Golden Years Retreats: 7 Best Cities to Retire in India

Gone are the days when people used to settle down at the same place where they have spent their whole life working or where they have their kids and family. The option of choosing a retirement home may still sound alien to many but with the increase in disposable income and an open mindset, people are exploring the option of planning their retirement in a place of their choice and on their own terms. The most important factors to look for when choosing a city are flexible weather, safety, easy availability of quality healthcare & effortless access to basic amenities. Retires from abroad, both NRI and foreigners look at India as an interesting option to settle.

Though the choice of city will defer from person to person for a vast country like India, here is “The Suitcase” list of 7 cities to settle after retirement.

1. Goa

Fine climate round the year, multi-ethnic culture and laid back charm makes the state of Goa the most preferred choice. Known for exotic landscape, beautiful beaches and rich heritage, it is flocked by hundreds of thousands of tourists from India and worldwide. Goa is home to growing number of Indians, Europeans and Indian expats.

2. Pune

It has a diverse population and several leading companies in software and IT are based here making it an ideal place for job hunters as well. It’s proximity to Mumbai and other metropolitan cities make it a perfect choice, as the cost of living is less than those mentioned. Pune is surrounded by many popular hill stations like Lonavala, Khandala etc and is also one of the largest cities in Maharashtra.

Image Source: Wikipedia

3. Chandigarh

Claimed to be the first ever planned city in India, the capital of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is one of the favourites amongst the retires. It has India’s highest per capita income and offers the best medical facilities. Chandigarh’s immediacy to Himachal Pradesh gives an option of quick getaway to the hills. It has everything from greenery to finely designed roads to best of the brands and all the entertainment.

Image Source: Wikipedia

4. Coimbatore

Coimbatore is in the middle of the captivating mountain ranges including the Nilgiris and very close to one of the most beautiful hill stations – Ooty! Always been a preferred destination for retired defence personnel, it is now attracting more and more retires. It is modern yet has strong historic importance, scenic geography and tranquil environment. This small city of Tamil Nadu scores on low cost of living, less pollution, good climate round the year and one of the best infrastructure and healthcare facilities.

Image Source: Wikipedia

5. Dehradun

Located between the two sacred rivers – Yamuna and Ganga, on the base of Himalayas, lies the city of Dehradun. It’s closeness to the holy cities of Rishikesh & Haridwar and the beautiful hill station of Mussorie makes it an idyllic choice for retirement. Dehradun has many top educational institutes and superior plantation of rice, tea & lychee. It offers good healthcare facilities and connection to top hill stations of Uttrakhand.

Image Source: Wikipedia

6. Kurseong

Home to some of the most expensive teas in the world, this lesser known city of West Bengal is 32 kms from the serene hill station of Darjeeling. It is also known as land of white orchids and is fast growing to be a favourite of retirees as it is away from the hustle bustle of the world. The nearest airport is Bagdogra which is connected to all major states of India and the famous toy train of Darjeeling passes from Kurseong.

Image Source: Wikipedia

7. Kerala

One of the most loved tourist destinations by Indians and foreigners, Kerala is known for tropical forest, lush green landscape and backwaters. Kerala ayurveda is known worldwide and Kerala has one of the best educational institutes. The major cities are Trivandrum and Kochi along with many popular towns of Kozikode, Varkala and Munnar. Expats are investing here and coming back to settle in their home town.

Image Source: Wikipedia

7 Most Romantic Places in India

Two souls and an eternal bond for a lifetime, this beautiful relation is called marriage and a popular Hindu festival that celebrates this union is Karwachauth. It’s a one-day fast kept by Hindu women for long and healthy life of their husband. So, why not pamper the lovely wives this year and take them to an exquisite world of love and romance.

Here is The Suitcase’s recommendation of the 7 most romantic places in India.

1. Udaipur

The city of lakes is the proud owner of few most royal hotels in the world. The word luxury gets a new definition in Udaipur and the picturesque backdrop of majestic Aravalli hills and splendid lakes leaves you mesmerized. The city is also known as the “Venice of the East”.

2. Kashmir

Snow capped mountains, green countryside, rhythmic sound of fresh streams, fresh air and just the two of you – nothing can be more romantic than this. Known as the “Heaven on earth”, the beauty of Kashmir cannot be described in words. A ride in a Shikara in the Dal Lake is a must for every visitor.

