Chocolates, flowers, fancy dinners, expensive gifts, sweet nothings, and late night goodbye kisses; what happens when you add a bit of travel to your idea of a perfect New Year date? It shoots up the list to become one of your most memorable ones.

Here are five incredible ideas for a truly unforgettable New Year date. Seal your love with an amazing backdrop of an exotic destination. Read on and get mystified…

Inside a Palace Put together the most romantic city in the world with one of the world’s best hotels, a fancy room with a private pool, personal butler service, and uninterrupted views of the loveliest little lake in the heart of India. And what would you get? A stay at the famous Oberoi Udaivilas Hotel! A New Year date here will be nothing less than a dream come true.

Under the Stars
So how about spending a wintery night under the stars on the sand dunes of Jaisalmer? You can do it with an overnight jeep safari from Khuri right into the heart of the desert. Enjoy a camel ride to your camp, enjoy traditional performance of Ghoomar on the dunes, where your personal cook will prepare for you a scrumptious Rajasthani meal. Daal-bati-choorma on the desert, anyone?

On a Houseboat Sail through the palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala with your beloved and watch time come to a standstill. Discover hidden backwater lanes, watch a traditional Kathakali dance performace by the Vembanad Lake, shop for exotic spices and cardmoms in the local markets and discover love once again snuggled amid absolute serenity.

On a Beach
Hailed as the best beach in Asia by the Time Magazine in 2004, one look at the turquoise waters of Radhanagar Beach in Andaman Islands can sweep you off your feet. Lie on a hammock with your better half all day long, read your favourite book together, enjoy running along with the waves, and if the sun gets a bit too much to handle, snorkel your way into the water to uncover Havelock's pristine underwater world. And of course, watching the sunset from Radhanagar beach is an absolutely amazing experience.

In the Hills
Picture this: End of December, New Year's Eve, a chill in the air, a fire and a camp to keep you cozy, and the light of your life by your side - a perfect setting for love, isn’t it! So don’t wait, get up on the hilly Himalayas, set a camp by a gurgling brook, light up a fire, keep the wine bottle ready, snuggle close to each other, and make a new year resolution to stay together for life.

Stay tuned for I’ll be back with more such places soon, and this time we’ll venture outside India to discover some of the most romantic New Year destinations in the world. Ciao!

New Year without its fair share of resolutions is like bread without butter. And what better way to welcome 2013 than by continuing your love for travel!  So, where is it that you are heading to in the future? What is your travel mantra for the coming year? While you scribble and strikeout some ideas, we bring you a list of resolutions that we hope you won’t break!

Foodie Trail: Every city in the world is bursting with its own signature flavours, learn to appreciate them. Let loose the gastronomer in you! Feast on global cuisines like the coastal fare of South India, authentic Indonesian curries at Batam Island or gourmet lasagnes and pizzas of Italy. Your taste buds will be elated. Try it!

Savvy Souvenirs: Forget about those cheesy Taj Mahal or Eiffel Tower replicas. While on holiday, shop for an exclusive souvenir like a vintage face mask from Venice or a handmade coconut shell vase from Kerala.Photo Credit: Daniel Wabyick from San Francisco/Wikimedia CommonsAdrenaline Rush: Jump, swim or fly… scream for adventure! Try bungee jumping, sky diving, paragliding and other thrilling activities. The excitement of pushing your limits is truly exciting.

Get Sporty: Attend at least one live sporting event! To start with, 2013 calls for the Grand Prix in Melbourne (March 14-17), French Open in Paris (May 26 - June 9), Wimbledon in London (June 24 - July 7) and many others. Plan in advance to get the best seats and save money too!

Indulgent Ways: Pamper your senses with Ayurvedic therapies in Kerala or a quaint spa ticked amidst one of many Thailand’s tropical islands. Away from blaring city life, surrender to a whole new world of wellness and rejuvenation... Photo Credit: Subbotina Anna/ShutterstockHit the Road: Plan a road trip with friends. The idea of traversing through the rugged path, crossing hilly mountains and having paranthas sitting on charpais en route is unbeatable. 

Festival Fervour: Experience the charm and mysticism of the Kumbha Mela first hand. Lucky for you, 2013 brings the Maha Kumbh, the most-revered significant religious fair that happens every 12 years. Seek divine intervention as you bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges in Allahabad. 

Movie Madness: You’re not a true film buff until you’ve treaded the paths of your favourite superstars. Get clicked at exact spots where Hollywood/Bollywood movie scenes were filmed. Bhimtal was the chosen ground for Koi Mil Gaya, The Dark Knight Rises was shot in Jodhpur while Ek Tha Tiger was filmed in Istanbul and Iraq. 

Swiss Surprise: Save the best for last, Switzerland! Surrender to the picturesque, snow-clad Alps, towering glaciers, crystal clear lakes and you won’t be disappointed for a single second  Live like an ascetic if required, but stock away enough moolah for this dream destination.

“In religion all other countries are paupers; India is the only millionaire".

                                                                                           ~ Mark Twain

Typically, in India, whenever we start something new, visiting a religious place to seek blessings is a must. Similarly, welcoming the New Year on a religious note is considered auspicious by many. What better way to celebrate the richness of India and usher in 2013 than by travelling to the country’s popular religious destinations.

The Golden Temple, Amritsar, Punjab
The golden hue of the majestic gurudwara amidst the calm and holy sarovar (lake) soothes you the moment you enter the Golden Temple complex. The main sanctorum, Darbar Sahib, houses the Adi Granth, which encapsulates the essence of Sikh philosophy. Architecturally grand, the circular dome of the temple is covered in 100 kilograms of gold. Listening to the gurbani (religious chants) inside the temple is an experience to treasure. Don’t forget to eat the delicious kadha prasad (holy offering).

Tip: Photographers should head out at the break of dawn or late at night for majestic shots of the temple.

Vaishno Devi, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
Photo Credit: Abhishek Chandra/Wikimedia CommonsThe most popular shrine in North India, Vaishno Devi, situated at 5,300 feet in the Trikuta Hills, is visited by over 12 million tourists every year. In the winter, the shrine is gently clothed in snow and makes for a gorgeous sight. People from all walks of life come together for the 13 kilometre trek to the temple. According to popular belief, only the fortunate receive mata’s (Goddess) call to scale the mountains to receive blessings from the idols in the form of pindis (rock formations).

