The Great Ocean Road Drive, Australia: Through the Lens

A 243-kilometre (151 miles) stretch of road along the south-eastern coast of Australia, a drive to the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne city left me speechless. Hence, I’ll let my camera do all the talking...

One of the many scenic views, en route the Ocean Road drive.

Known for its unpredictable weather, Melbourne can surprise you on any given day. I was lucky because I had just the right amount of drizzle and sunshine for company on my way to the Great Ocean Road; even seeing a rainbow en route. 

Hmm... this road looks familiar, doesn't it?

Indeed scenic, you are sure to get a beautiful vista better than previous throughout the drive. Apparently, this was also the shooting ground for the hit Bollywood movie, Salaam Namaste. No wonder then that crossing the similar lane was a great feeling.

Bells Beach, Australia

In case you think this is the most stunning view, wait till you reach the Apostles. Bells Beach in the Torquay region is generally the first stop. A hot-favourite for surfers, this beautiful beach is lined with several cafés serving delicious meals including the Aussie favourite, fish and chips.

Lorne: A scenic discovery, en route the Ocean Road | Photo Credit: Varun Aggarwal

Not many people halt at Lorne, a seaside town, but lured by the captivating view of the endless ocean I had to! It was worth a quick photo-stop. 

The Twelve Apostles, Australia

And then there were the Twelve Apostles! I was awestruck. By the way, how many can you spot here? Five, right? In fact, it is said that out of the 12 only 8 remain. Rest are believed to have eroded.

Incredibly beautiful!

Up close and personal with one of the Apostles, I was mesmerised by its raw beauty!

A Helicopter Ride

The dream drive was not over yet. I transferred on to a helicopter to capture some panoramic views. 

Sunset View of the Twelve Apostles

6 hours, 3 stops, 1 destination… and that’s how my Great Ocean Road drive came to an end.

Nothing could have been better than the peaceful sunset at the Apostles.

So hurry, plan your Melbourne holiday soon. Just one tip, make sure your camera batteries don’t run out! 

By Aditi Jindal

The International Film Festival of Marrakech

The name Marrakech conjures up images of noisy bazaars, colourful souks and exotic spices. Yet, it is so much more than the stereotyped image in films. It’s the fourth largest city in Morocco, in northwest Africa. Though an ancient city (established in 1062), it is today an important economic and cultural centre of Morocco. The city hosts the annual International Film Festival of Marrakech – a festival that showcases and awards the best of Moroccan films as well as foreign feature films. This year, the festival will be held between November 30 and December 8.

The beauty, culture and history of Marrakech will fascinate many a traveller

The Cannes of Africa

The festival was started in 2001 and is chaired by Morocco’s Prince Moulay Rachid. Over the years, it has consistently attracted quality films, both from Morocco as well as from other countries. The festival awards an Etoile d’Or (Golden Star) to the best film of the year. Other awards include the Jury Prize, the Cinecoles Short Film Prize and Best Performances – male and female. In 2012, the Lebanese film The Attack, directed by Ziad Doueiri, won the Golden Star. The Jury Prize was shared by A Hijacking (Denmark) and Taboor (Iran). The Best Female Performance went to Elina Reinold for the Estonian film Mushrooming and Soren Malling bagged the Best Male Performance award for A Hijacking.

Amitabh Bachchan at the International Film Festival of Marrakech. Photo Credit: Bollywood Hungama / wikimedia

Bollywood Flavour

Last year marked the beginning of the centenary year of Indian Cinema and the International Film Festival of Marrakech paid a tribute to Bollywood by screening several Hindi films. An Indian film delegation was also honoured as part of the festival. The delegation was presided over by veteran Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan and included other Bollywood giants such as Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Karan Johar and Ashutosh Gowariker, to name a few. The festival also paid a tribute to the legendary Yash Chopra and several of his films were screened during the fest.

