Tag: TOUR

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Shannon Bennett’s Culinary Tour Debuts at Prego

During this exclusive tour, Shannon Bennett will unveil his latest culinary venture at The Westin Gurgaon’s renowned Italian restaurant, Prego, promising a journey through his brand-new culinary wonderland…reports Asian Lite News

World-renowned Chef and Author Shannon Bennett is set to embark on a much-anticipated culinary tour, bringing his innovative gastronomic creations for the very first time to Prego at The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi on 25th February from 7 pm – 11 pm.

The Shannon Bennett tour, organised by World on a Plate (WOAP) in association with Johnny Walker Blue Label, promises an unforgettable experience for food enthusiasts in Gurgaon.

Kiran Soans, CEO of World on a Plate says, “The event will be an intimate affair, hosting only 50 guests. Upon arrival at 7 PM, attendees will be treated to pre-drinks at the bar, setting the stage for an exquisite culinary journey. Throughout the night, attendees will relish in lively conversation, savour exceptional cuisine, and bask in the vibrant ambiance of this culinary spectacle.”

Best known for his pioneering work as the head chef of Vue de Monde at Melbourne’s iconic Rialto Tower, Shannon Bennett is a culinary luminary celebrated for his inventive approach to modern Australian-European cuisine. With a stellar career spanning decade, Bennett has garnered international acclaim for his culinary expertise, authoring six books and owning multiple hospitality venues in Melbourne.

During this exclusive tour, Shannon Bennett will unveil his latest culinary venture at The Westin Gurgaon’s renowned Italian restaurant, Prego, promising a journey through his brand-new culinary wonderland. Guests will be treated to a sumptuous modern Australian-European 7-course degustation menu, featuring a tantalising array of starters, entrees, main courses, signature desserts, and petit fours. Each course will be thoughtfully paired with exquisite selections from Johnny Walker Blue Label, elevating the dining experience with an unparalleled symphony of flavours tailored especially for the Indian palate.

“We are thrilled to welcome renowned chef Shannon Bennett to Prego at The Westin Gurgaon for this extraordinary culinary tour. Shannon’s innovative approach to modern Australian-European cuisine perfectly complements the vibrant dining experience we offer at Prego. We are excited to showcase his culinary brilliance to our guests and provide them with an unforgettable evening of gastronomic delights.” says Deewan Singh Dhami,  Director of Food & Beverage at The Westin Gurgaon.

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-Top News India News Travel & Tourism

Panel asks Indian missions to promote tourist destinations

There was sufficient time for the two ministries to have the transition formalities in place, it further noted…reports Asian Lite News

Taking cognisance of a study by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), which estimated that tourism in India would not regain its pre-pandemic levels till 2026, a Parliamentary panel has emphasised that Indian missions abroad must ensure promotion and marketing of tourist destinations and products.

The Standing Panel on Transport, Tourism, and Culture, in a recent report, recommended this after observing that there were 10.93 million foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in India during pre-pandemic year 2019, but the current FTA numbers are still well below the pre-pandemic levels.

The committee, on being informed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) representatives that the tourism officers posted in Indian missions abroad have tourism promotion as additional charge, recommended that as responsibility for tourism promotion abroad now rests solely with the Indian missions, the tourism officers may be given sole charge as far as possible as it is necessary for the transitional change from the overseas tourist offices to the missions in many countries and to create confidence among the stakeholders that the missions are attaching top priority to tourism promotion.

The tourism officers were designated by MEA in October 2021. However the panel was informed that since then the tourism officers have had only one meeting with the Indian stakeholders a year back.

The committee was also informed by the stakeholders that after the closure of the overseas tourist officers, India did not figure in the brochures of the overseas tourism agents, thus adversely impacting the prospects of Indian tourism.

In its interaction with the MEA, the committee was further informed that the overseas tourist offices had a lot of funds available for this purpose and the Ministry of Tourism is still having discussions with the MEA on how to place a separate budget for tourism at the disposal of the MEA, which would enable them to give brochure support for the agents and other promotional work.

