New Delhi native and furniture designer Urvi Sharma moved to Providence to study at the Rhode Island School of Design. “Because I was in school, it was a soft landing,” Sharma says. “I eventually learned how to drive on the wrong side of the road and immerse myself in a city small enough to feel comfortable yet big enough to offer new discoveries.” As cofounder of design studio Indo, Sharma continues to draw inspiration from her hometown. The many artifacts she’s collected from the city adorn her New England home and studio.

Dolls of Indian Freedom Fighters and Revolutionaries by Dilli Haa

Where to Stay:

The capital has an ample selection of 5-star hotels that demonstrate the best Indian hospitality has to offer. For Urvi, this level of service far exceeds anything one might find in the U.S. Between The Lodhi, The Oberoi, and The Leela hotels, there’s very little left to be desired.

Where to Eat:

According to Urvi, each Delhiite has their favorite spots to eat, a choice they’ll defend with honor. Her favorite cuisine is Mughlai street food—butter chicken, garlic naan, and every type of kabab ever invented. The designer prefers Moti Mahal (Malcha Marg), Nizam’s Kathi Kabab, and HaveMore on Pandara Road, whose rival, Gulatis, operates across the street.

Good Earth at Khan Market

What to See and Do:

To learn more about the city, Urvi suggests splitting your time between exploring markets and visiting historic monuments. Shoppers should head to Khan Market Dilli Haat, Sunder Nagar, Raw Mango, and Good Earth. Sightseers should visit the Nizamuddin Dargah, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, and India Gate.

Tomb of Moghul Emperor Humayun

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Masala Dabba by Tiipoi x Diaspora Co.

Sweet Boxes by Bikanervala

Crafts Atlas of India by Jaya Jaitly