Moroccan Delights

Marrakech has several places of tourist and historical interest. The Jemaa el-Fnaa at the city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous squares in Africa. It is a thriving bazaar, with a mosque, palace and garden nearby. The souks of Marrakech are another attraction, overflowing with stalls selling everything from carpets to pottery and spices to leather goods. The city is home to several majestic gardens, including the Menara Gardens, the Majorelle Garden and the royal orchards of Agdal Gardens. The Badi Palace, the Royal Palace and the Bahia Palace are also worth a visit.

Jemaa el-Fnaa is Morocco's most famous square and attracts hoards of travellers everyday

Getting There

Several airlines operate flights from various Indian cities to Marrakech. There is no dearth of hotels to stay at, since the city is a major tourist destination. Luxurious hotels to budget stays – there is room for everyone. The many flavours of Morocco can be enjoyed in Marrakech; street stalls at the Jemaa el-Fnaa offer tajine, couscous, and a variety of soups and teas. Plan your trip with MakeMyTrip and head to Marrakech for the film festival. 

Top Five Luxury Hotels in Mumbai

Let’s cut to the chase. If you’re planning to visit Mumbai soon and want to experience the best of luxury accommodation in the City of Dreams, then you might want to consider the following five of our recommended 5 star hotels in Mumbai.

Trident Nariman Point

Adorning the celebrated Mumbai skyline is the Trident Nariman Point, offering perhaps the best view of the best view in Mumbai, Marine Drive (Queen’s Necklace). Located in the centre of all the financial and business activity in Mumbai, Trident is of course ideal for the seasoned business traveller and enjoys proximity to a number of corporate houses and entertainment and shopping venues. Those travelling for pleasure too will be swept off their feet by the impeccable service rendered by the warm and friendly staff, great interiors and décor and excellent variety and quality of food. Their breakfast buffet and dinner at Firangi Pani (their all-day dining Mediterranean restaurant) in particular are both lavish and exquisite. Do try to stay in one of the sea-facing rooms. Also, take a dip in their swimming pool overlooking the Marine Drive. The view is breathtaking, to say the least.

The Trident Nariman Point

The LaLit Mumbai

A luxurious abode just about one kilometre from Chhatrapathi Shivaji International airport in Mumbai; The LaLit is perfect for business and leisure travelers for more than just one reason. The spacious and well-appointed rooms, the courteous staff and exceptional service and facilities make LaLit a great value for money accommodation. Their excellent multi-cuisine buffet breakfast makes for a perfect (and hearty!) start to the day. The lively and aesthetically pleasing restaurant, Baluchi, serves traditional northwest Indian food. Don’t forget to try the Malabari fish curry here! Other dining options at LaLit include Trendz that specializes in delicious fusion cooking and The Delicatessen, the cheese and pastry shop in the hotel.

The LaLit Mumbai

Grand Hyatt

True to its name, Grand Hyatt is indeed grand and so is everything about this spectacular five-star hotel in Mumbai. A distinctive choice among business travellers and holidaymakers, every facet of the Grand Hyatt Mumbai reflects its opulence, be it the plush rooms, suites and serviced apartments, world-class restaurants or the excellent leisure facilities. The choice of dining options is fine and varied; The Lobby Lounge to unwind with a great selection of beverages and Indian and international specialties and China House, serving some of the best Chinese food in the city. Indian restaurant, Soma, offers some exotic delights from the rich North and Western cuisines of India. Also, don’t forget to try the mouthwatering thin crust pizzas at the Italian restaurant, Celini. The aromatherapy treatments at the Club Oasis Spa are a must if you wish to pamper yourself and rejuvenate your mind and body.

