5 Best Beach Resorts in Goa

Mention Goa and the first thought that will come to anyone’s mind is that of stretches of sandy beaches lined with swaying palms. From north to south, this tiny state is dotted with beaches – some popular, some secluded, but all of them equally beautiful. Along most of these beaches there are hotels and resorts; some of which even boast of a private beach. From two-star hotels to five-star hotels in Goa, there are accommodations to suit every budget. We have lined up the best beach resorts in Goa for your next holiday. Avail great last minute deals on these hotels when you make your booking online with MakeMyTrip.

1. Taj Exotica

A Mediterranean-style 5-star resort of the venerable Taj group, Taj Exotica is located at Benaulim beach in South Goa and is perfect for a luxurious holiday or a destination wedding. Choose from spacious rooms, suites and villas, some of which have their very own private plunge pools. The resort has multiple restaurants of which the Lobster Shack is quite popular; this seasonal restaurant operates between November and April. The Jiva spa is also a must-visit for a relaxing therapy session.

2. Santana Beach Resort

A mid-range resort at Candolim beach in North Goa, Santana Beach Resort is the winner of TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award, 2012. The service is warm and the resort has a homely feel to it. There are 33 studio apartments, some with a kitchenette attached, and all featuring either a balcony or a terrace. Olegario’s, the pool-side bar & restaurant serves some excellent Goan food.

3. Alila Diwa

One of the leading 5-star resorts in Goa, Alila Diwa is located in Majorda. The resort is just 2o minutes from Goa’s Dabolim airport. Choose from spacious rooms and well-appointed suites, some of which have a private terrace or balcony – all furnished luxuriously with large bathrooms. The infinity pool with lounge chairs in the water and the spa are some of the attractions of the resort. It is the perfect place to have a leisurely and lavish holiday in Goa.

4. Adamo The Bellus

Adamo The Bellus is located at Calangute in North Goa. A part of the Adamo hospitality group, the resort has luxurious suites with terraces, complete with jacuzzi and an outdoor shower. Guests can also opt for the pool-facing Regency room with a private balcony. There are two restaurants – the multi-cuisine Clove and the vegetarian Rasoi, especially catering to Gujarati and Jain patrons. The resort also has a bar and a café. The beach is located close by and is great for bargain shopping.

5. Ramada Caravela Beach Resort

Located at Varca beach in South Goa, Ramada Caravela Resort is spread over 24 acres and has a golf course, along with huge lawns. The resort is built in classic Portuguese style and all rooms have a private balcony. There are many dining options in the resort; Carnaval is open only for dinner, a poolside eatery called Castaway and the seasonal Beach Shack, not to mention three bars! Varca is regarded as one of the more pristine beaches in Goa and this resort is ideal for a quiet and relaxed holiday.  

Fancy a luxury stay in a Goa beach resort? Book your flight or train tickets on MakeMyTrip.com now!

Hong Kong Nightlife through the Eyes of an Indian Traveller

It’s almost like the song “All night long” was written for Hong Kong. With its vibrant nightlife, Hong Kong is undoubtedly the “party capital of Asia”. And to understand just how great it is I decided to let loose the party animal in me and explore the effervescent nightlife culture of this bustling destination.

The night view of Hong Kong with its shimmering buildings and the gorgeous Victoria Harbour is nothing short of spectacular

The Journey Begins

With my flight and hotel bookings in place, I packed my bags and off I was to Hong Kong. While the journey wasn't particularly a long one I decided to get as much sleep as I could on the flight, as I had no plans of sleeping for the next couple of days. The minute I arrived, it's almost like I felt a sudden belonging to this place - the tall skyscrapers, the zipping cars, the larger-than-life shopping malls, the bright neon-lit signboards and the stylish locals. I met an old friend who had the whole plan chalked out. Our mission: to paint the town red and enjoy Hong Kong’s ultimate nightlife. With options extending beyond bars and clubs, I sure was in for a treat!

