Innholdsfortegnelse for March 2018 i Travel + Leisure India & South Asia

SIMON CLAYS The family holiday experience has undergone a serious metamorphosis since I was a boy. Back then, the whole family would pilchard pack into the back of my father’s company car for a belts-and-braces rollercoaster ride to an anonymous coast somewhere south of Calais. Blind. We rode blind. We arrived blind. And we lived blind. Since my daughter came along, travel has become a very different kind of animal. A digital Saul has seen the light on the road to Damascus. Now we can all see. In micro-detail. With macro choice. If magazines paint a canvas, then our websites fill in the dots. We recently traversed Italy by car, without any word-of-mouth or third-party recommendation. Every problem solved by high-speed, broadly connected approval. It was a mammoth trip taking…

For the Glamorous City Slicker 01. Filigree lobster bottle opener, Joanna Buchanan at The House of Things, 5,460 02. Light orchid necklace, Swarovski, 48,900 03. Handcuff, Swarovski, 27,900 04. Cotton silk scarf, Meesha, 12,000 05. Mother-of-Pearl watch, Longines, 93,500 06. Brass box with vintage bug, Joanna Buchanan at The House of Things, 6,450 07. Paloma handbag, Christian Louboutin, 1,40,000 08. Jadore L’or perfume, Christian Dior, 10,700 09. Miss Taos pumps, Christian Louboutin, price on request. For the Elegant Globetrotter 10. Double-breasted silk top, Fabindia, 1,990 11. Pearl and crystal necklace, Accessorize, 1,545 12. Umbrella, Muji, 1,690 13. Embellished sandals, Dune London, 8,999 14. Embellished clutch, Dune London, 7,999 15. Asymmetric earrings, Mirakin, 3,799; Hairpin, Accessorize, 1,145; Anchor necklace, Mirakin, 5,299 16. Sunglasses, Burberry, 16,500; Elegant Collection watch, Longines, 1,45,100; Pearl…

The second most important Catholic shrine after the Sistine Chapel, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a striking structure in the heart of Mexico City. Its intricate architecture and circular layout is breathtaking and draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims each year. Also interesting is the adjoining museum that houses paintings by several noted European and Mexcian artists and is worth taking a walk through. Countless baptisms take place here every week, besides weddings, first communions, and confirmations. The basilica has the capacity to hold over 10,000 people and is most crowded on the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, held on December 12 each year. On this day, street stalls selling food and trinkets overflow into the streets, along with music and dance, and fire-crackers light up…

ZULUS IN DURBAN FROM CHIC RESTAURANTS TO GRAMMY RECORDS, THE ZULUS HAVE IMPRINTS ACROSS DURBAN. Durban is the beating cultural heart of South Africa. The region was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in November 2017, marking Africa’s first ever entry in this category. And now, South Africa’s largest port city is all set to host the 21st edition of Time of the Writer (zulu.org.za), one of the most progressive literary festivals between March 12 and 17. In addition, the city organises at least three other major festivals, including Poetry Africa, Durban International Film Festival, and Essence Festival. These festivals are excellent opportunities to soak in the country’s rich Zulu culture, mainly concentrated in the Kwazulu-Natal province, whose headquarters is Durban. EAT & DRINK With traditional Zulu cuisine having its…

Beautiful adventures are created in the wild, or so I believe. And these adventures get even more real when you’re travelling with a man who has survived leopard and cobra attacks, and knows the mysteries of the woods like the back of his hand. Kuttappan, a 54-year-old wildlife guide at The Serai Bandipur, took me deep into the forests of Bandipur National Park to witness one of the most magnificent moments of my life yet. It was a balmy evening in August when we set out for a two-hour safari through the Bandipur National Park, home to the second largest tiger population in India. A short, 20-minute drive from the property, and we were sauntering through the teak-lined forest, already having spotted a Eurasian eagle-owl and played peek-a-boo with a…

Tiamo The star attraction at the hotel, save this poolside Mediterranean dining area for evenings. Try the comforting Minestrone Genovese, a rustic Italian vegetable soup, and the Sea Bass in Grenobloise. The Mango Chilli Ravioli amuse-bouche will be your takeaway from here. Mikusu Chef Dolphy Lobo doles out the best of Japanese, Thai, and Chinese cuisine at this intimately-designed restaurant. While the sushi platter with Spicy Tuna Maki and Salmon Nigiri is a must here, try the Shrimp Tempura Roll if you’re not a sushi lover. Indian Durbar Featuring a traditional setting, Indian Durbar is a pan-Indian restaurant, quite literally. The lavish space serves cuisines from the country’s 28 states. The Mangalorean thali, with time-honoured dishes such as Kundapur Ghee Roast Chicken curry, tops our list. Caraway Kitchen The all-day…

HONG KONG DISNEYLAND After the Iron Man Experience, the second Marvel ride exclusive to Hong Kong Disneyland features the characters of Ant-Man and The Wasp from the popular comic series. The yet-to-be-named attraction is set for a launch later this year, replacing the Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. Visitors should look forward to futuristic designs and laser-powered weapons to fight enemies that will appear at the sharp bends of this ride. The attraction is part of a massive, new Marvel-themed area planned for a 2023 launch. hongkongdisneyland.com MARINA BAY SANDS, SINGAPORE The indoor ice skating rink at Marina Bay Sands has given way to the Digital Light Canvas, an interactive digital light installation. The 14-metre-tall LED sculpture is suspended six metres above ground, above an interactive LED floor that reacts to…

MRIGADAYAVAN PALACE This seaside summer palace of King Rama VI is set in a beautiful garden with century-old trees and 16 interlinked, teak buildings. Popularly known as the palace of love and hope, it is symbolic of the king’s care for Queen Indrasakdi Sachi during her pregnancy. The palace’s Tea Room offers seven varieties of tea, served with locally-made Thai and European desserts. Visitors are required to be dressed modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. Entrance fee 60; closed on Wednesday; mrigadayavan.or.th BAAN SILAPIN ARTISTS’ VILLAGE The thriving art commune was established in 1998 by artist Tawee Kesa Ngam and his wife. A watercolour painter, Ngam wanted to create a space where local artists could work on their craft alongside other artisans. It soon became a famous destination for visitors…

With time to spare, a spirited desire to explore, and an eagerness to enjoy their grandkids' company, grandparents make for ideal travel buddies. This year's trend in family holidays dictates that you take a step back, and enjoy the thrill of sending your children off on vacations in their trustworthy company. QUÉBEC CITY | CANADA An ode to Europe, utterly walkable and safe, with towering castles and the breathtaking outdoors for exploration. DO ✔ Take a stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets of Old Québec. Step into another world as you explore ancient structures and absorb the art and culture of a bygone era. Stop at the charming, little Bistro Sous le Fort (bistrosouslefort.com) for a quick bite. ✔ Take the cable car up the magnificent Montmorency Falls Park. The…

1. Yes, you can even have the boat all to yourself. Though there’s plenty to love about sailing on a large ship (casinos! waterslides!), there’s also something magical about being on a smaller vessel-especially when it’s with only your friends and family. This spring, Belmond Afloat in France is launching two new barges, each accommodating eight passengers and available strictly for charters. The Pivoine will navigate the Marne, in the heart of Champagne, while the Lilas will travel the Marne–Rhine canal in Alsace. Both boats feature spacious, earth-toned suites and an open-air top deck that feels like a grand living room, complete with a plunge pool. Six nights from 4,70,000, all-inclusive; belmond.com 2. The amenities will blow your mind. Cruise ships are adding lavish features, some never before seen in…

SWEDEN’S OPEN LETTER TO TRAVELLERS The letter, written to ‘lovers, haters, and hesitators’ across the world is the city’s way of welcoming globetrotters to a city built on the idea of an inclusive and open society with democracy at its core. travelandleisureindia.in/stockholm-sweden-open-letter ON BOARD THE NEW SINGAPORE AIRLINES 1380 SUITES Watch out for the new innovations on board Singapore Airlines, as the double decker A380 aircraft gets a massive facelift with six new luxurious suites to make flying a more regal experience for discerning travellers. travelandleisureindia.in/singapore-airlines 10 PATISSERIES IN PARIS WORTH TRAVELLING FOR Join us on a journey to explore Paris’ best pastry and dessert makers. Find out which patisserie Queen Elizabeth visited incognito in 2004 for her favourite dessert Puits d’amour. travelandleisureindia.in/patisseries-paris/ DOWNLOAD US T+L Tablet Editions Available on…