3. Kerala

Popularly called as “God’s known country”, Kerala is probably one of the greenest states in India. You can choose from the silent ride in the houseboat in the backwaters of Alleppey & Kumarakom or the lush green hills of Munnar or the infinite ocean view from the serene beaches of Kovalam, these experiences will be cherished for a lifetime.

4. Darjeeling

The towering Mt.Kanchenjunga kisses the blue sky, the rolling mountains with flourishing green tea plantation and in between lays the ‘Queen of hills’ – Darjelling. The sunrise over the horizons of Tiger hills is absolutely captivating and so is the ride in the toy train which has got UNESCO World Heritage status.

5. Lakshadweep

One of the most untouched and relatively secluded beach destinations in India, Lakshadweep has the most pristine turquoise blue water and emerald green beaches. A delight for scuba divers, the place takes you to the unknown world of undersea life.

6. Coorg

Yet another romantic place that is popularly known as “Scotland of India” is also a famous destination for honeymoon. Coorg has the most beautiful falls, the unmitigated tea gardens, mystic fog, green forests and scintillating hills making it a sheer delight for travellers.

7. Havelock

A breathtaking 4 hours ferry journey from Port Blair is the immaculate island of Havelock. Clean blue water, silver sand and soft breeze are sure to set a perfect tune of romance. The island also has a lot of options for adventurous sports.

All images source: Wikipedia

15 BEAUTIFUL COUNTRIES INDIANS CAN TRAVEL TO WITHOUT A VISA

While planning an international vacation, the first thing that bothers us is the tedious procedure for Visa. The innumerable documents and the time required for the Visa can totally dampen the mood of the vacation and are also key deterrent factors for choosing a destination. But did you know there are 59 international destinations where Indians can travel visa free? To be precise there are three categories of Visa that Indians require in these countries – 1. No Visa, 2. e-Visa, 3. Visa on arrival.

Read more to know The Suitcase’s pick of favourite destinations where Indians should plan a trip right away, as these countries are inviting us with open arms! (Sans Visa)

No Visa:

1.Fiji

Fiji is an archipelago of 332 islands in the South Pacific. Famous for its rocky landscape of blue lagoons, palm swarming beaches, soft coral dive and pearly beaches, you cannot get more close to the nature. Accommodation options ranges from affordable to hotels to exclusive five star resorts and private islands as well. It’s a dream destination for weddings and honeymoons as the country takes you in a trance.

Image source: Wikipedia

2. Macau

Known as the Las Vegas of Asia because of enormous casinos and extravagant malls, the glitz and glamour of this country is contagious. Macau never sleeps and owns striking landmarks like Macau towers. A small peninsula in mainland China, Macau is across the Pearl River delta from Hongkong. The country also boasts of rich culture, temples, picturesque landscape, heritage monuments and oodles of adventurous activities.

Image Source: Wikipedia

3. Trinidad & Tobago

Republic of Trinidad & Tobago is a twin island country off the northern edge of South America. Part of Caribbean islands, it shares boundaries with exotic locations of Barbados, Venezuela, Grenada & Guyana. Untouched coastline with extraordinary beaches, deep gorges, humongous waterfalls and distinctive species of wildlife, the atmosphere will leave you asking for more!

Image Source: Wikipedia

4. Ecuador

Surrounded by Colombia, Peru and Pacific Ocean, Ecudor also includes the famous wildlife rich Galapagos Islands which lie in the north-western South America. The diverse landscape also encompasses Amazon jungle, Pacific coast & Andes highland. When you have four different worlds in one then “All You Need is Ecuador”.

5. Jamaica

Another gem in the Caribbean Island nation, has a lush topography of mountains, rainforests & reef-lined beaches. Hometown of Bob Marley, the most popular destinations around Jamaica are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios & Negril that is famous for the best of resorts renowned for diving and snorkelling. At night Jamaica comes alive. With reggae beats, live music, dancing on the beach until dawn, this country knows how to live life.

e-Visa

1. Kenya

From Nairobi’s wildlife reserve to Tanzania’s Mt.Kilimanjaro, the country witnesses the annual great wildlife wild beast migration. The country in East Africa with coastline of Indian Ocean encompasses Savannah, Lakelands, Great Rift Valley and mountain highland with abundant flora and fauna.

