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

LOCATED IN THE HEART of New Delhi, Le Méridien has laid out meticulously planned packages for their guests to enjoy the seasonal magic. Known for its exceptional architecture and luxurious offerings, the five-star hotel’s iconic glass building has been recognised one of the 100 Icons of Delhi. The hotel is located within easy reach of government institutions, media centres, and historical monuments along with the popular shopping hubs of Connaught Place and Janpath Market, which makes it an ideal destination for business travellers. And to help guests enjoy a relaxed and memorable holiday, the hotel is offering an exclusive staycation package, designed to ensure luxury and celebration. The hotel is also laying out a sumptuous spread for the upcoming celebrations over Christmas and New Year. There will be diverse culinary…

TUCKED BENEATH THE Aravalli Mountains, Mementos by ITC Hotels Ekaaya Udaipur is a picture-perfect venue for those who are looking for a personalised luxurious destination wedding in the royal city. Enjoy breathtaking views of the rocky landscape and the lake from the free-standing villas and suites, which wind up the verdant hillside. Expansive green lawns decked with frangipani create a lovely backdrop for any event. Designed on a grand scale, Mementos Udaipur combines versatile landscapes with plush interiors to create a dreamy atmosphere. Add drama to the arrival of the bride and the groom by using the beautiful slopes, exchange garlands and rings in the backdrop of a crimson sky at dusk, or hold a merry ‘sangeet’ ceremony in the flower-bedecked lawns. Whether you are planning a lavish Indian wedding…

INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS BEST CITY Dubai, UAE FROM PICTURESQUE beaches and dramatic deserts to award-winning restaurants and magnificent cityscapes, Dubai offers an unforgettable experience to visitors making it the perfect winner in this category. This sun-soaked metropolis is world-renowned for its eye-catching landmarks including Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and more. Among the fresh experiences, there is a crocodile park with placid waterfalls and perfectly placed sandbanks and The Dubai Balloon, a tethered helium balloon that takes guests to a height of up to 300 metres. The 10-minute trip into the sky comes with the best possible view of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. visitdubai.com BEST COUNTRY Switzerland WHETHER IT’S a relaxing afternoon in a city park, a hike up the mountain, or a trip to a nearby wine…

FEW LUXURY RESORTS can top the unbeatable location of Jetwing Saman Villas. Perched upon a rocky cliff and nestled between two gorgeous stretches of golden sandy beaches, it is a picture-perfect venue encircled by swaying coconut palms. An ideal hideaway to swoon the love of your life, this all-suite resort not only encapsulates tropical tranquillity, it will also leave you and your guests pampered with unparalleled luxury. Located just two hours away from Colombo, Jetwing Saman Villas are a serene getaway in the fishing village of Bentota. The highlight of the hotel’s design is that all suites open up to salty sea breeze and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. There are 26 plush suites and a duplex villa that have all been aesthetically designed and fitted with state-of-the-art amenities.…

A CANOPY OF OLIVE TREES adorned with twinkling lights, a beachside celebration on the sunkissed sand, a spectacular setting in an open-air amphitheatre—a wedding in Sicily promises all of this, along with the inimitable Italian charm. Pick the spectacular properties by Rocco Forte Hotels—Verdura Resort and Villa Igiea—for your perfect nuptials, where each moment is infused with the rich tapestry of history and the beauty of Sicily’s natural surroundings. Located on the south-west coast of Sicily, Verdura Resort is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. With an unparalleled choice of 11 reception venues, you’ll be spoilt for choice with sites ranging from the olive groves to the beachside. If you are planning a party for 150 guests, both, the Verdura Beach and the poolside are ideal choices, while La Piazzetta…