FOUNDER, CANDY & GREEN>> SHRADDHA BHANSALI The all-vegetarian, garden-to-table restaurant, Candy & Green, was an instant hit when it launched last year in South Mumbai’s Breach Candy neighbourhood. At the heart of its affairs was a 25-year-old vegan restaurateur, smitten by ‘clean-eating’, a concept she picked up during her years at Boston University. Just in time for the restaurant’s first anniversary celebrations, Bhansali tells us how she keeps her menu interesting, and her life even more. FAVOURITE VEGAN HANGOUTS New York-based restaurants: The Butcher’s Daughter (thebutchersdaughter.com), by CHLOE (eatbychloe.com), and Hangawi (hangawirestaurant.com). THE STAR AT CANDY & GREEN “We have a Living Wall and a 750-square-foot rooftop garden where we cultivate our herbs, microgreens, and leafy vegetables all year round. Since we harvest daily from our own rooftop, our produce…

The Boulevard Olimpico in downtown Rio de Janeiro underwent a major transformation for the 2016 Olympics to become a district of spectacular street murals. Seen here is a mural of Greek Goddess Nice, who is represented by a winged woman and symbolises victory, triumph, and glory. Painted by Brazilian artist Panmela Castro, the artwork stands in close proximity to the world’s largest street mural, Las Etnias (50 feet tall). The nucleus of all the action during the Games, the Boulevard Olimpico today invites travellers for traditional carioca samba performances on scheduled evenings and chopp (draught beer) at neighbourhood bars. The best time to visit Rio is between April and June when the weather is warm enough for a beach tan.…

Brussels is fast emerging as the centre of the contemporary art scene in Europe. In recent years, the city has evolved into a mecca for street-art lovers, with murals inspired by comic strips to artwork advocating sexual and gender equality. While Ancienne Belgique, Porte de Flandre, and Rue des Brigittines are the areas to check out some of the most evocative artworks, you can also visit the studios of local artists Vincent Glowinski and Denis Meyers to explore how they use the art form for storytelling. In spring, be sure to attend the Art Brussels Festival (April 19–22), the world’s third oldest contemporary art fair.…

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…” —Charles Dickens While the world engaged in widespread trade deals, 17th -century Japan closed itself to all foreign influences—for 220 years. During this period, traders were turned away or confined to the tiny island of Dejima in Nagasaki; Christianity was banned, and its followers prosecuted. This self-imposed seclusion ended in 1853 when American trader Mathew Perry used naval might to force his way in. A few years later, as a symbol of changing times, The Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs was built in Nagasaki, providing the country’s Catholics the freedom to practise their faith. Believed to be Japan’s oldest church, it is a revered national…

Bandipur suffers from severe droughts in summer, pushing animals to look for greener pastures in close vicinity. On one such dry afternoon, The Serai had the most unexpected guests near its turquoise pool: a family of tuskers. Thirsty, the male tusker tried to foray into the pool but was in for a shock when it touched the barbed fence and got electrified with 2W power. Very quickly, however, the male felled a tree atop the fence to make way for the female tusker and her cub to walk into the pool area. Just in case you were as impressed as I was, ethologists consider elephants as one of the most intelligent creatures on earth. As the family of elephants stood there in picturesque formation, the staff soon realised it would…

Universal’s Aventura Hotel is all set to open its doors to guests in August this year, making it the sixth hotel in the Universal Orlando Resort. Stay at this 600-key hotel for views of all three Universal Orlando theme parks. universalorlando.com The Monte Carlo hotel-casino in Las Vegas is up for a major image shift. The iconic hotel will be transformed into a 2,700-room property, to be called Park MGM. parkmgm.com Warner Bros. World is opening its new theme park in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island this year. Located near Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld, this indoor theme park will offer six immersive areas, at least 29 thrilling rides, entertainment programmes, and interactive shows with characters such as Superman, Wonder Woman, Bugs Bunny, and Scooby-Doo. wbworldabudhabi.com CLYMB, the world’s…

