeastern state of Tamil Nadu. This also the place that I was born in. While this would be considered my 'home,' I only spent the first few months of my life living in this city. I have, however, visited the city many times over the years. The most recent being last year. Chennai is located on the Eastern coast of India and touches the Bay of Bengal/Indian Ocean.

Chennai and Tamil Nadu in general have a distinct culture that differs from the rest of India. Just like the South, Northeast, Midwest, West regions of the U.S. have their own unique culture, India is much the same in its different parts. The tastes and flavors present in Chennai are unique to this part of India. The food served here is usually more spicy and flavorful. Most of the inhabitants will speak the local language which is Tamil, and of course, English. The entire state is filled with beautiful beaches that run from the East Coast all the way to the Southern tip of India.