Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2023 i Travel + Leisure India & South Asia

IF YOU ASK ME what my first love is, I’d say travel without batting an eyelid. And what better time to celebrate love than February, the Valentine’s month. Our February edition celebrates stories of love and travel, be it finding love in beautiful locales as did this couple (p. 48) or celebrating it on your honeymoon at these destinations around the world (p. 50). We also do a deep dive into the best wedding venues in India and abroad so you can have that perfect big day (p. 33). A travelogue from the Finnish Lapland (p. 88) decodes the reasons for the happiness of the Finns, and another one takes you to Nairobi where heritage meets modernism (p. 82). Our photo essay takes you to Rapa Nui, a remote volcanic…

Located on a private island in the exclusive West Bay Lagoon district, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is the ideal destination for couples looking to recreate lasting memories amid luxury. The resort brings holistic lifestyle experiences to the fore — from beautifully manicured lawns and exceptional recreational activities to creative cuisines. Exchange sweet nothings as the sun melts into the horizon of a private beach. Enjoy sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf, Pearl, and Lusail city. Or opt for romantic dining on the hotel’s private beach. Plan a bespoke proposal, exchange vows amid fairytale wedding setups, and more. This ocean-front five-star luxury city living is further accentuated by stylish rooms and suites, an award-winning spa, extensive leisure facilities and culinary excellence. Designed for ample moments of leisure, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is a…

LOCATED NEAR BOUTIQUES like Hermes, Cartier, and Lanvin—and adjacent to the Nation Towers Mall—The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is ideal for an extravagant stay amid the city’s finest spots. Indoors, architectural splendour awaits. The manor, houses handcrafted artworks and precious materials, from diamond-patterned floor marbles and Bohemian crystal chandeliers, to two grand staircases adorned by Arabic motif railings accentuated by diamond crystals. This artistic beauty extends further to the guest rooms and suites here. Picture unique artworks, lavish textiles, marbled bathrooms, exclusive Arabic motifs, exquisite wooden furniture, and floor-to-ceiling windows opening to an unobstructed city and sea view. Add to this the in-house Nation Riviera Beach Club that houses a temperature-controlled swimming pool, Jacuzzi, pool bar, 200-metre pristine beach, a gym furnished with the latest Technogym equipment, and a children’s…

AFTER BAGGING MULTIPLE awards in the hospitality segment in 2022, Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/Saket is all set for growth in 2023 as well. “We can already witness the [rise in] physical MICE [events] and weddings pan-India and are keeping our fingers crossed for more as we move further into 2023. We are also keen to witness the upcoming budget, which can further boost the prospects of the Indian hospitality sector,” says Joyjit Chakravorty, general manager of the property. Situated at a premier location in South Delhi, Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/Saket has a planned series of changes to their product and services in a phased manner. The property will soon upgrade to an all-new system of digital keys that will enable a smooth check-in and check-out for guests. The…

OPULENCE, LUXURY, and grandeur are some of the words that are synonymous with Dubai. So, if you are planning a larger-than-life wedding, here is some inspiration. This is the love story of Niyati and Josh, who chose to say ‘I Do’ at a beautiful and opulent Indian wedding ceremony in Dubai. “The bride’s family lived in Dubai and the groom was from the United Kingdom. The couple wanted to show what a real Indian wedding would look like to their friends and families who were travelling from all across the globe,” says Shubhanshu Jain, CEO of The Wedding Matinee. “They told us exactly what they wanted it to look like and what elements of the wedding were important to them. Most of Josh’s friends and family were attending an Indian…

DigiYatra: Tried and Tested We tried and tested the new DigiYatra app a couple of times at Bengaluru and Delhi airports. Barring a few tech glitches in the initial phase, we found the app and overall procedure to be extremely seamless. The biometric app will be rolled out at many more airports this month, making it possibly the biggest talking point for Indian aviation this quarter. The app essentially uses your face to verify your identity so you no longer need to show your ID card and ticket to the security guard to enter the terminal. The only time-consuming process is, of course, the one-time upload of your Aadhaar card to the app, following which you will have a seamless experience. Two New Terminals We couldn’t be happier that Goa…

THIS PHOTO OF MT BROMO, nestled within the dense rainforests of Eastern Java, Indonesia, was taken with Mt Semeru—another active volcano—in the background. The weather here is always fickle with a tropical thunderstorm often lurking around the corner. About 30 minutes into my early morning hike, I was surrounded by thick clouds and could barely see. A little later, there was a hint of dawn, and eventually, the sun broke through the Java Sea and illuminated a whole series of volcanoes. It was mesmerising! The churning clouds in the valley, steaming volcanoes, the mighty Mt Semeru, and the rising sun, all came together in perfect harmony to create this picture of a lifetime. Kunal Gupta was an entrant in our ongoing ‘Your Best Shot’ contest. Submit your best shots at…

