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A trip Down Under: A guide to Eastern Australia

Published on April 7, 2025April 7, 2025 by travelogue90Leave a comment

Australia was never on my radar for 2023. With how the year was going, all I really wanted was a break—any vacation would do. At the beginning of the year, I decided it was finally time for another international trip. My last one had been way back in 2018 to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I’d followed a self-made rule throughout my travel journey: explore one new Indian state and one new international destination each year.

I kicked off 2023 with a solo expedition to Shimla and Manali. By the end of the year, I was itching to head abroad again. Initially, I had my sights set on Vietnam. I even started planning the itinerary. But then came an unexpected twist. One day in September 2023, my dad casually suggested, “Why don’t we go to Australia?” Without hesitation, I gave a resounding yes—and the planning began.

Why Eastern Australia?

Australia is massive, and exploring the entire country in one trip is close to impossible. So, we decided to focus on the eastern side, covering iconic cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, and Melbourne.

VISA PROCESS (for Indian citizens)

Compared to the Schengen and U.S. visa systems, Australia’s process is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a breakdown for travellers residing in India:

DOCUMENTATION PROCESS

For salaried individuals:

PAN Card
Aadhaar Card
Passport
Bank statements from the past 12 months
Last 3 months’ pay slips
ITRs for the last 3 years

For self-employed individuals:

In addition to the documents above, you’ll also need:

Business registration documents
Business address proof
Business ITRs
Profit & Loss statements
Government certifications (if any)

Most applicants with well-prepared documents won’t need to attend an interview. However, in case of discrepancies, the visa office might schedule a phone interview. Once approved, the visa and passport are typically delivered within 10-14 days. Tourist visas can be granted for 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or even up to 3 years.

We were lucky—our family received 3-year visas, allowing us to revisit Australia anytime until 2026. We got them within a month and planned our trip for November 2023, which is one of the best times to visit, coinciding with the Australian summer. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, April to May is also a good window.

BOOKING FLIGHTS

Once our visas were confirmed, we looked for the most budget-friendly flights. Direct flights via Air India and Qantas are available, but with total travel time hovering around 20 hours, we didn’t mind a layover. We chose Malaysia Airlines. While the economy seat legroom wasn’t ideal, the Airbus A350-900 was incredibly comfortable, and the food was great. We were served both dinner and breakfast on board.

IMMIGRATION EXPERIENCE

Arriving in Sydney was a memorable moment. The airport is almost surrounded by water, and the approach offers a stunning view, with the runway flanked by sea. After landing, the aircraft crosses a bridge with roadway beneath it, before reaching the terminal.

Before landing, the flight crew hands out a yellow customs declaration slip. It asks you to declare any items you’re bringing into Australia, including:

Food, plant-based, or animal products
Firearms, weapons, ammunition
Currency equivalent to or exceeding AUD 10,000
Certain medications (always carry prescriptions)

Note: Carrying illegal drugs or restricted imports is strictly prohibited.

At immigration, it helps to go as a family. The Australian Border Force generally understand you’re visiting for tourism. Our process was smooth. We were through immigration and out of the airport in no time. That’s when the real adventure began. Our first stop: Sydney, the beating heart of Eastern Australia.

Sydney Opera House © Travelogue90
ZOO Wild Life © Travelogue90
SEA Life © Travelogue90
Observatory Deck © Travelogue90
Sydney Grand Theatre Opera House © Travelogue90
Harbour Bridge © Travelogue90
Sydney Cricket Ground © Travelogue90
Indian restaurant © Travelogue90

SYDNEY

Sydney is a sophisticated and chic city, exuding a vibrant energy that captivates visitors. What surprised me was how the city shuts off by 8 PM between Mondays to Wednesdays. Thursdays to Sundays the city restaurants and lounges are vibing until late night. To explore the city better, we opted for local transportation services.

Taxis: We hired cabs from local services like 13cabs. You can also consider Silver Service. Taxi fares in Sydney are regulated, with standard rates typically around AUD 45-55 for a trip from the airport to the city centre. However, it’s advisable to ensure the driver uses the metre to avoid overcharging.

Trains: Sydney’s train network is an efficient way to get around. A standard adult Opal card fare for a single journey within the city centre is approximately AUD 3.61. Fares vary based on distance and time of travel.

Accommodation

We stayed at the Mantra Hotel near Sydney Airport for 2 nights. The approximate cost for a one-night stay is around AUD 150-200, depending on the room type and booking time.

Main attractions

Darling Harbour

This bustling area offers numerous attractions:

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium: We visited this fascinating aquarium and witnessed several marine species enjoying their habitat. Ticket prices vary. For example, an adult ticket purchased online in advance on a weekday is around AUD 39.

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo: Located adjacent to the aquarium, this zoo showcases Australia’s unique wildlife, including Koalas. Advance online weekday tickets for adults start from AUD 38.40.

Harbour Cruise: We enjoyed a scenic cruise around Darling Harbour, witnessing Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and the city skyline from the cruise. Ticket prices for such cruises generally range from AUD 30 to 50, depending on the duration and operator.

Sydney Observatory: Situated near the Westfield Mall, the observatory offers insights into astronomy and provides a panoramic view of the entire city. General admission is free, but guided tours and special exhibitions may have associated costs.

Day 2 activities

Sydney Opera House: We took a guided tour of this iconic landmark that showed the Grand Theatre and several other smaller theatres inside the Opera. The standard adult ticket for the tour is approximately AUD 43.

Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG): A guided tour of this historic sports venue costs around AUD 30 for adults. You get a special entry into the pavilion and their dining area along with the dressing room.

Shopping experience

You can visit Paddy’s Haymarket if you want to buy clothes and souvenirs for your loved ones here. They price is anywhere between AUD 5 to AUD 8.

Dining recommendations

The Spice Central and The Spice Lounge Indian Cuisine: Offers a variety of Indian dishes. Main courses are typically priced between AUD 20-30.

KOI Dessert Bar: Renowned for spectacular desserts and coffee/tea. Individual desserts are priced around AUD 12-15.

Chambers Fine Coffee: A cosy spot for breakfast and coffee. Breakfast items range from AUD 10-20.

Jordan’s Seafood: Specialises in fresh seafood dishes. Main courses are approximately AUD 25-40.

Casa Ristorante Italiano: Serves authentic Italian cuisine. Pizzas and pastas are priced between AUD 20-30.

Ministry of Coffee: Known for its artisanal coffee and light bites. Expect to spend around AUD 5 for a coffee and AUD 10-15 for snacks.

*Note that the prices are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most current information.

***

For travelling within Australia, we chose Jetstar for our domestic flights, which provided efficient and timely service, allowing us to reach our destinations quickly.