GETTING THERE Hua Hin is a three-hour car ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok and well worth the ride. Request for an airport transfer at the time of hotel booking. VISA & PERMITS Indian passport holders are required to obtain a Thai visa. A visa on arrivalis available at 4,000. If you want to avoid the long queue at the Bangkok Airport, apply for it in advance at 8,000. HOTEL Book one of the 23 villas when visitng with family. Each unit comes with a private pool and provides exclusive access to the Villa Lounge. minorhotels.com…

Carlisle Bay Antigua Lizard hunting, treasure hunts, and art-and-craft workshops are just some of the activities on offer at the resort’s Cool Kids Club. Older children can enjoy raft building, zip-lining, and hunting for starfish. carlisle-bay.com Rosewood Mayakoba, Mexico Mayan storytelling, pizza and cookie-making classes, Spanish language lessons, and an EcoTour with a biologist who will tell all about the region’s flora and fauna—there’s a lot to keep kids busy here. rosewoodhotels.com The Ranch at Rock Creek, Montana The Little Grizzlies Kids Club tailors outdoor experiences for the entire family. From learning to care for animals at the Barn, to lessons in outdoor safety, there's something for every passionate traveller. ( theranchatrockcreek.com )…

FIVE QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR TRAVEL AGENT You can always book your sailing directly with the cruise line, but consider turning to a travel agent, who will bring insider information to the table. Whomever you choose, a few queries can ensure that you have the right agent-and that you’re getting the most out of his or her expertise. 1 WHEN WAS YOUR LAST SAILING? “It’s important to hire an expert who knows the ins and outs of lines, ships, and destinations,” says T+L A-List agent Mary Curry of Adventure Life. Some agents make sales from brochures or ship inspections instead of firsthand experience. Asking how frequently your advisor ventures out on the seas can give you an idea of his or her depth of knowledge. 2 WHICH SHIP OR CRUISE…

GETTING THERE The best way to reach Iguazú Falls is to fly to Buenos Aires, then take the two-hour connecting flight to Puerto Iguazú. I flew both LATAM Airlines (latam.com) and Andes Airlines (andes online.com), a local low-cost carrier; Aerolíneas Argentinas (aerolineas.com.ar) also offers non-stop service. WHERE TO STAY The Awasi Iguazú (doubles from 65,000 per person, all-inclusive; awasi iguazu.com) has 14 large villas. Numerous excursions, including visits to the falls, are part of the price. The Awasi guides will pick you up on arrival in Puerto Iguazú. CROSSING THE BORDER Many travellers try to see Iguazú Falls from both Brazil and Argentina. Each side has its merits, though Argentina’s network of trails is longer, and 80 per cent of the falls lie on its side of the border. If…

Celebrated for its flawless, fine-grain, white marble that was used to sculpt Greek masterpieces such as the Venus de Milo and Nike of Samothrace, the little Cycladic island of Paros is finally emerging out of the shadows of its more commercial counterparts, Santorini and Mykonos. Gaining popularity is Naoussa, the island’s small village that’s home to around 3,000 people, and being heralded as the new party destination, after capital Parikia. The golden beaches—Monastiri, Agios Ioannis, Kolymbithres, and Agioi Anargyroi—as well as its animated bars and taverns that remain open until dawn, give an edge to this scenic fishing village. Amphitheatrically built around a charming port, the village offers plenty of experiences, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and underwater diving to name a few. An evening watching a retro movie under the…

MACBETH ROYAL OPERA HOUSE LONDON | MARCH 25–APRIL 10 | The tallest figures in the world of operatic sopranos, Anna Netrebko and Anna Pirozzi will bring alive the Bard’s Macbeth at the Royal Opera House. Often referred to as one of the greatest literary creations, Macbeth has been captured in rich colours of red, black, and gold by Phyllida Lloyd in his marquee production. roh.org.uk MY FAIR LADY VIVIAN BEAUMONT THEATRE NEW YORK CITY | MARCH 15– DECEMBER 14 | Watch George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion in a captivating performance directed by Tony-winning director Bartlett Sher. While Audrey Hepburn will forever be etched in our memory as the quintessential ‘Fair Lady’, the thrill of experiencing a live musical is second to none. newyorkcitytheatre.com KISS ME, KATE THE 5TH AVENUE THEATRE SEATTLE…

