8 Best Weekend Getaways from Gurgaon

When you say road trips from Gurgaon, the first ones on mind are to places in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, UP, etc. Everyone needs a break from the regular work schedules. While some are able to plan frequent holidays in India with friends and family, some just long for short weekend getaways. This is no exception for the people of Gurgaon or better I say Gurugram. If you are someone living in Gurgaon and strive to get a long holiday with your group, trust me you are still lucky.

Besides weekend getaway resorts in Gurgaon, people staying in Gurgaon, the ones living away can also have the pleasure of exploring the nearby tourist spots by booking cheap flight tickets. Even though long holidays are not an option, you have a bunch of superb weekend getaways from Gurgaon. Bring along your friends for a fun weekend. Take your partner along for a romantic time. Or take a much needed staycation with your family!

If you’re longing for a hill getaway in this hot summer, why not take a safe drive into the Himalayas? A secluded spot, free from the noise and bustle of the city?

things to do in Gurgaon

Only have two days to relax? I have got you a list of places near Gurgaon for all you lovers of staycations and weekend getaways.

1. Kingdom of Dreams


Kingdom of Dreams is India’s first live entertainment, theater and leisure destination. The destination consists of two theaters, Nautanki Mahal and the Showshaa Theater, and a cultural and cuisine area known as Culture Gully.

Culture Gully has theme restaurants and live kitchens from 14 states of India, represented with their representative architecture and decor. Culture Gully, one of the center attractions of Kingdom of Dreams, is an elaborate boulevard of culture, arts and crafts and cuisines under India’s first ever sky dome.

It has India's first ever skydom which is resplendent. You cannot take off your eyes. Apart of that, it has various stalls capturing the culture of fourteen different states with local fine arts, cuisines and street arts.

Distance from Gurgaon - 10 kilometers

2. Damdama Lake


Among weekend trips from Gurgaon, Damdama Lake offers a peaceful atmosphere for the tourists looking forward to spend relaxing time close to Gurgaon on a fresh morning. This place serves the purpose in the best way as it is among the closest weekend getaways near Gurgaon with the magnificent view of Aravalli hills at its backdrop.

The beauty of the place attracts different kinds of travelers like families, friends and couples looking for some private time together. You can even plan a days picnic with your office colleagues. It's not just the lake view that will impress you but the various adventure activities as well. You can try your hand in rock climbing, trekking, para sailing and even hot air ballooning. You can also enjoy paddling a boat in the lake with your partner.

Distance from Gurgaon - 25 kilometers

3. Tijara Fort


Yet another luxurious weekend getaways from Gurgaon within 100 kms, Tijara Fort has royal rooms and suites for the tourists. The palace got its name after India's 21 most known women painters like Pushpmala Mahal and Anju Mahal. The fort walls are adorned with their spectacular art work celebrating their legacy for years now.

Tijara Fort Palace is one of the best weekend getaways close to Gurgaon you can plan. You can enjoy a soothing walk on the terrace gardens and get a perfectly holistic spa treatment in the palace. Doesn't it sound like the best way to have a relaxing weekend?

4. Neemrana Fort


A town as old as time, Neemrana, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, is a historic town known for its architectural beauty. The main attraction of this place is the Neemrana Fort Palace, a heritage site and also a luxury hotel. Zip-lining, cultural dance and music performances, delicious Rajasthani cuisines to vintage car tours - you can do it all at the Fort Palace that operates between 9 am to 3 pm.

The entry tickets cost around INR 284 which can be clubbed with an additional INR 1,416 for a savouring lunch buffet. The prices go up to INR 2000 for the package (entry + lunch buffet) on weekends. You can also stay here for a night by booking one of their best rooms from their online booking website.

Zip-line through Neemrana with the scenic Aravalli range in the background. To add that cherry on the top, go for a traditional yet thrilling camel ride. Head out to explore the local markets to take home a handmade souvenir for your friends, family and yourself!

People living in the Gurgaon area for years know how fantastic some eateries and places on the Delhi-Jaipur Highway are. If you are not one of such people, we have a magnificent place for a perfect weekend getaway from Gurgaon - Neemrana Fort Palace. The grandeur of the palace will amaze you to bits as it not only attracts a group of history buffs who want to explore ancient forts and palaces but a newly-wedded couple on honeymoon and families as well.

You can stay in the luxurious royal rooms of the grand palace, relax with a dip in the swimming pool and relieve all the stress at the spa in the palace. In addition to the daily cultural events for tourists, the palace also offers zipline tours, vintage car rides and camel safaris to the travelers. And in the evenings, it turns into a great spot for some barbeque and whiskey.

Distance from Gurgaon - 90 Kilometers

5. Rakhigarhi


Rakhigarhi in Haryana was established as the largest settlement of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. With evidence of settlements and homes dating back over 6,000 years, Rakhigarhi is about to become India's top destination for history buffs who visit the country.

Distance from Gurgaon - 175 Kilometers

6. Haridwar


Rishikesh and Haridwar are two of the most sacred cities in India. Here were the Beatles during the 60's, and is one of the most important yoga centers in the world. Both through Rishikesh and the Haridwar pass the Ganges, which is born from the Gaumukh glacier in the Himalayas. When the waters reach this city, they remain frozen and, although not transparent, they look cleaner than those in Varanasi.

In addition, the river runs with much flow and brings with it groups who have hired the excursion to go rafting downstream. Walk along the river to the Har Ki Pauri, the sacred ghat where the Clock Tower is located and see the Aarti ceremony at night. This sacred bath ghat is also known as Brahmakund. On the other side of the shore you can see the houses like Venice, invaded by water. In addition, Haridwar is famous for the Kumbh Mela, which is held every 3 years.

The temple of Chandi Devi, located on Neel Parvat on the other bank of the Ganges river is a 3 kilometer walk from Chandighat. Maya Devi Temple is an ancient temple of Maya Devi, the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar, known as one of the Siddhpeethas. It is said to be the place where the heart and navel of Sati fell. The temple of the goddess Mansa Devi, is located in the upper part of Bilwa Parwat.

The ancient temple of Daksha Mahadev, is located in the south of the city Kankhal. The Rajaji National Park attracts lovers of nature with its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. The Dargah of Sabir Hazrat Ali Ahamed Makhdum Allauddin, just outside the city of Roorkee, is worth visiting. The tomb of Piran Kaliar Shabir Shahib in Roorkee, is a living example of the religious harmony in India.

Distance from Gurgaon - 250 Kilometers

7. Lansdowne


Lansdowne in Uttarakhand at an altitude of 1,700 meters is one of the most silent and pristine mountain resorts in India and has been a popular destination since the British have come to India. Lansdowne is well connected with bicycle tracks. In fact, it is a very popular destination among bike lovers. Lansdowne is surrounded by dense forests of oaks and pines in Pauri Garhwal.

The greenery and the beauty of the Lansdowne is quiet peaceful and gorgeous with the British era architectures and scenic hills and landscapes make this place a great treat for the people who want to explore a beautiful hill town. If you are a nature lover or looking for a romantic stay for a couple of days, then Lansdowne is the place for you. It is one of the best offbeat places in Uttarakhand. While staying here you can go for hiking and Kedarnath Yatra also.