The committee was surprised that these aspects of budget for promotion and campaign schedule for the missions have not yet been resolved as the overseas tourist offices had gradually been shut down over the last two years and only the last eight were closed in March 2023.

There was sufficient time for the two ministries to have the transition formalities in place, it further noted.

On further query, the panel was informed that the MEA is in consultation with the Tourism Ministry to jointly address such concerns arising out of closure of overseas India tourism offices. The committee recommended that the Tourism Ministry may settle the matters expeditiously so that the MEA would have both the funds and the programme to go ahead with the work relating to tourism promotion.

The panel also said that the exclusion of India from tourism brochures is a major issue in the absence of which the visibility of Indian tourism places would be difficult to maintain.

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Lifestyle Lite Blogs Travel & Tourism

Resorts to explore peaceful holidays

Socorro, a residence of unrivalled beauty, is tucked away from North Goa’s activity and noise. Our brand-new Signature by SaffronStays home, Mirissa, was conceived in this undeveloped corner of paradise…reports Asian Lite News

The holiday season is here, and what could be better than celebrating with friends and family while taking in unobstructed views of the sea or beautiful mountains? Here is a list of resorts and homestays where you may unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

SaffronStays Mirissa- Socorro, North Goa

Goa has changed from being a peaceful, palm-fringed coastal state to a popular tourist destination where visitors may relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Goa is a kaleidoscope of activities, offering everything from watersports to secluded island excursions, a vibrant nightlife to a rich cultural history, Instagram-friendly eateries to hidden jewels.

Socorro, a residence of unrivalled beauty, is tucked away from North Goa’s activity and noise. Our brand-new Signature by SaffronStays home, Mirissa, was conceived in this undeveloped corner of paradise.

SaffronStays De La Mer

With unobstructed views of the ocean and perched at a high altitude near to SaffronStays De La Mer is located between the Nerul Church and the Reis Magos Fort. Reis Magos, Goa’s 4-bedroom pool villa is 1 hour and 15 minutes away. Goa International Airport is a quiet retreat that is ideal for people seeking a break from the grind of the metropolis.

Della Resorts

Della Resorts’ opulent setting invites you to relax in the lap of nature as you take use of its top-notch restaurants serving delicious meals and the most energising beverages. They are located in the verdant hills of Lonavala. In addition to this, the expansive outdoor areas and unique spa treatments at Lonavala’s Della Resorts, India’s only experience luxury hotel, are an ideal choice for unwinding and finding inner peace. One of the few pet-friendly areas in the city is Della, so if you’re bringing your furry buddy along, the roomy outside area will guarantee they have the finest time ever!

Kickstart your festive celebrations with these getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Kickstart your festive celebrations with these getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Kickstart your festive celebrations with these getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Della’s D.A.T.A Resort

You can also choose to stay at Della’s D.A.T.A Resort, an opulent getaway that provides guests with an unrivalled military-themed camping experience, to make things even more thrilling and energising. The large area gives visitors a full view of their resort and adventure park. Every sort of traveller may find what they need at DATA thanks to well-liked locations like the Salaam Manekshaw, an 80-seater restaurant, Gurka Lounge, and military experience sets like Training Rooms and Obstacle Course. Even traditional military memorabilia that commemorates their time spent in this special location is available to visitors.

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Lite Blogs Travel & Tourism

Must travel Swiss

Switzerland has moderate temperatures throughout the year. In the winters, the lowest is -2 C and the highest goes to 28 C during the summer months…writes N. LOTHUNGBENI HUMTSOE

Switzerland is on the wish list of most global citizens, sometimes for months and years! So, when you do finally get the chance to travel to the land of your dreams, are you prepared enough? Here are 10 things you should tick off on your travel list before you head out for your vacation:

1. Direct Flights by SWISS

Delhi and Mumbai travelers can book direct flights with Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS). You get your first taste of the Swiss experience mid-air being pampered with chocolates by an ever-smiling crew.