Museum of Brisbane © Travelogue90
Cityscape © Travelogue90
South Bank River Walk © Travelogue90
Ole Restaurant © Travelogue90

BRISBANE

Brisbane struck me as a harmonious blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, offering a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Upon arrival, domestic travellers can proceed directly to their destinations without undergoing an additional immigration process. We decided to explore two notable spots in Brisbane:

Museum of Brisbane: This museum offers fascinating insights into the city’s evolving life, showcasing its history and culture through stories, photographs, and films.

Brisbane South Bank River Walk: A leisurely stroll along the riverside led us to the iconic Wheel of Brisbane and you can also check out the panoramic city views.

Dining in Brisbane

Geláre: Renowned for its delectable ice creams and classic croffles, Geláre offers treats like the Hot Fudge Sundae priced at approximately AUD 13.50.

Olé: This Spanish restaurant specialises in tapas and paella, with main courses typically ranging from AUD 20 to 30.

Vibe Hotel room view © Travelogue90
Vibe Hotel room view © Travelogue90
Parasailing harbourside © Travelogue90
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary © Travelogue90
Nerang River Boat ride © Travelogue90

GOLD COAST

For our journey to the Gold Coast, we opted for a private car service. Services like Transfeero offer transfers from Brisbane to the Gold Coast, with prices varying based on vehicle type and service level.

Welcome to Australia’s paradise! The Gold Coast is a coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches, making it an ideal escape from urban life.

Accommodation

Centrally located in Surfers Paradise, the Vibe Hotel Gold Coast offers amenities like an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi. Our room also had a breathtaking view of the Nerang River and the cityscape. One-night stays are approximately AUD 150-200, depending on the season and room choice. After a lengthy journey, we relaxed in our room before taking a short 5-minute walk to Surfers Paradise to witness a breathtaking sunset. We planned a two-night stay here.

Main attractions

Main Beach Superyacht Marina Parasailing: Experiencing parasailing here was exhilarating, offering views of marine life from above. Solo parasailing starts at AUD 91, with tandem and triple packages at AUD 128 and AUD 193, respectively.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary provides close encounters with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos and vibrant bird shows. Day passes are available, with prices subject to change.

Nerang River Boat Ride: An evening boat ride along the Nerang River offers soothing views of waterfront homes and the cityscape. Sightseeing and occasional cruises are available, with prices varying by operator.

Shopping

We visited Woolworths to purchase local Australian items such as chocolates, spices, and fruits to take back home.

Dining recommendations

Surfers Paradise boasts numerous Indian restaurants, like Balti Indian Bar & Restaurant, and quaint cafés within the market area, offering a variety of dining options to suit different tastes.

*Note that all prices are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most current information.

Kuranda Rainforest Cableway © Travelogue90
Kuranda Rainforest Waterfalls © Travelogue90
Pamagirri Aborginals show © Travelogue90
Holiday Inn Harbourside pool view © Travelogue90
Holiday Inn Harbourside hotel © Travelogue90
Great Barrier Reef cruise © Travelogue90
Green Island © Travelogue90
Green Island boat ride © Travelogue90
Green Island Boat ride © Travelogue90
Harbourside Restaurant & Bar © Travelogue90

CAIRNS

Travelling to Cairns, we again chose Jetstar for our domestic flight, appreciating the convenience of no additional immigration procedures upon arrival. The city welcomed us with its lush greenery and serene harbourside, igniting our anticipation for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation

Nestled on The Esplanade, the Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside offers rooms with stunning views of Trinity Bay or the surrounding mountains. Each room features a balcony, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty. The on-site café, located just off the lobby, provides a tranquil spot to enjoy a beverage while overlooking the harbourside and pool. Room rates typically range from AUD 200 to 250 per night, depending on the season and availability.

Main attractions

Kuranda Rainforest

An unforgettable experience awaits as you journey through this ancient rainforest:

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Glide above the canopy with a one-way trip priced at AUD 71 for adults and AUD 35.50 for children.
Kuranda Scenic Railway: Alternatively, immerse yourself in the rainforest’s depths aboard this historic train. A one-way Heritage Class ticket costs AUD 56.50 for adults and AUD 28.25 for children.
Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience: Delve into Indigenous culture through captivating performances and demonstrations. This experience is included in various packages, such as the Rainforestation, Kuranda Village, & Kuranda Scenic Railway tour priced at AUD 185 for adults.

Great Barrier Reef – Green Island

Dedicate a full day to exploring this natural wonder:

Cruise to Green Island: Enjoy a two-hour journey to this coral cay. Full-day tours start from approximately AUD 99.83 per person.
Snorkelling Adventures: Discover vibrant marine life with a boat snorkel tour priced at AUD 65 for adults and AUD 44 for children.

Dining places

Frogs Restaurant: Situated in Kuranda Rainforest, this eatery offers a diverse menu, including Indian dishes, pizzas, and pastas. For instance, the Greek Vegetarian Pizza is priced at AUD 13.90.

Harbourside Kitchen and Bar: Located within the Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside, this restaurant serves a sumptuous buffet breakfast. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes while being greeted by the occasional visit of local birds, adding to the unique dining experience.

*Note that prices are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most current information.

Melbourne CBD © Travelogue90
Conservatory at Fitzroy Gardens © Travelogue90
Fitzroy Gardens © Travelogue90
Flinders Street Station © Travelogue90
Flinders Street © Travelogue90
Philip Island Park Cafe © Travelogue90
Penguin Parade © Travelogue90
12 Apostles Helicopter ride © Travelogue90
12 Apostles © Travelogue90
Start of Great Ocean Road © Travelogue90
Great Ocean Road © Travelogue90
Great Ocean Road memorial © Travelogue90

MELBOURNE

Our final destination was Melbourne, a city that exudes a unique charm and comfort. Despite being a major metropolis in Eastern Australia, it offers quaint laneways perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet moments. We travelled from Cairns to Melbourne via Jetstar.

Accommodation

We chose to stay at Novotel Melbourne Preston, conveniently located near the airport. The hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms, providing a pleasant stay. Room rates vary depending on the season and booking platform. For the most accurate pricing, it’s advisable to check directly with the hotel or reputable booking websites.

Main attractions

Melbourne boasts numerous tourist attractions. Some highlights from our trip include:

Fitzroy Gardens: Ideal for leisurely strolls or solo relaxation with a book. The Conservatory within the gardens showcases a variety of flowers and natural fauna, making it a must-visit spot.

Streets of Melbourne: Exploring Melbourne’s CBD on foot is a delightful experience. The city’s laneways are adorned with famous graffiti art such as Melbourne Street Art Tours and Flinders Court Street Art, and landmarks like Flinders Street Station are iconic. Taking a train ride from Flinders Street allows you to explore various markets and neighbourhoods around the city. Do not forget to check out the famous National Gallery of Victoria.