Temples like Tadkeshwar mahadev temple, Kaleshwar mahadev temple are famous among devotees from far away places. Kaleshwar Temple is the oldest temple in Lansdowne. This temple is a special draw during Shivratri and attracts devout civilians and soldiers of the famous Garhwal regiment. Bhula Tal is an artificial lake dedicated to the soldiers of the Garhwali rifles involved in its construction.

The cool atmosphere and serene beauty of this lake is a perfect and idyllic place to spend a day of fun with friends, family or just yourself. The place has a playground, Bamboo Machan (tree house), fountains and facilities for navigation, as well as the dam areas. Kanvashram is another attraction in Lansdowne visited by several pilgrims throughout the year.

The surrounding forests, the hillocks and the meandering Malini River create an idyllic setting for the ashram. Tip-in-Top is located on the ridge. On a sunny and bright day, it is ideal for a walk to admire the enchanting views of the Himalayas. Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple is an ancient temple amid dense forests of blue pine trees, deodar and oak trees. The festival of Shivaratri is celebrated here with great fervor.

Buildings like St. Johns church and St. Mary church take us in the time of the colonial rule of the British. The war memorial and the Garhwal rifles regimental museum is a place for people who have keen interest in history. This place has dense forests and land full of trees which are ideal for any nature lover.

Bhulla tall is a small but serene lake, Tip in top point gives breathtaking view of the hills. In Lansdowne you are much closer to nature than any other famous tourist hub like Mussoorie or Nainital. This place is less explored and less crowded and can be explored in peace and tranquility.

In winter Lansdowne gets snowfall which is a great thing for travellers. The temperature also goes below zero degree. When the buildings get covered of snow. The place resembles to a European city because of its gothic style buildings. You can experience camping in the camping site by the side of river Kho.

The weather also stays pleasant. The place offers many types of adventure activities for the thrill seeking youth, flying fox, Rappelling, cliff-jumping, and trekking. Some team-building activities are also offered at various camps. For trekking, Hawaghar is the favourite destination with scenic beauty and green forest.

You can also try out Jeep safari at Kalagarh Tiger reserve which is a part of Jim Corbett tiger reserve. In reserve there are higher chances of sighting the Tiger because it comes into sunlight to get relief of the heat.

Distance from Gurgaon: 280 Kilometers

8. Morni


3,600 feet above sea level lies one of the most underrated hill stations near Gurgaon - Morni Hills. A place rich in its flora and fauna, Morni Hills offers scenic views of the Shivalik range to its tourists. Go lose yourself in the wild as you might spot some of the rarest birds and animals here.

Make sure you carry your binoculars and your best camera gear to capture the stills of the rare birds including quails and sand grouse. Spend your day camping on the side of the pristine lakes of this place, collecting pine cones from the forests nearby.

Satiate the adventure-junkie in you by trekking to Morni Fort. The 1.2 km trek passes through rocky terrains but the view of the Shivalik mountain range from the fort is breathtaking! Adjacent to the fort is an ancient Shiva temple that will give you a peek into the history of the place. The descent from the fort is steep so make sure you return before sunset.

Also, visit the Thakurdwara Temple that is known for its Trimurti (the Hindu Trinity). The Trimurti is said to date back to the 12th century AD!

Distance from Gurgaon: 305 Kilometers

Pondicherry Weekend Trip Guide

Pondicherry Weekend Trip Guide
Don’t you know what to do in India? Then come to Pondicherry. There is an artistic, bohemian atmosphere in this city and it is nowhere in India as relaxed as here. Listen carefully, maybe you’ll hear that they speak French here. Pondy, as it is known, was under French control until 1954 and Gallic history is particularly evident in the eastern part of the city.

Have you ever spent your dawn greeting the eastern shores with the rising sun, the morning eating cakes in the middle of an art gallery, your afternoon meditating in an autonomous wellness township, and your evening enjoying the sea breeze with a glass of wine? That’s the unique Puducherry experience.

Driveable from the major southern hubs of Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, it’s the place for all travellers - artists and poets, meditators and healers, adventurers and tourists. You need only your camera, some sunscreen, and your mind empty - from Auroville to Baker Street...you get the drift.

Pondy’s goal is to do as little as possible, so turn on your inner sloth. The Old Town all has curious terraced houses and cobblestone streets and you can dine here in French. If you missed the croissants, steak and red wine, get your portion here and then go to the beach.

Every corner of this charming and small coastal town of Pondicherry, now Puducherry, is a haven of peace and tranquility. It is nice to walk along the picturesque promenade or explore the colonial heritage of the city, which has remained virtually unchanged over time. As they call it, a corner of India that is forever French, Pondicherry is both colorful and intriguing.

The view of the town from light house is so bewitching. Beaches like Paradise, Promenade, Serenity call out for a laid back weekend. Pondy, as Puducherry is affectionately called, is a pleasant mix of Indian and French influences, in the architecture of its buildings, in its art and crafts, French aesthetics and rich Tamil traditions are perceived, not forgetting its gastronomy.

If you are looking for one of the best honeymoon places in India, which includes beaches, owing to their pleasant climate conditions, Pondicherry deserves mention. Also known as Puducherry, it is renowned for the pristine seaside beauty along with the French legacy preserved in various corners of this city. It has its own airport and railway station, but most prefer a road trip of 150 km from Chennai airport.

WHAT TO SEE IN PONDICHERRY


Puducherry by its name in Tamil or Pondy abbreviated with love, is a small enclave where two fundamental influences stand out: the French colonization and the spiritual movement led by Shri Aurobindo. In the first place is the French domain that is noticeable in the buildings of ocher color, still linked to galas institutions.

The boulevard facing the sea and the reticular urban design endowed this commercial port with a kind of European rationalism. There are imposing churches, although they are not the buildings that stand out the most. The pastel colors cover Our Lady of the Angels, one of the most colorful Catholic temples, hidden in the second line of the sea.

Currently several institutions of the colonial era are being recovered, in some cases for accommodation or restaurants, but also for public heritage. This is the case with the old town hall, which was in a dilapidated situation. The European heritage is something that distinguishes Pondicherry space, but it is something of the past. Now, instead, Pondicherry's living force is in spirituality.

The second influence, that of Aurobindo, has survived beyond the teacher. The Aurobindo Ashram is one of the most outstanding complexes in the city and a must-see if you are looking for a spiritual experience, as if you are just an inveterate curious. Its gray buildings occupy a large area of the white city, demonstrating the heyday of the ashram community.

Around it you will find mainly Bengali visitors who come from the state of Bengal. The place where he lived and shared his teachings Shri Aurobindo is a place of spirituality and reflection, where the faithful sit around the samadi of the teacher and the Mother to feel the special energy that emanates. It is not a grave, it is a memory space.

Another essential visit is to the temple of Ganesha or Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar. In the afternoon the elephant Laxmi arrives at the temple doors to bless the faithful. It is part of the daily routine. On the festival days, which are many, an image of the elephant-headed god is taken in procession through the city. You can check the calendar on the temple website, although it is more practical to ask when you arrive.

Finally, if you have time you can spend an afternoon at the evocative Serenity Beach or one of the beaches of the state of Puducherry.