The Grand Hyatt Mumbai

Vivanta by Taj – President

Great location, dazzling views, comfort and luxury redefined, a fine choice of delectable food. All this clubbed with an outstanding staff and service and the famous and highly sought-after ‘Taj’ hospitality – that for you my friend, is Vivanta by Taj – President in Mumbai. Located in the posh Cuff Parade area of Mumbai, Vivanta is close to the city’s business district and minutes away from sights like the Gateway of India, the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and other attractions. The modern architecture of the hotel and the tastefully decorated contemporary rooms are a sheer delight for guests; taking their stay a notch higher than the usual luxurious. The elegant Jiva Spa is invigorating and the perfect place to calm the muscles and revitalize your body and mind. For the fitness freaks, the state-of-the-art fitness centre and health club are a must-visit. When it comes to eating, you’re sure to be spoilt for choice. Trattoria, the coffee Shop serves excellent Italian Cuisine. The fiamma pizza in particular here is delightful. Thai Pavilion as the name suggests serves exotic Thai food including some of the most delicious and innovative delicacies served in the city. Don’t forget to try the Fok Thong Sankaya which is steamed custard served in a baby pumpkin.

Vivanta by Taj, Mumbai

Novotel Mumbai

You can sit at the Gadda Da Vida, the elegant sea lounge at Novotel till five in the morning and the staff will be more than happy to serve you. If that doesn’t speak volumes about Novotel’s hospitality, then what does? Situated by the iconic Juhu Beach in Mumbai, Novotel offers a range of facilities, outstanding service and beautifully done-up and spacious contemporary rooms; making it a suitable accommodation choice for all kinds of travellers. The hotel has great dining options like Sampan for outstanding Asian food and Bageecha, the Indian barbeque restaurant with stunning views of the ocean. The view of the sunset by the poolside is splendid and so is the option of walking up to the beautiful beach anytime you want!

Want to experience luxury in Mumbai? Plan your trip and book flights and hotels only on MakeMyTrip.com!

By Tania Seth

THE RISE AND RISE OF THE SUNRISERS

What happened with Cameron White’s troops the night before does not convey the true potential and talent of the SunRisers Hyderabad. It was a battle well fought. It was a battle that claimed my nails as casualty. Though it left the fans and players of SunRisers Hyderabad disappointed, I think there’s more to cheer about than fret. IPL is here to stay, and so are the SunRisers.

Billed as the ‘’underdogs’’... but after winning 10 matches, I think they can lose that tag. They were told to ‘’click as a unit ‘’ and ‘’peak at the right time’’ (in cricketing words) to make it through.  With a few hiccups and many celebrations, the young team has begun their journey in the madness we call IPL.

With the tournament nearing its end, let’s take a quick look at their journey... The highs, the lows and most importantly what I call the ‘’ HIT ME, I THINK I’M DREAMING‘’ moments.

 SunRisers celebrating....

THE HIGHS

• Let’s rewind to match 22.The match against Pune Warriors, where Amit Mishra’s crazy hat trick sealed their win, making everyone sit up and take notice.

• DALE STEYN. ENOUGH SAID.

• Shikhar Dhawan coming back into the side; strengthening the batting, helping them chase down those high totals and of course bringing the handlebar moustache back in style.

• Amit Mishra’s THREE hat tricks, because taking a single wicket is just too mainstream!

 Amit Mishra - the hero of many wins for SunRisers!

THE ONES WE SHOULD HAVE WON

• Having already defeated RCB earlier, one expected a win, but RCB’s skipper took the game away and those valuable 2 points. (If I could, I would let loose Lord Voldemort on him and watch them fight!)

• With 178 against Mumbai, it seemed like a win. We fought bravely but in vain as Keiron Pollard smashed the ball to all parts of the stadium. (I secretly doubt if he is the Hulk- so much of raw strength!)

• The Chennai effect:  Against the whistle podus or that helicopter shot, things just didn’t click, but like they say it’s the darkest before dawn and well as cheesy as it sounds, we ARE the SunRisers.

 Dale Steyn wrecked havoc on batsmen with his super fast and devastating bowling...

