Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay in Oman

The latest stunner from the Six Senses stable has opened its door to the public last month. Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay in Oman boasts indigenous village-style accommodations and private marina, with rocky ranges on one side and a sandy beach on the other. Compromising 82 private pool villas, pool villa duplexes and suites, the property also includes two Retreats and a Reverse with its own majilis for up to 60 guests. As with every other Six Senses resort, the spa is a key element in Zighy Bay. It offers Six Senses signature treatments, and also has exclusive Turkish baths for men and women

for more details visit: www.sixsenses.com/Six-Senses-Hideaway-Zighy-Bay/

MS Ocean Odyssey sets sail in Mauritius

MS Ocean Odyssey, the 4-star heritage Cruise lines from Indian Ocean Cruises, is all set to begin its journey in Mauritius this month. The heritage Cruise liner can accommodate up to 200 passengers. On board facilities include a four-star restaurant, observation lunge and bar, coffee bar, gymnasium and fitness center, sauna and spa, sun-deck, casino, library and medical clinic, along with a wide variety of international entertainment. A range of itineraries, all based from Port Louis will be offered. Three of these are trips to the nearby islands of Reunion, Rodrigues and Madagascar.

For trip details, call 1800 4255 646; www.indianoceancruises.net

McDowell’s Signature Club golf tournament finals in Bali

The grand final of the seventh edition of the McDowell Signature Club Golf Championship will be held in Bali this month. The three-month long tournament, considered India’s biggest amateur championship, has touched more than 36 leading golf clubs across 24 cities in India since its start in September 2001. This year, the tournament has included over 32 clubs in India and Nepal. The winners of the tournament will be pitched against the national Indian Amateur golf team in early 2009

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Self-print boarding passes from Cathay Pacific

Cathay pacific airways has launched self-printing boarding pass service for departures from Hong Kong. You can now check in 48 hours in advance for flights departing after 3 am (Hong Kong time) that day. You can print your pass on A4 paper in either Black and White or color, using a normal printer. At present the facility is only available to passengers departing from Honk Kong who are traveling point to point on Cathay Pacific flights. Those who are eligible to use the self-print option will see a “Print Boarding Pass” button on screen after completing the online check-in process. The printout will include a lounge pass, if applicable, and the details of how to proceed at the airport.

Atlantis, The Palm makes a grand debut

The Ultra luxurious Atlantis, The Palm has opened in Dubai. Atlantis, The Palm will become the flagship resort of the Palm Jumeirah site, featuring 1,539 rooms, a water feature with its own conservation centre, 17 Restaurants and lounges, a bevy oof shops, and a 1,900 sq m spa & fitness centre. Of the rooms, the 'Lost Chambers Suites' are making a splash, offering underwater views of Ambassador Lagoon and its 65,000 marine animals.

for more Visit: http:www.atlantisthepalm.com

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Scuba diving promotions at Mandarin Oriental, Mexico

The Mandarin riental Riviera Maya, Mexico, has launched a scuba diving promotion, which begins with instruction at the resort followed by four dives. The package includes accommodation for four nights, daily American breakfast, diving lessons, and top-of-line gear and diving manuals provided by underwater expeditions. The rates begin at US $ 2900 till December 19, 2008

Visit http:www.mandarinoriental.com for more details

Air France zooms in on India

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With the rather simply named ‘Focus on India’ programme, Air France is going all out to make flying with the airline a better experience for the Indian traveler. On a recent visit to the airline’s headquarters in Paris, we were, frankly, amazed to see all the all-round effort from all departments to make Indians feel more at home, in air. There are training sessions for the crew where they got familiarized with the Indian culture and learn about the correct mannerisms to use around traditional Indian families, espically elders. On these regularly held sessions, the Air France crew from all over the world is informed about the gestures that are right or wrong, when dealing with Indians, such as how to part the head of a child so it doesn’t seem like an affront! Apart from this, Air France in association with the Oberoi Group has also introduced a new menu card, offering not only Hindu meals prepared by top chefs but also a fully vegetarian hot meal option in both Business and Economy. We tasted this food and mostly it was quite delicious. At CDG Airport meet-and-assist officials speak Hindi, Punjabi and Tamil, and are of particular help to unaccompanied elderly travelers. All in all if you were flying Air France you will no longer need to be afraid of French uppity-ness and language difficulties. And the naan on the board is quite good too. Check out www.airfrance.in

MasterCard launches second phase of Enjoy! Japan Campaign

MasterCard has launched the second phase of its ‘MasterCard Enjoy! Japan’ campaign, which runs until December this year. During the campaign period, cardholders traveling to Japan can enjoy perks and exclusive offers when using their MasterCard to make purchase at participating retailers in Japan, including department stores, dedicated duty-free stores, consumer electronics stores, and travel service websites. Learn more about it on www.japanican.com/campaign/mastercard

New Emirates terminal in Dubai

Designed with the capability to handle 43 million passengers a year, the Emirates Terminal 3 opened for business last month. Among other facilities, it offers impressive check-in services. The car park has 1,870 slots and a check-in hall with 18 counters. You can check in your luggage at the car park well in advance of the flight and go back to the city, only to return in time for the flight. Alternatively, you can access an online check-in option and when you arrive at the terminal for the flight, simply drop off your bags at one of the self service kiosks and collect your boarding pass. A new porter service is also in place. Two special Needs Lounges in the terminal have been designed for wheelchair passengers. There are 10 food outlets, ranging from coffee shops to international cuisine.

