Tuesday November 10, 2009
The Indian Maharaja
The outstanding success of the Palace on Wheels luxury train has brought about an influx of new luxury trains in India. The latest one to hit the tracks is The Indian Maharaja. Its first journey, from Mumbai to Delhi via Rajasthan, is on November 18, 2009.
These luxury trains aren't cheap but they sure are popular. The lowest rate on The Indian Maharaja is $525 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. This adds up to $3,675 per person for the whole seven nights, or $7,350 for a couple.
According to distribution partners Thomas Cook, The Indian Maharaja is already 75% occupied for 2009-10. There are only a few remaining places on the train for departures in November, December, and March. January, February, and Easter (in April) are booked out.
Next to be launched, in January 2010, is India's most opulent and expensive luxury train -- the Maharaja's Express.
Monday November 9, 2009
Beach at the Leela Hotel, Goa.
Leonardo Media
A friend of mine recently returned from Goa. He owns apartments there so he regularly visits the state. I caught up with him the other night, and he had quite a few disheartening things to say about tourism (or lack of it) in Goa the moment.
It seems that Goa is really suffering. Although the tourist season has begun, there is hardly anyone around. Goa is very quiet. Sadly, the impact on businesses has been significant. My friend said he's had to slash the rates on his apartments. Loungefly is closed, as its investors have pulled out. Butter, one of the largest clubs in Goa, is empty most nights. Goa's casinos have suffered a drop in patronage as well.
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) also recently ordered the demolition of Cafe Mambo and Club Tito's, two of the most well known nightspots in Goa. Apparently, the structures are located in a no development zone. The two establishments might not be forced to close though, as they can appeal the decision. Nevertheless, the situation isn't positive.
Tourism in Goa has dropped significantly as a result of negative publicity and the global financial crisis. If you're after a bargain vacation in Goa, now is the time to enjoy it! (Of course, expect to pay inflated rates around Christmas and the New Year though). Goa really needs the business.
More About Goa Travel:
Saturday November 7, 2009
Kangchenjunga sunset.
www.flickr.com user A.Ostrovsky
If you're visiting Darjeeling, it looks like you'll now have to be content with drinking what Darjeeling is most famous for -- tea! The Gorkha Janmukhi Morcha political party has issued a ban on the sale of alcohol in bars, restaurants, and shops in Darjeeling from November 7, 2009. The reason? To stop revenue flowing into Bengal state government coffers and thus exert pressure on the government.
If you're craving a drink to enjoy with the sunset over Kangchenjunga, there is an option -- local brew. Since it doesn't attract state government excise duty, local brew doesn't fall under the ban. The most popular type is rakshi, made from chingping and rhododendron. Many trekkers in the Sandakphu-Phalut region drink it.
Travel to Darjeeling on the Toy Train
Thursday November 5, 2009
Indian porter.
Sharell Cook
Traveling to India can involve much deliberating about what to bring, especially if you haven't visited the country before.
I remember the first time I came to India, I wanted to be prepared for every possible situation that could eventuate. However, there were several items in my India packing list that I was thankful to have, and which made my trip easier.
Got any packing list essentials? Share you India packing list here.
More About Packing Lists for India:
