The Travel Foodie!

We totally think that food is a very good motivator – be it for work or travel! People travel all over the globe to taste different and new cuisines all the time. Only a person, who really acknowledges his love for food, would appreciate the fact that - same recipe cooked at two different places can never taste same, and it does not matter if the difference is several miles or several hundred miles. The reasons may be quite a few – different hands making the dish, the local spices & customs, variety of ingredients available, etc. But, no matter how alluring this travel motive may be, there is more to it than stuffed tummies and satisfied taste buds. There are upset stomachs, food poisoning, vomiting, nausea and most long term effect – obesity.

So the question is: How to enjoy the holidays while not compromising the foodie in you?

Here are few tips which could help you out of this dilemma:

• Always carry with you some emergency food – nutrition bars, instant soups & noodles, healthy snacks and biscuits, etc.
• Whenever visiting the market, do not forget to purchase fresh & seasonal fruits – easily available everywhere & healthy as well as, well within your budget.
• Keep hydrated all the time – drink lots of water while traveling. You tend to perform more activities than in your normal routine. Also, drinking water helps remove toxins from your body.
• Always carry a first aid-kit, fully equipped with anti-vomit medicines, ‘pudin hara’ or another medicine for upset stomach, anti- allergy as you may never know what new ingredient your body might be allergic to.
• Besides all these medicines, you may consult your doctor if you are on any medication; learn about food you must avoid at the destined place & food you must have.
• Also, while at any diner or street food stall, do not hesitate in asking for the specific food or specific preparation you wish to have. Let the waiters know your specifics – in case you are vegetarian, vegan or on special diet.

Another nice idea is always to do your homework before leaving – research about the place you are going. Checkout for the information about closest local markets, diners or street food stalls, specialties of the place as well as things to look out for. A little smartness on your part can not only help you plan a fine holiday, you may find it easily manageable as well!

Travel safe. Happy traveling!

A Visit To The Global Village:

With all the latest technologies, gadgets and developments, the world has become nothing but a big, global village. There is no corner of the world which remains inaccessible. The world is becoming smaller each passing day as a result of latest technology available in terms of communications and travel. So here we are with few useful insights, for all those travel bugs who wish to explore the wider ranges of this comprehensive community called world:

• Chinese usually prefer to be formally introduced to someone new. And the same rule applies to both Chinese and foreigners. And when being introduced always stand up throughout the introductions. Also difference between a Japanese bow & Chinese bow is that Japanese bow from waist and Chinese from shoulder.

• Unlike the Western custom, compliments are not graciously accepted in China with a “thank you,” but rather with “not at all or it was nothing.” Chinese follow a more modest approach while receiving compliments and accepting compliments is not appreciated.

• In many Middle Eastern countries like Iran, the "thumbs up" gesture is considered an offensive insult. However, in American, Russian, Indian & African countries it may symbolize as great or good.

• In Russia, delay of at least 20 minutes is rather appreciated for visitors. Being right on time is not exactly cherished. Besides, the dining etiquettes are more or less similar to European dining manners. Russians put the fork on the left side of the plate (used in the left hand) and the knife on the right (used by the right hand). When not being used, they are placed with their tips on the edge of the plate (fork tines down), and they are laid across the plate horizontally when you are finished. Also, a spoon & not a fork is used for eating cake, etc. (Try not to spill the salt which as per Russian superstition signifies as a bad fight between members of the family.)

• When dealing with foreigners, most South Africans shake hands while smiling and maintain eye contact throughout; it is a gesture of respect & graciousness. Some women do not shake hands and merely nod their head, so it shall be better to wait for a woman to extend her hand.

• The tipping system in European states is rather a fixed deal, prefer not to tip in most European countries unless the service was truly exceptional; on a casual standards simply round up to the nearest euro.

Hopefully, you will find these insights helpful. We’ll keep updating you about such rarely known and useful insights occasionally, keep reading this space.

Travel safe. Happy travelling!

Travel Safe – Literally!

We always wish you all dear travel bugs a very happy and safe traveling. Indeed, traveling is about adventure, getting a little lost, finding new places – new people, a new self. But all these delightful facets need not come at the cost of your safety.