Silversea Cruises prints Voyage Atlas for 2009

Silversea Cruises has published its new 120-page Voyage Atlas for 2009, with a focus on luxurious and exotic destinations for its four all-suite ships, Silver Cloud, Silver wind, Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper, and the new ship, Prince Albert II. Now available in print and online, the guide contains over 130 itineraries offered abroad the line’s classic fleet as well as 26 exiting expeditions set for the Prince Albert II. A highlight of Silversea’s 2009 season is the company’s first-ever Grand Pacific Voyage, a 92-day odyssey. Also on next year’s schedule are expedition crusies to French Polynesia abroad Prince Albert II, which will be deployed in Papeete from mid-March to late October.

for more details log on to http://www.selversea.com

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The Luxury in the Queen of Hills - Mussoorie

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JAYPEE RESIDENCY MANOR, MUSSOORIE

VALID FROM 16 TH JULY 2008 TO 15 TH APRIL 2009

Standard Leisure

Duration: 1 Night/ 2 Days Tariff: Rs.8500/= + 5% Tax. (for a couple/Double room) Including Breakfast for two. Two children below 5 yrs are free if sharing the same room with parents without an extra bed.Extra bed charges for Children between 05-12 yrs. inclusive of breakfast Rs. 950/=+ Taxes Extra bed charges for Adult inclusive of breakfast Rs.2000/= + Taxes

Leisure Executive

Duration: 1 Night/ 2 days Tariff: Rs.9500/= + 5% Tax. (for a couple/Double room) Including Breakfast for two. Two children below 5 yrs are free if sharing the same room with parents without an extra bed.Extra bed charges for Children between 05-12 yrs. inclusive of breakfast Rs. 950/=+ Taxes Extra bed charges for Adult inclusive of breakfast Rs. 2000/= + Taxes.

Standard Leisure Package

Duration:2 Nights/ 3 Days Tariff: RS.14999/= + 5% Tax. (for a couple/Double room) Including Breakfast for two. Two children below 5 yrs are free if sharing the same room with parents without an extra bed.Extra bed charges for Children between 05-12 yrs. inclusive of breakfast RS. 950/=+ Taxes Extra bed charges for Adult inclusive of breakfast Rs. 2000/= + Taxes

Leisure Executive

Duration: 2 nights/3 Days

Tariff:

Tariff RS.16999/= + 5% Tax. (for a couple/Double room) Including Breakfast for two. Two children below 05 yrs are free if sharing the same room with parents without an extra bed.Extra bed charges for Children between 05-12 yrs. inclusive of breakfast Rs. 950/= + TaxesExtra bed charges for Adult inclusive of breakfast Rs. 2000/= + Taxes

Adventure Sports Package

Duration: 2 nights/3 Days

Tariff:

RS.18000/= + 5% Tax. (for a couple/Double room) Including Breakfast for two adults. Two children below 05 yrs sharing the same room without an extra bed are free. A 02 nights/ 03 days stay at Jaypee Residency Manor, Mussoorie with adventure sports activites at Himalayan Adventure Institute OR river crossing/ River rafting at Rishikesh (Seasonal).Extra bed charges for Children between 05-12 yrs. inclusive of breakfast Rs. 950/= + Taxes. Extra bed charges for Adult inclusive of breakfast Rs. 2000/= + Taxes & Rs. 1950/- + Taxes towards Adventure activities.Transfer from hotel to Himalayan Adventure Insititute, Kempty Falls/ Rishikesh and back. Adventure activities are strictly for age above 12 years only.

Spa Package

Duration: 2 Nights/ 3 days Tariff : Rs.21,000/- + 5% Tax (for a Couple/ Double Room). Including Breakfast for two adults. Two children below 05 yrs are free if sharing the same room with parents without an extra bed. Extra bed charges for Children between 05-12 yrs. Inclusive of breakfast Rs.950/- + Taxes. Extra bed charges for Adult inclusive of breakfast Rs.2000/- +Taxes per day. Rs.2999/- + taxes per day towards SPA treatment.