Age No Bar Meet the elderly couple who has been exploring India on a motorcycle post retirement. travelandleisureasia.com/in/people/interview-with-yogeshwar-and-sushma-bhalla-an-elderly-couple-biking-through-india/ Vintage Love Learn about the history buff who collects iconic vintage passports—including one from pre-independent India! travelandleisureasia.com/in/people/interview-with-the-vintage-passport-collector/ Musical Memories Singer-songwriter Anuv Jain gets candid about his travel tales. travelandleisureasia.com/in/people/interview-with-indie-singer-songwriter-anuv-jain/ PEOPLE Explore the wilderness of Maasai Mara with actor Isha Koppikar. travelandleisureasia.com/in/people/interview-with-actor-isha-koppikar-narang-about-her-wild-adventure-in-maasai-mara-kenya/ DISCOVER Bori Safari Lodge is an eco-friendly haven where conservation meets luxury. travelandleisureasia.com/in/stays/bori-safari-lodge-an-eco-friendly-luxury-haven-in-the-wilderness/ TRAVEL WITH STARS STAY TUNED TO OUR INSTA PAGE @TRAVELANDLEISUREINDIA TO TRAVEL WITH CELEBRITIES RIGHT FROM YOUR HOME! Download Travel + Leisure India & South Asia digital editions, and follow us for the best in hotels, food, style, culture, and trends. travelandleisureindia tnlindia tnlindia traveleisurein SPECIAL SUBSCRIPTION OFFERS WWW.BURDA.IN NOTE: ALL PRICES MENTIONED IN THE MAGAZINE ARE APPROXIMATE…

A WAY FROM THE BEACHES, casinos, and parties, lies a lesser frequented Goa that is best experienced at Glass Villa in the picturesque village of Aldona. This peaceful hideaway comes with modern facilities while being surrounded by lush greenery, backwaters, paddy fields, and water streams. With a contemporary exterior, wood and glass facade, laterite walls, and an exposed concrete ceiling, the property creates an idyllic setting. Envisioned by renowned fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani, brought to life by architect Sameep Padora and Asahi Glass, and owned by entrepreneur and founder of The Rug Republic, Aditya Gupta, Glass Villa is the apt base for a rejuvenating Goan holiday. “The pandemic-induced boundaries created an unexpected romance with Goa for me. In December 2020, I went to Goa with an intention of buying a…

SITUATED ON THE Baa Atoll in Maldives—one of the 26 natural atolls in the Indian Ocean—Finolhu is renowned for its two-kilometre white powdery beaches that stretch out across four islands. Finolhu, meaning ‘sandbank’ in the local Maldivian language, is home to 125 private villas and four restaurants, and there are activities lined-up for all sorts of travellers, be it adventurous or laid-back. Travellers looking for a private and romantic experience at the property can opt for the Dream Eclipse Experience that begins with a romantic dinner at sunset served by a personal butler. The experience includes an unforgettable stay in the Beach Bubble, which is the only bubble on a secluded beach in Maldives. There is an outdoor bathtub for a romantic soak, with the gentle sound of the waves…

SITUATED IN THE lap of the Aravallis and at a distance from the city, Fairmont Jaipur is known for its palatial setting and regal charm. Layered with Rajasthani history and culture, the property gracefully combines the glory of yesteryear with modern day comforts. And these influences can be easily spotted in the 245 guest rooms and seven Imperial Suites. While the Signature Rooms have unparalleled views the Aravali Hills, with the spa and the outdoor pool in the foreground, the lighting of Deluxe Rooms has been inspired by traditional diya lamps that were used during the Mughal era. The property is one of the top choices in the country for weddings. Whether it is an intimate celebratory meal, a proposal, or an anniversary celebration, the property’s multiple and unique venue…

LOCATED ON THE secluded Vijaynagar Beach on Havelock Island, Tilar Siro Andamans is an ideal destination for an enchanted holiday, surrounded by the cerulean sea, marine life, and wetland forests. Nestled in a rainforest, the property offers exceptional views of the ocean and draws its name from the original inhabitants of the Andaman archipelago—the Great Andamanese Tribe—who referred to the island as ‘Thi-Lar-Siro’, which translates to ‘the land emerging from the sea’. The property’s 25 rooms on stilts, overlooking the pool and coconut groves, follow CGH Earth’s ethos and exude warmth and understated elegance. Whether you’re within the confines of your room, at the open-air deck, pool, restaurant, or lounging spaces, be assured to get a taste of the tropical surroundings and unblemished beauty of nature. One of the highlights…

How and when did you guys meet? It was back in 2009, I was still modelling and she just started her journey in the fashion industry. Everything happened so quickly, it was just meant to happen. A day before one show, one of the models fell sick and was replaced by Rikee. That’s when I got to meet her for the first time; there was definitely an instant spark between us. Luckily, she also lived close to my place and I would spend most of my time at her place; eventually we fell in love. What is the best thing about travelling together? The best thing about travelling together is that you get to share every moment with someone you love, and cherish it for the rest of your life.…

EASTER ISLAND IS LOCATED around 3,700 kilometers off the coast of Chile, in the southeast corner of the Polynesian triangle. Stretching 163 square kilometres in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the island enchants with its rolling hills and the wild horses that roam freely across them. Fewer than 10,000 people live on this island made famous by its ancient moai statues scattered across Rapa Nui National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These statues and the barren landscape along with its captivating history, have beguiled visitors for centuries. The moais are imposing monolithic human figures carved by ancient Polynesians between 1250-1500 AD as tombs to honour ancestral chiefs. The inhabitants of Rapa Nui were skilled craftsmen, and carved these breathtaking statues from the volcano Rano Raraku. Moais from this…