2. Bahrain

Comprising of more than 30 islands in the middle eastern of Persian Gulf, the kingdom of Bahrain is flanked by Saudi Arabia and Qatar. With a rich history of kings and queens, the forts, museums & mosques are spectator’s delight. A shopper’s paradise, the food is lip smacking and motor sports are a favourite pastime of the people.

2. Myanmar

One of India’s neighbours, Myanmar shares its boundaries with Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. The city of Yangon (formerly known as Rangoon) is famous for bustling markets, abundant parks & lakes and plentiful of Pagodas as the history dates back to Buddhist relics. The Indian-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway will be one of its kind roadtrip for every traveller!

4. Zimbabwe

The thundering sound of Victoria falls is music to the ears when it cascade 108m into Batoka George making it ideal for white river rafting and bungee jumping. Home to hippos, rhinos and other diverse wildlife, Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. There are four different world heritage sites declared by UNESCO. The abundance of rock art and ruins bear dated Pre-Middle Stone Age, makes “The history of Zimbabwe rich”, an understatement.

5. Rwanda

The land of thousand hills – Rwanda is an East African country which got its name as a reason of green mountain landscape. The capital of the country Kigali is known for pulsating night life. Boarding Congo and Uganda, the famous Volcanoes National Park is home to mountain gorillas. The park has four other forested volcanoes.

Visa on Arrival

1. Jordan

A haven in the region of conflict, Jordan, an Arab nation has charmed visitors for centuries with its world heritage sites, ancient monuments, natural reserves and seaside resorts. You can experience the ancient ruins of Petra, the desert of Wadi Rum, the extraordinary Dead Sea and many such unique things in Jordan.

2. Tanzania

Abode to the big five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino) in the safari Mecca of Serengeti National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain – Mt Kilimanjaro with the wilderness of Kilimanjaro National Park, the most exotic tropical islands of Zanzibar and the Mafia Marine Park where whales & sharks swim through the reefs; Tanzania, an East African country has all this and much more adventure wrapped in one country.

3. Seychelles

An archipelago of 100+ islands in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is loved for its beaches, coral reefs, natural reserves and the rare Aldabra tortoises. Victoria has mountain rainforest and Morne Seychellois National park with the beauty of white sand beaches in Beau Vallon.

4. Antarctica

Yes, you read it right. The white beauty of Antarctica, home to the joyous penguins along with other rich wildlife like seals and albatrosses, gives visa on arrival to Indians. Antarctica is in the South Pole of planet Earth and is virtually uninhabited with chunks of ice covered all around. Most cruises to the continent visit the Antarctica peninsula with stunning iceberg flanked passages, mountain ranges and nature’s grandeur. Antarctica’s peculiar beauty will haunt you forever!

5. Maldives

Unmatched luxury, pearly white beaches, blue lagoons and astonishing under water life makes Maldives, a tropical nation in Indian Ocean, an obvious choice for a pampered holiday. Proud owner of few of the world’s most extravagant hotels and resorts, Maldives will spoil you with choices.

This compilation of 15 countries is highly recommended as an addition to the bucket list of die-hard travellers or the beginners who want to travel a journey free of documentation hassles or unnecessary waste of time. However, it is important to note that there is usually a time limit to how long you can stay in each country which varies significantly. Depending on the purpose of travel & duration of stay, you could be eligible to apply for visa or extension of visa in case you were issued one on arrival.

Bon Voyage!

Weekend Destinations from Delhi

2015 has been a delight for travellers. With more long weekends coming in the last quarter of 2015, have you planned something yet? If not, then check out few lesser known destinations near Delhi. These hotels/resorts are sure to spoil you. Plan and gear up yourself for a pampered weekend!

1. Dholpur Palace (Rajasthan)

259 km from Delhi, this charming palace is a unique amalgamation of Indian and Dutch interiors. The pool villas with in- room private pools can surely give the much deserved break from the stressful life.

2. Namah Resorts (Jim Corbett)

Surrounded by the lush green forests, hills and the natural beauty of Kosi river, this beautiful resort is just 257 km from Delhi and you can get a variety of delicious cuisines here. With facilities of Spa and couple suites, you can live life king size.

3. Lohagarh Fort Resort (Jaipur)

It is just the right option for the weekend getaway. This resort offers you the White Quartz Suite, Unique Cottage with Private Pool, Tree House, Exotic Spa & Yoga facilities. It is 240 km from Delhi.

4. Kikar Lodge (Punjab)

Find tranquillity & perfect dining here. Experience both comfort & adventure in Kikar Lodge which is 320 km from Delhi. Great place to go with family/friends or for corporate groups.