The above packages (Mussoorie) includes:

Welcome Drink (Non Alcoholic) on arrival. In room Tea/Coffee Maker. 20% discount on Food & Beverages (Indian Brands Only). 20% discount on Laundry. On request use of Gymnasium & Swimming pool. On request use of Steam/Sauna once during the stay. On request entry to Leisure mall & Discotheque Pick-Up and drop from/to Dehradun Railway station on request. Transfers between Hotel and Mall road at pre-determined schedule on request.

All circulars issued earlier regarding the JRM packages stand null & void.

Rates/Tariffs are subject to change as per management’s discretion.

Extra Bed Charges are Per Person Per night.

Suite would be charged @ Rs 20,000/- From 16th July 2008 TO 30th SEPT 2008 + 5% Tax per night on the above package.

Taxes on Meal Supplement is 10.38% and Taxes on package is 5%

NOTE :

Package rates in INR are applicable to all Indian nationals & Foreign nationals holding valid residential permit only.

'Goa most expensive tourist destination in India'

Goa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, is also becoming the most expensive destination in the country, say tour operators.
Rising inflation, hike in aviation fuel prices and increase in insurance premiums have led to an escalation in the rates of tour packages, offered by charter and scheduled tour operators to up to 100 percent.

Bush Miranda, a representative of scheduled flight operator Condor told IANS that tickets which cost $700 last year, have now shot up to $1,300.

"The season this year will be expensive, but the number of travellers to Goa hasn't shrunk much," Miranda said.

Condor is scheduled to fly 52 flights to Goa this season. Goa will attract a total of 700 chartered and scheduled flights this season, which ranges from October to March. "There is hope that the number may grow. Last year, the count was 758," he said.

Goa, according to Miranda, has not only been treated as the fifth best destination by tour organisers worldwide, but also the costliest one this year.

Condor's first flight from Frankfurt to Goa, scheduled for Oct 9, will be carrying over 300 passengers.

Martin Joseph, who represents Goa-based charter operator Freedom Holidays, said adverse advisories published by several countries about others, have resulted in a steep hike in insurance premiums.

"The moment a country makes an adverse remark about another on its travel advisory, insurance companies hike their premiums to tourists travelling there," Joseph said, adding that European tourists invariably insured themselves before travelling to India.

Although Goa continues to be one of the favourite destinations for European travellers, it now has competition on the European continent itself.

"Countries like Romania and Bulgaria are opening up and have realised their tourism potential. Obviously, a European traveller would save a lot of money in air fare as well as in-flight time if he chooses to travel to these new tourism havens," Joseph said.

Subhash Hegde of Thomson charters said Goa would see a spurt in the number of tourists from Russia this year also.

"Almost 40 percent of the charter tourists received by Goa are from the UK," he said, adding that while the Russian market was unpredictable, the flow of tourist from UK has been stable for the last several years.

While the population of Goa is pegged at 1.3 million, the state attracts more than 1.5 million tourists in its five-month tourism season from October to March. Roughly 12 percent of the tourists are foreigners.
Source: Indo-Asian News Service

NEPAL - FAVOURITE TOURIST DESTINATION

Nepal records highest tourist arrivals in eight years
Nepal, regarded a -Shangri-La for holiday makers with its Himalayan ranges, assortment of religious shrines and network of casinos, has recorded the highest tourist arrivals in eight years.

According to the Nepal Tourism Board Monday, figures released by the Immigration Office at the Tribhuvan International Airport indicate that 50,567 tourists visited Nepal in October, the highest in a single month since 2000.

The opening of two more casinos, a host of adventure sports like Everest skydiving and mountain biking as well as international music and film festivals have contributed to lure more foreign tourists.

The total number of visitors till October 2008 reached 307,748 and if the October growth is any indication, by the year-end, it could catch up with the idyllic situation in 1999 - when the country had hosted 421,000 visitors.

India remains the largest tourist-generating market for Nepal, registering a 14 percent growth in October. It has set the trend for South Asia with an overall positive growth of 26.3 percent. In this, Bangladesh and Pakistan registered growth respectively by 73.9 percent and 35.3 percent. Only Sri Lanka showed a decrease of 5.9 percent.

Other Asian countries like Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia and China have maintained the upward trend with 150.4 percent, 53.2, 24.4, 23.2 and 1.6 percentage growth respectively. However, Japan witnessed negative growth by 10.9 percent.

Britain, Israel, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland and Sweden have also maintained the upward trend as well as the US and Canada. Only Italy and Spain registered decrease in arrival figures by 13.2 percent and 7.5 percent respectively.

Tourism has begun to look up since the 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines aircraft on way to New Delhi from Kathmandu led to plummeting in the number of tourists to the Himalayan nation.

The hijacking of the aircraft on Christmas Eve to Afghanistan and the slaying of a passenger by the hijackers, created a fear psychosis, rocking the tourism industry, one of the mainstays of Nepal's economy.