Tip: Don’t forget to stop at the Gulshan Kumar Bhandara near Ban Ganga towards the end of your trek. The free food service for pilgrims is a mouthwatering delight.

Shirdi, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra
There’s  no better way of ushering in new times than visiting the sanctuary of brotherhood and simplicity in Shirdi, the holy town of Sai Baba. This is where Sai Baba is believed to have performed miracles and left his mortal body for his heavenly abode. Even if you’re not a believer or follower of Sai Baba, the ambience of the temple complex is a spiritual and emotional experience. Listening to the joyous music of the Sai Baba aarti (prayer) makes the journey complete.

Tip: Have you seen houses with no doors? Do visit the unique village of Shani Shinganapur (a short distance from Shirdi) where houses have no doors or windows. Locals believe that the presiding deity Lord Shani keeps them safe. The town has had no robberies for over 150 years!

Ajmer-e-Sharif, Ajmer, Rajasthan
Photo Credit: Sreenivasan Ramakrishnan/www.sreeni.orgIt doesn’t matter if you are a believer or have no religious affiliations, a visit to Ajmer-e-Sharif is for everyone. The dargah of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti is dedicated to the Sufi saint and is known to fulfill the wishes of people who visit. The atmosphere around is buzzing with devotion let you experience tranquility. In recent times, the dargah has been frequented by Bollywood celebrities who pray here before the release of their movies.

Tip: Don’t forget to experience the famous Qawwali at the Mehfil-e-sama, in front of the dargah after prayers. The Sufi melodies will transport you to another world.

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa
One of the most popular attractions of Goa is also a place of immense faith. The 400-year old Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier inside a crystal tomb. Come Christmas, the Basilica is decorated with lights and Nativity scenes. The festivities continue well into the New Year. With multiple budget hotel options in Goa, this is the perfect place to usher good tidings.

Tip: Lighting candles in the Basilica is a popular tradition. What you wish for will come true here!

MakeMyTrip sells flights, buses and trains to these destinations along with several holiday packages.

Just a little over a month for the New Year countdown to begin! Wondering what your plans are for New Year’s eve? Party the night away with your buddies at the hippest club in town? Or enjoy a five-course meal and a bottle of your favourite champagne with your loved one at that swanky restaurant? We suggest better. How about going for an international holiday to experience first-hand, the wackiest ways there are to usher in the New Year!

Breaking Dishes on the Neighbour’s Door - Denmark
Photo Credit: antwerpenR/ FlickrCall it strange and weird, but it’s customary in Denmark to collect cups, glasses and crockery throughout the year for this night only to break them at your neighbour’s door. Strangely, this practice makes the Danish happy instead of annoying them!  The family with the highest tower of broken crockery is considered to be the luckiest as it signifies that they have a lot of friends.

Balls of Fire - Scotland
Photo Credit: Platform 3/FlickrThis bizarre Scottish New Year celebration has more than a dash of danger attached to it. Commonly known as the Hogmanay festival, it takes place on the 31^st of December every year. In Stonehaven, men parade the streets holding balls of chicken wire filled with newspaper, rags and sticks that sometimes measure up to two feet wide! At midnight, the balls are set on fire and attached to the head of the creator with the help of a three feet long chain. Thousands of visitors gather around to watch the spectacle as these fireballs are continuously swung around their heads. Legend has it that in Pagan times, fireballs represented the sun and were used to ward off evil spirits and purify the world.       

Wearing Polka Dots - Philippines
Photo Credit: slightly everything/FlickrImagine an entire city dawned with polka dots. That is exactly what happens on New Year’s eve in Philippines. Walking down the street you will find people of all shapes and sizes wearing polka dots, and it doesn’t stop there; even the food and fruits on the dining tables are round shaped. Filipinos regard this wacky tradition as a symbol of future good fortune, associating the round dots to coins and wealth.                                                                                     

Dinner for One - GermanyPhoto Credit: T.S.123/WikimediaImagine watching the same show every year, with the same dialogues and same script? Torture! However, tell this to the Germans and they’ll disagree. As the clock strikes midnight on December 31^st, Germans plonk in front of their televisions to watch a 1963 English comedy titled “Dinner for One”. What appears to be the most frequently repeated TV program ever, according to Guinness Book of World Records, has never been aired in the United Kingdom or United States, most aren’t even aware of its existence! If you happen to be in Germany on New Year’s eve, walk into a bar and shout the film’s signature refrain “The same procedure as last year, madam?” You are sure to get a shout back from the crowd almost instantly, “The same procedure as every year, James.”                                                                                                           

Diving into Sub-zero Temperature - Siberia
This has got to be one of the most whimsical New Year traditions! Lake Baikal, in southeast Serbia, known to be the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lake, plays host to a bizarre new year event - one that is not for the faint hearted. On New Year’s eve, as the lake’s temperature dips to as low as -20 degrees, professional scuba divers dive down 40 metres while others folk dance around a tree according to a local tradition. Just the mere act is enough to give anyone the chills (literally!)

And this last one will have you in splits…

Wearing Colourful Underwear - South America
Photo Credit: Sangudo/FlickrIn Mexico, Brazil, Bolivia and other South American states, locals welcome the New Year by wearing colourful underwear. Red symbolises a passionate love life, while yellow stands for money and wealth, and the list is endless. According to this bizarre tradition, locals express their wishes via their underpants!                                                                           

You’re probably reconsidering your plans now. With MakeMyTrip you can let your wild side loose and do something different this year. Pick your favourite New Year’s eve tradition from the list above, book your flight to the country of your choice and bring in 2013 in a whole new way!

♫♫ I got a feeling... woohoo!
That tonight's gonna be a good night!!
That tonight's gonna be a good, good night!!! ♫♫

Ahoy! It’s that time of the year again when we bid farewell to the present year and welcome the new one in.  Unlimited fun, parties and carousing coming our way with the entire world soaked in the colour of festivity and joy! While we bid adieu to 2012, after all the speculations of whether we shall ever see the dawn of 2013 or not, I think this New Year deserves a feisty, warm and hearty welcome. I remember my granny saying, “it’s how we spend the first day of the year that sets the mood for the entire year”. So, why not spend New Years’ eve in the best way we can? Traverse around the world to witness some of the best and grandest New Year celebrations ever. Music, dance, parties, fireworks, epicurean delights, all this and so much more! 