LKF-The Party Hub of Hong Kong

For starters we decided to head to Hong Kong’s premiere dining and entertainment destination, the cobble-stoned Lan Kwai Fong, popularly known as LKF. Home to over 100 restaurants, bars, clubs and shops, this world-renowned district will leave you spoilt for choice. From award winning restaurants offering Italian, Australian and Spanish cuisine to casual delis offering quick bites, LKF has it all. To kick start our night, we headed to a traditional bar where the extensive selection of beers and ales left me in a tizzy! I could already visualise how awesome the night was going to get! A couple of drinks down, and we were all set to let our hair down at some of the trendiest clubs. With DJs churning out some of the latest tracks, the chances of you rubbing shoulders with celebrities here are quite likely.

The popular haunt of Lan Kwai Fong is bustling with party-goers looking to have a good time

Come July and LKF is all set to host the largest outdoor summer festival for all beer and music lovers from 13-14 July. Indulge in over 100 kinds of world-famous lagers, jive to live music, and enjoy interactive games, competitions and extraordinary performances till late into the night.

S for Style, S for SOHO

While LKF is one of the more “loud” hangouts, SOHO on the other hand is the more sophisticated area with its high-end international eateries and fashionable clientele. Stretching from south of Hollywood Road, it is regarded as the “multicultural wine, dine, booze, and boogie side of Central”. Dressed in our finest attire (so as not to offend the stylish crowd), my friend and I decided to head there at sundown. Sitting at one of the chic bars located in the district’s historic and narrow streets, we watched the street come to life and gear up for the revelry that the night would bring with it.  

The spectacular Symphony of Lights show, with its larger-than-life sound and light creations, will leave you in awe

The Glamorous Symphony of Lights Show

The Symphony of Lights show is yet another experience without which your trip to Hong Kong is incomplete. Truth be told, the thought of a sound and light show didn’t really appeal to me till I got to Victoria Harbour. As the clock struck 8 pm, the city’s already impressive skyline came to life thanks to A Symphony of Lights, a spectacular multimedia show involving more than 40 buildings from both sides of the Harbour. This orchestrated light and laser show comprising five major themes was like nothing I had ever seen before. A unique journey indeed, the show is a celebration of Hong Kong’s energy, spirit and rich diversity. You could also witness this grand spectacle on a dinner cruise, along with a sumptuous buffet dinner and a live band.

A Cultural Extravaganza in Tsim Sha Tsui

With its branded shops, Asian boutiques, and countless dining and entertainment options, Tsim Sha Tsui (pronounced chim- sa- choi), is a contrast from the glittering island across the harbour. Whether you are a shopaholic, a food lover or someone looking for a cultural experience in Hong Kong, TST with its brightly lit neon lights is a must-visit. Popular with the district’s office goers and shoppers, I would highly TST for a casual pint or two, against the backdrop of unobstructed harbour views.

The brightly-lit Tsim Sha Tsui with its host of shops and restaurants is a must-visit for every Hong Kong traveller

This isn’t the Final Goodbye

One thing was clear by the end of the trip; Hong Kong is undoubtedly a storehouse of energy at all hours. And the motto of everyone who heads here is loud and clear-live and let live!

Time sure did fly and before I knew it I was bidding farewell to my friend. But this wasn’t going to be the end of it; my next trip to Hong Kong was already planned out, and topping the list was Disneyland, Hong Kong.

How to Get There

One of the world's great travel hubs, Hong Kong, offers great deals on air-travel. The city’s international airport is served by numerous airlines, cruise lines, ferries and trains from Mainland China. An added advantage is its close proximity to India as compared to other Asian destinations.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
	Shreya Sachar is a travel writer by profession. When not writing she’s busy in the kitchen creating treats from around the world. Grant her one wish and she would do nothing but travel. Her favourite places are Goa, Turkey and San Francisco.

Top 5 Hotels near Bangalore Airport

Bangalore has become the hottest business destination in the past few years, especially for companies in technology and financial services. With this rapid growth and development, the city has morphed into a bustling metropolis. So if business takes you to Bangalore and you don’t have to travel to the city centre, finding hotels near Bangalore airport is your best option. Though there are very few hotels in Bangalore near the airport, we have picked out the best for your stay. Avail great last minute deals on these hotels when you book online on MakeMyTrip.com.