Whether you are a lone traveler or a family/group adventurer, there are least chances but still strong probability of encountering an unscheduled and undesired incident. We cannot always avoid it, especially if the issue came out of nowhere. Postponed or deterred holiday plans may be re-planned; closed theaters and last moment cancellations also mostly have a way out. But not those scenarios that have a nature of emergency!

While in a foreign land, in a highly unlikely event, if you witness an incident which must receive a professional support immediately such as fire, robbery or accident, where would you head out to for help? Language, cultures, tradition, technologies – there are limitations and restrictions of a new place. So besides planning a schedule for your holiday, you should also search for and make a note of all the emergency numbers used in the country you are stepping into. As a measure for your convenience and safety, here we have compiled a list of emergency numbers of a few countries:

Sr. No.	Country	Police	Ambulance	Fire
1.	India	100	102	101
2.	South Africa	10111	10177	10111
3.	Thailand	191	1669, 199	199
4.	Egypt	122, 128, 126	123	180
5.	Brazil	190	192	193
6.	Jamaica	119	110
7.	France	112
8.	Malaysia	999
9.	Maldives	102
10.	Hong kong	999
11.	Australia	000
12.	Haiti	118
13.	Canada	911
14.	USA	911
15.	Italy	112

Often times, one plans to travel to a certain place but the trip takes him to a different one – and no matter how beautiful, motivational & philosophical a thought it may seem to be, we do not wish an uncalled for literal ramification on any traveler. Incidents may not always be avoidable but it is better to be ready and prepared.

Travel safe. Happy traveling!

Perfect Holidays: Envy of Friends

Out of all the inspiration of traveling, the most efficient one is seeing one of your friend’s update a holiday album of their recent visit to some exotic land. You see how much fun they had, what all places they went, what they ate, what they wore and generally you make a mental note of how much you appreciate your friend’s set of selections. Now this may be an unnoticed fact, but people get more and in fact most influenced by what their peer group does.

While the images of an exotic island may allure one enough yet at the end of the day people generally dismiss the idea, giving themselves a long list of excuses –like it is for richer or better people or who have lesser responsibilities or more time. However, when we see our friends, neighbors or relatives making those same travels – it revives hope. A hope that makes us forget that, extraordinary budgets or long weekends are required to have incredible time at amazing places!

To make that coveted holiday a magical reality, it is a better idea to get as much information as possible before making the final plans. You can start with your friends, who already have been to the places you wish to go. Learning from their experiences and suggestions is a very convenient and reliable source to upgrade your travel information. Also, you get the details directly from the horse’s mouth. Based on all the information you get – you can decide how to chalk out your plans. You will know what factors you may ignore or what aspect you should absolutely make your priority.

Again, while planning for holidays and doing online research often there are many instances where we prefer personal insights which are generally unavailable. Sharing personal traveling experiences opens that source and also guarantees authentic information and experience details. Hence, collect as much information as possible; you never know what may turn useful. Go ahead, maybe it’s your turn to make your friends a little envious with your holiday updates!

Travel safe. Happy traveling.  

Modak, Mushak & More!

A Note from Special Guest Blogger: Shri Ganesha

Image Source: http://www.freewebs.com/ashokha/ganesh.jpg

Hello dear travel bugs! Since my birthday is coming up and I too love traveling like you guys, thought of sharing a few thoughts with you all. To begin with, I belong to a family which believes in a lot of world tours. I remember when I was a kid my father, Lord Shiva would often go to distant locations on earth (many times heaven or hell as well – depending upon the situation) for months at a stretch. His work requires traveling a lot (actually all Gods’ work does). And in fact he was out on some very important business trip when I was born, but you all probably know that and I won’t narrate that story here (relax)!

You see, my entire family is all over the world. Parents are residing on upper Himalayas, dear brother Kartikeya is happily settled in the south of India, friends, distant relatives and of course my dear fans – they are all scattered across India and also somewhere in the more western areas of globe (they keep moving every other century). We keep visiting them all – me & my PA Mushak. Well I have been in better company but trust me, nothing beats the companionship of a dearly beloved & trusted multitasker (and he loves food too)! When earlier I saved his life, I seriously had no idea how handy he’ll turn out to be. Mushak’s one click – and I am sorted, for whatever I need. Well alright I might not need much, but it is amusing anyways.