WALDORF ASTORIA LUSAIL DOHA is the last word in luxury for discerning travellers! It is a shining jewel in the collection of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s luxury brand of iconic properties at that epitomise superb service and culinary excellence. This particular architectural masterpiece is located in the heart of Doha and combines a chic contemporary style with quintessential Qatari elegance. The picturesque beachfront setting makes it ideal for a family holiday, milestone celebrations or romantic escapades. The luxury accommodation at Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha includes a range of plush rooms, suites, and rooftop sky villas. While they offer meticulously designed interiors with cutting-edge amenities, the private balconies offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. From the famous New-York based Italian restaurant, Scarpetta, to the internationally acclaimed Sushi Samba…

RAS AL KHAIMAH is a hidden gem that is gaining popularity for its beautiful topography, picturesque beaches, rich history and some of the most daring adventure activities in the world. It’s no wonder that this Emirate is giving stiff competition to various tropical islands as a wedding venue. Smooth connectivity from India via a short flight makes it easy to host a big, fat Indian wedding here. Ras Al Khaimah is home to one wedding venue better than the other. From world-class beachfront hotels and luxury desert resorts like the Waldorf Astoria and Ritz-Carlton, and upcoming international brands like Anantara, Wynn, Nobu, Sofitel, and W launching in the coming years, there is an array of breathtaking locations for bespoke celebrations. Sprawling deserts, picturesque mountains and sunkissed beaches offer something for…

IT MAY BE A TINY city-state in the French Riviera, but Monaco is one of the wealthiest places in the world. It also attracts the wealthiest people from all over the world. From scenic settings with the finest views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea to swanky hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and bespoke services to pamper you to the hilt, a wedding here promises to be an extravaganza that your loved ones will remember for a long, long time. The high-end vibe is matched with gorgeous architecture to create the dreamiest backdrop to celebrate a marriage. If you want an extra dose of glamour, time it with one of the famous annual events held here--Monaco Film Festival in May, Monte Carlo International Fireworks Festival in July or August, or, the Monaco…

THE TROPICAL ISLAND country of Sri Lanka has no dearth of azure waters, pristine beaches, lush green forests, tea gardens, standout historical sites, luxurious boutique resorts, and wellness retreats. Together, they make it an ideal destination for an epic wedding and a memorable honeymoon. You can say ‘I do’ in the midst of a tea estate, have your reception party at a beach, and escape to one of its misty hills for your honeymoon. Add tea-tasting, wooden maskmaking, scuba diving, and paragliding sessions to the soiree, and you have one memorable wedding that your guests and, of course, you and your partner will remember forever. We scout out some of the top destinations, hotels, and experiences to mark your big day in this magical country. THE MYSTERY OF HISTORY Tucked…

WE HAVE COME A LONG WAY from elaborate floral mandaps and cookie-cutter designs when it comes to wedding décor. Now, personalisation is key as couples look at innovative ways to showcase their love story or wedding journey. Boutique meets bespoke According to Prerika Puri, founder of To The Aisle (IG: @totheaisle_ weddings), a boutique wedding design company, intimacy-meetsluxury is a big theme as couples and families opt for smaller guest lists but heightened opulence. Tying in with this concept, exclusive boutique properties with limited room inventory offer a bespoke setting. “Couples are customising every aspect, from the décor to unique wedding favours. Each moment is carefully curated for maximum impact, including the venue,” she says. Making a statement Whether you want to tap into your love story for inspiration or…

FINDING THE PERFECT wedding favours to give to your guests can be a tough task, especially in this age of personalisation when there are a plethora of options to choose from. We spoke to expert wedding designers and planners for their take on creating memorable wedding favours. While custom tea blends and gourmet mithai might be a popular gifting option, there has been a slow and steady shift as couples gravitate towards highly-personalised gifts, be it prized artisanal handicrafts, custom fragrances, scented candles, or even engraved silverware. Innovation is power According to Aashna Lalwani, co-founder of Three Entertainment (threeentertainment.ca), a Mumbai-based boutique event management company, some innovative and bespoke ideas that you can look at are illustrations or portraits, hand-painted glassware with intricate designs, monograms, or even your wedding date.…