The Instagram-worthy Blue Grotto in Malta is a popular spot for travellers visiting Southern Europe. Take a boat ride across this picturesque, natural landscape, where the stunning sea caves reflect hues of phosphorescent colours emanating from the underwater flora and fauna. While you’re here, go scuba diving to discover the ruins of Um El Faroud, one of the most famous wrecks in the Mediterranean Sea. You can also snorkel, climb rocks, or venture out on a food trail in Wied iz-Zurrieq. If you are visiting in April, do not miss the Malta International Grand Fireworks Festival (April 1–30) in Floriana.…

MISO This comforting soup was served at all Japanese restaurants at which I dined. Made with daashi (stock) and miso, it typically includes tofu, seaweed, shiitake, and veggies. Often, the trimmings that compliment it include tempura and tentsuyu, sliced radish, rice crackers, soy sauce, and sticky rice. SHABU SHABU We had the vegetarian version of this Japanese favourite. A pot of boiling water with different types of mushrooms, rice crackers, seaweed, lettuce, and burdock root is cooked on the table, and you can take your pick of the veggies (or meat). MOCHI Try the deep-fried rice cake with red bean paste and a coating of green tea in Tokyo. TOKYO BANANA A Japanese sweet only available in Tokyo, it’s a great souvenir to bring back home-in dozens, if you can,…

“I found Bisate especially striking at night, with the lights from each villa blinking out of the darkness like alien eyes.”— S.H. Safari Trailblazer Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Rwanda’s post-war transformation into Africa’s destination du jour is truly remarkable, and Bisate, the country’s first luxury safari lodge, continues this rebirth. Its six villas feature 1,000 square feet of space, dramatic conjoined domes inspired by the 19th -century King’s Palace of Nyanza, and balconies that offer grand views of the Virunga Mountains. But the marquee attraction is gorilla spotting. Guests hike into the park's higher elevations to glimpse the endangered apes, before returning for dinner around a communal table to swap stories. From 75,000 per person, all-inclusive; wilderness-safaris.com — Sarah Hepola COOL KID Broadview Hotel, Toronto Housed…

1 WINNIE A handy new app that allows modern parents to search for kid-friendly places around them, including new experiences in the market. Choose from restaurants that have stroller access, changing tables, and more. 2 TREKAROO helps you plan a kid-friendly vacation by connecting you with other parents in Europe and the United States. Discuss restaurants with kid-friendly menus or exchange quick tips before arriving at your destination. 3 OPENTABLE allows you to filter by cuisine, price, noise level, and distance in leading cities around the world. You can decide on an eatery’s ‘kid-friendliness’ based on reviews, and make your reservation on the app itself.…

ITALY Armani Hotel Milano Armani Hotel Milano ensures your little ones are indulged thoroughly at its Armani SPA. Sweet chocolate massages, mini-manicures and pedicures, 50-minute junior VIP treatments, and a special ‘With My Mom and Dad at the Spa’ package are just some of its delights! armanihotelmilano.com SOUTH AFRICA Ulusaba Private Game Reserve An African adventure awaits your kids at Ulusaba-Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve. Apart from going on safaris to spot the Big Five, sign up for the mini Rangers’ course to learn how to track animals by their footprints, and lend a helping hand at a local village by participating in one of the resort’s cultural projects-the kids are sure to gain a unique insight into community life, while learning how to give back to nature. virginlimitededition.com…

DESIGNER PALM BEACH VILLA PALM JUMEIRAH Michael’s Luxury Designer Villa in the exclusive, gated Palm Jumeirah quarter, is idyllic for families with kids. You can enjoy a drink by the beach, take a dip in the pool, or indulge in a game in the billiards room. It is recommended to hire a private car during your stay and to enjoy city attractions, such as Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis the Palm. airbnb.co.in ELAN CITY WALK SUITES AL WASL Minutes from top restaurants like the Japanese Itdaki (itdakirestaurant.com) and the iconic Burj Khalifa, Elan is centrally located and ideal for a long stay. Enjoy a sundowner from your private balcony or go for a swim in the pool. Plan an evening at the nearby Dubai Opera for an enticing evening show. elan-city-walk-suites.besthotelsdubai.net…