Phillip Island: A highlight of our trip was the scenic 1 hour and 45-minute drive to Phillip Island. We could witness the seaside sunset enroute. After enjoying a hearty vegetarian burger and dessert at the Philip Island Nature Parks Cafe, we attended the Penguin Parade, where we watched little penguins waddle from the sea to their burrows—a truly delightful experience.

During summer, the penguins typically emerge after 8 pm. Standard tickets for the Penguin Parade start from AUD 32, with prices varying based on viewing options.

12 Apostles: On our Day 2 in Melbourne, we visited the 12 Apostles. We took the Princes Highway via Colac to reach the site and returned via the scenic 100 kms Great Ocean Road. Despite the gloomy weather, the coastal views were spectacular. We opted for a helicopter ride to get an aerial view of the 12 Apostles, which was an unforgettable experience.

Prices for helicopter tours over the 12 Apostles can vary. For example, Melbourne Heli offers tours starting at AUD 1,495 per person, with a minimum of two passengers per flight.

Dining recommendations

Lune Croissanterie: A must-visit for croissant enthusiasts. Their menu features a variety of pastries, with prices ranging from AUD 7.10 for a traditional croissant to AUD 15.50 for specialty items like the Pain au Chocolat.

Seven Seeds: Renowned for its specialty brews, Seven Seeds played a pivotal role in Melbourne’s third-wave coffee movement. They offer a range of creative options, such as honeycomb espresso, attracting both academia and coffee connoisseurs.

Bombay on Bay: For authentic Indian cuisine, this restaurant offers specialties like Butter Chicken (AUD 27), Kadai Chicken (AUD 26), and a variety of vegetarian options such as Shahi Paneer (AUD 23).

Georges Restaurant: Known for its Italian fare at Apollo Bay on Great Ocean Road, they serve dishes like Roast Tomato & Saffron Risotto with artichokes, zucchini, and silver beet (AUD 31.50), and Greek-style Lamb Shoulder with lemon & oregano potatoes (AUD 39.50).

***

Australia might seem hefty on your pocket. For us, per person was approx. INR 2.5 lakh (2023 rates) and it was totally worth it. Australia seamlessly blends peace, thrill, adventure, and city life. We enjoyed pleasant weather throughout our trip, making it a perfect end to 2023. Remember to carry sunscreen and comfortable clothing during summer, take plenty of photos, and create memories that will last a lifetime—just as I am reminiscing now 😀

Why are we a sucker for sunsets?

Published on June 6, 2020January 21, 2024 by travelogue901 Comment

I love sunsets. I am sure everyone does. Sunsets leave me in thoughts, ‘how come such vivid colours leave us speechless every evening?’ I know there are many psychological and scientific reasons behind those hues, but it just makes our jaw drop every single time. Sunsets have the tendency to make us feel small, well in a good way.

It reminds us that the world can be a pretty place despite all the ugliness it throws towards us, for instance COVID-19. Even if it is not the pandemic, there is too much of selfishness, conflict, greed, strive, negative thinking, and stress that sucks the life out of us. This is when we thrive for peace. This is when travel and sunsets walk hand-in-hand.

We all have been a bit sulky off late due to the lockdown. The household errands as well as work drains us. The only thing accessible to us from our homes or terrace or balcony is the sunset. It is a wonderful way to infuse some wonder and awe into our regular routine.

As I looked back to some of the pictures, I was reminded how I took some time for sunset every day, wherever I was, and I am sure you will resonate with it too –

Touristy in your city: Every city has an undiscovered place where you get breathtaking sunsets. This was one such experience. Mumbai as we know is surrounded by the sea, You move to any corner, you will find the sun setting by the sea. After leaving from work, I went to show around a place to my friend before she headed to her hometown. Since she is also a sucker for sunset, the best place was the Bandra Fort, which not only gives you a history of the region but also a blazing sunset from the tip.

Work travel: The one thing I look forward to after work is sunsets. They are just beautiful and Instagrammable. I wish people appreciate the sky show at the end of the day, no matter where they are. By witnessing the beauty of the sunset, you can slow down the perception of time. By taking some time out to gaze out to the colour-soaked sky, we actually empower ourselves to regain control of the clock.

Local train sights, Mumbai © Travelogue90

Local train sights: When I set out to travel by the local train and it passes by the sea, I make sure to stand near the foot board and capture the spectacle of the sky. I am drawn to sunsets during work travel not only because they are pretty and all, but because they are fleeting, just like the commute and maybe, like life too. It is good to appreciate the small things, even if it is only for matter of minutes.

Desert Sunset: In deserts, sunsets are more colourful. The entire atmosphere acts like a filter, just like you add filter for your pictures on the camera or editing tool The colours stand out and that is purely because deserts are clear and less polluted. Oh, and less people as well 😉

Vacation: There is something about sunset that completes the vacation experience. The perfect end to a perfect day in a new city. It is not necessary to idolise sunsets and beaches always. There is something magical about waiting to watch the sunset from the top of the mountain or when you are walking around and exploring a new city. The sunset adds to the charm of it.

Heritage site: Sunsets are beautiful alone and add a heritage site alongside, you end up with something gorgeous. As you walk down to the exit of Burj Khalifa, you notice how the beast glorifies amidst the sunset. While others were rushing for the fountain show, I waited to soak in the majestic Burj Khalifa a little more that day. Mumbai, situated right next to the vast Arabian Sea, is breathtaking from every corner of the city during sunsets. One of the famous spots is the Gateway of India with the sunset paving a golden carpet to the Taj Mahal Palace.

Beaches and Sunsets: When it comes to sunsets, few places come close to Goa. You can witness the change of colours from yellow to orange to purple in a jiffy, whether you are with your loved ones or enjoying your solitude time. The experience becomes enjoyable and peaceful while you are at the pool with a sumptuous meal or a cocktail 😛

Healthy: Do you know the best cure to depression, anxiety, and stress are sunsets? Just by sitting and observing the sunset, gives a health boost. It is considered a chance to practice mindfulness. Research has proved practicing mindfulness reduces stress levels and improves cognitive behaviour. What better way to practice being aware of the moment than watching the time pass by as the sun sinks by the horizon?

So, here’s to enjoying many more sunsets, rising from the petty issues of life, and living abundantly, not just on holidays but everyday! 🙂

Eiffel Tower from the eye of a tourist

Published on May 15, 2020July 3, 2021 by travelogue902 Comments

Let’s be honest, your trip to Europe is incomplete if you miss out on the skyline of Paris. Most importantly, Eiffel Tower. I have always wondered what is so special about Eiffel Tower? Many have dreamt of visiting the beauty since childhood. I remember the first time I ever wanted to visit Paris solely for Eiffel Tower was when I saw Shammi Kapoor dancing away to glory in ‘An Evening in Paris’ song from the same movie.