Things have changed a lot now. Although, if you compare the earlier days it was definitely less crowded then. Environment was cleaner & purer, and I can say things were a lot less complicated. But I also find things more convenient and rather obvious now. We Gods have abilities to just transcend from one place to another (one of the Super Powers I find most useful but it also means no work out, hence I can’t blame for… well my stature) but from what I have noticed, the shorter the journey, the lesser time to munch & lunch and so lesser time to actually enjoy. Well, you certainly can’t enjoy on empty stomach now, can you?

I can ramble away like this non-stop, but there is one thing I should tell you before I forget about it. I love to travel! Yes, and not just to temples, mounts or oceans, but to people’s homes too. In fact, I have become addicted to the love and devotion people bestow on me during these 10 days so much, that it breaks my heart when it’s time for me to leave. But what to do, the world is not enough as you people say. In order to complete my travel bucketlist, I need to be on the move and can’t settle at one place. So my dear dear dear fans, don’t lose hope. I might leave after my scheduled 10 days stay at your place, but I would definitely like to keep in touch with you. Hope you don’t forget me, and keep writing to me.

Keep travelling, keep smiling! 

Festivities & Travel

Traveling doesn’t really require any reason, it just needs inspiration. Most often, traveling is itself the greatest inspiration indeed. However, while choosing destinations or seasons for holidaying and traveling, festivals provide a major occasion & reason for traveling. Whether celebrating a festival with that distant family, or visiting a holy destination for a particular festival or a ritual, or just going on pilgrimage as per one’s faith, connection of travel & festivities is very old and strong.

                                                          

Religious travel doesn’t have to be a cumbersome experience. Also, the difficulty levels don’t necessarily prove depths of faith. Here is some useful information that can help you enjoy and relax while you travel with a religious and/or festive purpose.

• Often times, last moment bookings cause extra expenses and lower standards of services.
• If you are aware of your leaves or holidays around the time of occasion, go for advance travel & hotel bookings to avoid last minute rush.
• If however, you are not sure of how many days you may get off around the time of the occasion, try and keep a tab on flight or train tickets along with fluctuating hotel tariffs.
• Being aware of the current status on travel options and hotels provides you instant answer, whenever it becomes possible for you to make the bookings- you know which hotel offers what tariff & availability of rooms, the current status on train & flight bookings and costing.
• Also, keeping a constant check on hotels & transportation modes saves you from last moment tension & stress.
• Booking in bulk always helps to squeeze in extra or condense few out as per last moment availabilities. Hence, approach friends or colleagues who also have same destination and wish to travel around the same time.
• Bulk bookings also save on expenses and there is always a possibility of inducing special offers on bookings.

Also, it is important to remember you are traveling on a special occasion so, expecting crowd and hence various inconveniences such as long queues, slight management troubles and even unavailability of several services are what you should be prepared for. With festivals and religious occasions is attached faith of people; hence no matter depths of your own belief, during such travels being empathetic and patient can help you as well as others around you have a cherished time.

Travel safe. Happy traveling.  

Best Travel Souvenirs

Rightly it is said:

Travel the world to know thyself.

Every place you travel, unveils a phase of yourself you never knew existed. You see beauty you didn’t know was possible, you come across people you thought were way too different from your reality, you go through experiences which basically change the way you see world. Every venture you acknowledge away from comfort of your home enriches you with treasure of wisdom with every passing moment.

Often while witnessing foreign rituals and customs of the distant land, one is prone to get judgmental. Comparing things with back home, it is quite usual to create an image in one’s mind regarding people and place. Some may like the image created in their minds- they watch the rituals with fascination, intrigued by difference of perception yet find it enlightening, or at least entertaining. While others may tend to get offended or totally dislike or perhaps not share the common thought procedure going behind the occurrence of any performances. Neither of the two sorts is wrong. It is personal perception, and everyone is entitled to have one.

However, considering that one perception to be absolute shall not be fair. It is the differences which in fact makes the world a better place. You don’t have to like everything, but accepting what is the way it is, is integral learning for a traveler. Many times, what has been a disaster experience for one turns out a stupendous occasion for another. It is only a matter of time and yes- perception. Every ritual has been created based on a certain faith, history of the place and upgrades done gradually through time. Comparing of any two sets of faith, tribes, and countries is not an appropriate task.