DON'T MISS A VISIT TO AUROVILLE


Auroville is a utopian project on the outskirts of Pondicherry. It has its origin in the Aurobindo ashram, but has developed a very different space, community and way of life with much more foreign presence. Wonderful universal town in Viluppuram district, where people from different countries live in harmony. The purpose of the city is to restore human unity.

In fact, Auroville is the utopian vision of The Mother. Mirra Alfasa's story is extraordinary. This Frenchwoman left her husband in 1908 and accompanied Aurobindo a good part of her life. It was precisely he who nicknamed her The Mother. At her death, Mirra Alfasa took over the ashram, but also developed the ideas of integral yoga towards the construction of a universal city.

Auroville is also an innovative urban development project, a place of new age spirituality, a testing laboratory for sustainable companies and solidarity projects. A land paid to experiment with alternative social, economic and spiritual life forms. The visit is interesting and has as a maximum point of interest the walk to the Matrimandir, the spiritual center of Auroville.

The Aurobindo Ashram is an emblem of the city and famous throughout the world. Many are those who come to Ashram every year to learn and practice the divine teachings of integral yoga, a scientific system that helps in the harmonious development of each aspect of the individual.

You can also visit the charming experimental municipality of Auroville, near the city, where the message of love and peace between people is promoted. Its pristine beaches are another tourist attraction, providing the perfect place for a relaxed night. And if visiting the place reminds you of the Oscar-winning movie Life of Pi, don't be surprised, parts of the movie were shot here!

WHERE TO STAY IN PONDICHERRY (AND EAT)


Pondicherry is also a hedonistic city full of good restaurants and charming hotels that take advantage of French heritage and rich Tamil heritage. Two of my favorite places to sleep and also for lunch or dinner are Le Dupleix and Villa Shanti.

Dupleix - A boutique hotel with a lot of history. It is located in the house of the former governor of the rebuilt colony recovering part of its original furniture. Le Dupleix is a project of the Indian leather brand Hi Design, originally from Pondicherry, associated with the hotel chain Sarovar PĆ³rtico. Colonial furniture combined with contemporary elements, such as glass walls in some rooms. The location is perfect, next to the best restaurants, very close to the sea and the Anokhi store.

If you can't find a place in Le Dupleix, the same group has a Pondicherry classic: the Hotel Promenade. On the boulevard, next to the lighthouse and facing the sea, the Promenade is the five-star hotel in Pondicherry. It has modern rooms with colonial touches, and has a swimming pool, an ideal terrace for a drink at sunset and an excellent restaurant. The rooms need an update, so maybe it would take away the fifth star. On the other hand, the price that is very competitive for this standard.

The Shanti Villa - The most coveted boutique hotel. Also located in a colonial building, it does not maintain the historical patina, but has chosen to be a hotel with a charm of modern creativity. It is undoubtedly the most desired restaurant in the city, and the rooms have quite high prices and it is difficult to find a place. Get ready for a more minimalist design of spaces, with excellent treatment and a letter that transports you to the best bistros of the ancient metropolis. The place to have a drink with jazz rhythm.

Le Pondy Resort - The luxury hotel in Pondicherry. In the middle of the estuary, this hotel is an exclusive property that has a private beach in the Paradise Beach area. Perfect for those who want to stay two or three days in Pondicherry and take advantage of the mongrel environment of the excolonia to disconnect. It is south of the city, but a stone's throw from the white city and the best restaurants.

The guest houses of the Aurobindo Ashram are the economic option. If you are looking for a basic accommodation at a good price in Pondicherry, keep in mind this proposal that is rooted in the history of the city. They cannot be booked through online platforms. The beautiful beaches in Pondicherry can cost you nothing if you sign up to stay at Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The tourists are allowed to stay here free of cost and are even served vegetarian meals thrice a day. For a spiritual connect, spend more time at the ashram practicing Yoga along with the teachings of Mother Mirra Alfisa. Not to forget the alcohol here is dirt cheap too!

HOW TO GET TO PONDICHERRY


Mahaballipuram is very close to Chennai so many travelers skip the capital of Tamil Nadu and come directly to this small, much more picturesque and quiet town.

PONDICHERRY BY AIR

The new Chennai airport has national connections with almost all of India. The flight to Chennai from Delhi or Mumbai starts at 2500 INR.

You can use Chennai as your arrival airport for a trip through southern India. The capital of Tamil Nadu enjoys many international flights, especially via the Middle East. Qatar Airways, Etihad and Emirates are the main connections with Europe and America, but you will also find flights with Lufthansa or British Airways.

If you arrive by plane to Chennai, you can opt for a taxi ride or Ola or Uber from the airport to Pondicherry (4-5 hours). I recommend that you first stop at Mahabalipuram and it doesn't get that long.

PONDICHERRY BY TRAIN

There are daily trains arriving at Puducherry station from Tirupati, Chennai and Villupuram. From the western coast, a train leaves Mangalore that crosses the state of Karnataka and the north of Tamil Nadu. Once a week a train arrives from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Bubhaneshwar. These are multi-day trips. Book tickets on the IRCTC website.

PONDICHERRY BY CAR

From/to Mahabalipuram the journey to Pondicherry takes between 2 and 3 hours. On the way you can visit Auroville.

From/to Thanjavur the distance is similar and it will take 2-3 hours. You cannot miss Gangaikunda Cholapuram, a temple that is part of the ancient Chola Temples, a World Heritage Site. On another road, you will pass through Kumbakonam which also has temples of that dynasty.

From/to Tiruvannamalai there are about 100 kilometers traveled in 2 hours. This scale is perfect for you if you come from Bangalore or continue to Karnataka. Tirunavannamalai is one of the least known and most impressive sacred cities of Tamil Nadu.

A Blind Trip to Pulga, Kasol and Kheerganga

Would you be ready to go on a blind trip? They are also called surprise trips and mystery trips. I have always been excited about the possibility of traveling and not knowing where, such as going to the airport and taking the first plane that leaves. I am seduced by this formula of going on a trip to know the destination only at the last minute. While traveling blindfolded may seem unimaginable, it is possible to buy a plane ticket or stay at an unknown destination.

I had to be strong and contain myself so as not to cheat. Two months before the scheduled date, I could have opened the website and planned an entire trip. With a click I could have made all the bookings but what grace would it have?

For 48 days I restrained my impulses, convinced that surprise was one of the best parts of the enriching experience. I want to go on a completely blind date. For my date I only knew that as it was winter I should have enough protection for it.

Delhi to Pulga trek Parvati Valley Kasol

The Blind Date Arrives

The night before, I could hardly sleep. The mind jumped across continents. In Europe I kept visualising from Portugal to Norway, from France to Italy, from Belgium to Iceland, from Germany to Finland, from Greece to Turkey. In Asia, I kept visualising from Dubai to Tokyo and Beijing to Singapore. In America it could be from Canada to Argentina, from Chile to USA, or from Mexico to Brazil.

Which would be the chosen one? I had my predilections, but I was not going to confess it. I looked at the clock on my smartphone again. It was 2.30. Did I place the umbrella in the backpack? I went back to check the alarm to make sure that the four alarms were properly set at 5:10, 5:20, 5:30 and 5:40. I left my smartphone on the bedside table, covered my blanket up to my neck, and tried to sleep.