The figures continued to fall after the massacre of Nepal's royal family in 2001, and the peaking of a communist insurgency that killed over 13,000 people.

Then in 2005 came the coup by then King Gyanendra, who shut down Nepal's only airport, cut off phone lines nationwide and declared a state of emergency, delivering an additional blow to the ailing industry.

Three years later, however, with the Maoist guerrillas having laid down arms and come to power through an election, tourism once again began to flourish in the country.

The Nepal Tourism Board is now hoping that the visit by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon last week to Lumbini in south Nepal, the birthplace of the Buddha, will attract more Buddhists in the days to come.

Source: Indo-Asian News Service

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The Best Airfares in the Sky - Outlook Traveller

Cairo, Rs. 26000 on Gulf Air route : Delhi-Bahrain-Cairo, www.gulfair.com. Winter is the best time to go to Cairo - the weather is good, the skies are clear and the fares are reasonable

Istanbul, Rs. 23000, on Air Arabia route: Mumbai - Sharjah - Istambul, www.airarabia.com

Manila, Rs. 25000, on Tiger Airways. Route : Chennai-Singapore-Manila, www.tigerairways.com, This South-east Asian low-cost airlines flies to a large number of international destinations. they don't offer connecting flights - you'll have to check in at Chennai and again at Singapore, but for the price the hassle is worth it.

Budapest, Rs. 40000 on Finnair. Route : Mumbai-Helsinki-Budapest, www.finnair.com. includes a stopover in Helsinki.

Kuala Lumpur, Rs. 21000, on Malaysia Airlines. Route : Delhi-Kuala lumpur, www.malaysiaairlines.com

Sharjah, Rs. 16000 on Air Arabia. Route : Hyderabad-Sharjah, www.airarabia.com

All fares are economy return, inclusive of taxes, available directly from the airlines - Courtesy Outlook Traveller

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TOP TEN HOTELS FOR THIS DIWALI

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1. Umaid Bhawan
2. Taj Palace
3. Hyatt
4. The Park
5. The Crowne Plaza
6. Jaypee
7. The Ashoka
8. Shangri-La
9. Oberoi
10. Radisson

Discount Shopping this Diwali

With the festive season around the corner, Rediff Shopping, India's popular online shopping destination today announced a series of new offerings to brighten up Diwali. As part of its special initiative Rediff Shopping has launched a special Diwali store to provide a one stop shop shopping experience to Indians across the globe. Providing greater value to the buyers, Rediff is also offering a special Rs 1000/- gift voucher with every purchase.

The special store offers the largest variety of products and gifts, with over 1000 gift items ranging from mithai and mithai hampers from reputed stores such as Haldirams and Ghasitaram to dry fruits and pooja thalis. All the gifts come with a artful and decorative packing, reflecting the celebrations of Diwali. The store also has a special range of beautifully crafted diyas and fire cracker hampers.

There is also a selection of great designer jewelry from big brands like D�damas, Surat diamonds and Gili to choose from at discounted prices for personal and corporate gifting. Shoppers can also gain from some fantastic deals that are available on microwaves and home theater system from Godrej and LG.

Commenting on the special initiative for Diwali, Manish Agarwal Vice President Marketing said, With online shopping gaining popularity during festive season, we wanted to take the lead to provide a complete hassle free shopping experience to our buyers by offering the largest collection of specially choosen products and exciting deals. The store will not only cater to the domestic buyers but also a large number of Indians who are settled abroad and are looking to send gifts to their near and dear ones in India.

And if you are looking to buy that special gift for your loved ones for Bhai Dooj, buyers can also look at the special range of Bhaidooj gifts including designer apparel, watches, home appliance and several exclusive gift products. There is also special section for Dhanteras, which offers an entire range of gold and silver coins that are available at heavily discounted prices.

Apart from all these buyers can save money with free shipping option on most products across the Diwali store. Gifts can be delivered across 250 cities in India and around the USA as well. Buyers can choose the option of express delivery to ensure that the gifts reach your loved ones on time. To make their shopping experience more convenient and hassle free, Rediff Shopping also offering several different payment options including credit cards, debit cards, to demand drafts, cash on delivery and very easy EMI options.

So log on to http://diwaligifts.rediff.com to avail the best discounts and deals and get more out of your Diwali shopping.

NEWS - Exotic vacations lure Indians overseas

Diwali no longer seems to be binding people to their homes. This year, many more people are taking the long weekend off for a short holiday, and this is just the beginning of a promising holiday season.

Whether its the beaches of Goa and Kerala or the mountains up north, all the traditional holiday spots in the country are completely sold out for Diwali and the mandatory New Year celebrations. Internationally too, the popular South-east Asian destinations are attracting weekend holidays.