No group of men is perfect yet there is something perfect in each of their beliefs. Respect mutual differences and avoid degrading any place only if it was not at par with your level. Hence, next time when you pack your bags and set out to explore an unknown piece of the world, explore with the eyes of a child. Let yourself be surprised, participate in local rituals, and most importantly - to live in present. Do not judge, but be ready to just enjoy. Let your best memento be the joyful memories and love!

Travel safe. Happy traveling.

Green City, Clean City

Don’t you dream of going to a place which is laden with natural beauty, trim and sparkling surroundings, and convenience at your command - paints a serene picture in your mind doesn’t it? It’s a feast for your eyes and soul. So why not make a deliberate attempt, to let the beautiful places you visit maintain their charm in every possible manner?

Often, people while travelling to distant locations, tend to follow all the rules and regulations regarding the local authorities. However, the same people, travelling within their own cities and country often overrule many such rules - especially the ones subjected to the cleanliness guidelines. Charity begins at home - a truly said proverb. We prefer distant lands because they have harsh orders against littering and spoiling of public properties, we must also implement the same seriousness at our places as well, only without a strict law waiting to be implemented against the culprits.

Only when everyone is serious about their contribution towards the improvement of the society- starting from keeping the city clean - be it a tourist spot or a local city, every little step shall provide a positive and visible impact. Help in keeping a chic place elegant also, endeavor to improve places where you can - by ofcourse not littering, using eco friendly products and being constantly aware.

Keeping your surroundings clean is no wonder a very effective way to beautify a place, but also a very powerful step for saving and conserving the animals around. We never know what negative effect our waste product disposal is creating in the ecosystem. While traveling, let’s make our world a better place to live in and give our hosts a reason to invite us back - happily.

Travel safe. Happy travelling.

Healthy, Wealthy & Wise

The initial two words might seem like a paradox to travelling at first, but if you make some wise and simple decisions - it is not an impossible thing to achieve after all. Yes, traveling great distances should not necessarily take a toll on your health or drain your pockets either. This happens, because usually, we lose focus and tend to overlook the expenses and food habits. While on a shorter holidays things would not make a difference, in the long run and frequent travels though, you may feel the consequences of such carelessness taking big chunk off of your fitness and savings.

Hence, no matter if you are traveling or are at home; make few basic guidelines an absolute must for yourself:

• Have your breakfast like a king; get up at a convenient hour- when you don’t have to rush to catch the bus for next stop. Enjoy a hearty meal, full of juices, toasts, honey, milk, fruits, eggs, etc. as per your disposition.
• But make sure, you eat while keeping your traveling mode in your mind - please do not over indulge in food, if you have tendency for motion sickness.
• Always carry some nutrition bars for those unscheduled hunger pangs.
• Try and walk wherever you get an opportunity. It provides excellent exercise and gives your body a nice work through.
• Same rule applies to climbing stairs, however, if you have a long day ahead maintain your activities as much as your body can endure.
• Try to replace junk food with healthy (and tasty) food while traveling.
• Drink lot of water and coconut water while travelling in tropics, it helps maintain your blood pressure and blood sugar in check.

Keeping a journal of your everyday expenses is a very efficient way of keeping a tab on your spending habits. You will know what you spend mostly on and what expenses can be avoided in near future. Also, keeping a journal shall give you insights of exactly how lavishly you need to take up the rest of your travel as well - hence spend wisely and carefully.

Travel safe. Happy traveling.

Mind Your Language!

Amongst the list of mandatory requisites while traveling, we have often strained on the local language aspect. While it is not absolutely necessary to learn a new language every time you plan to take a hike to a distant city, it is in fact at least recommended to have a basic understanding of the local culture.

So let’s say, you are planning to stay at a destination for a good amount of time, it is only convenient if you learn the basics - greetings, asking for something, ordering food, buying stuff and asking for directions. Yes, learning few words of a foreign language does not make you an expert, but it becomes very convenient and as you’ll find - welcoming. Locals often tend to be more helpful and caring when they see any tourist making an attempt to know their local city & language with a better effort. The broken language you’ll manage to utter, will not only generate warmth in the heart of your hosts, but will also be a source of entertainment for them. Also, there are many places on globe, where people may not have heard any of the languages you speak. In such scenarios, the basics you know will at least get you through with little efforts.