I jumped out of bed with the first alarm of the alarm clock. I walked to the kitchen and put the coffee pot on the fire. I looked for the clothes that I had left ready on the chair and I began to dress with some awkwardness. I'm not a morning guy. The smell of coffee flooded the house and I poured myself a cup. Black, without sugar. I sat down, still with half eyes-closed and half-dressed in bed, and took a sip. It was still too hot. I looked at the clock and it was already 5.30.

How is it possible that the minutes in the morning go by so fast? Or am I so slow in those inhospitable hours! I put the coffee aside and I finished dressing. I went to the bathroom to wash my face and teeth even knowing that I would still drink coffee, but there was no time to wait. I put more cold water around the eyes to make them look more open. I took a couple of more sips of coffee in the bathroom, because the cup comes with me wherever I go.

The time had come to unveil the great mystery. The heart began to beat hard and the hands became wet. I picked up the phone, opened Google Earth and clicked on the 'I'm Feeling Lucky' button to get the random destination that I will go. I looked at the large blue screen with white letters and scanned all the destinations with my eyes. What would be waiting for me? What would be my blind date?

My hands were shaking. And there that marker appeared with the information of my appointment. It is Pulga! I checked on the map where this place was located. It was somewhere in Himachal Pradesh. I tried to search the map for the major landmark and I could see the only known place to me was Manali. Automatically a chink appeared on my face.

I put one more sweater in my backpack, closed it, took a last sip of coffee and went out of the door. The early morning of that Delhi winter was freezing. I almost did not cross anyone in the streets that I walked till the auto rickshaw stand. I was lucky and I did not wait more than 5 minutes. Sitting on that yellow coach I fiddled with the idea of my blind date and imagined the qualities of the chosen one from food to culture, art, and elegance.

I arrived at the bus station at 7.15 am. I was nervous, in the best sense of the word, and somewhat anxious. At 8.30 am with many illusions I take an old rickety bus that in about 14 hours, I think, will take me to the first step towards Pulga. I only know that a valley in the middle of the Himalayas has to be amazing. I kept looking at the Google Maps to try to discover the possible destination. I did not succeed.

I could not sleep all the way, a little because of the discomfort of the seat, another bit because I did not want to miss anything that I saw through the window. The dense jungles after entering Himachal never ceases to end with sounds of strange birds, monkeys of all kinds, and sounds unknown to my ears.

By the way, in that journey through the unknown I ate the most flavorful samosa of all time, and I become friend with the person who invited me to that samosa. As my mind goes in disarray my new friend sitting beside me starts narrating the legend of the place. He goes on to say that somewhere in the valley, more precisely in the village of Manikaran, Shiva rested for 10,000 years, after making love for another 10,000 years with Parvati.

As a token of gratitude, Shiva heated the rocks so that future travelers could rest and meditate in a warm and comfortable place. From there, the special and spiritual nature of the place emerges. Knowing the history, the legends and the reason of the names of the places gives an extra charm.

In the late evening the bus stopped. Most passengers slept, but not me, as I was interested a little to know what was happening. The sky was totally clear, the smell of nature pervaded the place, and the strange and diverse noises that came from the bowels of the jungle made me shudder. The first thing I thought was that it was a puncture, but it was not like that. The driver lifted a lid that was inside the coach, touched few things, and started again. I do not know how.

After about 14 hours I arrived at Bhuntar, where I took a taxi to Parvati Valley. As I reach near the valley I start feeling the magic of the place. Seeing nature in all its magnitude surprised me with huge mountains separated by the force of the river. The Parvati Valley gathers a series of towns and villages, one more beautiful than the other. Not all connected by roads.

Kasol is the first of the series. It is the entrance door. And for the first time I feel foreign in my homeland. It is Israelite land. If Manali, was the small Tel Aviv, this Kasol is Tel Aviv directly. Many there speak to me in Hebrew! Although Kasol is full of tall, green pine trees, it is also full of cars, trucks and restaurants.

Delhi to Pulga trek Parvati Valley Kasol

Road to Pulga and Beyond

The morning wakes me with a scorching sun and a blue sky with few clouds. I looked at the sky and smiled. Thanks for receiving me like that, with your best face and your best sun. I thought, but I did not say it out loud because I was still walking with surprise at every step. The nerves were breathing in the atmosphere and it was great to feel the emotion of the moment. The adventure had just begun from Kasol to Pulga.

I left for Manikaran without knowing where I would end. It is the most "Indian" village in the valley, so to speak and had the feeling of returning to the deep interiors of India after a long time. In Manikaran there were no amenities for tourists, nor does much place to stay. But it has what India has, with its mysticism of rural life.

The next town that I come across is Flea near Kalga, and near Barsheni. Already more in the Valley, and no routes to get there, Flea fascinated me. The slow walk gradually leads to Pulga. It is a peasant village, with some guest-houses lost among crops. Women harvest crops with the sickle, while men carry sheep and goats to graze. I see a beautiful view of the valley that I hope save on my eyes for a long time.

I walk along paths that cross innumerable streams around the village, lie down and observe the different forms of the mountains according to the light that reaches them or the amount of clouds that accompany me that day with rain and many chillums!

I then discover the paths that lead to Kheer Ganga, the hippie paradise of the valley that also has hot springs. I did not see homes, only guest-houses and restaurants, all prepared to receive people. Khir Ganga lends itself to contemplate nature.

Here I learn about the Rainbow Gathering. What is it about? It is a movement that was born at the end of the '60s with the idea to camp and live in community with collective cooking, shared music and a little meditation among other herbs (literally). The idea is that everyone can learn what they want and teach what they know.

In Khirganga there is nothing, or there is much. It's an amazing place, as the mountains have extra energy. Hopefully it has infected me a little. Hashish is everywhere. Even in the roads. To understand a bit how life works here, I will give you three words that define in some way what surrounds life up here that is Chillum, Charas and Chai.

I live in the house of a local. In that house there are several rooms. My room consists of a bed and nothing else. One of the best things when I travel is to meet new people. It is in the blank spaces where fortunate connections occur. The problem comes in the language, although I'm sure that after a few drinks, that barrier is definitely broken. It is always good to meet new people.

An Israelite wearing necklaces in which the main part is a stone or crystal spends the day smoking in the adjoining room. The owner starts preparing a fire to prepare something hot at 6pm. It is a pleasure to lie there a while and look at the mountains and surroundings. The magic of the place is in the river, or at least I find it in the river. The huge river, full of strength does not stop surprising me with the power and intensity. And in its flow it shows the stillness.

The water passes, wets and splashes. While the shore, stones, earth and the mountains are as perennial, static, immobile. Is it a metaphor for life? Some things that should flow, go hard as the river and some other things are fixed, seems like forever. In this contrast I live and feel, seek and balance. Or at least I try.

And after this experience I have no doubt that I will repeat the mysterious trips, since it has been exciting to live the accumulation of sensations that each time I felt before the unknown.

Read more about the places to visit in Kasol and Solo Travel Tips for Kasol.

10 Tips for Travelling with Kids

10 Tips for Travelling with Kids
Are you traveling with young children and worried on how will you manage a toddler on a plane or on long haul flights? It is fun to travel with kids only when you are properly equipped and have a good idea about how to manage things. If you need some tips, do not be worried, in this article about travel you will find some useful ideas and tips to make your travelling with kids a happier one.

