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Bhutan Lite Blogs Travel

Summer Vacation Ideas From Maldives to Bhutan

Make a splash this summer in Soneva Jani’s turquoise lagoon, where luxurious overwater residences and unparalleled marine experiences await…reports Asian Lite News

As the summer temperatures continue to soar in India, you can start planning a unique vacation
filled with new experiences that promise to remain etched in your memory. Whether you’re traveling with family or seeking a romantic escape, here’s a guide to bespoke getaways across the world that bring to you, a variety of immersive journeys, rare experiences and exceptional cuisine.

Soneva Fushi, Maldives

Spark discovery this summer at Soneva Fushi and explore exclusive entertainment, rare experiences and vast beachfront and overwater villas. Indulge in a culinary experience inspired by the movie ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ at the overwater theatre, Cinema Paradiso. From sustainable arts and crafts to island-wide treasure hunts, there’s so much to enjoy at The Den. Pick ‘The Secret Day at Soneva Fushi’ experience and let the team curate a magical, personalised secret itinerary inspired by the Slow Life philosophy.

Soneva Jani, Maldives

Make a splash this summer in Soneva Jani’s turquoise lagoon, where luxurious overwater residences and unparalleled marine experiences await. Enjoy intimate dinners with visiting Michelin-starred chefs, reach new fitness goals or unlock the secrets to integrative wellness at Soneva Soul. Personalised secret experience, ‘The Secret Day at Soneva Jani’ and culinary experience inspired by the movie ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ will both be available at Soneva Jani.

Amankora, Bhutan

Amanoi’s programme of craft activities include traditional coconut-leaf weaving – the intricate but easy-to-learn process by which the region’s children make their own toys. At the Beach Club, the Amanoi activity team celebrate the art of sand sculpture, incorporating shells, stones and driftwood into grand sandcastles and other creations. At night, the library can transform
into a screening room, with a selection of family films on offer – accompanied by popcorn and cookies. This year, Amanoi’s residency programme draws an international roster of holistic health experts and wellbeing practitioners who curate limited-edition retreats and experiences, including:
Rajeshwari Nerurkar, 1-31 May – Master of her craft since 2004, Rajeshwari focuses on
energy healing to treats the cause of physical symptoms.

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort

Immerse yourself in a transformative journey of wellness as you cleanse and balance the seven chakras under the guidance of a Balinese High Priestess. Experience the restorative powers of ancient healing practices in one of the most inspirational settings
imaginable. Located on the southern tip of the Island of the Gods, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is an all-suite-and-villa cliffside paradise boasting innovative architecture and untamed natural beauty.

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort

Dara Cuisine Phuket and Sky Observatory at Anantara Layan PhuketResort offer a unique experience this summer combining modern Thai dining with stargazing. Named after the Thai word for ‘Star’, Dara celebrates Thai culinary heritage and seafaring traditions. The Sky Observatory provides an intimate rooftop setting with a custom-built Ash dome, where guests can
enjoy craft cocktails inspired by constellations while Sky Storytellers guide them through the night sky with Phuket most powerful telescope.

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Lite Blogs

Plan for a wellness vacation

What better destination for a digital detox than the Maldives? The tropical archipelagic state is a perfect mood-changer, and The Residence Maldives couldn’t be more perfect for a wellness retreat…reports Asian Lite News

What modern lifestyle robs us of, a holiday should restore detoxifying us physically, spiritually, and digitally. What does a wellness vacation really entail? Is it attending yoga retreats, indulging in spa sessions, or there’s more to it? This Global Wellness Day let’s balance our inner self with wellness vacations that promise a truly therapeutic experience.

Become one with nature in Japan’s wellness island, Awaji

A small island off the coast of Kobe city in the Kansai region of Japan, Awaji Shima is an offbeat wellness destination replete with naturally occurring hot springs and awe-inspiring viewpoints. Interestingly, Awaji is touted as ‘the region of food’ for its rich variety of gourmet options made using locally produced herbs, vegetables, and livestock. Taking a walk in the fragrant flower fields that bloom year-round is an unforgettable sensory experience. It has wellness centres, such as Zen Wellness SEINEI where travellers can find solace in the lap of nature. A minimalist property surrounded by lush groves, one can practice yoga, meditation, and calligraphy.

Rewire your system in Thailand’s wellness capital Hua Hin

Formerly a fishing village, Hua Hin has reinvented itself as an essential detoxifying retreat over the years. Its combination of natural beauty, wellness resorts, yoga retreats, traditional healing practices, healthy cuisine, and active lifestyle options make it a popular choice for those seeking a wellness-focused getaway. Being far less touristy than beachside towns, it is a perfect destination to unwind.