But what's new and exotic this season are packages to South America and the Scandinavian countries. And though a bit more steeply priced than the regular packages, at about a Rs 1 lakh per person for 10 days, these holidays are finding quite a few adventurous travellers. Travel companies are reporting record business this year. Chairman and Managing Director, Raj Travels, Lalith Sheth told CNBC-TV18, "Business is up by 50%-80%."

What is interesting this year is that, more people are opting to travel in groups - a trend that was declining over the past few years. Travel agents say, that is because there is a dramatic increase in the number of middle income families travelling overseas for the first time, who look for security in numbers. In fact, quite a few people are forming their own groups and customising their holiday. So much so that the director of Kesari Tours, Veena Patil says, "We have sent honeymoon couples in groups."

But packages this year are about 4%-5% more expensive over last year. Travel companies say that this trend is likely to continue. If fuel prices continue to soar, airlines will be forced to raise fares and with hotels increasing tariffs every year, packages are likely to cost at least 10% more next year. Despite this, travel agents are hoping this will not deter the 15%-20% growth that the industry has been witnessing over the last few years.

Go East India this Diwali

Elgin Hotels & Resorts: Luxury Heritage Hotels & Resorts in the Himalayas, India

Enchanting holiday getaways with the old world charm a regal royal era.

Elgin hotels and resorts are leading luxury heritage hotels in the Himalayas of India synonymous with warm hospitality.
Exquisite homely interiors, impeccable service, fine cuisine, a caring staff and contemporary technology blend to create an experience that is both warm and intimate.
Elgin hotels and resorts are beyond compare.
The Elgin group owns and operates leading luxury heritage hotels & resorts in the Himalayas Darjeeling, Sikkim India. Each hotel has been carefully located in the Himalayas. Darjeeling and Sikkim offer locations unparalleled anywhere in the world.
Destinations:

1) The Elgin Hotel in Darjeeling – A 125 year old Royal Manor House.

2) The Silver Oaks Hotel in Kalimpong- Home of a famous Jute magnate now converted into a luxury hill resort in the Himalayas.

3) The Norkhill Hotel in Gangtok – Once the royal guest house of the king of Sikkim. This heritage hotel has hosted heads of states and people of prominence from the world over. Richard Gere and the Dalai Lama to name a few.

4) The Elgin Mount Pandim Hotel in Pemayangtse (Pelling), West Sikkim, India. Once the summer retreat of the royal family of Sikkim. This Heritage property is now a luxury boutique hotel. Each bed room in the hotel offers magnificient views of the snow capped Himalayas.

for more details visit: http://www.elginhotels.com/

EXOTIC DESTINATION - Seductive Santa Barbara - by Esselle

Be it Gloria Swanson and Jean Harlow, Katharine Hepburn and Audrey Hepburn, everyone did a turn at Santa Barbara. Honestly, the name brings on all kinds of connotations---- of swishy rollicking times, heady parties and swizzly drinks.

Well it is an oasis for the rich and famous but special occasions do deserve special locations. It is famous for its western spirit, friendly people and tri tip barbecue, its idyllic climes and beaches, its 485 restaurants and super luxurious spas, its beauty and serenity. And the show which made the place famous.

Located on the scenic Southern California coast that boasts a Mediterranean ambiance Santa Barbara is one of the most affluent cities on the American Riviera. Its Spanish-inspired architecture and breathtaking mix of mountains, valleys and beaches also offers urban delights. Nearby Los Angeles, including Disneyland, Universal Studios, Beverly Hills and Hollywood make for short trips from Santa Barbara.

If you want to get married here well it would be a commemoration for a life time. And you'd be in good company too. Vivien Leigh and Sir Laurence Olivier got married here. In case you want to go there for a sizzling honeymoon, you have company too--John F. and Jacqueline Kennedy went for there honeymoon here.

Today's celebrities too seem to love walking in here. Just a while back Charlize Theron and Julia Roberts, Oprah Winfrey and Gwyneth Paltrow also enjoyed the salubrious beckoning of this Californian resort. So if you like it being ruled by the sun this summer sign up for your fire holiday at Santa Barbara. For it is unique and energizing with oodles of pure fun. Tennis, golf, swimming, sports, leisure, biking, reading, tours, wine tasting, beach trips, horseback riding, kayaking and surfing, weekly tournaments are all for those who want to always list what they did at a vacation. Or simply unwind fiber by fiber relaxing at the beach or by the pool and enjoy the Santa Barbara sunshine.

Santa Barbara is after all one of the world's premier vacation destinations and you can find real classy swingers here amidst its breathtaking scenery, world-class dining, shopping. A lot of avant garde people including scientists, writers and general philosophers hang around here adding substance to cultural events and film festivals. The beautiful oceanfront is enough of a high but you could also take an excursion to outlying areas, including the romantic and remote Channel Islands and beautiful valley wine country.