AS OUR VEHICLE CAME to a halt, I noticed an ancient Hindu temple under a huge banyan tree canopy. The air felt warm, yet pleasing as sun rays scantily pierced through the trees. I was in Konkan, the coastal plains of Maharashtra, lying between the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats. The region is famous for its Alphonso mangoes, beaches, and history. Despite all the attractive characteristics of the region, the simple setting of a temple under a huge tree instantly transported me to my grandmother’s quaint, ancestral home with similar features. I spent most of my childhood summer holidays in the very backdrop. A snug, two-storeyed bungalow covered by thick foliage and a small marble Datta Mandir (a temple of Lord Datta) overlooking the home was a sight to behold.…

SPREAD ACROSS 27 ACRES of lush greenery, and refreshed by gentle breeze from the South China Sea, Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa is the definition of Joie de Vivre, and offers world class amenities in its 211 elegant rooms and suites and four lavish villas. If you’re looking for a romantic escape with your partner, then Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa is the right destination, with curated stay and dining experiences this Valentine’s Day. Begin with soaking in the magical atmosphere at the outdoor palatial spaces and enjoying idyllic views of the South China Sea. Rediscover love in the company of Italian fare, prepared with fresh produce and sunset views of the South China Sea at The Cliff. Here, you can savour Italian flavours and and sip on…

ALILA DIWA GOA IS tucked away amidst paddy fields and palm trees and blends contemporary amenities with local history. For an uber private experience, there is The Diwa Club by Alila. A resort within a resort, The Diwa Club by Alila is an enclave of privacy with only 35 rooms and suites. Here you can enjoy a separate pool, restaurant, and entrance, along with a personal host. If you’re looking to rekindle the romance with your partner, nothing beats Diwa by Design, an exclusive experience designed for an intimate getaway with your loved one. You can stay in one of the spacious pool-facing rooms with a private balcony and set out on a gastronomical journey with unlimited food and drinks at any of the five restaurants—Bistro, Spice Studio, The Edge…

STRATEGICALLY LOCATED close to the corporate, industrial, and residential hubs of Greater Noida, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida is spread over nearly eight-and-a-half acres and is positioned as a premium luxury business hotel catering to corporate and MICE segments in Delhi-NCR. The property boasts 4,738 square metres of banqueting space with twelve options for meeting requirements. It is also equipped to host large format conventions, events, and weddings with nearly 2,787 square metres of open-to-sky al-fresco event spaces. Crowne Plaza Greater Noida features 400 spacious rooms including apartments and suites, and one of the largest spreads in the food and beverage space in Delhi-NCR, with a choice of Indian, European, Italian, and Chinese restaurants. While Mosaic, the multicuisine restaurant, serves global delicacies in a relaxed, informal setup, Spice Art, serves a…

Location: THE AHILYA FORT HERITAGE HOTEL, MAHESHWAR ISQUINT MY EYES and stretch my neck. A few seconds in, I can make out the different shades of blue, and where the sky meets the seemingly endless river. The Travel+Leisure India & South Asia team is at The Ahilya Fort Heritage Hotel in Maheshwar for the cover shoot of our issue dedicated to romance. The theme is perhaps too fitting for Maheshwar—the town is charming with a hint of mystery, and its folks embrace us with open hearts and arms. Our cover star, actor and climate warrior Bhumi Pednekar agrees, “The energy here is something that I’ve completely fallen in love with,” she says with a wide smile. At a time when minimalism is taking over most architectural concepts, Ahilya Fort stands…

I SHOULD HAVE BEEN overwhelmed. After all, I was in Nairobi National Park in Kenya, one of the few wildlife parks adjacent to a capital city. Three lionesses had just passed by me, unmindful of the crush of gaping tourists and ignoring the persistent clicks of cameras. However, my eyes remained transfixed on the horizon. There, on a flat landscape—its backdrop spattered equally with the orange hue of the morning sun and the brown of hung dust—several concrete pillars stood erect, cutting across the national park for as far as the eyes could see. On them ran a train track, over which an orange-white train slid smoothly. The whole construct seemed as if built by extraterrestrial creatures who may have landed on Earth last night, and who found this jungle…

MY EYES ARE CONSTANTLY SHIFTING focus—from the tree-lined road to the digital clock, then to a complex map of sorts on a phone set atop the dashboard. We’re cruising at nearly 110 km/hr, and are now somewhere close to the Swedish border, the surrounding dense forest and dark roads indicating our distance from the city. My companion and expert guide for the evening, Ryan Olivera, continues to take a look at the sky through the windshield and then at the map on his phone. A few more serpentine curves later, we arrive at Lake Vietonen, and a short walk through the wilderness leads us to its banks. “Look up. Quick! Right above your ahead,” says Olivera with a renewed energy; he is determined to make this expedition successful. As I…