Imagine your pre-kids travel: unplanned, spontaneous, crazy adventures, late nights partying followed by an early morning on the bus, lazy days spent by the hotel pool or beach, busy days trekking through museums or hiking across mountains. Doing that with kids will be hard, and probably impossible.

But if you can adjust your expectations, plan a little bit and be flexible with those plans, take your kid’s needs into account and choose somewhat carefully, it can be amazing and rewarding and exhausting but definitely, definitely doable.

Age matters. A very young baby, particularly an exclusively breastfed baby with a parent who can wear them, just tags along wherever. An active, crawling baby is probably the hardest. Once they’re walking confidently it just gets easier and easier, provided you take them into account.

You need to be more optimised and thoughtful when you are traveling along with your kids. Some right ways of packing of luggage and tips for travelling with kids can be very helpful for you to make your family travel an easy one. You know your children better than anyone else so hopefully you know the secrets to keeping your children quiet, occupied, and calm during an international flight.

Start with the question, How do I keep my child preoccupied while I get stuff done at home? The answers you come up with also apply in this situation but with one big difference. While a child throwing a tantrum at home causes little to no anxiety in you, the same situation on an airplane can be extremely painful and stressful so yes, it is OK to bend your own rules a little and do everything possible including bribery, to keep your child occupied and quiet.

Here are the hacks to have ready in your arsenal.

1. Carry your kids favourite snacks


When you are travelling it may not be possible for you to buy or may be what you need is not available at every point. Therefore, pack lots of snacks, mainly your kids favourite ones, and give it to your kid as and when he/she asks for it. Snacks can be the muffins, cookies, wafers, tetra packed fruit juice, etc.

Since everybody in your group is entitled to a carry-on, get your kids to carry cool backpacks. Furthermore they can also carry a travel first aid kit and favorite snacks that they cannot live without. Keep a cooler full of snacks in case they’re hungry between stops on the road. Stop at gas station, grocery, restaurants and let them choose a few favorite munchies to grub on for the road.

Whatever feels right, in unfamiliar territory a snack they love from home can be comforting when far from it. And by allowing kids to choose their snacks during a pit stop, they have something to look forward to in each new place besides potty breaks and you looking forward to filling gas and getting back on the road.

2. Engage the boredom


Kids often get bored while travelling long distance as they do not get something to entertain themselves. Therefore, carry some good and engaging material for them so that the boredom can be tackled for few hours.

This time you have to be lenient and give your kid some screen time. Don't bring plenty of toys but only those that your kids love. Choose simply a favorite one or two. ou cannot watch the entertainment system or sleep all the time especially if it’s really a long flight. It’s a good time to make a good progress on a book that you had been putting off lately.

It’s a universal road trip rule that a kid will get bored or cranky at some point when there’s a lag in activities going on around them. That’s why utilizing screen time, familiar snacks, and playing games like I-Spy can really help pass the time between your more interesting stops.

The license plate game can be fun, naming which license plates you’ve seen from other states. Punchbug is when the kid will lightly “punch” or slap someone on the arm when they see a Volkswagen beetle or vice versa, this game is also known as a “slugbug”.

Then there’s always finding a hotel or putting a movie on a portable DVD player as a more advanced bartering chip when kids are tired of seeing the sights. It’ll happen, long hours on the road can take some time to get used to that still feels strange to children. Their favorite comfort characters on DVD are there to entertain them when you’re still navigating the road trip, and between destinations.

It can be the most breathtaking scenery and the child can still be not having it, and the movie will make those 90 minutes pass so much faster for them. If you do not have access to a DVD player try stimulating them with conversations, storytelling, or what your itinerary for the road trip may be. I went as far as drawing or reading when vacationing as a child because it was something fun to focus on when driving gets boring, which is inevitable.

Try incorporating stops on the trip just for the kids and remind them of the amenities at your hotel, resort, or campground during especially low points. They don’t always see the bigger picture and that’s okay, they’re used to routine and outlining what’s happening on the trip can give them a lot to excited about/look forward to while traveling together.

3. Naptime is important


Nonstop flights are always good when traveling internationally with a family. However, if they do not have the option of price or routing, then there should be at least 1.5 hours for your stopover. Make sure that you have enough time to move around the airport.

And if your long flights involves two flights of over six hours with a stop in between (for example, from New York to Los Angeles to Hong Kong), spend the night in an airport hotel. It will give comfort for everyone to travel.

It is important to allow your kid to nap for a while to have rest while travelling otherwise exertion will make them unmanageable. However, most of the time kids do not nap by themselves when they are travelling, hence make them sleepy while holding them on your lap. They will wake up fresh and enjoy the further part of the journey or activities.

Melatonin can work magic. Try it to help expedite naps or calm your screamer down if necessary. Benadryl for Children (no alcohol) to help take naps or calm down if necessary (only a small amount in order to get through airport security.)

Key word here is: distractions! Look for the fun in everything. Naps are always on the table especially during the long haul, phone games or other forms of screen time are always a great bartering chip when the boredom sets in.

4. Do not forget the Medicines


Many kids suffer from motion sickness while travelling. The symptoms include vomiting and headaches. This makes them more tired and cranky. Therefore, to avoid this unwanted condition of your child always carry some prescribed medicines for this. Always consult the pediatrician before travelling to the long distances.

Apart from this motion sickness medicine, carry some general yet important medicines for cough and cold, diarrhea, and headache.

5. Travel with short breaks


No matter how much distance you are going to travel, plan your trip considering your kids too. A prolonged hour of journey is going to be too hectic for your and for your kids too. Kids starts behaving irritable and cranky and will spoil your planned fun. Therefore, it is suggested that if you are planning to travel long distance then consider short breaks while travelling in order to re-energise yourself and your little monsters too.

You may have preferred to travel in public transport during your backpacker days to save costs. But when you are traveling as a family, it is always good to be more comfortable and timely. So do not think twice and instead replace it with a more expensive taxi.

But for every decision you make as a family, you can get benefits that may cost a little extra, but also can save you a lot of stress. A little more cost in a hotel near the city and the theme parks and attractions you visit are valuable, so you spent less time moving between two places.

6. Pack what is NEEDED


Prepare a packing list. Carry only those stuff in your luggage which is very much needed during travel, rather than carrying unwanted stuff and making yourself overloaded. Prefer light weight clothes both for you and for your kids, so that it can be easily washed and dried. In addition, it is much easier to pack light clothes than the heavier ones.

Remember, the smaller number of luggage, the more comfort and easy handling for you. Also remember that packing cloth is an art, try to know about it and adopt it. Do not forget to put together all of your hand luggage tags together with your passports. It’s always cold inside the flight. Also make sure you carry your sweaters or jackets with you (and not in check-in) if your destination or transits have a cold weather.

You might need it right after you exit the gates sometimes. Put some kind of a marker or a tag on your check-in luggage that distinguishes it clearly from others. This really helps in the baggage pick up area.

7. Get some hotel inclusions


Prefer to have those hotels for your stay who offer morning breakfast as an inclusion of your stay. This will help you to find good meals for you and for your kid and if you want you can pack few of them with yourself while going for the sightseeing.