Before I even go about my emotional experience with the place, let us dig into some facts and history about this mesmerising architecture –

The structure was complete on March 31, 1889 and remained the tallest man-made structure for 41 years until the Chrysler Building in New York completed in 1930.
The tower opened to the public for the very first time on May 15, 1889.
It is almost 324 metres tall and weighs 10,100 tonnes.
It was also the tallest structure in France until the construction of a military transmitter in Saissac in 1973.
You can climb all the way to the top for which you need to walk up almost 1,665 steps. Hence, many prefer the lift.
Did you know the tower shrinks by six inches during winter?
The tower welcomes every year over 7 million people, making it the most-paid visited monument in the world.
The construction took two years, two months, and five days – 180 years fewer than Paris’ other big attraction the Notre Dame.
Over 20,000 lightbulbs are used to make the Eiffel Tower sparkle every night.
From evening, the Eiffel Tower sparkles for 5 minutes hour on hour while its beacon shines over Paris.

Eiffel Tower from River Seine © Travelogue90

The best part about the Eiffel Tower is you can see it from any part of the city. My first experience with the monument came through the River Seine cruise. I had a long flight from India and this cruise was a breather in the evening. On a Friday evening, I was standing at the top berth of the cruise and soaking all the cool breeze. It was perfect sunset and seemed like the sunset illuminated differently that day when I saw the Eiffel Tower so close from cruise.

Eiffel Tower architecture © Travelogue90

I could not wait for the next day to watch the Tower up, close, and personal. No wonder Eiffel Tower is considered a symbol of love, it was love at first sight for me when I saw its grandeur. If you want to experience it, nothing matches the climb to the top. Yes, there is a lift but then you miss that little adventure and the architecture. Of course, there is COVID-19 on now, else the Eiffel Tower is open all year round from 9 AM to midnight.

View from Eiffel Tower 3rd floor © Travelogue90

I visited the place during the peak tourist season (May to September). There was line but as they say some experiences are worth the wait. The line movement is quick and we managed to get in within an hour. We decided to take the stairs and as I reached, the view was breathtaking. The third floor, the peak point of the Eiffel Tower, is the ideal point.

From this floor, the view is up to 85 kms, but theoretically, we get to see points 126.5 kms. You can take as many hours you want to catch the views of the city from left, right, and center. Even those few hours seem like seconds. While you take a look at the view, do not miss on some ice lollies or doughnuts in the floor.

View from Eiffel Tower 1st floor © Travelogue90

While coming down, the stairs might seem steep but is worth it. Head to the first floor all the way and you will find hive of activity with restaurants, exhibition, various look-out points, and a documentary showing all the history related to the tower. Oh, missed a very crucial fact here, did you know the Tower literally moves with the wind? Yes, you can witness that from first floor. Also, the entry point view from the first floor makes the people look like caterpillars. I even found the perfect caterpillar shape.

The second floor too is pretty buzzing with restaurants and buffet. But the views from the first and second floor are incomparable to what you get to see from the top. The panorama view from the top is mind boggling and difficult to express in words. At the top of the antenna is an exclusive restaurant for which you need to make bookings. With a glass of champagne it is the perfect romantic experience with a view.

The exit point has seating arrangement and souvenir shop where you get the mini Eiffel Towers . You could also head to the lawn and admire the grandeur of this monument.

Eiffel Tower from the exit point © Travelogue90

While travelling the world is a dream of almost every traveller, seeing the Eiffel Tower in its flesh is definitely a moment that goes on your travel bucket list for life (maybe again and again and again).

Although the actual birthday is on March 31st, you came into our lives on May 15. So, Happy Birthday, Eiffel Tower! 🙂

COVID 19: Shifts in travel industry and for travellers

Published on May 6, 2020July 3, 2021 by travelogue902 Comments

Since the pandemic came into existence, wanderers are left wondering if they will ever get to travel again. Cruise lines have suspended their schedules, airlines have stopped taking off, and public transportation has come to a historic standstill. As we continue to practice social distancing, tourists attractions remain shut and tourism industry are experiencing the ripples.

Although we are unsure whether this is a distant dream still or no, travel eventually will become a part of our normal routine. However, you could expect some twists there. Here is a prediction on future of travel:

Public transportation and business travel: Let us accept that taking a metro or calling for an Uber or entering the public bus will never be the same again. Several changes and implementations will take place for protecting the passengers and staff. Disinfecting the facilities and surface well would be a priority. You would notice people wearing gloves and respiratory protection for months post lockdown. The face masks is already mandatory in places like Thailand and South Korea currently. Social distancing will become the new norm. Moreover, companies will cut down on business travel costs and expect to have more and more discussions over video conferences.

2. Airports and Airlines: There is going to be a war against congested lines. This would not only be at check-in points but the entry gate and immigration as well. For far too long, airports have mulled over using technology for speeding these processes, especially domestic airports. Some changes expected in airports and airlines are –

Bringing in biometric screenings, temperature checks, digital documentation setup, are some of the systems that airports could implement.
As you are aware, Europe has been worse hit with COVID 19. Considering this aspect, Schengen visa applications could get tough as test results and vaccination documents might become a necessity while applying for the same. The information was updated on Schengen visa website.
Oh, expect some surge on ticket prices too!
Meanwhile in India, Mumbai airport have already released post-lockdown measures.
Delhi International airport will resume their operations post-lockdown from terminal 3. According to PTI, entry gates, self-check-in machines, and check-in bays would be allocated to airlines for avoiding overcrowding of passengers.
As for hygiene, KLM, United Airlines, and Lufthansa have made face masks obligatory.
On the other hand, Japan Airlines and Emirates are practicing social distancing.
Etihad are preparing passenger kits before passengers board the flight.
Passengers, on the other hand, are doing away with middle seats onboard.

3. Hotels: You cannot wait for things to get back to normal, can you? But the truth is, change is inevitable. This is going to impact the way you choose your accommodation as well. We could witness sudden increase in bookings for small and boutique properties or renting of private homes or villas. The best part is bigger hotels are already aware of your concerns and this is what the following brands have planned:

The ‘Stay With Peace of Mind’ program of Anantara aims to build one existing health and safety measures.
Marriott International has launched a new internal platform for promoting hotel cleanliness.
Hilton too announced new hygiene programme to reassure the existing as well as old consumers after the lockdown.
Hyatt international’s accreditation process by the Global Briorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) will include cleaning, infectious and disinfection disease prevention programme. More than 900 Hyatt hotels will observe this schedule.
Kempinski reassures that guests would require to wear white gloves.

Road trip from Pondicherry to Chennai © Travelogue90

4. Road trip rage: Experts already have opined that short destinations means welcome of road trip. Also, an open road, favourite track playing in the background, blue skies is not that bad after staying home for three to four months, right? Although the borders within the country might still experience restrictions, you may need to search for options within your state. The metro cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bengaluru in India have hosts of options.