Go Goa!Photo Credit: Ritesh Saini/FlickrTalk about New Years’ celebrations and the first thing that comes to mind invariably is Goa! From eclectic carnivals to electric New Year bashes, Goa is without a doubt, the party capital of India. Although a prime holiday destination all round the year, Goa is at its sparkling best during the last few weeks of December. Not just a hub for hardcore party animals, Goa is also a favourite with those looking to enjoy some quiet time on its beaches. From wild beachside festivities in North Goa to peaceful traditional Goan flavours in South Goa, this beachside paradise manages to pep-up just about everyone!

Awe-striking Australia!
As the clock strikes 12, the magical procession at Sydney Harbour begins and leaves the world awestruck. Renowned for one of the best fireworks display in the world, the famous Harbour of Lights Parade at Sydney Harbour ensures that the rest of the world has a tough act to follow. Thousands of tourists swarm in every year to witness the elaborate exhibit of enthralling fireworks and breathtaking aerial displays that start in the afternoon and continue well past midnight.

Viva Las Vegas!

Where’s the party tonight? Well, in Vegas you don’t have to look for a dance floor. On New Years’ eve, the streets of Vegas are the ultimate party floor. The streets are closed down to vehicular traffic and thousands of revellers throng  here to let their hair down. Midnight witnesses a mesmerising fireworks display shot off from the roof of seven different hotels and casinos and then the party goes even crazier. After all, Vegas ain’t called Sin City for nothing! While those who wish to ward away from the street crowd to join in the parties in clubs and casinos, ensure you make reservations in advance, failing which you may not be allowed inside.

Luxuriating London!

As the iconic bells of Big Ben chime at midnight, millions have their eyes upon the London Eye fireworks display. Every bit electrifying and spectacular, this sight is not only the most widely viewed live but also one of the most widely watched spectacles on TV. While the sky is bedazzled with an array of sparkling colours, standing at the shores of the Thames River is the chosen spot for spectacular views.

Glitzy New York!

Well, if you haven’t “watched the ball drop”, then you have missed the largest New Years’ celebration in the world. More than a million people from all across the world flock to the Big Apple to witness this historic event at Times Square in New York, where a giant confetti ball is dropped over the city at the stroke of the midnight. Offering star-studded performances, fireworks, music and pyrotechnics, Times Square is the place to be.

So, it’s time to ditch those house parties and make the most of 31st December, 2012. If you think there is a better place with a better experience, do share them with us. Wishing you a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2013! 

‘Jungle, jungle baat chali hai pata chala hai, arey chaddi pehen ke phool khila hai'

Remember this catchy tune? Of course, more than half of us do!

In all honesty, I still want to live the life of Mowgli (only with a few more pieces of clothes on my body!).  This time of the year (cool and pleasant) is the best time to swing from tree to tree, bellowing out the famous war cry of a certain someone called Tarzan. Yeah, that’s my secret jungle fantasy, what’s yours?

Camping in the jungle with your family or friends can be so much fun. Away from all the distracting gadgets (no more T.V. or smartphones or internet), you come close to nature and its wildest creations.

So without much ado, here are my pick for the three best wildlife sanctuaries that you and your family can visit and enjoy!

Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Banks of River Beas | Photo Credit: Aurvi Sharma & Jayita EkkaFor tourists, Corbett is open from mid November to mid June. The months of December and January are the best time to enjoy the scenic beauty and the sight of wild animals lazing around in the warm sun. Bengal Tigers are the prime denizens of the jungle here that spreads over 500 square kilometres. They share the habitat with elephants, hog deer, Himalayan black bear, langurs, monkeys and leopards that stay in the highlands. There are over 600 species of birds and 25 species of reptiles that migrate to or inhabit the park.

What’s the most thrilling thing to do here? Well, that’s easy – go on a jungle safari! One can witness the wildlife at Corbett through an elephant  or jeep safari. Elephant safaris are most commonly organised in Dhikala. They are two hours long and are usually timed at 6:00 am and 4:00 pm. Try to be there before time as the number of elephants is limited and they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you are looking for true adventure, stay overnight inside the resort in one of the three zones: Dhikala, Gairal and Bijrani. Prior reservation is strongly recommended.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Again, the best time to enjoy the glorious sights of Ranthambore National Park is during the winter months between November and February. Ranthambore National Park is known throughout the world for its majestic collection of the most feared predator- the tiger. The chances of spotting tigers in winters are more as they venture out more because like us, they laze around in the sun too! Some of the common animals that inhabit this forest include the leopard, jungle cat, hyena, fox, jackal, sloth bear, wild boar, blue bull (Nilgai) and a wide range from the deer family.

The ruins of the Ranthambore Fort, the Ganesh Temple within its complex and the lake surrounding it are a must see.

The best way to explore Ranthambhore National Park is through safaris either in a 4-seater jeep or 16-seater canter. Navigate the often rugged, often beautiful landscape and suddenly spot a tiger, right in front of you. The thrill, the excitement, you’ve got to experience it firsthand!

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
Photo Credit: Pranav BhasinCome, see, capture the best moments, go back home happy! That’s a line apt for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Located close to the plantations and surrounded by the Cardamom Hills, the sanctuary enjoys a most scenic setting in the rich jungles of Periyar. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978, it’s  one of the more prominent tiger reserves of the country and has played a major role in the conservation and increase of the population of tigers. That said, the star of the show in Periyar are the herds of elephants that descend down to the lake for water, fun, and play! Other intriguing and rare species of animals dwelling in the Sanctuary include the sambar deer, Nilgiri tahr, wild pigs, Nilgiri langur, the highly endangered lion tailed macaque, small Travancore flying squirrel, striped necked mongoose, Nilgiri marten and much more – you have to be there to sight them going about their business!

Come and experience nature at its best. Do book your holiday, hotels, flights, trains, buses and cabs with MakeMyTrip.com.