Olde Bangalore Hotel & Resort

Unlike most business hotels, Olde Bangalore lives up to its name and offers a trip back in time. Accommodation is provided in cottages – luxury tents, complete with all the modern amenities. Though room service is not available, due to the nature of the accommodation, South Parade, their restaurant offers fine dining in a charming, old-worldly ambience. You can even shake a leg at the hotel’s dance floor. The hotel has a bar, a coffee shop and a bakery, which churns out freshly-made breads, muffins & pastries every day. Olde Bangalore is 14 kilometres from the airport.

Olde Bangalore is a beautiful blend of old world charm and modern facilities

Fantasy Golf Resort

Located about 6 kilometres from Bangalore airport, Fantasy Golf Resort is an oasis of greenery and calm. The resort offers conference facilities and has a theatre style hall. It’s perfect for corporate off-sites, offering plenty of indoor and outdoor activities. Food is prepared fresh upon order. Unwind at the end of the day by playing a few rounds on their putting green or take a dip in the pool. The resort also has a club with an in-house DJ, so you can truly let your hair down.

Clarks Exotica Resort & Spa

Nestled in 70 acres of greenery, Clarks Exotica is another great hotel near Bangalore airport (11 kilometres). There is a business centre and boardroom and the hotel offers video conferencing facilities. Their multi-cuisine restaurant, Blue Alps serves a variety of dishes and there is a poolside bar, Illusion. Room service is also available. Relax at the spa or the library or get active in the well-appointed gym or the games centre.

The multi-cuisine restaurant at Clarks serves a variety of delicious dishes

Hotel Presidency

This is a budget hotel in Bangalore, just 1 kilometre from the airport. Hotel Presidency is an ideal transit hotel and also offers a room for a 4-hour checkout if you’re just passing through the city. Even if you plan to stay longer, it’s a nice, cheap hotel in Bangalore that has a business centre as well as a rooftop venue for small events. Nandanvana, their multi-cuisine restaurant, serves freshly-prepared, delicious food. The rooms have all the modern amenities, with interesting old-fashioned wooden flat bolts on the doors.

Goldfinch Retreat

Goldfinch Retreat is one of the finest 4-star hotels near Bangalore airport (7 kilometres).  The rooms are tastefully done up with all amenities; some suites are also available with a kitchenette. The hotel has a fully-equipped business centre and conference rooms. The restaurant, Banjara, serves traditionally cooked Indian food as well as Chinese & Mediterranean fare. Unwind at Aviator, the lounge bar, or at the massive, round pool. Service is hospitable and they provide a complimentary airport transfer on request.

Gorge on a variety of scrumptious delicacies from around the world at Goldfinch Retreat

Planning a trip to Bangalore? Book your flight and train tickets only on MakeMyTrip.com!

Celebrating the Birth of Bhagavad Gita in Kurukshetra

There are several offbeat festivals in India and the Gita Jayanti Samaroh is one such unique celebration. This festival commemorates the birth of one of India’s most revered holy texts, the Bhagavad Gita. The festival takes place in Kurukshetra, Haryana and is usually held in November or December. It’s an annual event and is celebrated with much fanfare, with both the devotees and the curious descending upon Kurukshetra to be a part of this one-of-a-kind celebration. The festival is jointly organised by Haryana Tourism and the Kurukshetra Development Board. Lately, it is being celebrated as the week-long Kurukshetra Festival of Haryana. This year, the festival commences on December 13^th, 2013.

The holy text of the Bhagavad Gita

Mythological Roots

It is believed that Kurukshetra is the land where the real essence of Hinduism was founded. The area is named after King Kuru, who was the ancestor of the Pandavas and the Kauravas. It is also known as Dharmakshetra or the Holy City and this is where the epic battle of Mahabharata is said to have taken place. It’s the place where the Gita was preached, which became the philosophical guide for Arjuna as he battled not just the Kauravas but also his inner demons. The Bhagavad Gita provides answers to all the problems in life and it is the most sacred text of Hinduism. Other ancient texts such as Manusmriti, Rig Veda and Saam Veda are also said to have been composed in Kurukshetra. The Gita Jayanti festival celebrates the religious importance of this region as well as the holy text.