5. Choice of destination and packing lists: At the moment, close-to-home destinations will matter. People will prefer to take their own vehicle, short-distance flights, and passenger rail to explore the nearby places. Densely populated places need to take a backseat for a while. Packing will definitely see a change with more of hand sanitisers and face masks taking space in the luggage. Soon, airlines could make the disinfectant a compulsory product onboard.

People will step out for travel again, be it for leisure or business. But being informed becomes a necessity after the pandemic. Several companies and country Government have launched apps which give you on-the-go updates about high-risk places, tracking of potential patients, and daily COVID 19 reports.

Hence, have these apps handy on your phones before you step out to experience the new world again. And yes, stay safe always!

COVID-19 halted your travel plans? Try these virtual tours

Published on April 23, 2020July 3, 2021 by travelogue901 Comment

The pandemic Corona Virus has bought the entire tourism industry to a standstill. As travel restrictions and social distancing continues across the globe, we travellers are confined to our respective homes. The demand for indoor activities and exploration is at an all time high.

But hold on, we need not scrap our travel plans just yet. Keeping in mind the urge for travelling, several tourism boards and travel pages are getting their country at your doorstep though virtual tours. Your discovery remains unhindered as you only need to shift from physical to virtual world.

Right from countries to museums to parks, there is nothing stopping you from stepping out anymore.

Airpano © YouTube

AirPano VR: Created by a team of Russian photographers, AirPano is a Virtual Reality project that focuses on aerial 360 degree photographs and videos of all countries, right from Jordan to Russia to China to Portugal to India. You name it, they have it. Every week, the team posts either a virtual photography or video tour. They also have their YouTube Channel.

2. Museums and Theme Parks: Leading museums, galleries, and theme parks are no exceptions to virtual tours. Yes, there are travellers who wish to go for hiking, explore the beach, enjoy the sunset and food, but then there are those who wish to dig deeper and bathe the culture as well as art of the country. You can walk around the masterpieces and examine the artwork alongside studying the intricate details. The museums and parks are –

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Zurich © Switzerland Tourism Instagram Page

3. Tourism Boards: Whoever said the business for tourism boards are done and dusted after the pandemic, should rethink what they meant. These boards are making complete use of the digital space and how! Let’s see what they are up to –

Switzerland tourism: You enter the website and you are taken on a visual treat. Click the cities or hotels you want to explore and enjoy all the information along with pictures.
Greece Tourism: Following the tagline, ‘until we can all be together in person again,’ Greece tourism is offering virtual tours, in association with Google. The website http://www.greecefromhome.com gives a holistic view of the people, food, and the place.
Austria: Through virtual Austria, you get to explore the cuisines, bucket-list spots, movies set in Austria, and stroll the streets casually.
Australia: The Australia tourism Instagram page sent all the love to people locked at home by taking them to the streets of the cities and wildlife through IGTV. The video is pretty self-explanatory.
The United States Of America: With the GoUSA TV app, you can uncover the best restaurants, experience thrilling road trips, checkout the next getaways, discover a world of wonder, and check out how to throw a party.
Spiti: Is Spiti on your bucket list? This virtual treat for now will guide you as to which place to visit the next time, physically.

Mumbai Live © Official YouTube

4. Drones: Ever wondered what a city looks like after lockdown? We are home and are clueless of the outside world. This is where drones come to our rescue. Mumbai Live recently conducted a drone video of the city during lockdown and every individual of the city were crying their hearts out on the beauty of the place. The drone video was done after seeking permission from the Mumbai Police and Commissioner.

Tripoto Community as well did an IGTV on how the Indian metro cities appear during the lockdown phase.

For now, all we can do is experience and tick our go-to destinations with these virtual tours. But hey, aren’t they dreamy?

Coronavirus lockdown? Wanderlust with these travel shows and movies

Published on April 12, 2020July 3, 2021 by travelogue901 Comment

Your travel goals, bucket lists, and plans suddenly washed off due to COVID-19 pandemic? I feel you. Being a travel enthusiast myself, I know how upsetting it is to watch your travel plans not seeing the light of day immediately. But that does not mean the virus can stop us from dreaming about all things travel, right? The best part about the lockdown across the world is we are blessed with laptop, smartphone, and television screens. Hence, virtual travel tours are the best thing to happen in these trying times.

While you are stuck at home quarantining, there are still ways to keep that love for travel ignited, thanks to the host of streaming channels and apps. So, plot your future travel plans by binge watching these shows and movies –

Travel Man: 48 Hours In…(FYI TV18 and Channel 4): If you have Milan, Zurich, Ibiza, and Ljubljana on your bucket list, then wanderlust with British Actor Comedian Richard Ayoade. He takes a ruthless approach to make the maximum from the city break. With a celebrity on board, Richard as the anchor shows us where we go wrong with our efficient vacation and removes the boring system out of the plan. The show holds an IMDB rating of 8.3.

Somebody Feed Phil (Netflix): The creator of the renowned and hilarious show Everybody Loves Raymond, Phil Rosenthal, took a leap of faith and travels across the globe indulging in some irresistible cuisines and cultures of the places he visits. In the two seasons or courses as he prefers calling it, Phil has travelled to Venice, Dublin, Cape Town, New York, Bangkok, Tel Aviv, Lisbon, and more. He also meets some celebrity chefs on the way. The IMDB rating is 8.1.

Tales By Light (Netflix): Whenever we visit a place, we tend to click lots of pictures. The interest in travel photography is a given. But this show will blow your mind and develop a new-found respect towards travel photography as 5 adventurous photographers and filmmakers from Australia and North America show you what is it to exactly capture the beauty of the world through their lens. You are ought to learn some tips and tricks of travel photography at the end of the lockdown with this show. IMDB has rated this series 8.3.

Dark Tourist (Netflix): Travelling is not only limited to the usual city escapes or island hopping or beaches, a true adventurer is the one who covers the dark side of travel as well. This show is not for faint heart travellers as popular journalist David Farrier ventures to a spooky journey visiting the most bizarre and mysterious places in the world. Some of the areas he covers are radioactive towns, war zones, haunted places, and so forth. The season one saw places like Latin America, Japan, the US, The Stans, Europe, South East Asia, and Africa covered. IMDB has rated this show 7.6.

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (Amazon Prime): No travel show lists is complete without mentioning the late Anthony Bourdain. You can always get a taste of unexpected from his shows. Apart from being a world-renowned chef and bestselling author, Bourdain had the knack of connecting with the places right to its roots. He always covered the places one could only imagine going to once unlike the usual and common ones. You can watch all the 12 seasons on Amazon Prime.

The Bucket List (Netflix): Old age and friendship is what this movie revolves around. In fact, these two aspects inspire travellers. The movie features an aged Morgan Freeman and a not-so-aged Jack Nicholson. The characters are diagnosed with lung cancer in the movie and decide to tick off every item on their bucket list right from the Great Pyramid to Taj Mahal to the Great Wall of China. It is one of the corniest feel-good travel movies on Netflix.