With the wedding season trending like Twitter and most of you love struck, what could be a better way to cherish the joys of a blossoming love than making a flight booking and escaping to a honeymoon hideaway to a far-off land? So, here I go with the five most preferred international destinations for your post nuptial trip:
SwitzerlandAdorned with the most astounding natural beauty, Switzerland lies a crest above all the other romantic destinations in the world, hence rightly referred to as “Paradise on Earth”. Give the perfect start to your lifelong journey of love as you tour through the alpine landscape. Ecstatic to the core, placid lakes and snow-sprinkled mountains add joy to this alpine paradise.

Whether you take your love to new heights by ascending to one of those unworldly peaks or enjoy a cosy Swiss dinner in Geneva, the spell of the Swiss will take forever to ward off!

MaldivesMomentous, marvellous and mesmerizing, Maldives is where opulence dwells. This luxury honeymoon destination boasts of an exciting mix of sea and sand, cultures and cuisines which have wooed the hearts of many a honeymooner.

Walk palms-enclosed with your loved one, leaving a set of everlasting footprints on shimmering white sands as the cool coastal breeze whispers in your ear a romantic symphony - Maldives guarantees you Memories Unlimited!

ThailandThe nearest international getaway for Indian honeymooners, Thailand offers a plethora of vacation havens ranging from pristine beach destinations to adventure islands and ancient places which are far off the beaten path. Enjoy the ultimate beach holiday at Koh Samui, indulge in romance and luxury in Phuket or spend some memorable moments of solitude at Krabi; Thailand has it all, and it comes at a price that won’t bring a frown on your face!

Tip: If you wish to book cheap air tickets to Bangkok, Indigo flights are an option worth considering. Indigo Airlines has directs flights flying into Bangkok and back.         

MauritiusA delightful slice of heaven that has been carefully tucked amidst the Mascarene Islands, this island nation has a charm of its own that never fails to impress. An extravagant tourist destination, Mauritius is where you shade your love story with a drop of azure, just like the seas and skies all around you, and white from the sands gleaming below you.  The fond memories of this mesmerizing island will keep calling you back to trace them for years to come.

AustraliaThis is as good as it gets for honeymooners! From the snow-capped mountains and salt-encrusted lakes to the Great Barrier Reef and the glistening Gold Coast, there are endless attractions in Australia. Surrounded by two mighty water bodies, the Indian and Pacific Ocean, Australia is an enchanting realm adorned with nature’s best wonders. Step in, and explore… 

So dear lovebirds, step on to the romantic rug, dip your heart in crimson shades of love and start planning for the most enamoured vacation of your life!

Stir the eggnog, lift the toddy, Happy New Year, everybody!

So where and how do you plan to celebrate as the clock strikes 12 this December 31^st? Surely, there’s no better way than to begin the New Year with your family, especially kids! Travel the world with your children or nieces and nephews at New Year’s Eve and discover how good it feels to make them smile. We picked the best of the lot for these young ones and mind you, there is a high likelihood of you enjoying these destinations as much as they do!

Disneyland, Hong Kong
Photo Credit: David Quitoriano from flickr.com/Wikimedia CommonsWith all its celebrations and razzle dazzle, this is definitely the place to be on New Year’s Eve. The thrilling rides, game stalls, merchandise stores and other attractions are all decked with lights and add to the festive atmosphere. See your kids dance to their favourite tunes as famous Disney characters open the city’s largest outdoor dance floor here. As a finale, the New Year countdown is followed by a grand display of fireworks and the singing of Auld Lang Syne, the traditional New Year Eve’s song.

Six Flags Theme Parks, USA & Canada
Rollercoasters, fun, games, food and more await you here. Having amusement parks all over the US and Canada, Six Flags offers exciting rides and New Year fireworks along with great opportunities for your kids to get fun pictures clicked and win Bugs Bunny, Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters. What’s more, your kids will love the marshmallows and milk shakes served at some of the stalls here.

Coffs Coast, New South Wales
The special New Year Carnival, spectacular fireworks, ample food and shopping, and loads of fun activities for children of all ages are reasons enough for you to choose this destination. Apart from bowling, go-karting, ice skating and horse riding, your kids will surely love feeding and petting the dolphins at the Pet Porpoise Pool. While Butterfly House and Zip Circus give you wonderful photo opportunities, Jungle Bungle is an indoor play area for toddlers.

Sentosa Island, Singapore
Photo Credit: Bruce Tuten/Wikimedia CommonsColourful pyrotechnic displays and the most happening dance party ever, are Sentosa’s ways of welcoming the New Year. Don’t miss the one-of-its-kind Songs of the Sea, a play of lights, waterworks and fireworks. Besides, pink dolphins, electric eels, turtles and a huge variety of fish at the Underwater World are sure to fascinate the young ones.

Dickens World Amusement Park, London
Head to Dickens World Amusement Park in London with your kids for a dose of pure fun this New Year’s. This ‘Winter Wonderland’ has all that your kids could wish for – music, dance, fun rides, indoor boat rides, party poppers and other exciting merchandise. The indoor snowfall to the sound of Big Ben’s chimes at midnight is a special treat here.Photo Credit: Brian/flickr.com

While in London, don’t miss out on buying New Year gifts for your kids from Hamleys, the world’s largest toy store.

Be a part of these celebrations and welcome the New Year by booking your flights and hotels with MakeMyTrip.

People travel for all rhymes and reasons. Some do it for business, some for family time, some for honeymoon but it is rather rare when folks venture out for leisure with their same-sex friends. Not anymore! A recent survey steered by MakeMyTrip reveals: Travelling with the opposite sex is passé. The new travel trend with the young, one discovers is, that the ladies look forward to vacationing with girlfriends; while the menfolk rely on their buddies to go with on holidays.  Does one wonder why? Well, I did too. So, I got in touch with my gang of friends and heard from them first-hand what their reasons were. Please note the reasons (or excuses!) range from being understandable to bizarre, so read on:

Why Only Girls

 Why Only Boys

How about you?

P.S.: In case you too want to travel in an exclusive group, MakeMyTrip offers some super cool options for flights, trains, buses and holiday packages.