Of course at the "coast of the sun" the lure of California could be the perfect holiday icebreaker. You will love to love, love to play and love a wee bit of luxury - well a lot actually. A five star a holiday with a golden tan thrown in for free is a must for all beautiful people. So why should you deny yourself? Use this chance at Santa Barbara to enhance your gorgeous bods, pecs and hairy locks in the Spanish and Latino hot spots.

Watch the stars of the zodiac as they perform for you. But once you hit the dance floor, posed in Saturday Night Fever fashion every day of the week there will be no stopping you from seeking out the limelight in true California style. Yes tonight you could be John Travolta or Olivia Newton John. Live La Vida Loca at the bars, and exciting nightlife and sip heavily from the cups of hedonism. For a sumptuous sybaritic experience even for one night try out the San Ysidro resort which has undergone a multimillion dollar renovation.

If you are the outdoorsy kind you can nestle in luxurious cabins in El Capitan Canyon, only minutes from an unspoiled section of coastline. Hike amongst ancient Chumash Indian artifacts, kayak with dolphins or simply relax on the beach. This coast will inspire and rejuvenate the lover in all of us.

Diwali Destination - ABBOTT MOUNT

ABBOTT MOUNT
The Clouds Beneath Your Feet

By Lesley A. Esteves

Not even the breathtaking vistas of the forested drive to Champawat District from Kathgodam can prepare you for the beauty that greets you in Abbott Mount. After long stretches of moss-covered deodar forests you finally reach Lohaghat on the banks of the Lohawati River. Leave Lohaghat’s crowded bazaar behind and, 6 km ahead at Marorakhan, a road climbs dramatically up through the clouds over 3 km, to the tiny settlement of Abbott Mount.

There are just 13 cottages spread across this hill, all built pre-Independence by John Harold Abbott of Jhansi, who named the hill for himself.

We drove straight down into the driveway of Snow View Cottage, unchanged since the time Abbott first built it. Deodars, pears and a solitary walnut graced the grounds. We stepped out of the car and there they were — the Himalaya stretched across the horizon. Kalyanji, the caretaker at Snow View, pointed out the peaks — Trishul, Maiktoli, Nanda Kot, Nanda Ghunti, the majestic Nanda Devi. He tried to point out the Pindari Glacier, but the clouds rose too fast. Beneath our feet, the bowl of the Soar Valley was filled with clouds. It was for this special view that Abbott chose this particular mount that towers above the neighbouring hills. And which affords the visitor the pleasure of sipping tea in a garden while watching the clouds float by, beneath her feet. After the sun set and it was pitch dark, we still sat facing the mountains, clustered around a bonfire under the walnut tree. The fireflies turned the deodars into Christmas trees; the brandy travelled all the way down to our toes. And, all the while, Kalyan’s sister told us tall tales of leopards and ghosts in the surrounding

WHERE TO STAY AD EAT

Snow View Cottage (Tel: 05965-234169; Tariff: Rs 3,000 for the cottage) was built by the original Abbott nearly a 100 years ago. At some point, it passed to Nepal royal Shamsher Rana and is now owned by charming hosts Gogi and Kiran Sandhu. The well-appointed cottage is perfect for taking maximum advantage of the phenomenal views. There are picture windows on all sides and massive sofas in which you can lounge as you gaze open-mouthed at the peaks. The caretaker Kalyanji prepares wholesome meals with vegetables from the cottage’s own patch.

Abbott Mount Cottage (Tel: 235421; Tariff: Rs 3,000) is another of Abbott’s 13 lovely cottages, offering three rooms, laundry and a cook who makes all meals, not included in the tariff, which is for the entire cottage.
For more details visit : http://www.abbottmount.com/ and http://abbottmountcottage.com/

Incredible India

www.incredibleindia.org

Incredible India welcomes you to the online booking service. You will be able to search a range of accommodation options across India. Accommodation details and pricing information is provided by either a 3rd party or directly by the establishment.

Non-Indian residents will be able to complete their transactions in US$ while Indian residents will be able to complete their transactions in Indian Rupees. For most complete results and to find Government approved B&Bs leave the ‘Ratings’ setting at ‘All’. Non-Indian residents can currently book Government approved B&Bs in US$. Indian residents will also be able to book B&Bs in Indian Rupees in the next few weeks, but in the interim, please email indiaenquiries@eviivo.com for a complete list of all approved B&Bs.

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AULI - A time to Ski

Kashmir’s loss is Uttarakhand’s gain,” confessed a former skiing cham­pion of Kashmiri origin rather ruefully. And indeed, since most of us don’t fancy meeting one of Osama’s lieutenants on the slopes of Khilanmarg, let us be grateful to the Indian babu who decided to develop the little known pasture of Auli into a winter skiing resort in the late eighties.

Auli isn’t large: the entire skiing area is about 5-7 km, but since it’s located way up between 9,500 and 10,500 ft, it commands excellent views of the surrounding peaks which soar well over 23,000 ft. The air is cold, fresh and scented with the aroma of pine; the skies are azure blue.