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (Amazon Prime): If you carry an adventurous soul within, then this movie is for you. Mitty’s job, played by Ben Stiller, gets threatened. The film revolves on how Mitty embarks on a global journey in search of a rare photographer, which thereby turns into an adventure filled with ordinary as well as beyond imagination events. It gives you the courage to face your life and about having the right people around when the going gets tough.

Before Sunrise and trilogy (Netflix): There are a few movies that capture the essence of an aimless wanderer when they arrive to an unknown city. Before Sunrise does just that and with a love story to it. The movie includes Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. The movie also shows how the two meet after nine years in a different cities of Europe through the other two parts – Before Sunset and Before Midnight.

These probably might have been on your watch list since forever but work schedule never permitted the time. This quanrantine is the ideal time to add some more places to your bucket list and fuel your travel energies 😉

Life as a part-time traveller

Published on November 13, 2019July 3, 2021 by travelogue902 Comments

In the recent past I have noticed a sudden boom in the travel blogging space. Some have quit their jobs and invested their all for the nomadic experience. Then there are those who have taken Dalai Lama’s quote seriously, ‘Once a year go some place you’ve never been before.’ I fall under the second category and we group of people have a term as well – part-time travellers. It is a phrase that has been bandied around the travel community for a while now.

It is the focus of my blog, rather my ‘niche’ as some would say. However, the moment I mention part-time travel, I am welcomed with host of questions. People outside the travel ‘blogosphere’ do not get it. I was thinking of varied topics to write on and came across a discussion on Twitter recently.

One of the travel bloggers, Darcy Vierow, made a serious statement – ‘Guys, the struggle is real. Between the day job, some recent family obligations, and home life obligations, it’s been really hard to keep my head above water and still breathe some life into my blog. Please tell me I’m not the only one.’

It dawned up on me, she is absolutely right. She pretty much summed the life of a part-time traveller, in fact. I work almost 10 hours, five days a week. I have mortgages, career, home, and personal life that need attention as well. But that does not stop me from travelling.

I was not much into travelling initially until I headed to my first international trip to South East Asia. I had the knack of clicking pictures through smartphone and my regular Canon camera, but the thought of making a side hustle of it never crossed my mind.

I know this side hustle required all my time and attention initially for growing it. Hence, I started with an Instagram page. Since I got good response from the page, I extended it to Facebook and soon Twitter as well. The next hurdle was starting a website which needed complete attention. But my 10-hour job and other obligations, only gave me weekends to concentrate on it. Yet, that never stopped me from giving some life to my passion – travel.

Part-time travel, simply put, is travelling. The term for me typically means heading for a heritage walk within my city, weekend breaks, short to long haul getaways. These are all different forms of part-time travel which we all embrace today.

Nowadays, majority of people that love travelling do part-time travel. There are a few who are in a position for extended holidays or embrace the full-time role. I try to squeeze in my wanderlust as much as my annual leave allows.

Here are some reasons why I adore part-time travelling –

1) Excitement: Considering the work and personal stress consumes most part of the year, the eagerness to a visit a new place brings back all the happiness. The moments away from your puzzled mind and life at home are rare and precious.

2) Layer of security: A cushion of money that the 9-6 job offers me is something I can invest for the comfort of my next trip. Travelling requires sustainability, especially if you look at it from a long-term perspective. Budgeting and monitoring the funds is crucial while wander-lusting.

3) Flexibility: Ask any nomad and they will tell you how much they miss birthdays, weddings, brunches, the latest Netflix series, and so on. Adjusting your travel according to special events at home is a daunting task for full-time travellers. This year I had decided to head to Australia. Owing to a special family event, I had to push it back to next year. Thankfully, part-time travellers have that convenience.

4) New adventures right outside the doorstep: I stress on the fact that nothing beats being touristy in your hometown than any place on the globe. You could discover new restaurants or hangout spaces. I guarantee you that there is a whole new world unexplored right outside your doorstep.

5) Relationships: Exploring new places also builds new relationships. During my trip to Europe, South East Asia, and Dubai, I encountered people from different spheres and countries. There are a few who form a part of my memory while others are still in around me.

Over the past four years, I have travelled to 7 countries, apart from my home country India. Yes, with family, career, and financial obligations, it is not possible to completely divert all the attention to exploring several new places in a year’s time and inject some quality on your blog as well. But maintaining the right balance along with other facets, is what I love about my daily life. A balance that is slowly and steadily taking my travel passion a step ahead each day.

Here’s to those who manage all the spheres of life and enjoy time to travel. Here is to all my part-time travel bloggers.

Winter is coming: Places to add in your bucketlist

Published on October 21, 2019July 3, 2021 by travelogue90Leave a comment

Club Mahindra Derby Green, Ooty © Travelogue90

A shift in the seasons means travelling to a new place. Once summers and monsoons come to an end, almost every country across the globe preps for winters. Festive and holiday season calls for long weekends and more reasons to step out of the mundane task. You have numerous places to head to this winter – a romantic holiday at the beach, family time at the the hill station, and desserts welcoming the visitors, who were shying away due to humidity and soaring temperatures.

So, pack your bags, select your choice of place, and be ready for a joy ride:

Goa: While there are no specific months to visit Goa, the winter specifically casts a spell on us. It is the perfect beach destination and you are sure to return with some tan on your face. Goa, ideally, is the best time to visit between December to February. December is also when the Sunburn Festival takes place. You also have the Goa Carnival and Goa Film Festival for the non-party goers.

Udaipur: One of the fascinating destinations during winters in Rajasthan is Udaipur. The best part you need not carry anything extraordinary thick while staying at the place. You can tour the place between 10 AM to 9 PM. The tourist spots are boat ride at Lake Pichola, City Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the Shilpgram Utsav which takes place in December. It is more like a flea market that includes an array of traditional wear and accessories. It is a 10-day long festival.

Ooty: If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then nothing matches the calmness of Ooty. This famous South India hill station has several exciting elements to make the tourists journey a dramatic one. You will find a touch of British in Ooty. Right from the Stone House to Botanical Gardens to Ooty Lake to Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Tea Plantation, the vintage touch is still present. A weekend outing or a day’s break is what Ooty offers.

Coorg: It is one of those places that one should not miss while touring India, especially during the winters. The beauty of Coorg lies in its old edifices and the cool breeze makes the experience exhilarating. You can indulge in some adventure activities and enjoy the outdoors as well. The adventurous souls could trek to Pushpagiri and Tadiandamol, the highest points of Coorg. You could also take a stroll at the Abbey Falls or visit the coffee plantation for some quite outdoor activities. Visit the Kushalnagar Golden Temple Monastery in February and celebrate the New Year with the monks.