Among resorts with a holistic approach, Chiva-Som Hua Hin stands out. It is designed to rejuvenate and restore the human body and mind to the absolute peak of health and wellness by offering various therapeutic activities.

Indulge in Omani traditional healing with frankincense

Muscat is home to beautiful beaches and a fascinating culture it has plenty to offer when it comes to wellness experiences coupled with luxurious amenities. Shangri-La Muscat, one of the grandest resorts in the city has exceptional wellness facilities waiting to be explored in its twin properties. Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah offers an elaborate menu of wellness services designed to soothe the senses, such as deep tissue therapeutic massage and Himalayan salt stone massage. The adults-only Shangri-La Al Husn has Oman’s only Luban Spa and offers treatments inspired by the region’s age-old traditions, such as frankincense (Luban) and rose wrap, and organic Omani honey scrub. The resort also offers wellness programmes for boosting immunity and inducing better sleep.

Unwind in Cam Ranhand Mui Ne, the beach towns of Vietnam

Perched on the south-central coast, The Anam Vietnam is a colonial beach resort in Cam Ranh renowned for its Indochine-inspired architecture, idyllic charm, and stimulating wellness facilities designed to render complete rejuvenation. The Anam Spa interweaves Asian healing traditions into holistic wellness journeys. A three-day detox wellness programme fosters healthy life practices through movement and awareness sessions, spa treatments, and wholefood vegetarian cuisine tips. The spa treatments along with Eastern and Western healing practices recalibrate mind and body. It offers specialised beauty and spa journeys that use locally sourced ingredients administered under the care of skilled therapists.

Holistic wellness vacation for mind, body, and soul.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Recharge your soul in the largest atoll of Maldives

What better destination for a digital detox than the Maldives? The tropical archipelagic state is a perfect mood-changer, and The Residence Maldives couldn’t be more perfect for a wellness retreat. Connected by a one-kilometer bridge, the two properties on two different islands – Dhigurah and Falhumaafushi – offer guests a secluded repose in the first and only Clarins Spa in the Maldives. A must-try therapy is the Clarins deep touch massage that uses using aromatic oils and plant extract honey to awaken the senses. This year, The Residence by Cenizaro has also introduced a new program called ‘Renewal Retreat’ that focuses on rejuvenation, resetting, and restoration of body and mind. Combining meditation, spirituality, fitness, and healthy eating as part of its itinerary, the Renewal Retreat is ideal for couples, groups, and solo travellers alike.

Holistic wellness vacation for mind, body, and soul.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Bask in the sun of Seychelles with your partner

Blessed by eternal sunshine, the beaches of Seychelles have their own unique appeal, especially for couples looking for a wellness vacation. While there are tons of water and inland activities, this idyllic archipelago also has award-winning wellness resorts including Raffles Spa, Six Senses Spa, and Kempinski – The Spa, where one can cleanse, rejuvenate, and regain balance. These spas offer bespoke sensorial experiences and treatments that integrate Seychelles’ indigenous herbs to the best effect.

Reconnect with yourself in Qatar

Equipped with some of the world’s best spas, resorts, and health retreats, Qatar is an apt holiday destination to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate. Zulal Wellness Resort blends traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine with a holistic health philosophy. The resort’s wellness programmes designed by health practitioners offer therapies and nutritious food options. The facilities are tailored for adult guests seeking an immersive lifestyle reset as well as families embarking on a wellness journey together.

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Lite Blogs Travel Travel & Tourism

Adventure sports for summer vacation

River rafting is not only meant for adults, kids above the age of eight can also delve into the adrenaline rush with river rafting. An intense joy ride on rough rivers with the adrenaline pumped in can be an indulgent activity for kids too provided that all the safety measures are followed…reports Asian Lite News

As summer has already arrived and vacations are just around the corner, parents are wondering how to get their kids to make the best use of the holidays and get them involved in as many outdoor activities as possible.

Here are some adventure sports that kids aged above five can enjoy, be it bicycle boulevard, camping, water sports to skiing in the snow, India has a plethora of activities to offer. These activities will certainly keep the kids engaged and help burn off energy all through the summer. Assemble the whole family, and this can be a fun adventure to undertake this summer.

* Paragliding: For kids who are budding adrenaline junkies, paragliding is a sport they can opt for to enjoy aerial views, as they can spread their wings and fly, just like in their dreams. Kids above the age of 12 can paraglide in the presence of their parents and with their permission. Those looking for a scenic view for their first paragliding experience can opt for Kamshet in Maharashtra or Dhobi village in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, known for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather. Families who want to explore everything can also enjoy their time by camping, rock climbing, kayaking, boating, and hiking along the beautiful trails of the Western Ghat or Himalayan ranges. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. To make paragliding a safe, fun, and high-quality experience, we at ParaBooking have experienced and certified pilots. ParaBooking was launched with the aim to take safe adventure tourism to the masses and at the same time, provide employment opportunities to local pilots and guides.