This may not be Aspen or St Moritz, but hey, this is India of 50-degrees-in-the-shade fame, and it’s pretty mira­culous that we have slopes with wonderful, soft powdery snow at all. And the Uttarakhandis are trying: a spanking new cable car ropeway traverses 4 km up the hill from Joshi­math, transporting you over the tops of oak and fir trees to Auli. And when you swoop down the slopes, you don’t have to worry about the trudge back up: the baby slopes have a 1,640-foot ski lift, and the advanced slopes have a 2,620-foot chair lift to haul you to the top.

So forget another winter at the beach and head north instead. After a week on the slopes you will be confident enough to whiz down a mountain and execute a fancy parallel turn. Skiing is wonderful exercise but be warned, it’s dangerous — your tummy disappears, your muscles tone up, your skin glows with good health. It could become addictive.

Clifftop Club at Auli is located at an altitude of over 10,000 feet in India's most scenic location amid the snow clad Himalayas. The resort provides a 270 degree clear view of the snow covered Nanda Devi range (the highest in india and third highest in the world). Other ranges in sight include Dronagiri, Kamet, Trishul, Neelkanth, Mana, and Mukut . They belong to the snow-line ranges which are covered with snow all round the year.

Honeymoon Package-Clifftop Club, Auli
Honeymoon on Cloud 9 at Rs 15999/- per couple for 3 nights/4 days at Clifftop Club, Auli.
Inclusions:
Room Tariff + All Meals (Bed Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea and Dinner) + Taxes.
One guided trek to Gorson Forest.
Decorated room for one night.
Candle lit dinner for one night.
Complimentary cookies with hot milk.
Complimentary skiing for one session subject to adequate snowfall.


Proposal from the Club Group of Hotels
The Club Group of Hotels operates under Ski & Snow Resorts Pvt. Ltd., who have been in the business of hospitality for over two decades. Our focus is on maintaining exclusivity in locations and creating an ambience that is unmatched by any competitor in our category.
Three of our properties, Clifftop Club at Auli, Mountain Club at Bhimtal and Alpine Club at Nainital are in exclusive locations where our guests can enjoy the privacy they so much deserve.
We offer Clifftop Club, Auli and Mountain Club, Bhimtal as destinations for youth camps, adventure, birding, photography, trekking, skiing, training and conferencing.

Clifftop Club, Auli:
Located at 10500 ft above sea level in the Chamoli district of the Himalayas, Clifftop Club is the only ski resort to be located next to the ski slopes. In winter, the slopes of Auli are a haven for skiers. Technical details on the ski slopes are attached in the Skiing Fact Sheet.
In summers, this is an ideal base for short and long treks to Gorson bugyals, RR Point and Kuari Pass. Its proximity to the Valley of Flowers turns the Auli bugyals into a riot of color during July to September, when myriad species of flowers bloom in the lush green meadows. A rich repository of Himalayan wildlife can be seen here, as the property lies just outside the Nanda Devi Biosphere reserve, declared a heritage site.

Our offer:
Clifftop Club has been operational from 2001 and we have now added more rooms to our inventory taking the count to 40. Mountain Club is a brand new property, operational only from March 2006, yet we have hosted the Dhirubhai Ambani International School from Mumbai and the Mayo College from Ajmer in the recent past and we have an association with some top corporate trainers who prefer to conduct their sessions at this property.
In keeping with our policy of associating with the very best, we wish to attract more discerning guests through you for niche and special interest tours. Many of the diverse of activities conducted by corporates find a place in the environs of Clifftop Club and Mountain Club. We welcome groups with excellent service and warm hospitality.


The commercials:
Group tariff on APAI (per person per day) Nett:
Property Clifftop Club
On double occupancy 2400/-
On triple occupancy 2200/-
On 4-occupancy 1800/-

Rate per person per day for a minimum group size of 20 persons includes room tariff, bed tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea, dinner, bonfire, trekking guide for one trek and all taxes. Cocktail snacks and soft drinks/soda extras.
One room complimentary for group leaders on every 10 rooms confirmed.


For further queries, contact:
Rupa Gandhi
Dy. Gen Mgr. Club Group of Hotels,
Ski & Snow Resorts Pvt Ltd,
607/608 Jaina Tower II,
District Centre, Janakpuri,
New Delhi-110058.
Tel: +91 9899797712
Email: rgandhi@ssrpl.com



SKIING FACT SHEET CLIFFTOP CLUB - AULI:
Ski Slopes: Four World Class Ski Slopes.
Details Of Slopes 1. 10 No. Slope (White): For Skiiers
2. 8 No. Track (Blue ) : For Skiiers
3. Temple Track (Red ) : For eginers
4. Composite Slope (Blue): For Skiiers

Length of Ski Slopes: 10 No. of Slope - 900 Meters.
8 No Slope - 800 Meters.
Temple Slope - 400 Meters.
Composite Slope - 3.1 KM.