Its half past eleven in the night and everyone else at home is asleep but me. Because in my head and for my body, it’s only seven in the evening and time to be out and about, that is, if I were in London! Yes, you guessed it right. The aforementioned syndrome is what is commonly known as a jet lag; one of the many cons for people who travel by air a lot, especially across different time zones.

We suggest 5 simple ways to tackle jet lag better and considerably reduce its effects:

Choose Your Arrival Time Wisely
Although this may be a little tough to follow at times, but whenever possible, make an air reservation for a flight that arrives at your destination in the evening or at night. For example, while booking air tickets to the United States, you can choose a flight with an arrival time at night. And even if you take short naps during the flight, you’d still be tired enough to doze off the moment there’s a comfy bed in sight! Hitting the sack at night after a long flight will help you fall back easily into the time zone of your destination and help you cope better with jet lag.

Plan Ahead: Reset Your Body Clock
A few days before departure, try and change your schedule in order to adjust to the time difference that you’re about to encounter at your destination. Tune your bed time, meal times, etc., according to the local time of the destination that you’ll be travelling to. For instance, if you’re travelling to India from the UK, you should try going to bed early and accordingly, adjust your dinner time. Although hard to follow, this one can be quite an effective way of dealing with jet lag.

Avoid Stimulants On The Flight
Say no to alcohol, coffee, tea and yes to plenty of water! While on the flight, keep yourself from getting over-stimulated by avoiding excessive intake of alcohol, tea, coffee and other caffeinated drinks. Drinking water at regular intervals will prevent dehydration and will also help control air sickness.  Avoiding caffeine and alcohol will also increase your chances of arriving fresh at your destination.

Eat Lighter
It’s best to eat light during the flight as heavy meals can make you feel bloated and sluggish and definitely don’t help with a jet lag, later! For instance, on an Air India flight of more than 6 hours, it’s very easy to give into eating. However, you should consciously avoid eating too much. Also, try not to be glued to your seat for the entire duration of the flight. Whenever you get the chance, walk a bit, stretch and rotate your hands and legs for good blood circulation. This also helps in preventing nausea and headaches.

Try To Keep Awake On Arrival
Once you’ve arrived at your destination, try to stay awake until bedtime, especially if your air ticket booking was done for arrival in the morning or afternoon. Sleeping at odd hours will only add to the jet lag and lead to irregular sleeping patterns over the next few days. While it’s hard not to fall asleep when you’re that tired, try distracting yourself by going out for a walk or to explore a new place.

Plan your next trip in advance with MakeMyTrip and choose from a variety of flights, hotels and holiday packages!

“The odds of going to the store for a loaf of bread and coming out with only a loaf of bread are three billion to one.”
― Erma Bombeck

Come January first week and you will find me trying to prove this right because for me  it would be the time to visit shopping paradise and tax free haven; Dubai.

For I solemnly swear I am up to all good.

Because without courting the danger of trying to evade import/export taxes, without converting black to white (in terms of moolah) and other such  befuddling, bureaucratic & moral  barriers , I hope to make a kill (with a shopper’s devilish glee ) at the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF 2013).

Photo Credit: Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism & Commerce MarketingAs a first timer, the one thing that I’ve been hearing is that this particular extravaganza is going to be bigger, better and way more excessive than any other shopping festival before. Imagine Palm Island like spectacular, Burj Khalifa like exotic and McDonalds like affordable.

There is this particular ‘City of Gold’ status that Dubai achieves during this time, the best part of which is that nothing becomes unaffordable, no want is left untouched and no sense is left un-catered to. Right from aquatic, light and sound Shows to gourmets delicacies, from ‘Open for All’ sports competitions to shopping outlets, malls and stores where you can flex your credit muscle, you have it all!

A potential treasure hunt is in the offering because malls like Al Ain, Marina, Khalidiya Mall and others have each and every conceivable luxury, lifestyle, jewelry and fashion item available on ‘SALE’.

But wait, because there' is more, after you have explored all these modern, commercial and westernized (albeit slightly) options, get ready to be a part of the souks, traditional markets which have been around since the sands of time.

Photo Credit: Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism & Commerce MarketingDelightful little shops with small tea or coffee shops which also offer sheesha/hookah options are specialists for a range of things to buy right from fish, fruits and vegetables to gold.  This is still mellowed down version from the time souks sold anything from a bag of sugar to hairy, huge camels.

Now, one thing I have tightened up my belt and that too considerably , is for the fact that I am going to bargain till I drop dead, because this shopping festival and particularly at the souks, expect a hard bargain as part of the charming sales process. So do not give in, because an easy sale would leave a very dissatisfied shopkeeper behind you.

‘Layali Dubai’ as exotically as the Dubai Shopping Festival is known in Arabic will give me this one opportunity to indulge in that contact sport (read shopping) where you enjoy the scrimmage, the noisy colorful crowds, the dangers of losing a bargain and the final ecstasy of the perfect purchase. 

Bags packed? All set for a vacation and ready to go? But hey, missing your flight just because you could not make it to the airport on time can be like the worst nightmare. Nor is it very exciting to wait at the airport for hours together before you board. However, being a little careful and reaching the airport on time can save you several anxiety ridden moments.

Airlines like Airindia Express, GoAir and others have defined guidelines according to which one must be at the check-in counter 45 minutes prior to the departure time. However, arriving at the airport two hours prior is ideal if you are travelling to domestic destinations. This will give you enough time to get your baggage checked-in, go through the security check and to deal with any unexpected issues or delays that might come up at the last moment, especially if you are a first time traveller. Here are some tips for you to ensure that you reach the airport on time for your next flight.

What’s your flight status? Availing some information from the airline’s website before you leave home is of great help. For instance, if you are travelling by Jetlite, you can log onto its website and check the status of your flight a little in advance.

Reaching the airport: Make sure you have reliable transport to reach the airport. If you are booking a radio cab, call it well before the time you plan to leave to avoid any last minute confusion.

Go for web check-in: If travelling on a business trip, web check-in will help to save time after you reach the airport. In such cases, you can even afford to reach one and a half hours prior to your departure time.

Assistance on call for you! You can also check your flight status by calling the airport airline counter. Popular airlines like Air India Express, GoAir and Indian Airlines readily offer details to all their passengers.