* Skiing: You’re never too old or too young to learn to ski. This summer, take your kids and hit those snowy slopes of what could easily seem like an unending supply of cotton candy. Not every kid simply wants to build a snowman, create snow angels, slide on the toboggan, and have a snow fight. For some daring souls, skiing is the best solution to pacify their need for speed. Pahalgam, Auli, Gulmarg, Solang Valley, and Rohtang Pass are some of the best spots for skiing.

* River rafting: River rafting is not only meant for adults, kids above the age of eight can also delve into the adrenaline rush with river rafting. An intense joy ride on rough rivers with the adrenaline pumped in can be an indulgent activity for kids too provided that all the safety measures are followed. Why should just adults have all the fun? One of the most sought-after locations and the majority of people’s maiden experience of river rafting is on Ganga in Rishikesh. Children between the age of 5-14 years usually take on the kids’ stretch which is 9km of rafting from Brahmpuri to Rishikesh. For families looking for offbeat suggestions to enjoy this thrilling experience, a family visit to Ladakh for Indus River rafting amid the picture-perfect Himalayan backdrop or at Lohit river in Arunachal Pradesh known for its stunning landscapes can be the perfect destination.

* Hot air balloon rides: Hot air balloon rides have become a fad in India, and there are several festivals such as the Hot air balloon festival in Varanasi, that are witnessing increasing interest from the audience. Don’t let your kids feel FOMO, be the hip parent and take them along for the joy ride. You could make it interesting by shooting two birds with one stone as you divulge into a history lesson with hot air balloon rides over the land of Maharajas with Pushkar and Jaipur, the monumental Taj Mahal, and the majestic ruins of Hampi.

* Rock climbing or bouldering: During summer vacations, rock climbing sessions become a popular activity among kids and suddenly all the summer camps in and around provide an indoor substitute of the same. But if you want to let your kids (above the age of 10) have a taste of real-world rock climbing and bouldering, popular sites like Rackcham and Sethan in Himachal Pradesh would be a good start. Look for certified trainers with prior experience with kids and your child might develop a taste for this bold (yes, pun intended) adventure.

* Camping: For all those kids craving some time outdoors, in the wilderness wishing for close encounters with nature, camping is an ideal getaway activity. Summer camps in nature are especially intriguing as they don’t just keep them occupied, but help develop an aptitude, environmental skills, and firsthand education through nature. You can take them mountain camping at Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh; desert camping at Rann of Kutch, Gujarat; jungle camping at Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh; waterside camping at Deori Tal, Uttarakhand; and beachside camping at Anjuna, Goa. Who knows, maybe stargazing can help them get interested in astronomy, and you might have your next ISRO scientist.

So, it’s time to pack your bags and surprise your kids with their perfect summer adventure!

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Lite Blogs Parenting

How to skip kids’ over screen time during vacation

More than 90 per cent of parents surveyed believe kids become less active when spending more time on screen devices. Majority felt that ideal screen time should be less than 2 hours however, 69 per cent confirmed that their kids are spending more than 3 hours with screens every day…reports Asian Lite News

Summer vacations mean a break from school, travelling, and extra play-time for kids. With plenty of spare time in hand during holidays, 85 per cent surveyed parents are worried about kids spending excessive screen time during the break.

According to a survey commissioned by Kantar for Amazon in March 2023 among over 750 parents with young kids (3 – 8 years) across 10 metro and non-metro cities of India, almost 96 per cent of parents are searching for screen-free ideas to keep their kids engaged with learning and fun activities.

The survey indicates that 82 per cent of parents are worried about keeping their kids engaged this summer. Some of the top concerns of parents include ‘help kids learn while having fun (41 per cent)’, ‘keep pace with their curiosity to learn new things (37 per cent)’, and ‘manage boredom amongst kids in creative ways (30 per cent)’.

Kids spending excessive screen time during summer vacations?(ianslife)

More than 90 per cent of parents surveyed believe kids become less active when spending more time on screen devices. Majority felt that ideal screen time should be less than 2 hours however, 69 per cent confirmed that their kids are spending more than 3 hours with screens every day.

“Kids are curious to learn new things and want to have fun in the process. With more free time at hand during summer vacations, parents have a big task ahead of themselves to keep their kids engaged”, says Deepender Rana, Executive Managing Director, Insights Division, Kantar. “Our survey indicates that parents are keen to limit screen time of kids with screen-free activities that can help them learn new skills and have fun at the same time.”