Romancing the blues in the Maldives THE ISLAND NATION with its 26 atolls is an exquisite paradise nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean that has pristine beaches, azure waters, and luxurious resorts ensuring endless romantic experiences and ample privacy. Newly-wed couples can indulge in a quiet yacht ride around the island; go for a candlelit beach dinner under the stars; or watch a romantic movie on a giant screen outdoors. If you are looking for something more exclusive, dine at an underwater restaurant at the Conrad Maldives or inside a wine cellar at the St. Regis. Watching the golden sunset here, either from the deck of your villa or cuddled in a hammock from your resort’s beach is truly an unforgettable experience—you may not have seen so many…

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IT WOULD BE a shame indeed if you departed from San Francisco without getting a taste of its culinary offerings—from timeless American and Latino dishes to Asian delights, fusion food, innovative ice creams, and drinks. Be it Wayfare Tavern and Tadich Grill in the Financial District for the American experience; bayside dining at La Mar, Waterbar, and EPIC Steak; Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf; Dungeness crab at PIER 39; or the historic Scoma’s, you are never far from a famous restaurant or bar in San Francisco. In the shopping hub of Union Square, there is Campton Place Bar & Bistro which offers an interesting twist on Indian cuisine, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. While Cafe de la Presse is known for French specialities, Le Colonial weaves a fusion of French and…

LOCATED WITHIN Bengaluru’s central business district, Conrad Bengaluru is part of the Hilton Group in India. Overlooking Ulsoor Lake, the 24-storey high, 285-keys hotel promises to make your visit a rejuvenating experience. The rooms are spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the area and lake. Fused into the hotel’s decor is the mandala motif, often considered a symbol of tranquillity. Further your wellness experience at the Ethereal Spa, where skilled staff offer a range of treatments and therapies designed to cater to individual needs. The four dining outlets of Conrad Bengaluru offer a wide range of delectable spreads. Caraway Kitchen, adjacent to the reception, is the place to go for freshly baked delicacies and artisanal coffee. Mikusu specialises in East Asian cuisine, largely consisting of dishes from…

Location Riyadh, Saudi Arabia “Qalbi tawalae bialriyad,” hums my guide Salman. “They are lyrics from an Arabic song, which means my heart is always in Riyadh,” he declares. Over the next two days, he makes it his mission to ensure that I leave a piece of my heart in Riyadh (visitsaudi.com) We are in Saudi Arabia’s capital city for our December cover shoot with Bollywood actor Jacqueliene Fernandez. The cover star has a connection to the Middle East—she was born and raised in Bahrain. “Growing up in the Middle East was a unique experience. I cherish the close-knit community, the cultural diversity, and the warmth of the people,” shares the actor. We begin the Arabian sojourn in the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Diriyah. Located towards the northwestern front…

California’s natural scenery is undoubtedly breathtaking. The state, located on the west coast of the United States, is visited by people from all over the world for its awe-inspiring landscapes—think pristine beaches, majestic redwood forests, and a dreamy, misty coastline. One of the best ways to explore the picturesque state is to embark on a road trip from the Northern California city of San Francisco to Southern California’s Los Angeles along Highway One, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. Offering panoramic vistas of the state’s arresting natural beauty, including the glistening Pacific Ocean, this is one of the most scenic drives in the world. My adventure begins in San Francisco, with a stop in Monterey, a town in a rugged mountainous region of California’s central coast, and Santa Barbara,…

THE NATURAL BEAUTY of the Bahamas is best enjoyed in the lap of luxury. With gorgeous beaches, tranquil waters, and the tropical sun making for a picturesque backdrop, Baha Mar is a 1,000-acre resort complex on the island of New Providence. The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is a sprawling resort at the centre of it all. A sanctuary of natural beauty, stunning architecture, and utmost luxury, it offers an array of spectacular wedding venues and bespoke, personalised service to make it a preferred choice for hosting a destination wedding. The resort offers an extensive choice of beautifully-appointed guestrooms, suites, and villas to host your friends and family. From personalised arrival service through the farewell brunch, the wedding specialists help you create the perfect celebration. A dedicated team takes care of…