Carry essential documents: On reaching the airport, make sure you keep your identity card, tickets, boarding pass or any other document required for travel handy.

Follow guidelines: Follow the advice of the airline and airport staff to avoid any hassles and to go through the entire check-in and boarding procedure smoothly.

A few precautionary measures will enable you to make it to the airport well in advance, allowing you sufficient time to tackle the hassles, if any!

Make sure you book with MakeMyTrip, which offers flights, hotels and various holiday packages for you to choose from!

In this fast moving world, we have at our disposal some of the best airlines – Indigo airline, Kingfisher airline and Indian airline.  But how did they become what they are today? So on a comfortable flight to Mumbai aboard air Indigo; I thought it would be worth looking into the evolution of airlines in India.

Photo Credit: http://www.vintageadbrowser.comThe year was 1912. In collaboration with the Imperial Airways of the United Kingdom, the Indian State Air Services unveiled the first domestic air route between Delhi and Karachi. The seeds for a passenger airline were first sowed when Tata Airlines started air mail service in 1912. Soon, Tata Airlines endeavored in carrying scheduled passenger traffic. Tata Airlines became the first airline company to operate in India. In 1945, Deccan Airways was established as the second domestic airline in India by the Nizam of Hyderabad. Tata Airlines rebranded itself to Air India in 1946.  

In 1947, after India became an independent country, Air India and the government of India entered into an agreement under which Air India was to operate international services under a new company called Air India International Ltd. On June 8, 1948, Air India International launched its international services with a weekly flight from Bombay to London via Cairo and Geneva. Thus was formed the first international airlines company in India!

In 1953, Indian Airlines and Air India International were set after the legislation to nationalize the entire airline industry in India came into force. Eight independent domestic airlines - Deccan Airways, Airways India, Bharat Airways, Himalayan Aviation, Kalinga Air Lines, Indian National Airways, Air India, Air Services of India – were merged to form one national domestic airline called Indian airlines. Air India International was given control over operating flights on international routes.

In the year 1986, the government granted the private sector players permission to operate as air taxi operators. Since then the aviation industry has seen many ups and downs. The giants have fallen and new players have come into the market. Indigo Airways, in a very short time, has become one of the most progressive and dominant airlines in the Indian market. As I have discovered on numerous journeys on Indigo airlines, the flight is always on time and always comfortable.

The airline industry in India has continuously fought against a lot of hurdles; there have been causalities but each disaster has given the players something to learn from. Today, you, me, anyone would be happy to board an Indigo air flight or an Indian airlines flight. They are cheap, comfortable and value for money! 

Wahan kaun hai tera, musafir, tu jayega kahan!

A lovely song from one of the best movies ever made – Guide. The lines of the song truly capture the big question facing all of us as the holiday season approaches – Musafir, is chutti tu kahan jayega? Where will you celebrate your Christmas and New Year? Kids howling, wives scolding, moms questioning and dads directing. Whose preference will you take into account?

There are obvious choices like Kerala, Kashmir, Goa, Thailand, Paris, America; and then there are not so obvious choices. The hidden gems that require a connoisseur’s eye and taste to be found.  I don’t profess to be that connoisseur but let me be your Guide in the quest for some of the most beautiful offbeat destination in the world.

Makepeace Island, Australia

Photo Credit: Gillian Everett/FlickrOh, I don’t need to make much effort to get you to like this place. One photograph and a small video will be enough for you to fall in love with this place, just as I have. We have Sir Richard Branson – the eccentric founder and owner of Virgin Group – to thank for this paradisiacal experience. The island, developed in 2009 as a private getaway for owners Richard Branson and Brett Godfrey, is now open to all.

Located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, the island offers total privacy and seclusion to visitors. The food served here is delicious, to say the least. Some of the enthralling experiences that you can enjoy here include an open-air cinema, fishing (Beautiful Mangrove Jacks, Bream and Flathead are caught right off the Makepeace dock) and kayaking

Juzcar Village, Spain

Photo Credit: Manuelfloresv/FlickrIf you’re feeling ‘blue’ this winter, a visit to the old Juzcar village in Spain is perhaps the best antidote. Every building, every structure in this quiet and yet bizarre village is painted blue! Why, you ask? Well, in 2011 all the buildings here were painted blue to celebrate the premiere of the movie ‘The Smurfs’ and since then, the village has become one of the hottest tourist destinations in the Andalusia region of Spain. Spend a quiet, secluded and peaceful weekend at this village with your family and maybe then move on to the more famous destinations of Spain.

Bay of Fundy, Canada

When one looks at this incredible bay of glistening water bodies and unbelievable rock formations, one truly wonders – ‘God must be a genius, crazy, whimsical painter’. Not only is this bay one of most resplendent on earth, it is also home to the highest tides in the world. A hundred billion tons of water move in and out of Canada’s Bay of Fundy twice a day.

One of the favourite tourist activities during low tide is fossil hunting. But truly thrilling (and exhausting, as I found out) is kayaking in the crystal waters of the bay. Picture yourself surrounded by overhanging sea caves and cliffs enjoying a stint on the kayak in the blue waters. Makes me nostalgic!

Avebury, England

Photo Credit: Phillip Capper/FlickrYou may have heard of the Stonehenge and  its precious Neolithic treasures. Well, you may want to reconsider your notion of Stonehenge being the abode of the best Neolithic monuments after you visit Avebury. Located just 20 miles north of Stonehenge, Avebury is considered by many as the best and perhaps also the eeriest Neolithic monument in Europe. It consists of multiple concentric stone circles set in and around a medieval village.

While there, do visit the onsite museum that houses many incredible findings from the excavation that happened here in 1930.

A Space Odyssey
This is the mother, father and holy God of all destinations – offbeat or otherwise. Again, this is the brainchild of the great Richard Branson. Branson’s Virgin Galactic offers, to those who can afford it, a trip in to space. Feel the weightlessness, be an astronaut, fly in the air (like Superman).It’s overwhelming, an experience that, even God cannot deny, is truly out of the world! Someday, l when I become a millionaire billionaire, I plan to blog from space! Dreams, I tell you…

If only I could get my Europe Visa,

I would be sitting on the tower of Pisa,

But these visa interviews are such,

I say hey, “Why you want to know so much?”