Many times the sign languages you may use to describe any of your requirements may not come at par with your host’s understanding. Being from different backgrounds, for example, when you are trying to signal for water, your host may inculcate it as liquor, or maybe anything else. Hence, even sign language can take you only as far as remotely possible.

There are many times, when you don’t have enough time on your hands as to indulge in learning about a foreign language, and even if you do – since you’ll be new at it, mistakes are bound to happen. Hence, the best option is to carry a language translating dictionary. In today’s tech savvy world, there are many apps and websites which can aid you with the translation. Hence, next time when you go traveling, make an attempt to learn new stuff - it will add another color to your travel journal.

Travel safe. Happy traveling.

Bon Appétit!

One of a much understated problems while traveling to a completely new place is often the edible part of the journey - the food. Often times, a completely different country with a foreign language and a strange culture – takes time to settle to. Even a small action of choosing a proper meal becomes quite a task in such times. ‘What to eat’ becomes the most sought after question as people often fear that due to aforementioned barriers, the food they shall receive on the platter won’t exactly be what they ordered or expected. However, with little endeavor, you can totally get the better off of the situation.

First and foremost, before you set out for your adventure, performing a little research on common meals, local favorite foods and specialties of the place can do wonders. That ways, you’ll know exactly what to expect when you order an explored cuisine. And you can also mention any changes you require in your food - helps if you are allergic to certain food ingredients or if you merely want to spice things up in your own manner! Another way to be food smart is to check with the locals. The hotel or resort where you are staying, the friendly locals you come across while sightseeing or your travel guide book (which is indeed a very handy book to carry) may provide insights on the food prospects of the place - take pictures or make a list.

However, you must be careful while placing an order for your food, articulations and different pronunciation may completely change meaning of what you say. Hence, while doing all the background check, it normally comes to better use if you also see how to pronounce the name. In case you find yourself in the predicament of facing a difficult name, you can rely on technology of your latest gadgets - internet, a word which everyone understands. Opt for the most sought after food places while also keeping an open mind for unexplored stops.

Eat healthy. And relish what you eat - Bon Appétit!

Travel safe. Happy traveling!

Travel More In Less

We all face a daunting question while planning a holiday – ‘Would love to travel to place XYZ, but the travel fares are too expensive.’

In current trends, where expenses are sky rocketing, availability of seats is reducing ever so steadily and fuel expenses & taxes are taking a hike - how indeed can one even think of traveling for leisure, without feeling a pang of heavy expenses draining his savings? The one word answer to this question is - flexibility.

If you wish to travel, and don’t want to spend a fortune doing so, you truly need to be flexible in various manners:

• Choosing destinations - first and foremost, you should be flexible in your choice. Start with travel spots which are closer to your place. The close destinations can be easily managed with respect to time, finances and transportation. If not close by, select places which are more convenient to reach - tours packages. Perform a thorough background check of the package and if it suits you well, then only enroll yourself in one.
• Choosing time for traveling - yes you need to be very flexible with this one. There are various destinations all across the globe, which have special discounts for traveling or visiting during a specific time of the year. Explore such places and also do a research in terms of what is the best time to visit these places. Airfares reduce and various other facilities like stay and extensions are available at dirt-cheap rates during certain durations.
• Advance planning - this one definitely helps! Planning and booking for flights & hotels in advance have a lot of benefits indeed. You not only save on airfare but also get time to compare and bargain other expenses as well.
• Wait for it - well, many times being the last one to book tickets also has its own perks. Since filling a flight before departing always curbs down the expenses of airway companies, many times they provide special offers for last few available seats. You need to be alert for such offers, these are last minute pop ups with varying options. Although, opting of this option means you need to wait till last moment and ofcourse there is no guarantee of a fixed amount that can be saved. Nor is there any guarantee that there will be seats available at discounts - so yes this one is a dicey option unless you keep a proper track of airway companies and their regular offers.

It is said that if you wish to do something, you shall find a way and if not, you will find an excuse. Traveling is no longer dirt cheap and in order to fulfill your travel bucket list you must start early on it and plan wisely.

Travel safe. Happy traveling.