For more information ttps://www.swiss.com/in/en/homepage

2. Swiss Travel Pass

Switzerland’s public transport system is one of the most efficient and seamless experiences in the world. Buy a Swiss Travel Pass (STS) online and travel across over 90 towns and cities in premium panoramic trains with one single ticket! With an STS, you have access to the local buses, cabs, boats, cable cars, and trains, all connecting you to different parts of the country.

For more information https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-in/planning/transport-accommodation/tickets-public-transport/swiss-travel-pass/

3. Essentials

Switzerland has moderate temperatures throughout the year. In the winters, the lowest is -2 C and the highest goes to 28 C during the summer months. Pack accordingly. Sturdy sneakers, trekking boots if you’re into adventure, sunscreen, swimming essentials, sea shoes as the lakes are full of pebbles, an umbrella and lastly, a socket converter are some essential items you should carry with you.


4. Punctuality

Switzerland is known for its timekeeping for a reason! They value time and hate being late. No surprise that some of the best watchmakers in the world come from this country. When you travel there, you’ll see everything runs like clockwork, be it their public transport or their meetings. So, keep a watch on your watch when you’re there or you’ll have missed plans.


5. When to visit

The answer is anytime! Switzerland is ready when you’re ready. If you’re a winter person and love snow, mid-December to mid-March is perfect for skiing, snow-tubing, snowshoeing, etc. Autumn from September to November is beautiful with its mists, changing colours of foliage, and stunning walking tours. Summer from May through September is the perfect time for outdoor activities with clear blue skies and pleasant weather when you can go hiking, biking, paragliding, boating, etc.


6. Language

Most locals are fluent in English but you should know that Switzerland has four national languages – French, German, Italian, and Romansh. You’ll hear these spoken in different regions as you travel across the length and breadth of the country.

7. Must visit locations

The options are endless because everywhere you turn in Switzerland, you’ll see something spectacular. There is something for everyone in this country. A few experiences, however, will take your breath away. Take the view from the Matterhorn in Zermatt which is the world’s most photographed mountain. Zurich’s nightlife, Lucerne’s old-town fairytale vibe, a sunset walk across Montreux Riviera, panoramic views of the perfect powder-snow Alps of Engelberg, an adrenaline rush in Interlaken – Europe’s adventure capital or a splurging spree in the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz – you cannot miss out on these!

8. Swiss Food

The local Rosti, Cheese Fondue, Raclette, wine, and chocolates are must-haves, of course, but if your palate hasn’t taken a fancy to the local food, worry not. There is a multitude of cuisines available such as German, French, Italian, Chinese, and even Indian, to name a few. There are street food, vegan and vegetarian choices, and several fine dining Michelin Star restaurants to choose from.

9. Water

Fun fact – tap water tastes a lot better than most bottled water! It is a lot cheaper too! Carry a glass or steel bottle with you wherever you go, and refill it from anywhere when you’re on the move. You don’t want to spend on bottled water.

10. Activities

Foodies can experience several local and global cuisines. Adventure lovers can trek through some of the most idyllic trails or choose any one of the 199,872 cycling routes. Sports/history buffs can visit world-renowned museums like the FIFA museum in Zurich, The Olympic Museum in Lausanne, the Swiss Museum of transport in Lucerne, or the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva. Wellness enthusiasts will find some of the best spas offering treatments from across the world. When you soak in all these experiences surrounded by the fresh mountain air, you know you’ve lived your Swiss dream right!

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Lite Blogs Travel & Tourism

Wanderlust? Explore The Unique India First

Embrace yourself in the tranquillity of India’s hidden gardens and green spaces. Have a picnic in the park or simply uncover its lesser-known beauty with a stroll to indulge in the most enchanting pathways in this oasis.