“My passport is valid, mister officer!

Three months it’s got till it retires.”

“180 days it says on our T&C, Mister Dehl,

If you fly out of India, I’ll but get fired.

Been three years since you’ve filed

Your income tax return

If you did, you would be flying Air India

To the Palace of Schonbrunn”

Now come to me only

After all your docs are sorted,

Be careful next time or

Consider this trip of yours aborted”

Jet Airways! Come on my boy!

Come me over the Pacific Bay,

For Mister Kingfisher is a bit cranky,

He ain't flying too much these days,

Hassled, I sat in my office

Dreaming in the middle of the day,

Thinking of a utopian world

A world full of visa-free holidays

No, there’s not a place outside the country

Where I can enjoy a visa-free stay

Where IndiGo could fly me on a windy

And a happy weeklong holiday

One day, loitering on the web,

I found some places across the Bengali Bay 

Thailand, Bali, Mauritius, and Seychelles, finally

I found these islands tagged “Visa-on-arrival holidays!”

Cambodia, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, Maldives

I searched and found some more of them 

Oh! how pleasing it was to hear about these

A hop on Jet Airways across the South Asian hem

So goodbye mister officer, you strict Europe visa man,

I am heading down south to the Hua Hin beach,

You can keep your big T&C talk and your big Europe holiday plan

Keep it all with you until the next time we meet

Thank god for visa-on-arrival  holidays!

You eat, drink, sleep movies…eh? Take your love for movies to another level with the 9^th Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF), all set to charm the movie buffs along with the celebrities themselves from around the world.

Duration: 1 Week

When is it: December 9-16

What is it: A platform for directors, actors, writers, film makers from across the globe to share ideas and creativity on filmmaking, through various activities and seminars

Highlights: This DIFF will celebrate 100 years of Indian Cinema

Screening of 161 Films

Ang Lee’s incredible movie, “Life of Pi,” which showcases the adventurous journey of a young boy who survives a sea disaster along with a Bengal tiger will be opening the festival, followed by the remaining 160 films that will be screened during the weeklong fest. The closing film will be Wayne Blair’s “The Sapphires.”

Celebrating 100 Years of Indian Cinema

A program called “Celebration of India” would form a part of the ninth edition of DIFF. This will feature world premieres of Sound by Bengali director and screenwriter Kaushik Ganguly. This Tollywood film revolves around the film industry of West Bengal. The next in line would be Shutter, from Joy Matthew, the actor-turned-filmmaker. Moviemaking excellence will be displayed with films like Shahid, Miss Lovely and Ship of Thesues on some of the days.

Do You Know Your Preferred Film Genre?

If you feel you are confused, the DIFF website has come up with a unique “Film Personality Test,” a quiz to help you better understand your film genre preference. Try it to find out the films you would be interested in watching at the movie mania in Dubai. http://dubaifilmfest.com/en/audience/how-to-festival/personality-test.

Don’t Miss

Events that you should not give a miss – At The Pavilion, The Scene Club, Maraya, The Shelter and One Night To Change Lives.

If you are a film lover, gear up and grab your tickets before they are sold out. Some great Arab and world movies are waiting to leave you enriched. Who knows, you might run into your favourite actor!

“Cinema is a matter of what’s in the frame and what’s out” – Martin Scorsese

Be a part of this excitement to get a taste of the brilliant world cinema. Book flights, hotels and holiday packages with MakeMyTrip to make your experience even better!

When it comes to holidaying, there is so much that we Indians look for. From beaches to shopping, from quietude to thrilling adventures, from food to a buzzing nightlife; the best of it all at the least possible prices! Keeping in mind the sheer variety of things that we seek, here is a lowdown on the top places you must explore in 2013.

Singapore

For those of us who want everything packed in one fabulous holiday, Singapore is the place. Superbly maintained, this city-country will charm you with its lofty and crafty buildings, thriving nightlife, vast and placid beaches, exotic natural habitat and a multicultural heritage. So, it has to be the first on the list for offering great value for money and enjoying excellent accessibility from India. Plus, Singapore celebrates its 50 years of independence in 2013, so look out for the exciting celebrations ahead!

Dubai

A perfect example of how East meets West and creates a splendid synthesis; Dubai is emerging as a popular holiday destination amongst Indians. Reasons, you ask? The country breathes in luxury and shopping is a way of life here. With desert safaris and ice-parks existing side by side, you can well imagine that sky is the limit here! Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world (at 828.9 meters) and a symbol of Dubai’s unmatched aesthetic and architectural expertise, stands to verify the same. A shopaholic’s heaven, Dubai has to be in your travel wish-list for 2013 because starting on January 3rd, the month-long Dubai Shopping Festival will offer incredible deals, lotteries and prizes.

Maldives

If laying back and enjoying the marvels of nature is your way of holidaying, Maldives is where you need to be. Bask under the sun for hours, go swimming, try out watersports like scuba diving and explore the beautiful underwater habitat adorned with colourful coral reefs. Extremely popular especially with honeymooners, Maldives enjoys tourists all year round and vice-versa.

Spain

Unleash the romantic, adventurous and artistic side of your personality, all at once and surrender to the soul of Spain. In the land of Rafael Nadal, Antonio Banderas and Penelope Cruz, get ready for some unique experiences. Go throw tomatoes at each other at the La Tomatino Festival, witness Running of the Bulls, hit the scintillating beaches, shake a leg to Flamenco beats, explore the small towns and ports and experience what Spain is really about! In addition, discover first-hand how Spaniards live up to their reputation of being stylish, foodies and life-loving. Treat yourself to a customized Spanish holiday in 2013 and you will thank yourself for a lifetime.

New Zealand

A country of two islands in the Pacific, New Zealand is all about exotic natural and man-made marvels. Be it facing a snow-storm at the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch or flying in the wind tunnel at Agrodome, New Zealand has some of the most unique adventure sports in the world. At the thermal reserve, you can watch natural hot water geysers and mud volcanoes bubbling relentlessly. In Auckland, spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat and have a gala time at the underwater parks. An excursion to Waitomo will take you to the world of exotic underwater lakes lit only by glowworms! Splendid is the word as you’ll gasp in amazement.  If you are game for some serious adventure, New Zealand is calling.