Ski Lifts:
Nos. of Ski Lift: 2 (Two) - International Standard.
1. Standing Lift
2. Sitting Lift
Fare of Ski Lift : Rs. 30/- Per Trip For pole Lift (Standing )
Rs 200/- Per Trip for Chair Lift (Sitting )
Note: :POLE Lift ( Standing ) from Temple Track to Tower No. 10.
:Chair Lift (Sitting) from Auli to CLIFFTOP CLUB.
Cable Car : @Rs. 400/- Per Pax for To & Fro.
At a time 25 Pax can be accommodated.
It starts from Joshimath to Tower No.10 (Entrance to Gorson Reserve ).
It takes 22 Minutes to Gorson and 15 mins to Clifftop Club.

Special Attraction: 10 Km Long Cross Country Alpine Skiing by Indian Army.
Note : Auli is being promoted as an International Destination for SKIING. It has an International standard of GOOD SKI TRACKS & SKI Lifts. Depth of snow - 8 ft to 12 ft (Subject to weather conditions).

For more Details visit : http://www.ctcauli.com/

Luxury - Magic Carpet Ride

Emirates Palace launches a lavish Million Dollar Package
Book a surprise for the one you love (most) at The Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, and know that it's the fanciest romantic gesture you'll ever make - from setting in to your first-class seats on Etihad Airlines to checking into the 680 sq-m Palace Suite at the Emirates Palace (home for the next eight days). At your dieposal is a chauffer-driven Mayibach, but you're likely to be distracted by the private jet that will take you on day trips to nearby places. In this week of opulent indulgence, you'll create your own Persian carpet, string yourself pearls, mix your own perfumes, go deep sea fishing, unwrap lots of exciting gifts, play golf and get spa treatments. So yes, there's a very distinct possibility you;ll come back with that insane million dollar smile everyone keeps talking about.
for more details Visit: http://www.emiratespalace.com/en/home/index.htm?item_id=63269&details=1&offer=1

Kingfisher on International Route

This month kingfisher airlines has introduced international routes, with daily non-stop flights between Bangalore and London-Heathrow airport. These internationa flights will have economy as well as Kingfisher First Class. Facilities includes: 400 hours of programming on 36 channels, cuisine by London's famed Chutney Mary's restaurant, mood lighting, web chat ande-mail, USB connectors and in-seat plugs/chargers. The Kingfisher First passengers additionally enjoy in-seat massagers, a stand-up bar and bartender, and jacket ironing service. The brand new Airbus A330-200 operating this route will depart Bangalore at 8.40 am and arrive in London at 2.50 pm (local time)

for more details Visit: http://www.flykingfisher.com/

Unbelievable Accomodatioin in Delhi - Ginger Rail Yatri Niwas

The Indian railway catering and tourism corporation Ltd (IRCTC) has recently launched the Ginger Rail Yatri Niwas at the New Delhi Railway Station. India's first Ginger Rail Yatri Niwas, the renovated property stands at the ajmeri gate side of the busy railway station. the property now gives you a choice of well-appointed orange and blue theme rooms with LCD television sets, anti-allergy pillows, duvets and tea/coffee makers. The budget hotel also comes with a 24-hour restaurant and a bookstore, apart from a 24X7 medicine shop. The rooms are priced at Rs. 999 and Rs. 1199 inclusive of taxes. The hotel also has four-bedded rooms where each bed is available at Rs. 250 per night.

for details visit: http://www.gingerhotels.com

Radissoin White Sand Goa on Yatra.com

Radisson White Sands, Goa Offers 3 Nights/4 Days for Rs. 22,797 per couple. Includes Wi-Fi Access, All meals, unlimited alcohol & transfers. Valid till September 30, 2008
For Details Visit: http://www.yatra.com/

Ramadan Offers on Emirates flights to Dubai

Emirates passengers travelling to Dubai between September 1 and 30 of 2008 can enjoy hotel stay from US$ 57 a night per person. The offer is valid in the following six hotels in Dubai: Marco Polo, Novotel World Trade Centre, Ibis World Trade Centre, Highland Hotel, Crown Plaza Dubai Festival City and Hyatt Regency Dubai. The packages are available worldwide to passengers travelling in any class, and the offer includes a meet-and-greet services at teh Dubai airport. Get extra nights with bed and breakfast at special rates, other than privilege card that gives you discounts at shops and restaurants.

Visit http://www.emirates.com/

Jetlite

Jetlite offers 14-day apex fares on several domestic routes. Prices start at Rs. 1125.00 (Exclusive of Tax and Fuel Surcharges). Valid for Bokings tiill September 30, 2008.

Visit http://www.jetlite.com/