WITH ITS STUNNING location atop a cliff overlooking the South China Sea, Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for a magical wedding. The resort’s stunning architecture is inspired by a unique combination of Paris’ Jardin du Luxembourg along with the aesthetic style of a Balinese palace. The panoramic view of the sea, lush greenery, lavish outdoor spaces, and elegantly-manicured lawns with peacocks strutting about make this picturesque resort ideal for celebrating your love and exchanging vows. Ideal for a destination wedding, you can either buy out the entire resort with 215 rooms, suites, and villas if you are planning an extravagant celebration, or book only one wing of the accommodation for a cosier affair. For bridal couples that prefer intimate solemnisations, the exclusive Villa du Jardin…

LOCATED IN MEXICO’S BAJA CALIFORNIA peninsula, Paradisus Los Cabos is the perfect adultsonly, all-suite resort to celebrate your nuptials. From bespoke services by a dedicated Romance Team to Stay Safe Bridal Ambassadors who ensure that everything is perfect, you’re guaranteed a dream wedding. As the shimmering waters of the Sea of Cortéz and Gulf of California merge into one, you can expect only the most picture-perfect backdrops for your romantic celebrations--white-sand beaches or a lush tropical landscape, under a gorgeous starry sky or inside a stylish restaurant, by the lavish poolside or at sea on a relaxing sail. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the resort offers luxury accommodation including a romantic swim-up suite with direct access to one of the two pools within the property.…

WITH 115 ISLANDS to choose from, Seychelles offers barefoot luxury and the most romantic setting for hosting a lavish wedding in stunning surroundings or celebrating your love in the privacy of an intimate gathering on a secluded beach encircled by lush tropical vegetation. At Seychelles, you can really think out of the box to celebrate your special day in your unique way. From sundowners for the romantically-inclined, to lazy beach soirees for the easy-going types, to a range of adventure activities to celebrate the union of a thrill-seeking couple, Seychelles is the perfect playground to fulfill all your whims and fantasies. Whether you are interested in a pre-wedding photo-shoot, or looking for a dreamy destination for your post-wedding holiday, there is an unending choice of outdoor beach venues in Seychelles…

WHETHER ITS ICONIC hotels or gorgeous natural surroundings, bustling cities or quaint towns, the United States of America has everything that you may desire for impeccable wedding celebrations. A summer wedding at the Plaza Hotel is the stuff of dreams. One of the most coveted wedding venues in New York City, it has been epitomised in romantic Hollywood movies. Its legendary opulence and glamour is complemented by an expert team of wedding planners who take care of the finest details. If you prefer to keep things quaint and cosy, look out for European-style resorts in Tennessee. Here, the distinct Southern charm takes over from the big city vibes of New York. From a secluded ranch in California, a mountaintop lodge in Colorado, a rustic retreat in Texas, a chic beachfront…

Andaz Delhi FROM STATEMENT installations to dramatic art pieces strewn across the hotel, the whimsical design of Andaz Delhi offers the perfect backdrop to celebrate your nuptials in style. For a traditional Indian wedding, the dedicated Elephant Path ensures a dramatic entrance for the groom and his troupe. From one of the largest indoor luxury spaces in Delhi to an ambient courtyard and eight smaller studios with open kitchens and attached outdoor terraces, the hotel offers an extensive choice of venues to host a lavish wedding as well as smaller pre-wedding functions. If you want a big, fat wedding, the hotel’s oval-shaped, pillarless ballroom comfortably accommodates up to 2,000 guests when combined with the pre-function area and event courtyard. The hotel’s team of wedding specialists work diligently to make your…