You can leave your favorite baby food, wipes and diapers back home as most countries has stores that stock similar stuff. So what you need for the trip is to plan the stock for the first day or two, and buy the rest after reaching. Similarly, do not worry about bringing your own portable baby bed. Most hotels can offer them free and this is another thing that you can quickly check in advance with phone calls or reading hotel reviews.

8. Give some time for rest too


The way to succeed is through exclusion of a few popular spots during a family trip abroad. An international family vacation is probably going to involve a rather serious outlay of money in transportation, passport and visa fees alone. Explore for places that has a balance of offerings from urban and nature to relaxation and arranged activities.

Then you'll be able to keep your beach vacations fascinating for everybody. Also, you do not have to be afraid about the long journey if you can save money during the journey. Bali may require some cheap flights, for example, and once you are there you will be happy to spend $ 10 saved on spa treatment to take away the jet lag.

It will be good if you plan your activities for the day time and give your body to relax and rest at evening. It will give you the chance to enjoy the fun time next day as you and your kid are full energised and active.

9. Take help of Stroller


The baby strollers are the safest carrier while travelling. It helps in soothing the baby. Moreover, it will be easy for you to carry all baby accessories. Your baby can sleep comfortably as well.

Travelling with kids can be the most enriching and wonderful experience. It can be a nightmare too depending on the way you have prepared yourself for the journey. Just follow the above-mentioned tips for travelling with kids, and make your journey the most loved one.

Interesting Reads: How to Encourage Child to Play Outside

10. Travel hacks for international flights


Sudden travel plans are fun, but they can really put a dent in your pockets. That is why it is imperative that you plan your holidays in advance and book tickets at least 2-3 months before. It will save you a lot of money.

Always prefer an aisle seat. Most airlines let you pick your meal in advance. This comes handy especially when you have diet restrictions so that you don’t have to settle with the with the limited options they have on the flight. Most airlines will hand you over the immigration form before landing and it’s better to carry a pen with you so that you are not waiting on others.

In most cases you will also beat the immigration line if you are well prepared with the documents before others. Most airlines now a days provide a limited complimentary wifi and let you upgrade to a premium full flight internet for a fee. It’s totally worth buying it (it’s typically ~10$) especially if you are working and want internet to check emails or browse.

Enroll in the airlines frequent flyer program and use your membership number for all your purchases. Who doesn’t like free upgrades or lounge access once in a while?

Keep these tips in mind for your next trip and enjoy a hassle free fun holiday with kids.

15 Tips for Planning the Dream Family Holiday

Travelling is such an amazing experience and when you involve your family it gets even better! Whether you are a small family with two parents and one child, or you have decided to go on holiday with all your siblings, children, grandparents, you will be making memories that will last a lifetime for you all. Here are few tips to overcome travel blues and plan the dream family holiday.

While it is nice to have fun and relax on vacation and not be worried, it is also important to be safe and take simple preventive measures like wearing a helmet or packing up a first aid kit. Any situation can spin quickly or differently from out of your hands, so simple actions can make a difference! However, if you think you can be in this type of situation ever, here are a few hints regarding how to be found more quickly and easily.

Is a family vacation no longer exciting? Has it become simply one more chore that must be gotten through each year? If so, it's time to mix things up. If this sounds like something your family would enjoy, a trip of this type should definitely be planned.

Tips for Planning the Dream Family Holiday

Following are some tips that will be helpful in planning the perfect adventure vacation for your family.

1. GPS


The best advice I have is not to get lost in the beginning. GPS is a great tool, but knowing whether condition, closest town is north, south, east or west, will help fill the gap when the batteries are empty.

If you are on the water, ensure that your boat has enough fuel or a good radio, preferably both. Another free way to find yourself is to inform someone in your home about your itinerary and the expected arrival time. It's not perfect, but, it helps us to determine the accurate location.

2. Life Jacket


When sailing, the US Coast Guard approved life jackets that I'm sure you always carry with you. They look nice on black, but black, blue, dark green and other similar shades are not so easy to see from our plane, especially at night. Make a fashion statement in international orange, start a trend!

Even with a life jacket, you only have about 7 hours in 60 degrees of water when you wear light clothing. The color of your life jacket can make a difference. An inflatable lifejacket is a great compromise between style and visibility.

3. Flashlight


A flashlight is an excellent tool. The wonders of modern science have given us incredibly bright flashlights, perfect for illuminating the dark night, pointing things out and blinding small animals and friends. If an aircraft or a rescue boat searching for you at night, it will be easier to find if you flash the light towards the search element.

An alternative choice is an actual strobe light, as it does the flashing for you. Remember the night is dark and although we have interesting objects like night vision goggles, All they do is make the night less dark.

However, if you use a flashlight or strobe, it will come out like a sore thumb. When you visit the internet, you will find impressive laser emergency signals. It sounds great, but remember that planes take lasers very seriously and you may just cause them to depart scene instead of pick you up.

Pilots, cannot distinguish the difference between a benign laser signal and a dangerously powerful laser that can affect our vision. For instance, you shouldn't ever lase a plane, regardless of how much you need to observe how far your awesome new toy goes. It's a federal crime and taken very seriously nowadays.

No less than the FBI is knocking at your door to inform you about your upcoming fines and possible prison sentences. Seriously, a man in California got 14 years jail for lasing a police helicopter and a Medevac helicopter.

4. Signal Mirror


In broad daylight, it can be difficult for your flashlight to compete with this great torch in the sky: the sun. With the signal mirror, you can take advantage of the sun in your favor. You need some practice to use them correctly, but they don't have batteries or other electronic devices that can die in difficult times.

You can also use it to make your hair perfect for the rescue selfie when help arrives. The most effective tools to be found quickly is PLB (Personal Locating Beacon) or 406 EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon). Nowadays they are a similar size to some decks of cards and are quite cheap for their abilities.

All you have to do is press a button (and perhaps lift an antenna) and send a signal with your information and your position to a satellite-monitored by the Air Force. The rescue teams will head your way. On land, reach a higher place if you're able to. While you simply need to see the sky for the satellite to receive the signal, mountains and such causes it to be difficult for an aircraft to home in on it.

If you buy one, register it according to the instructions. Registration is free Just go to the website and enter the information. That way if it goes off by chance, the company can call you besides launching the fleet. In addition to the simple EPIRB, there are many types of GPS positioning devices are available in the market. Do some research, see what is right for you.

5. Emergency Survival Blanket


Let's say, you are in trouble already and no way to help come today. A space blanket is a great thing to take with you. They are incredibly compact because of the insulation they provide. Seriously, you would not believe that a super thin reflective mylar would really do much, but it really does. They are also light reflective and shiny, can be used as a signal device.

And they came from space. Ok, no, they didn't, I made that up. But I will suggest you take one and check it out. It is not a bad idea to pack some rations in case of emergencies because nothing is more miserable than getting stuck in the middle of nowhere hungry and thirsty. Just don't drink salty water.

I would also recommend taking some first aid items with you. Because most people get in distress is caused by injury, so if you have anything to help, you can make a difference while waiting for help.

If you think of the cost of survival items, you should consider this as an insurance policy. Of course, if you get some of the luxurious things, it can cost a few hundred dollars, but wouldn't you pay a few hundred dollars to not disappearing in the ocean?