Kuala Lumpur: The best time to be in KL is between December to February. The humidity is low and the rains are generally a hit and miss. You could spend three days in this beautiful city right from visiting the KL observation deck to Sunway Lagoon to Genting Highland. If you love shopping, do visit the Petaling Street Flea Market. Chinatown is the place for all art lovers to explore some street art. You cannot, of course, miss the Merdeka Square and Batu Caves for some peaceful and adventure activities respectively.

Dubai: The dessert island welcomes you with open arms during the winters after dealing with scorching heat for 6 months. For adventure to romantic to family holiday, Dubai has activities for every type of traveller. The Fountain Show, Burj Kahlifa laser show, Desert Safari, Royal hotel treatment, it is the place to detox and rejuvenate during the festive season.

Abu Dhabi: No Dubai trip is complete without visiting its friend Abu Dhabi. It is the spot for the adventure lovers from Ferrari World to Warner Bros to Yas racing zone. If you want some quite time and immerse into yourself, then head to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Winters will not burn you out, I promise.

Kumbalgarh: From one dessert to the other, Kumbalgarh is an experience in the winters. A small hill station, the prominent tourist spot is the Kumbalgarh fort. It has the largest fort fence after Great Wall of China. If nothing, you could chill in a resort for a day. The route to Kumbalgarh is an interesting one as you can witness the Ranakpur Jain temple made of marble entirely.

Nashik: The cold season in Maharashtra are never harsh as they in North. But this does not stop the tourists to visit the small hill stations and cities in Maharashtra during winters. Nashik, a small city in the state, sees all kinds of visitors from millennials to religious people. Where there is Panchvati for the ardent believers of Ramayana, there is Sula Vineyards and York Wines for the wine connoisseurs.

Mahabaleshwar: It is the one of the oldest hill stations in Maharashtra and is popular for its scenic beauty. Mahabaleshwar and strawberries are synonymous during winters. You cannot miss out on strawberry and cream in this season. You, in fact, can visit the Mapro Garden and purchase some jams, creams, sauces, at discounted rates as well. Some of the other tourists spots are Arthur’s seat, Elphinstone Point, Old Mahabaleshwar temple, and so forth.

Ganpatipule: You will find the cleanest beaches in Ganpatipule, another small town in Maharashtra and ideal place to be in winters. The place is lined with resorts and they are attached or closer to the beaches. The humidity levels are lower during winters, which makes you enjoy the beaches all the more. There are also ample provisions for water sports enthusiasts. The Arey Ware beach, as you can see on the picture, is to the north of the town and less crowded during winters. Further north you will find Malgund beach.

Lonavala: One of the quickest getaways for every tourist goers in India, especially if they visit Mumbai, is Lonavala. You will find range of resorts here and is crowded the most during winters. People head out with their family and friends to farm houses in Lonavala and Khandala for new year parties. Some also spend the festive season with families in these places.

Singapore: Lastly, you want to watch some solid firecracker during New Years, head to Singapore. Although the best time to visit Singapore is February to May, the city is always a good place to be all through the year. Apart from the Universal Studios and Merlion Park and Marina Bay Sands, watching firecrackers lit during New Years elevates your travel experience.

Whether it is a long or short vacation during the festive season, you know which places to head to. Hope your bags are packed 🙂

Why airports are so lovable?

Published on October 13, 2019July 3, 2021 by travelogue90Leave a comment

Emirates installation in Dubai Garden © Travelogue90

Whenever I visit the airport, I witness family dropping off their child or a friend bidding goodbye to another or joyful reunions. It evokes various emotions within – sadness, happiness, excitement, and thrill. There is something about airports that excites me – my family and I carrying luggage in hand and walking around the vast airport.

I can sense the wheels carry my baggage smoothly gliding across the linoleum floor as I pull it along. There are some quite humming voices and a lady making announcements in a monotone voice to the passengers concerning the status of the flights. Then there are those who frantically run around, gathering their belongings, to the check-in counter and security point.

Apart from witnessing so many emotions, one thing that still makes me love airports is the excitement of travelling somewhere unknown. Away from my mundane life back home, it is going to a new place that races my heart. Airports are also an escape route. A change of environment. It was always about change of setting and discovering something I had not before.

I have been to a few domestic and international destinations, and the following airports is what I would recommend for a short or long layovers. P.S. The layovers in these airports are nothing less than an experience, I assure you –

Chennai Airport (MAA): When I visited Chennai around 10-12 years ago, the airport was not worth staying even for a second. The smell and clustered designs suffocated me. Four years back when I arrived at the airport, it took me by surprise. The domestic and international airports are adjacent and provide breathtaking connectivity. It is the fourth busiest Indian airport regarding international passengers. The future looks promising as the airport plans to connect the metro subway to passenger terminals by a connecting tube.

Changi Airport, Singapore: If you have a layover of a good seven to 10 hours, Changi Airport will entertain you with their leisure amenities. There is need to step out from the comfort zone, literally. Changi was awarded World’s best airport in 2019, which is a sort of record as it bagged the title for the seventh consecutive time. Apart from the splendid garden display which I got to witness back in 2015, there is a theater, vivid dining options, numerous shopping attractions, and new one added to the list is the Jewel Changi Airport. It is a nature themed entertainment that connects three passenger terminals. The center piece is the largest indoor waterfall called Rain Vortex.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport © Google

CSIA, Mumbai: Although many complain of the long arrival walk after landing, the T2 airport is the best place for layover. From varied brands for shopping to mouth-watering deals on duty free to fine-dining to lounge experiences to cafes, everything is available at the drop of your hat in Mumbai International airport. Not to forget, the domestic airport as well have upped their amenities. The moment you step out from the domestic airport, you have eateries and pick up and drop services lined-up. For long layovers, you could chill in any of the eateries for hours and enjoy a movie in one of the cafes.

Zurich Airport: One of the airports that tops my list after Singapore is Zurich. The arrival was such at ease thanks to the tube connectivity. Apart from the duty free, the business class area is peaceful and you could enjoy the lounge experience for long layovers. In fact, they operate nine lounges and no jokes, all offer champagne and whiskey. In summers, which I personally got to experience, was the outdoor observation deck where you could see the runways. At offset, the flyover connects you directly to the departure section. No wonder, it always stays ahead in the list of world’s best airports repeatedly.

Abu Dhabi Airport: Honestly, it reminded me of home. Apart from finding my own peeps around, the airport is homely indeed. A cosy space is ideal for a short layover. The outside view I promise is worth it when the sunrises. Abu Dhabi welcomed me in style.

Dubai Airport: One of the world’s busiest airport is Dubai. Divided into three terminals, each one has a duty free shop, and other such leisure amenities. The duty free brands are available at jaw-dropping prices. Precisely why, people spend hours into shopping. If you have a long layover, look no where and head straight to the duty free shops. You even get gold for attractive rates. And yes, do not get surprised if you find yourself lost amidst the crowd.