Local travel has risen to the forefront as it remains an easier, safer, and often more sustainable travel option as a result of the pandemic. Staying closer to home continues to retain its importance on the travel agenda as research by Booking.com reveals that more than half (59 per cent) of Indian travelers are planning to travel within their own country, with 43 per cent want to visit places of interest they normally overlook and 50 per cent look to take the time to appreciate the natural beauty of India. The travel platform shares some tips on how to be a tourist, as travellers demonstrate enthusiasm to explore and experience incredible India with a fresh outlook.

Book a Unique Place to Stay

Boutique stays continue to trend with Indians, as 74 per cent of travelers plan to stay in a unique accommodation for their next trip. Alternative accommodation listings (homes, holiday homes, villas, beach homes, boathouses, etc.) have seen growth in demand last year in the pandemic. While travelling domestically, you can experience the destination uniquely by booking alternative accommodations (for example tree houses) that will complement the destination and enhance the experience it has to offer.

Indulge in a wellness destination

Escapism has always been crucial for travellers. Close to half (47 per cent) of Indian travellers are seeking simple, relaxing trips to get away from it all. If you are looking to get pampered for the day or stay for a wellness weekend and experience pure bliss on your next trip, you should head to Varkala. Varkala is one of the top three most endorsed destinations for wellness by Indian travellers on Booking.com. This town located along the coast of Kerala, with palm-covered red cliffs and golden beaches, instills a sense of calmness for you to unwind. You will find several wellness studios, and ashrams throughout the destination, including on the beach, where you can spot several impromptu classes being organized. The destination’s hot springs are believed to provide mineral water that has medicinal properties, which add to its wellness appeal. Varkala has also become popular for the growing ‘Naturopathy’ practised in several of its Ayurvedic centres. So you can add ayurvedic massages to your to-do list to de-stress your mind and body.

Visit Lesser-Known Markets

India is full of charming markets you should visit at least once. Skip the beaten track and discover the hidden gems and authenticity of India by travelling to not-so-known markets often overlooked by tourists and coveted by locals. West Bengal is home to several lesser-explored wonders. But one of the unexplored gems you could consider is Mandarmani, a seaside village offering captivating views of rural Bengal. Along the way, you will find plenty of local markets that trade in fish, cashew nuts, vegetables and oils. Some of these markets include Digha Mohana, Radhamoni and Ramnagar fish market. While in Mandarmani you can also make your way to Mandarmani beach and indulge in authentic seaside Bengali cuisine and photography. And if you are looking for some adventure, you can also explore jet ski rides, banana boat rides and parachute rides along the beach.

Travel Through Time and Shop Vintage

Step back in time with a visit to this vintage shopping district in India and get a glimpse of its fashion and style through the decades. With its great value, rare finds and the possibility to uncover the hidden tales of the past, you never know what you may discover. Jew Town in Kerala is a narrow street between Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue famous for its antiques. If vintage interests you, then you will find abundance in the antique shops on this popular street. The artefacts you will come across date back to the colonial period in the relic shops. Even the houses in the area are inspired by medieval Portuguese-style architecture.

Discover Secret Gardens

Embrace yourself in the tranquility of India’s hidden gardens and green spaces. Have a picnic in the park or simply uncover its lesser-known beauty with a stroll to indulge in the most enchanting pathways in this oasis. Aaraku Valley in Andhra Pradesh is an unexplored cove of biodiversity, full of captivating flora and fauna. Padmapuram Gardens, located 2.5 km from Aaraku Valley is 26 acres of natural beauty that dates back to World War II. The rose gardens and jackfruit trees in this place are among the most visited spots. The entire garden can be explored in a special train operated by the place. And if you wish to spend a night among all the plants, you can book a stay in the hanging cottages in this botanical garden.

And finally, act like a tourist

Visit the local Welcome/Information Center, take a city pamphlet from the hotel lobby, embrace a bit of history and culture and join a museum tour, take silly photos of yourself in front of tourist spots, eat at a popular restaurant, and visit the most well-known attractions that people travel the world to see.

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