Summer is here, sunshine is here. Holidays are just round the corner and time has come to pack your bags and head overseas. This time you can travel to your heart’s content as travel gets cheaper and there are numerous options to explore.
Colombo
Colombo is easily one of the most frequented places for Indians. A few hours away by flight, dense Colombo forests and stunning museums are going to leave you spell bound.
A Must: Watch out for some great buys in semi-precious stones and therapeutic oils!
Singapore
We love visiting Singapore! It is home to favourites like Sentosa Island, the Maria Bay and the Singapore Biennale. It is popular for the art, culture and entertainment events hosted round the year.
A Must: Be there at the right place at the right time for The Lion King broadway at Marina Bay Sands.
Kuala Lumpur
Capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a cost-effective weekend getaway via a four-hour flight from New Delhi. The Petronas twin towers present a new high each time, and compete with the ancient temples of KL for attention.
A Must: Visit Petaling Street in China Town at night time to enjoy bargain shopping.
Fiji
Be a part of the traditional Kava ceremony at any one of the small islands of Fiji or plan a day out for the Sabeto mud pool, an activity kids will always cherish.
A Must: Buy Jack’s Handicrafts in Nadi Town for Tapa products.
Maldives
Scuba diving and submarine rides with exquisite views of fishes and coral reefs are what Maldives is all about.Take some time out for the Sultan Park and National museum to explore the unknown marvels of Maldives.
A Must: Every resort in the Maldives has a spa. To rejuvenate at any of these is a must.
Bhutan (Thimpu)
Bhutan or Thimpu is a great attraction for Indians. Plan a trip that coincides with the Annual Tsechu festival where Cham or mask dance is performed.
A Must: Visit the forests of Bhutan to find rare horticultural marvels such as carnivorous plants, the blue poppy and the giant rhubarb.
Paris
Romance, romance, romance. Nothing defines this city better. Sunset boat dining, a nighttime view of 20,000 lights bulbs on Eiffel Tower, and the Moulin Rouge cabaret make Paris the exquisite city it is.
A Must: Louvre, Le Lido, French cuisine, a walk by the Champs Elysses or behind the Eiffel Tower, shopping at possibly the largest LV store, visit to atleast one of the concept stores. Everything is a must here.
Hong Kong
Climb the Victoria Peak via Peak Tram, enjoy a quick cup of tea at Lin Heung Tea House, and visit the Temple Street night market for authentic Chinese goods.
A Must: A visit to Disneyland makes Hong Kong a must visit for all Indians because it is our closest catch.
Rome
Your sojourn of this historical city can start on a refreshing note with a stroll at the garden of Villa Borghese. Do visit the remains of the mighty Roman Empire can at Domus Arena, The Pantheon at The Coliseum.
A Must: The Vatican City, one of the most hallowed places in Christiandom and home to the Pope Benedict XVI.
Geneva
Visit Switzerland, visit Geneva. Enjoy enchanting views of castles and monuments, the flower clock at Lake Geneva, and the Dardagny vineyard.
A Must: A ski ride for toddlers in the Jura Mountains is an immensely pleasurable experience.