To help kids make the most of their summer vacation, parents want them to pick up skills such as English speaking (50 per cent); good morals and social manners (45 per cent); performing arts like dancing, singing, and playing musical instruments (36 per cent); arts and crafts (32 per cent); and physical and outdoor activities (32 per cent).

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Lite Blogs Parenting

Give some summer party vibes to kids

The one-party theme never goes out of style. Pizza parties are a timeless and popular choice. For a pizza-making party in your backyard, invite the kids and their parents over…reports Asian Lite News

Weekends are here and it’s time to throw a party! Have a memorable summer party with your kids and their friends to welcome the season of heat and fun. Having a summer party allows you to be more creative with the theme, food, and activities while also giving the kids a chance to run around and enjoy. Take a look at the ideas you can try.
Pool Bash

For a beach party, you’ll need plenty of sunscreens, beach balls, and sand buckets. And baby pools filled with water.

Outdoor Movie time

Use a projector and a bed sheet as a screen to set up a movie under the stars. As the party begins after dark, provide lots of movie-themed refreshments like popcorn and chocolates. Moreover, give out glow sticks as party favours.

Summer camp

Get ready to sing songs around the campfire with your kids. A summer camp-themed party is a great option to prepare cuisine that both children and adults will like and to participate in some of your favourite games and activities from your youth.

Tie Dye activity

Try these new and trendy ideas which help to encourage kids’ concertation and creativity. During this cool party, kids may tie-dye everything they want, including shirts, shoes, socks, and scrunchies. Get some tie-dye materials for the set up. Also gives tips to children on how to care for their newly tie-dyed things. Have a clothesline and plenty of clothespins ready to hang all of their tie-dye masterpieces to dry.

Build your own Pizzas

The one-party theme never goes out of style. Pizza parties are a timeless and popular choice. For a pizza-making party in your backyard, invite the kids and their parents over. Toppings include mozzarella, pepperoni, peppers, onions, rotisserie chicken, and fresh basil on a buffet along with personal-sized pre-rolled pizza dough for guests to choose from.
Enjoy the weekend and summer party with your kids. (ANI)

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Fashion Lite Blogs

Flattering hairstyles for next beach vacation

The sexy tousled texture for the coveted beauty waves showcased at the Dyson x Arpita Mehta show are a testament to the fact that they are here to stay…. reports Asian Lite News

From the runways of fashion week, we bring to you the top hairstyles from the Dyson X Arpita Mehta show. A hair-raising soiree, the styles showcased at the show were inspired by a relaxed and lazy travel holiday. The effortless styling of the mane blended beautifully with the creative silhouettes, making them look easily achievable using the Dyson Hairstyling tools.

Shanaya Kapoor’s Soft Waves

Shanaya Kapoor’s soft waves stole everyone’s attention at the Dyson X Arpita Mehta show. The volume, silky waves, and centre parting were all elegantly executed and in turn, beautifully elevated her showstopping look. Style your curtain bangs with the round volumising brush of the Dyson AirwrapTM multi-styler to get the perfect bounce.

The Curly Blowout

It’s all about the beautifully coiffed glossy blow-dries. Make this the summer of your natural curls by donning this curly blowout hairstyle and wearing them combed out for a full and volumised look with maximum shine and movement. Use the 40mm long barrel of the Dyson AirwrapTM multi-styler that will create voluminous curls and waves for longer hair.

The Tousled Waves

The sexy tousled texture for the coveted beauty waves showcased at the Dyson x Arpita Mehta show are a testament to the fact that they are here to stay.

It is a great way to look effortless, classy, chic, and relaxed, which is perfect for your next beach vacation. Use the 20mm long barrel of the Dyson AirwrapTM multi-styler to create voluminous curls and waves in both directions. It will help to create this loose and carefree style that gives the hair fluidity and personality and will go perfectly with your Kaftan dress.

The Wavy Bob

The wavy bob cut is reigning supreme and is the best hairstyle for short hair this spring/summer. Effortless and chic, this style gives the ’90s feel. It’s the epitome of undone but well done. Use the round volumising brush of the Dyson AirwrapTM multi-styler to give more volume to your hair.

Twisted Ponytail

One might feel the urge to tie one’s hair on a breezy beach. Amp up your average ponytail with a twisted version with fringes and ethereal face-framing tendrils to add extra prettiness to the low-maintenance style. And, voila! It results in a chic and fabulous beach hairstyle.

Bubble Braid

Chic and trendy, bubble braids are perfect for your next beach holiday. Complemented with loose waves, the hairstyle has a more relaxed and easy-going vibe to it. Use the 30mm barrels of the Dyson AirwrapTM multi-styler to create alternate outward and in-ward curls on both sections. To finish off the look, use the Coanda Smoothing dryer to hide all the flyways.

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