Consider the difficulty of finding flight 370 from Malaysia Air and remember that you are much smaller than a jumbo jet. There is no accurate solution for being found, even an EPIRB 406 has its limits. But something is certainly better than nothing in terms of survival. Have a look around, do your homework, and find out what best meets your needs.

Here is a list of Safety Items to Consider.
  • Waterproof Floating LED Flashlight.
  • Light and Waterproof Medical Kits.
  • Emergency Survival or Space Blanket.
  • Personal Locating Beacon with 406 MHz + ACR PLB-375 ResQLink.
  • Strobe and 121 MHz Homing Beacon, Floating PLB, Built-In GPS.
  • PA Plus Chemical Water Treatment - Coleman Potable Aqua.
  • StarFlash Emergency Signal Mirror.
  • ACR Firefly Pro Led Strobe Light.
  • UST Wetfire Tinder.
  • Inflatable Life Vest PFD-Revere ComfortMax Auto.

6. Consider the needs of the group


When traveling as a family, it is important to make sure everyone's needs are met. For example, if someone has a medical condition, have you checked that they can be cared for where you are going? It is a good idea to do some research into the country's medical care system, so you know what to do if an emergency arises.

If you have young children, you need to know that you can take enough of their milk in your case, or at least be able to get it at your destination. Does someone in your party have a food allergy? Check how easy it will be for them to find food on your holiday. It may seem like hard work, but it is important to consider everyone in the group.

It can be hard to find something the entire family enjoys doing together. Doesn't it always seem as if one person wants to be difficult and refuses to participate in fun things? When planning the trip, try to make sure everyone gets time for their favorite activity.

7. Do your research


Research about the place you are traveling to so that you can visit the best historical places or restaurants or landmarks without wasting too much time.

The more you learn about somewhere before you go, the better time you will have. Make sure you read up about standard things like the currency and climate, but also etiquette and laws — the last thing you want is to make a faux pas on your first night — or something even worse. Find out where is cheap to eat, drink and visit. Also look up where are the safest spots or places to avoid, so you are not surprised when you arrive.

It can be hard to find something the entire family enjoys doing together. Doesn't it always seem as if one person wants to be difficult and refuses to participate in fun things? When planning the trip, try to make sure everyone gets time for their favorite activity. Don't stop here, however. Try something new while vacationing.

This may be canyoneering, zip linings, or exploring a volcano. Families that take the time to do so may find they have finally discovered an activity the entire family enjoys doing together.

Spend time learning about the host city before you travel. When the family arrives, it is interesting to know the background of major buildings and other attractions in the area. Furthermore, this research can lead the family to learn about a new food or a new type of dance found in the city. They may wish to try this dish or plan an evening out on the town to try the dance.

People who overlook this step often find they miss out on one or more great things about this destination simply because they neglected to do their research.

Whether you are travelling abroad or within your country, studying up about the travel destination may very well prove to be a lifesaver. Find out everything you can about the place; its weather, the culture, the prevailing political conditions, most reasonable yet safe accommodations for tourists and places that should be avoided.

Make a list of tourist attractions to visit that are safe. Also, keep an eye on the local news and what is happening around the region to make sure you do not get any surprises when you visit your destination.

When you choose a travel destination you need to keep some points in mind. Let's see some of those points. What are your expectations from your holiday? What is your travel budget? How many people are there with you? are you single or in a group? How many days travel are you planning? When you answer all the questions you must now plan your next course of action.

That is to book your tickets and start shopping the necessary items for your vacation to the place you are traveling. Now it so happens that we also need to save up some expenses as to have money in case of any emergency when we are travelling or going on a vacation. So here are some smart tricks to cut down on expenses.

In these days of internet avail online offers which can be of great help to you and save a lot of your money. Use of public transport instead of cabs and private vehicle. If you are student do ask if there are any student offers available and don’t shy just ask. Keeping extra cash with you might just help you in some kind of emergency situations.

Use food delivery apps for food as there are many exciting offers which you can avail on the go. With all these simple hacks you in the last will have save at least have the money and cut your travel expenses by 30 percent.


8. Save up


If you want to go on your dream holiday you might be looking at quite a pricey trip. Look at ways you can save money in your everyday life to allow you to put more towards spending money for your holiday. For example, could you cut down the number of takeouts you have in a month? Are there any subscriptions you could give up for a few months while you save up? The little things you cut down now will allow you to have an amazing time on your trip.

9. Get excited!


One of the best parts of going on holiday is the anticipation! Let your children get involved in the research; looking at pictures of where you are going, thinking of activities they would like to do, and making a countdown. This will also help them with any anxiety about travel they may feel if this is their first trip away from home. Discuss where you will be staying and what they can expect to help them feel excited.

10. Plan — but not too much


The first day of a trip is usually spent on getting used to the surroundings and getting your things in order. Hauling your things from one place to another and making sure all your luggage has arrived in one piece can take a while. Therefore, it is best to plan the first 24 hours of your trip ahead of time.

Estimate the time it would take for you to reach from the airport to your hotel or resort where you have reserved your accommodations. Take a walk around the place you are staying to get acquainted with your surroundings. This may also help you to shake off any fatigue or jetlag from travelling.

After doing so, you can also look for a relaxing spot - a heated pool or a spa - to end your day in a relaxing manner after a long day that has been spent travelling.

As soon as you know that you want to go away for awhile, you should start to research and plan. You will feel more stressed the less time you have to get things done, so it is important that you start this process as soon as you possibly can. This way, you will be a lot more organised, and should avoid making any frustrating mistakes. Booking early also means that you will save money on flights and accommodation, so you will have a more flexible budget to work with.

Take every family member into consideration when making the travel arrangements. While it may seem wiser to try to fly non-stop to the destination, determine how long this will take and how younger children will be affected. It's hard for a young child to sit still for hours on end, even when flying on an airplane. It may be best to plan this flight for the overnight hours, so the kids sleep a portion of this time.

This means parents will spend fewer hours trying to keep them entertained so they don't annoy fellow travelers. This is only one of many ways travel arrangements play a role in the success or failure of the adventure vacation. Parents know their children best and what they can and cannot tolerate. They must keep the child's likes and dislikes in mind when planning every portion of the trip.

Setting an itinerary is a great way of making sure that everyone gets to see and do everything they want, but if you plan everything too strictly it may take the fun away from it and won't allow for any spontaneity. If you feel as though you are rushing from one thing to another you might not feel able to enjoy what you are doing at the time!

Allow spaces for resting, spontaneous adventures and even time for doing nothing at all. You will be glad you did! If you will be traveling with your family, ensure that you find a destination that has fun activities for kids. Disney world would be great for you in this regard.

11. Think about what you want


Before you travel it is important to think about what it is that you want to get out of the experience. Is the primary reason to relax and recharge? Or are you looking to get active and try new things? Do you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, or get your adrenaline pumping with activities? Make sure that you all know what to expect from the holiday so that no one is disappointed.

12. Should I Buy a Full-Fare Ticket or Travel Insurance?


When flexibility is key, travel insurance may not offer complete coverage. Many individuals look to travel insurance policies to cover their travel investment in the worst case scenario. If a traveler is forced to cancel their trip due to a family emergency, work reasons, or a sick pet, they often believe that purchasing travel insurance early is their best bet.