JW MARRIOTT GOA has rolled out its plans for the festive season. To make gifting easy, December 15 onwards, they will be stocking delightful Christmas goodies at Pérola. Enjoy a sumptuous Christmas Eve Feast with live music at JW Kitchen on December 24 (between 7pm and midnight). It is priced at `4,000 ++ (includes soft beverage) and `5,500 ++ (includes alcohol). On Christmas Day, JW Kitchen will be serving Holiday Brunch with live music, for `4,500 ++ (includes soft beverage) and `6,000 ++ (includes alcohol). Countdown to 2024 in style at JW Marriott Goa’s exclusive New Year’s Eve party running from sunset to sunrise. On December 31, get into the celebration mood, grooving to funky beats churned by DJ Lloyd at Água Pool Bar & Cafe while enjoying a selection…

SURROUNDED BY THE ice-capped Swiss mountains and magnificent 360° views of the alpine meadow, forests, and Lake Geneva, Clinic Les Alpes belies the image of a typical rehab centre. For many of us, the holiday season is a time for celebration and gathering with families and friends. But there are also people for whom this can be an extremely stressful period. For example, for a recovering alcoholic, to be thrust into the middle of a feast with alcoholic drinks flowing freely is traumatic. Fully medically licensed by the Swiss Department of Health, Clinic Les Alpes is located near Montreux in Switzerland. This luxurious and secluded private rehab centre accommodates patients seeking personalised treatment for substance and behavioural dependency as well as from debilitating emotional and mental conditions such as anxiety,…

THE CAPITAL CITY of Azerbaijan, Baku, boasts a spectacular coastline and an equally pretty skyline. As the largest city in the world located below sea level, it offers a unique experience of the Caspian Sea. As it is located on the crossroads between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, it is a melting pot of various cultural influences that lends it an inimitable energy. The Ritz-Carlton, Baku showcases the fascinating roots of Azerbaijan through immersive and authentic experiences in its signature luxurious style. Hosting a wedding here is a breeze as the hotel has an expert team of wedding specialists, who take care of every little detail, while you enjoy the momentous occasion with your loved ones. They are dedicated to creating unique wedding experiences—from an intimate affair to an…

IF YOU HAVE ALWAYS dreamed of saying ‘I Do’ in an opulent Middle-Eastern style, look no further than the Shangri-La Dubai. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, the 42-storey hotel offers an array of stunning venues and luxurious accommodation combined with award-winning dining options and traditional world-class hospitality. Originally built in 2003, the hotel recently reopened after AED70-million worth of renovation of its public areas. With 490 plush guestrooms, seven fancy restaurants and bars, two ballrooms, and seven meeting rooms, this grand hotel is well-suited for big, fat Indian weddings. The Al Nojoom (Grand Ballroom) and Al Bader (Junior Ballroom) are spacious and aesthetically designed to host lavish wedding parties. The grand ballroom can be divided into two smaller rooms, while the junior ballroom can easily accommodate upto 500 guests. There…

NESTLED BETWEEN towering mountain ranges and lush forests, D Maris Bay makes for a stunning visual as it is located high up on a pine-clad hillside on the Datça Peninsula. This secluded beach resort boasts breathtaking views of five white-sanded beaches, a scenic cove, and an archipelago of islands. The picture-perfect vistas include azure waters, jewel-toned flowers, and vibrant fauna. Restorative and serene, the raw beauty of D Maris Bay is guaranteed to awaken the senses. The epitome of luxury, D Maris Bay is a modern retreat flooded with natural light. The stylish architecture matches the spectacular location’s natural splendour. Granite and marble-laden grand interiors are complemented by Turkish artworks adorning the walls. The hotel has 196 rooms, with most offering floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to mesmerising sea views…