Travel Companions Can Make Your Holiday A Fun Event:

Traveling is an undoubtedly enlightening experience. Some travel to relax, while some travel to explore. Whatever be the purpose of roving onto various lands, one factor which influences travel plans majorly is the travel buddy accompanying you. Nowadays, many have also started venturing out alone, just enjoying the company of their pets!

 Whether you are a lone explorer, or love tagging your special someone along, or maybe you like travelling with your friends and family - kids and pets inclusive; you can see how each option changes the bigger picture in your mind.

Similarly, travel companions also come with their own set of challenges and travel habits. Here are few useful tips - if you are traveling with children and/or pets:

• Before venturing out, make a list of basic stuff your children or pets require. Like favourite toys (ask your children to choose one in order to avoid over bagging with toys), juices, any other important articles - glasses, pumps etc.
• Include first aid units - band aids, antiseptic liquids, antiseptic gels and creams, pain reliever sprays and antibiotics for cold, fever and exhaustion.
• Make sure you carry enough drinking water. It is better to carry water with you then to commence search for it at dire hour of need.
• Children and pets often do not realize hunger or thirst amidst enjoyment. At such time, it is important that someone should always keep a tab on their hunger and thirst requirements.
• Keep healthy snacks with you in spare. Although, wherever possible, enjoy hearty meals but for those times between meals, be ready with treats - biscuits, wafers, rolls, homemade sandwiches, etc.
• Always keep checking activities of your children and pets. It doesn’t take long for them to get distracted in a new place and head after their heart’s desires.
• In case of checking in hotels and resorts, make a query in advance with respect to bringing a pet along, since many of hotels and resorts do not allow animals.
• However, few hotels and resorts have special services for pets, which are subjected to change with respect to kind of pet one is bringing along. There are additional charges for certain facilities - make sure you get a clear picture of their services and rates.

 Ofcourse, no matter whom you are traveling with - safety is the one definite piece you need to tag along always. So kindly make sure, that you travel safe and as per the rules and guidelines of your transportation and destination. Always arrive well in time for trains or flights or buses to sort out your seat and baggage without much hassle and delay.

Travel safe. Travel happy.

The Travel Wardrobe:

The best thing about being a traveler is that, you do not belong to any particular faith. Just like your travels, your destinations are inspired by a longing to see and learn new things. All that curiosity to explore is highly appreciated, however friends, it doesn’t matter where you are coming from but where you are headed. There is an age old saying which everybody is much familiar with:

When in Rome, do what the Romans do.

These wise words are indeed summarizing our intent pretty well. Often while providing our services we recognize a very common oversight done by most of the tourists and travelers- selection of their travel wardrobe. Although the world is now but a global village, still we can find cultures and beliefs changing every few hundred kilometers. Hence we suggest when you research about your destinations and tour plans and packages; you should also look into the weather conditions and cultural background of the place. There are so many locations which have high percentage of religious places, holy rivers or grounds which the locals have high sacred connections to. At these destinations, it is usually, absolutely acceptable to dress up in latest versions of westernized apparels at market places and hotels, although, while coming to the cherished holy places a certain dress code is usually required to follow. Amongst various mandatory guidelines people often come across such as keeping surroundings clean, use of camera or mobile phones being prohibited and at certain places having a proper dress code is very common. Almost all of the traditional and religiously mystical lands always follow a proper and decent dress code, with varying intensity.

At few religious places, the only requirement is to cover your head (with any stole or scarf), while at certain other places there is a very strict rule, where no sleeveless or shorts are allowed. Few tourists sometimes also tend to get offended at such requisites, and may even consider the place or people conservative. However, it must be remembered that rules and guidelines at any travel spot, are always created for harmonious reasons- to let tourists enjoy exploring places, different from their own roots yet sustaining the original charm and aura of the place as well. Just as a swimsuit is appropriate for beaches, gowns for lounges and your pretty LBD for that after hour’s party, dressing up smartly for the destination you are headed to- would be considered a wise decision.

Travel-appropriate dressing not only is a requisite for places but of the kind of traveling you are undergoing as well. Being travel conscious may not only save you from any embarrassments, it may as well save your time and effort put in while traveling to the destination. Be trendy, wear comfortable clothes, but do keep in mind the culture and weather conditions of your destination. After all no one likes a spoiler in their holidays, especially if it’s hinting on their wardrobe.