A scene from the Mahabharata | Photo Credit: Arnab Dutta / Wikimedia

The Festival

The festival is characterised by several spiritual activities such as recital of shlokas from the Gita, bhajans and katha readings (reading of stories from the Gita). Other activities include dance, dramatisation of scenes from the Mahabharata and Sufi music. There are book exhibitions and medical camps as well as discussions and talks by Hindu scholars and charity events. Local arts and crafts are also on sale. Devotees usually take a bath in the holy waters of two of the tanks in Kurukshetra – the Brahma Sarovar and the Sannihit Sarovar. The festival is held for a one week, with the Gita Jayanti being celebrated on the 11^th day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Margasheersh.

Getting there

Kurukshetra is well-connected by road and rail with major cities in northern India. Delhi is the nearest airport. There are couple of mid-range to budget hotels in the town and you can get great last minute deals on MakeMyTrip.com. Apart from attending the Gita Mahotsav, other places of interest include Jyotisar, a small town 12 kilometres from Kurukshetra, which is said to be the place where Krishna delivered the Gita to Arjuna. There are several temples, ghats and gurudwaras in Kurukshetra as well as the Krishna Museum and the Kalpana Chawla Planetarium. There are several other cultural and religious festivals celebrated in Haryana that may be of interest.

Immerse yourself in this historical festival celebrating the Bhagavad Gita. Book your train or bus tickets to Kurukshetra only on MakemyTrip.com!

Experience Gujarat’s Unique Cultural Festival, the Rann Utsav

Every December, one of India’s most unique cultural festivals is celebrated in Gujarat – the Rann Utsav. The festival proudly showcases the myriad arts and crafts of Gujarat, its folk song and dance and the Rann’s natural beauty. The festival begins on December 15th and continues till January 31st, 2014. In fact, the state tourism department is considering holding the festival for 90 days this year, given the huge jump in the number of visitors and the increasing interest in the festival. Online bookings for the Rann Utsav begin on May 1^st.   

Visitors enjoying the Kutchi folk songs. Photo Credit: Kaushik Patel / flickr

What to Expect

The Rann Utsav is a celebration of Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage. Local handicrafts such as embroidery, terracotta, block printing and wood carving are on display; Kutchi folk songs and dances are performed and an array of mouth-watering delicacies is on offer. There are a host of activities during the festival – from camel safaris and horse rides to hot air balloon rides and bird-watching; there is something for everyone. The area is also a sanctuary for the endangered Indian wild ass, not to mention the numerous species of birds that come visiting in the winter. The Little Rann of Kutch is also known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with miles of white salt flats as far as the eye can see. A full moon night is the best time of the month to take in the splendours of the region. A visit to the nearby villages of Dhordo or Hodka to get a glimpse of the rural life is also a must. You can also head over to the Indo-Pak border, which is quite nearby. The state tourism department offers several tour packages, including rural stays, sightseeing, desert safaris and of course, the festival’s delights. There are several temples and museums in the vicinity that are worth a visit, as well as an interesting fossil site.

Camel-back safaris are the ideal way to take in the beauty of the surroundings. Photo Credit: Kaushik Patel / flickr

Where to Stay

There are numerous stay options during the Rann Utsav. You can choose to stay in a tent or in a bhunga, which is a rustic mud house, or in one of the several hotels and resorts in the area. The luxury tented resort, Infinity Rann of Kutch, is a great place to stay at. It consists of 16 air-conditioned tents with all the amenities of a luxury resort. The resort has a multi-cuisine restaurant, conference room, swimming pool and activity centre. MakeMyTrip offers great last minute deals on hotels so check them out before you book your stay.

The experience of staying in a tent located in the middle of the desert is unique. Photo Credit: Kaushik Patel / flickr

Getting There

The Little Rann of Kutch is accessible from both Ahmedabad (410 kilometres) and Bhuj (260 kilometres). Both airports are well-connected with the rest of India. From either city, you can catch a bus or a prepaid taxi to get to the Rann. The villages of Dhordo and Hodka are at the border of the Rann and make an excellent base for a visit.

Visit the Rann Utsav this year and be a part of this unique cultural celebration. Book your flight or catch a train to Ahmedabad or Bhuj.