STANDING TALL in the heart of West Bay, Doha since 1982, Sheraton Grand Doha has witnessed innumerable weddings, both, lavish as well as intimate. The plush resort is the epitome of timeless romance, and has been the preferred choice for grand celebrations for the well-heeled. Sheraton Grand Doha offers 25 customisable convention spaces spanning 10,300 square metres, with the largest ballroom in all of Doha. Al Dafna is the largest indoor venue and it can comfortably accommodate up to 2,500 wedding guests! The various indoor and outdoor event spaces open up to stunning views of the Arabian Gulf as well as the expanse of the Corniche. You can thus exchange vows in front of the most magical backdrops–in the midst of a verdant garden or on the pristine beach with…

ALULA IS AMONGST the rare destinations that are suspended in time and space. Located in northwest Saudi Arabia, it is an exceptional heritage site with stunning red rock canyons created out of sheer force of nature amidst an expanse of desert. Steeped in history, AlUla Old Town was an essential settlement along the pilgrimage route from Damascus to Mecca in the 12th century. It was also a prominent stop on the Incense Road—the route that facilitated the trading of spices and silk through Arabia, Egypt, and India. Known to be one of the world’s largest living museums, the town is overlooked by a 45-metre-high fort, a defensive lookout dating back to around the 10th century. In contrast with the arid desert, there is a 20-km long green oasis with millions…

FRANCE CELEBRATES love unlike any other country. From Paris to Brittany, Cote de Azur to Occitaine, Alps to Normandy, it’s almost as if each location is designed to evoke love in one scenic setting after another. From a lavish wedding aboard a swanky yacht off the coast of St Tropez, to the lavender fields of Côte d’Azur, rolling vineyards amongst the mountains of Occitanie to the most breathtaking venues in the Champagne region, you’ll be spoilt for choice. To add to the romance of the place, you can pick medieval chateaus or riverside castles, revel in the unmatched chic Parisian setting or head out to the picturesque countryside to host the wedding of your dreams. Experienced wedding planners make your dream a reality since they’re used to catering to the…

WESTERN AUSTRALIA is the largest state in Australia. Split into five regions - Destination Perth, South West, North West, Coral Coast and Golden Outback – it offers the complete Aussie experience. From an amazing desert landscape to the soft sand beaches along the Indian Ocean, verdant vineyards and caves dating back a million years, noticeable native ancestry, flora and fauna and a rich indigenous ancestry, a plethora of adventure activities and the longest coastline in the country, Western Australia literally has something for everyone -even for couples seeking to get married in an off-beat destination. Owing to the varying topography, there is a wide range of wedding venues to choose from in Western Australia. One of our top picks would be the Margaret River Region. Not only is it the…

Tropical Thailand ABUNDANT NATURAL BEAUTY, tropical climate, exotic cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage to tie it all together—no wonder Thailand is reigning as one of the hottest destinations for Indian weddings. The oriental country offers an array of venue options, from luxurious beachfront resorts, to lush jungle villas, and ancient temples, catering to diverse wedding styles. Imagine walking down the sun-kissed aisle on a pristine beach in Phuket, with the sun setting over the Andaman Sea in the backdrop. Or immerse yourself in Thai culture as you tie the knot with the architectural gems like the Wat Ratchanatdaram Buddhist temple or the Grand Palace playing the perfect backdrop smackdab in the heart of bustling Bangkok. A contemporary paradise with swaying coconut palms, an endless stretch of gorgeous azure waters,…

Royal Passion Fairmont Jaipur THE PINK CITY has a romantic charm of its own. Fairmont Jaipur is one of the finest destinations on the outskirts of the city and is ideally located for a romantic holiday—the entire team is geared up to treat you and your loved one like royalty. This new-age palace will transport you to a bygone era of kings and queens with its ornate arches, rich interiors, and a beautiful blend of Rajasthani architecture with Mughal influences. Check into the Terrace suite for a memorable honeymoon. Butler service, private check-in and checkout, fine amenities, swish bathrobes, and warm, unobtrusive service are guaranteed to make you feel extra special. As a haven for newly weds, there’s enough to do within the hotel, from lazy swims in the gorgeous…