Is there a better way to make sure travelers are covered in every scenario? Travelers who opt to purchase a full-fare ticket (also known as an unrestricted ticket) don't just get the added luxuries of being at the top of the upgrade list and preferential treatment if a flight is delayed by weather or other situations.

Those travelers who pay the higher price have the most flexibility when it comes to their travels. In many situations, full-fare fliers can change their plans without the fees many other travelers face. If flexibility is critical, which makes more sense: the full-fare ticket, or purchasing travel insurance early? Depending on your needs, both options have key advantages and disadvantages.

Often referred to as "Y" tickets in economy, full-fare tickets are exactly what the name suggests: a ticket sold at the full price, unlike discount tickets that come from lower fare codes. In return for paying full price, the full-fare ticket comes with the most flexibility for travelers.

On many air carriers, full-fare ticket rules allow travelers to change their plans with little or no penalty, including changing dates and other plans. In addition, those who hold a full-fare and frequent flier status with their airline are immediately bumped to the front of the first class upgrade line.

However, these tickets are called "full-fare" for a reason. A "Y" ticket can often cost the same price (if not more) as a round-trip business class or first-class ticket. While some frequent fliers have found ways to skirt the issue, the full-fare ticket comes with a significantly higher price tag.

It's important to note that while "Y" tickets are more flexible than their counterparts, the tickets do not carry any form of insurance attached to them. That is, while a traveler would be able to cancel their ticket with little to no restrictions, the ticket would offer very limited assistance in the event of an extended trip delay or interruption due to weather or another qualifying event.

13. Manage Your Wealth and Valuables


If you are travelling within your country, make sure you have a reasonable amount of cash with you in case you cannot find an ATM upon your arrival and have to pay for services and amenities. In case you are travelling abroad, find a bank with an ATM to make a withdrawal in the local currency.

Avoid using public ATMs in airports or shopping malls as they have a high risk of having skimming or card reading devices, thus increasing the risk of credit card fraud. Also, inform your bank about your travel plans ahead of time as they tend to increase the monitoring on your credit card activity for credit card fraud detection.

It is needless to mention that you must take extra care of your valuables including your jewellery, wallet, passport and other travel and identity documents that you are carrying with you.

14. Should I buy travel insurance?


For those travelers on a budget, travel insurance is the cost-effective way to ensure assistance while far from home. For a fraction of the total trip cost, a travel insurance policy can cover qualifying situations requiring a traveler to cancel their trip, medical costs if the traveler needs to visit a hospital, and even medical evacuation if an air ambulance is required.

While travel insurance can help travelers safe, it doesn't cover every situation. For example, travelers who purchase their plans after a "known event," such as a natural disaster or terrorist attack, may not have coverage for situations related to the event.

In practice: if a traveler purchases travel insurance after a major earthquake and an aftershock happens after arrival, then the travel insurance may not cover claims resulting from the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks. In addition, not all trip cancellation reasons may be covered. While an illness or injury may be covered under the trip cancellation clause, cancelling for a work reasons may not be covered.

If flexibility is a must, travelers who purchase early can often access cancel for any reason benefits from their travel insurance provider. Under this benefit, travelers can cancel their trip at their discretion and still receive some reimbursement. However, purchasing a cancel for any reason benefit can add up to 40 percent to the price of an insurance policy.

In addition, many travel insurance providers limit how much travelers can receive when canceling for any reason, meaning a full refund may not be possible.

At the end of the day, which makes more sense? While some travelers will appreciate the flexibility of a full-fare ticket, the provisions of a good travel insurance policy may provide just as much protection. By understanding how both work, travelers can make the best decisions for their next adventure.

15. Pack versatile clothing


A good rule of thumb when packing clothes for travel is to go for items that can be versatile. They will help to dress up or dress down for outdoors or indoors on their own or as part of a layered look. Neutral colors and light materials will help you save packing space and give you plenty of options. Have a think about what you will be doing whilst you are away and only pack what you need.

If you follow these tips you will have a fantastic time and before you even land at home you will all be wanting to plan your next family holiday! Explore this travel blog for more inspiring travel articles to motivate and help you for preparing your next dream trip. Do you have any other tips? Leave them in the comments!

Books To Read Before Traveling To India

India is a vast expanse of stunning landscapes which is the perfect blend of age-old tradition and modernity. Filled up to the brim with architecturally magnificent monuments and gorgeous temples, India is an avid explorers paradise. But for a first-timer coming to the country on cheap flights from USA to India, the visit can seem a bit daunting.

Where to begin and what to see first are common questions that plague a first-time visitor to India. So to help you with your India trip, we have brought together an incredible list of the best India travel guidebooks. You can go through one or more of these books to read before travelling to India for a better understanding of this mystical country.

books to read before travel to India

1. Lonely Planet India Travel Guide


It is a good idea to read this book before you board those last minute flights to India. Known the world over for their exceptional travel content, the Lonely Planet India Travel Guidebook is one of the best books about travel, taking its readers on a magical tour of various Indian destinations.

From maps, captivating pictures, personal experiences, and cultural insights to suggested itineraries and helpful tips on how to save money, you will find it all in this guidebook making it truly one of the best India travel guidebooks ever.

2. Enjoying India: The Essential Handbook


One of the best India travel guidebooks written by JD Viharini, this book is all-inclusive of the hidden, unexplored side of incredible India. Whether you are booking those cheap business class flights to India to stay for a week, a month, or a year, read this essential guidebook before making the trip.

What makes this one of the best India travel guidebooks is that it teaches you how to deal with Indian culture as a local would do. There is never an end to true learning and once you are done going through this travel guide, fly down to India and see for yourself how much of it is true.

3. India - Culture Smart! The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture


This is one of the best books to read before traveling to India as it speaks quite bluntly of the culture and general vibe of the country. Detailing the tradition and cultural habits of a particular place, this is one of the best books for travelling to teach you how to deal with different situations while in the country.

A good buy even if just to read up on the culture of India, this book will teach you the proper way of greeting, communicating and understanding the people of a country you practically know nothing about. It is one of the best cultural guidebooks on India.

books to read before travel to India

4. Around the World in 80 Trains: A 45,000-Mile Adventure


A first-time visit to India can be daunting for anyone as the country is so incredibly vast. This is one of the best books to read while backpacking to India to read when trying to plan out your trip itinerary. Detailing highlights of major cities, their top attractions, major monuments, places to eat at, as well as the must-do-must-see list, this India travel book is your perfect travel guide to India.

In fact, it would be great if you wanted to bring it along on the trip as well. This comprehensive guidebook is especially helpful when visiting major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and others.

5. India Travel Guide: The 30 Best Tips For Your Trip To India - The Places You Have To See


This is one of the best India travel guidebooks through which you can explore the rich cultural heritage of the country. The book is an absolute thorough guide of do's and don'ts, what to wear, how to behave, important tourist attractions/destinations, and other major-cum-minor details.

This is one of the best Indian travelogues which is informative and engaging at the same time, providing top tips on how to handle a trip to this incredibly fascinating country. The interesting guidebook gives in detail all the information of pretty much every major travel destination in the country in a very easy-to-understand manner.

So this was all about the best books about India to read before traveling to India and if you have read this then don't hesitate to read about some of the best unseen places in India so that you will have idea as to where to go once you land here. Like, comment and share this article if you find it worthy. Don't forget to stay in touch. Adios!