Has reading this blog triggered off the explorer in you? MakeMyTrip offers all the solutions for your travel needs.

You seldom fly without baggage, how come baggage rules fly out of your mind while travelling? Yes, this compendious chunk of literature on baggage rules at the airport will save you time and  annoyances. Airline baggage is divided into: 

Hand Luggage/Cabin Luggage - that small laptop bag or hand bag which you can carry along with you on board.

Checked Baggage - the big bags that are kept in the belly of the aircraft.

Guidelines for Hand Luggage:

Specifications like size of baggage, count of bags and weight of baggage varies from airline to airline. Most airlines allow one bag weighing 5-10 kgs. You can check this on the airline’s website while making an online ticket booking.

• Go dry! Carry no more than 100 ml of any liquids such as beverages, shampoos, gels or other items of similar consistency in the hand luggage, except for medicines and baby food.
• Duty-free items bought at the airport can be carried in addition to the hand luggage, provided they are clearly identified and marked as duty-free.
• Personal items including laptop, blanket, camera, books, walking stick, baby stroller and wheelchair may be allowed on board.
• The rules are the same for cabin baggage of children and adults.

Note: Some operators like Jet Airways airlines, Indigo Airlines and Spicejet do not allow any hand luggage while boarding flights from locations such as Jammu and Srinagar. Be sure to check with your airline operator if you are flying from any such high-security airport.

Guidelines for Checked Baggage:

“An unforgettable experience, an otherwise sleepy town comes alive in a riot of colours…”

“A great coming together of tradition and festivity. I’m coming here again!”

“The best New Year celebrations experienced in a long time…”

New beginnings can be welcomed in peace or by dancing the hours away in carefree abandonment. What if you could do both with an added dash of tradition and culture to it? Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Read on...

The sleepy town of Ladakh is transformed into a melting pot of culture, colour and festivity during the Losar festival (Lo means year and Sar means new). The story behind these New Year celebrations is an interesting one. When the King of Ladakh, Jamyang Namgyal, was setting out on an expedition against the Balistan forces, he was advised by the oracles to wait until the next year. His solution to this problem was bringing forward the New Year celebrations by a month. Since then, it has become a tradition to celebrate the Losar in the eleventh month of the year. It is also the time which marks the end of the harvesting season in Ladakh.

The celebrations begin with a Metho ceremony with a fiery procession of people chanting prayers and carrying flaming torches. It is believed to cleanse the bad karma accumulated during the year and chase away evil spirits. Sumptuous feasts for Gods, deities and ancestors are made. Men, women and children participate in decorating domestic shrines. The gompas are elaborately decorated by Ladakhi Buddhists and elaborate offerings called Lama Losar are made.

If you haven’t seen the famous stage fights and fire-torch dance of the Ibex deer, you’re definitely missing something. The Ladakhi performers with their elaborate costumes and permanent smiles can brighten anyone’s day. Music, dance, dramatically staged battles and elaborate feasts add to the joyous atmosphere.

Another highlight of this festival is the gastronomical extravaganza it offers. Don’t forget to try the local brewed barley beer, chang or phye mar (sweetened barley flour).

Losar is celebrated by Buddhists in Tibet, Bhutan, India and other Tibetan communities around the world. You are not just a spectator during the festival, the charming locals will ensure your heart is stolen by their natural bonhomie.

Tashi Delek!

Losar is just around the corner, on December 14, 2012 and MakeMyTrip offers super cool options for flights and holiday packages for Leh.

Related articles:

In Search of Truth in Ladakh, Frozen Zanskar River Trekking Trail

 “You know that thing when you see someone cute and he smiles and your heart kind of goes like warm butter sliding down hot toast? Well that's what it's like when I see a store. Only it's better.”

-- Rebecca Bloomwood (Confessions of a Shopaholic)

And it would probably be BEST for Rebecca Bloomwood if she could shop online too. But well, if not her, the modern day Rebeccas can. Don’t crib if you can’t go all the way to Dubai and enjoy the much celebrated Great Dubai Shopping Festival. If all your favourite retailers can just be a click away and deliver at your doorstep, can you possibly think of a better way to shop? And better yet, we the first-of-its-kind Great Online Shopping Festival slated for 12-12-12 (December 12, 2012) - a dream-come-true for all the shopaholics in India! For a change, you don’t have to get up early in the morning to rush to the malls in lieu of getting the best buy. This time all you need to do is click, click and click, and well, be quick at that!

But what is the Great Online Shopping Festival after all? Google India in collaboration with all the leading E-Commerce players has come up together with this brilliant concept. The historic day of 12/12/12 will see more than 50 E-Commerce, local and classified, online travel sites and BFSI industry offering their best deals to customers all over India. Customers will not just avail best bargains, they will also enjoy free shipping across India.

Aah! Now I see you wondering there, “But why must I go for online shopping at all? It involves debit/credit card details, isn’t it risky? What if I don’t like the fit or the material? What if it’s not authentic?” So many queries, but you need not worry. Online portals are not only convenient and handy, but safe too. Think of it this way - to shop in a generic way i.e. in a mall or a shopping complex, you take out time from work and household chores, get dressed, battle traffic, jostle for a parking spot and all to explore a mall Phew! But if you try shopping online, be it in your office or your home, all you need to do is log in to the internet and browse. From apparels to footwear, cosmetics to accessories, books to electronics, home and kitchen furnishings to jewellery, real estate to travel tickets and jobs too! It’s all here served on a platter for your convenience.

While I talk of convenience, it’s both pre and post shopping. For those of you who are apprehensive about online transactions, you need not worry much as the transactions take place over secure connections. For the extra cautious, you also get an option of cash-on-delivery. Also, most retailers have a 30-day exchange policy. If it doesn’t fit you well, you might just return it if unused. All the products and brands are absolutely authentic and apparently cheaper than the stores, since they save on store space and other overhead costs.

On December 12^th, watch out for discounted travel deals on domestic airfares, international airfares, holiday packages, hotels and more from MakeMyTrip.