5. Surya Villas (Himachal Pradesh)

Amplify the joy of long weekend at Surya Vilas Luxury Resort & Spa and experience never-before dimensions in Rejuvenation & Relaxation. It is 360 km from New Delhi amidst breathtaking view of hills and proximity to lake for complete mind and body renaissance.

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UNEXPLORED BEACHES OF GOA

The monsoon time is over and the tourists from all across the globe are thronging Goa for the Sun and the Sand.  Goa possesses an extremely long coastline stretching across 100+kms with almost unbroken sand cover. Popularly known as “Tourist Paradise”, the season in Goa begins in late September and carries on through early March. The weather in these months is usually dry and pleasantly cool.

Here is The Suitcase’s list of 5 unexplored beaches you need to add to your bucket list for your next trip to GOA!

1. Arambol Beach

Source: Wikipedia

This peaceful beach is located in Pernem, which is about 1 hour drive from the Dabolim airport. Arambol beach is a traditional fisherman village which is now gaining in popularity and attracting more of bohemian crowd. The long walk in the shallow water along the shoreline, mesmerizing sunset and a quite candle lit barbeque dinner with music or fireworks can surely create one of the best memories ever. The drive to Arambol can definitely be one of the reasons to explore this beach and if that is not enough then  there is a 1.5kms trek (along one side of beach) which takes you to the other side where sweet water lake and beach are facing each other. The lake is around 3-4 feet deep so non swimmers also can enjoy.

2. Butterfly Beach

Source: www.thegoavilla.com

This pristine beach is located in relatively unexplored stretch because of its reach and isolation. It just doesn’t have a beautiful name, but the beach also make you awestruck. This place is amazing if you are looking for total privacy and relaxation, far away from the hustle bustle of other beaches and very close to the nature. The only way to reach Butterfly Island is by boat from Agonda or Palolem beach but the boat ride is a short one. Once can take a boat to see dolphins and visit this beach on the way back. There is no touristic infrastructure at all or loud music on this beach, that’s why take everything you will need for nice rest with you. It is just pure sea, soft sand, sun and you.

3. Galgibaga Beach

Source: www.beachhutbooking.com

Galgibag beach, in the far south of Goa is a dream come true for anyone searching for solitude, seclusion and an absolutely stunning beach! The long sweep of golden sand is often completely empty, apart from the occasional fisherman or children from the local village chasing crabs. Galjibag is also a seasonal nesting and hatching site for the endangered Olive Ridley turtle (leading to its better known name of Turtle Beach). If you are in Goa in January and February you may be lucky enough to see the turtles nesting and hatching. Gajibag is only a 20-minute drive from Patnem beach and Chaudi town, which offers a wide range of accommodation, activities, bars and shops. It is to the south of Agonda beach after Palolem, Patnem and Talapona beach in that order. Enjoy an afternoon lounging in a hammock or take a stroll to the far south end of the beach, where the river estuary creates a natural lagoon for safe swimming.

4. Siridao Beach

Source: Wikipedia

Siridao Beach is situated few kilometers from Panjim near Zuari estuary.  It is a rocky and sandy beach giving the beach an unusually rugged appearance.  Popular for its mysterious caves, Siridao Beach is a shell collector’s delight that washes up on the shore and brightens up the beach. One can come across a wide variety of oysters and pearl shells at the beach. The landmark to reach the beach is The Chapel of Jesus of Nazareth, which is situated in the Siridao Beach of Goa. You may be surprised to find the myriad of palatial bungalows that line the inner streets of Siridao village.

5. Betul Beach

Source: www.goaeventmanagement.com

Not even a kilometer long, the wide expanse of this compact sandy beach can be found about 25kms from Margao. Covelssom,Mobor and Betul Beaches are just adjacent to each other. This beach is basically a cove; it has a hillock on one side, coconut tree plantation on the other and you will also be able to see where the Sal River drains out into the vast Arabian Sea, exactly at its delta. The place is unspoiled and you can actually watch the fisher folk with their families and observe their lifestyle, peaceful and unassuming.

Forget the international beaches and head to these most amazing beaches of Goa which are still not known to many. The former Portuguese colony boasts of some incredibly scenic beaches that offer everything from adventure to solitude to sunbathing that too without the crowd. You will be astounded to discover these beaches which will truly take you away from the world.