THE ‘’HIT ME,I THINK I’M DREAMING’’ MOMENTS (HMITID)

• SUPER OVER vs. RCB: Who thought an additional over could be the cause of a heart attack… Cameron White, like Harsha Bhogle would say ‘’came to the party’’ and well, it was a party that RCB despite being the team of ‘good times’ could not enjoy.

• PLAYOFFS: The win against KKR, which FINALLY sealed us a place in the playoffs...

• DALE STEYN. Yes, he is the fastest bowler in the world and he will bowl fast, but when he does bowl at 150KMPH, it still leaves you shocked.

• DALE STEYN VS CHRIS GAYLE.  Chris Gayle is a batting brute (something even Sir Ravindra Jadeja would agree with) and to get him out on the first ball itself DEFINITELY counts as a HMITID!

So, that’s it for now.

Keep cheering, because we will rise once again in IPL 2014…

By Saanya Malhotra

The Best Hotels in Calangute, Goa

The largest beach in North Goa, Calangute is popular with locals and tourists alike. Its popularity extends to the fact that even the Beatles used to come and hang out here in the 60s! Today, it is a bustling beach, frequented by tourists – both from India and abroad. Apart from just enjoying the sun and the sand, the ‘queen of the beaches’ also has water activities such as surfing, parasailing and water skiing. Being so popular, there is no dearth of places to stay in Calangute, however finding the best deals on hotels is a bit difficult. To simplify things, we have handpicked the best hotels in Calangute for you. So make your hotel bookings online on MakeMyTrip.com, and avail great last minute deals on these hotels.

The thrilling sport of parasailing is popular in the beaches of Calangute

Casa Severina

One of the few family-owned, heritage hotels in Goa, Casa Severina at Calangute gives the sense of being at home. Tastefully done up interiors, with an old-world charm and local sensibilities, teak wood stairways, hand-painted frescos – Casa Severina has a timeless feel to it. The service is warm and personalised, the rooms spacious and decorated with period furniture, the food ‘home-cooked’ – it’s hard not to fall in love with the place.

Goa's delectable cuisine will leave you in a tizzy

Fahrenheit Hotels & Resort

Fahrenheit is one of the few luxury hotels in North Goa that have a very modern and funky ambience. The signature suites come equipped with state-of-the-art television, Bose speaker system, Jacuzzi, and even a PlayStation on demand! The resort has a designer open-air shack Solarium, which serves up delicious fare, especially the grilled lobster, and a multi-cuisine restaurant called Matiere. 

10 Calangute

A boutique hotel on the beach, 10 Calangute is a warm and inviting resort. Spacious rooms, some of them with private terraces, bathrooms fitted with a bathtub, and all amenities included – it is no surprise that the resort has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor in 2012. Enjoy complimentary Goan wine and then dine at the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant. Or step outside and walk into one of the many beach shacks for authentic Goan fare. The hotel also has an extensive DVD collection for your use.

Enjoy warm hospitality in some of the best hotels in North Goa

Resort Terra Paraiso

Another boutique resort in Calangute, Resort Terra Paraiso has charming Goan and Portuguese villas, with every room consisting of a private balcony and antique furniture. The super deluxe rooms are pool-facing and have a jacuzzi as well. For guests looking to unwind, there is a poolside bar. The restaurant Blue Bistro offers delicious multi-cuisine and local fare; their Goan fish curry is absolutely delectable. Overall, this mid-range beach resort gives you a true taste of Goa.

Citrus Goa

Part of the Citrus group of hotels, Citrus Goa is built on the ramparts of a 16^th century Goan fort. The rooms have a choice of views – pool, garden or the city. Try and book a pool-facing room as they are better equipped than the others. The pool itself is heated and has a bar, complete with a wood-fire oven to bring you fresh pizzas right by the pool! The resort has exclusive parking free of cost for guests to use.      

Party till the sun rises on Goa's enticing beaches

You can get to Calangute, Goa either by air or train. Book your flight or train tickets on MakeMyTrip.com and get the best rates.