Charles de Gaulle, Paris: Although when I landed I found the airport pretty clustered and crowded, but I realised I am at Paris after all. The footfall is going to be large. In summers, you will see the sun shining bright even at 10 in the night. This image was taken then. It is perfect if you have few hours layover. I would not really recommend you to spend hours in the airport. Rather, you could head out at the streets and soak in the French architecture.

KL International Airport: If there is one place you can shop till you drop is KL Airport. One of the first international airports I have been to. Awesome transit through shuttle service from one terminal to the other, an entire floor of dining experience, and hands on passenger guide for baggage claims, security, etc. In case of long layovers and you have a small child, they have special kids play room at level five main terminal building.

Airports can be fun and filled with life. The next time you visit one, make sure to consume it all. There is so much you can learn by just sitting idle, en the way to your next place.

Diwali in Dubai-Abu Dhabi: Home away from home

Published on October 12, 2019July 3, 2021 by travelogue90Leave a comment

Let me begin by asking, how many of you have spent Diwali in a foreign land? Before you answer, you might be aware that Diwali is celebrated with pompous across the globe. Yes, Diwali might be just another event abroad, but it is a matter of a great deal in India. Diwali in India is all about the lighting of diyas, kandils, firecrackers and of course, sweets and more sweets. I mean it is one of the festivals I look forward to every year, thanks to the lengthy holidays, be it during school days or work. But imagine those who might be away from their near and dear ones for the first time this year?

Working as a writer for three and a half years (inclusive of working on public holidays), my family and I reveled Diwali together, that too in middle-eastern style in 2018. And I must say this hiatus was what the family needed. If you plan to visit Dubai-Abu Dhabi for this Diwali break, I have got you covered with best tourist attractions, food and hotels, and shopping.

Tourist attractions:

Dhow Cruise, Dubai Marina: Also known as the canal city, Dubai Marina is all about shiny high rises and sprawling infrastructure, portraying human excellence. One of the best ways to enjoy this glittering magnificence is the Dhow cruise. This cruise gives you a glimpse of the past and present of this thriving metropolis. And you can enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal under the glittering night sky.

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and Palm Monorail: The iconic Burj Al Arab is truly an icon of luxury placed right in the middle of white sand and blue sea. It is believed that the shape of the hotel resembles the sail of the ship. A few distance away is the Palm Monorail. It runs along the length of Palm Jumeirah, connecting all the way to the entry of Palm Atlantis Hotel. Oh, you also get to view Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan’s villas on the way 🙂

Desert Safari: Your visit to the Arabian land is incomplete without a Desert Safari ride. The Safari last for half n hour to 45 mins followed by the traditional belly dance and Mediterranean food. DO. NOT. MISS. THIS. ADVENTURE.

Dubai Mall: One of the largest shopping malls in UAE is home to the Sea Aquarium, Fountain Show and the beast, Burj Khalifa. Agar Dubai aake Burj Khalifa nahi dekha toh kya dekha! (if you have not watched Burj Khalifa after visiting Dubai, then you have not seen Dubai completely). It is worth an experience to get a 360-degree view of the Downtown Dubai where you witness the zigzag roads, Emaar’s creations such as The Address and lot’s more. Perched ‘At the Top’, it is a surreal affair. You can end your breathtaking view with the popular Burj Khalifa laser show along with the dancing fountains. These shows and laser shows take place in the morning after every one hour and 15 mins respectively.

Miracle Garden: One of the signature creations of Dubai is the Miracle Garden. Every year from November to mid-May Dubai comes to life with a variety of colourful flowers and scents. There are over 150 million flowers surrounding a space of 72,000 sq. mts. Truly it is a magnificent creation on a deserted island.

Rajmahal theater in Bollywood Parks © Travelogue90

Bollywood Parks: The first of its kind theme park in Dubai is the perfect tribute to the icons of Indian cinema – Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan and others. The park has chosen some legendary movies of Hindi cinema and converted them into shows, events, rides and more. The Rajmahal theater runs movie shows and sometimes, conducts concerts. Shankar Mahadevan, Atif Aslam, and so on have performed shows here earlier.

Dubai Frame: The new addition to the Dubai tourist attraction family is, the Frame. The Guardian newspaper has described it as ‘the biggest picture frame on the planet.’ It offers you a view of modern Dubai on one end, the old city on the other side. It was launched in January 2018.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque: If you go to Abu Dhabi and miss out on this architectural masterpiece, it would be a crime. The grand mosque is host to daily prayers, Friday gathering and Eid prayers. During Eid, the mosque is visited by almost 41,000 people. Some of the takeaways from the mosque is the world’s largest carpet in the main prayer hall, the shiny chandeliers, and the Qibla wall that features 99 attributes of God (Allah) in traditional Kufic calligraphy.

Ferrari World: Want to end the trip with some thrill? Enter Ferrari World and join the race. From the world’s fastest roller coaster to family rides to kid rides, everything is under one roof in the Yas Island. Considering it was Diwali, you could find the Festival of Lights event showcasing some beautiful talents on traditional and Bollywood songs.

Food & Hotels:

Food: If you would have visited Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the early 90s, especially being an Indian, it would have been difficult to survive, concerning food. Now that the number of Indians thriving in this city is rapidly rising, food issues are a passe. You can even find Jain food today in the city. You would find most of the Indian restaurants in Deira city.

Hotels: Deira City is the hub to the best hotels in Dubai. Of course, the high-end hotels are within the Dubai Marina but if you want to enjoy the skyline of Dubai, head to Aloft City Center. Adjoining the hotel is the City Center Mall.

In Abu Dhabi, Yas Island is home to some of the best hotels, one of them being Yas Rotana. It is closer to the Yas Mall and Ferrari World.

Shopping, shopping and more shopping:

There is a preconceived notion that Dubai and Abu Dhabi duty-free are the only places where you can find the best shopping deals. False. Head to City Centre Mall and move straight to Carrefour, the Big Bazaar of Dubai. Find all items from beauty to clothes to consumer goods to crockery to gadgets for dirt cheap price. And if you want to indulge in some gold, take an Abra Boat from Dubai Creekside, enjoy the view and in 10 mins you shall reach the Gold Souk. From spices to gold to traditional junkies, everything can be found here. If you want further discounts, go to 1 to 20 AED shop at BurJuman.

All this sounds nothing less than a dream, right? But you are guaranteed entertainment throughout the journey. There were tour guides at various destinations, providing us handy information.

Travelling with your own people is always a double bonus. The best part, I got to interact with some different cultured people as well during each of these adventures. We exchanged some views on our respective countries and the way Diwali is celebrated in different regions.

Diera city has plenty of Indians residing. So, there is no restrictions on Diwali crackers as well 😉