Happy Traveling! 

Ooty – One of India’s best hill-resorts nestled in the Nilgiris

Ootacamund, or Ooty as this hill-station is popularly known, is one of India’s most popular vacation spots and is known for its cloud-touching spots and untouched beauty. Located in the Nilgiris (“Blue Mountains”), this place is located 7,347 feet above sea level and was founded by the British in the 19th Century. With rolling hills, natural reserve forests, extensive tea gardens and eucalyptus plantations, Ooty is a great place to visit because of its sheer beauty and charmingly cool weather.

This hill-resort is easily accessible and one can travel to Ooty by air, by train or via road ways by hopping on a bus or driving down in a personal vehicle. The closest airport to Ooty is the Coimbatore Airport and regular flights from Mumbai and Chennai are available. By train, one needs to board the Nilgiri Express from Chennai and then take the The Nilgiri Mountain Railway train to the destination from Mettupalayam. KSRTC buses and well-connected roadways make this hill-resort accessible by public or private vehicles.
Like every hill-resort, Ooty has its own sights and sounds to offer and these make this beautiful place a worth-while visit. Some of the best places to experience in Ooty include the Government Botanical Gardens which were opened back in 1847, boasting 650 species of plants and trees spread over 22 hectares, and the Doddabetta Peak that towers at 2,623 meters. The Annamalai Temple, the Rose Gardens, the Tea Factory and the Pykara Falls are also places one must visit in Ooty.

Besides being a paradise on earth, Ooty is popular for its tea. The extensive tea plantations and the Tea Factory are a great place to unwind and experience the best of this hill-resort. Yet another interesting sight is the Pine Forest, reminiscent of those in northern India. A walk through these forests is advised and visitors are guaranteed to enjoy a lovely climate and a splendid environment.

For accommodation we recommend a stay at Panoramic Group United-21 Paradise to enjoy the pleasing and picturesque places of Ooty in a luxurious way. For more details on the resort check http://www.magicholidays.info/property_details/destination/ooty

Mahabaleshwar – A scenic heaven on earth!

Mahabaleshwar is synonymous with greenery and sheer beauty. One of the most prominent hill-stations in India, this beautiful location assures to take your breath away. Also known to be the largest hill-station in the Sahyadri mountain range, Mahabaleshwar is located in Maharashtra and is nestled about of 1,372 meters above sea-level.

This hill-station literally kisses the sky above and visiting Mahabaleshwar will subject you to nothing more than beautiful views and a pleasantly cold weather, away from the urban heat and crowd! Travelling to Mahabaleshwar isn’t really difficult, since this hill-station is well connected to Mumbai and Pune by road as well as by train. Luxurious buses ferry passengers from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar at a good frequency while trains from Mumbai and Bangalore are also available.

The hill-station has several locations that one must include on one’s to-do list. These are spots offering some of the best views and are indeed worth a visit. These places are called “Points” and are popular, particularly because of the views they offer. Some of the most famed Points in Mahabaleshwar are Arthur's Seat, named after Sir Arthur Mallet and Kate's Point, located towards the east. The Needle Hole Point is a short skip away from Kate’s Point and is known for a natural rock formation with a hole in between.

Also, the Wilson Point and 3 Monkey Point are popular spots. A few other places tourists should visit include Lodwick Point, Babington Point, the Sunset Point, Elephant's Head Point and Lingamala Falls. Mahabaleshwar offers a bunch of enjoyable recreational activities including boat rides, horse-back rides, treks and more. Shutterbugs looking for great pictures are advised to travel with an efficient zoom lens and stay prepared for damp weather. Some tour operators also offer trips to the historical Pratapgad Fort, built by Maharashtra’s warrior and the founder of the Maratha Empire, Shivaji.

A lush-green hill-station located amidst the beautiful Western Ghats, a visit to Mahabaleshwar is an unmatched experience!

Our luxurious resort located on this beautiful hill-station offers you the perfect getaway to enjoy the exquisiteness & pleasant weather of Mahableshwar anytime you want. For more details on our resort check http://www.magicholidays.info/property_details/destination/mahabaleshwar

Book Hotel United 21, Thane Mumbai

United-21, Thane offers the combined advantages of a hotel and a lifestyle club