10 Indian Destinations Loved By International Tourists

            Kasol (Himachal Pradesh)

Mini Israel in India, Kasol is known for Israeli inhabitants and the place has possibly all the shades of nature – the blue sky, whitest snow clad mountains, greenest green trees, crystal clear water and solitude. It has many restaurants and cafes with hoarding written in Hebrew serving western breakfast & hookah. It has a culture of pot smoking and hippie lifestyle, even if you aren't into either of those; this remote village is a blessing for people seeking adventure with many options for trekkers, backpackers and nature enthusiast.

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Udaipur (Rajasthan)

Royalty is the second name of Udaipur. Called as the Venice of the East, it is considered one of the most romantic cities in India. Many celebrities across continents have flocked the place for romantic getaways, marriages or movie shoots. Fairy tale palaces, azure water lakes and lush hills of Aravalis will leave you mesmerized.

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Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)

Situated on the banks of River Ganges, Varanasi (Kashi or Banaras) is believed to be the oldest city in the world. People of Kashi enjoy their cultural, spiritual and traditional faith in God. It attracts lac of tourists every year because of great culture, rich history, sightseeing, spiritual beliefs and for its feel of comfort and calmness.  Varanasi is the originator of the Indian classical music and most famous Indian philosophers, writers, poets and musicians. Sarnath, which is situated in Kashi is the place where Gautam Buddha gave his first sermon.

Gokarna (Karnataka)

The lesser commercialised version of Goa, Gokarna is known for laid-back beach holidays. The tourists from all over the world are heading to this destination to unwind at some of the most beautiful beaches which are giving stiff competition to others. If you are looking for partying all night, then you should probably give this place a miss, head to Gokarna to explore the beauty of nature.

Leh Ladakh (Jammu&Kashmir)

The varied landscape, the beautiful silence and the wilderness defines the splendour of Leh Ladakh. Explore the terrains or just sit back and enjoy the culture. Sometimes also referred to as Little Tibet, it is known for monasteries and tourists enjoy the experience of Buddhism along with preindustrial culture and dramatic mountain vistas. A large part of southern Ladakh is still accessible only by foot.

Sikkim

One of the seven sisters, Sikkim is the most preferred destination for tourists in north east. With treks, glaciers and valleys, the natural beauty is captivating.  The state is rich in variety of flora and fauna along with red panda, snow leopards and other animals. Famous for Kanchenjunga mountain peak, the state is identified for its simplicity and peaceful nature.

Kerala

God’s own country is one of most popular destinations amongst international tourists. It is named as the one of the ten paradises of the world by National Geographic Traveler. It is known for backwater, lush green mountains, coconut, spices and cultural dance form of Kathakali and Mohini Attam.

Khajuraho(Madhya Pradesh)

Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heriage Site in Madhya Pradesh, known for enormous, intricately sculptured temples bejewelled by vignettes of passion, eroticism, dance, music and creative pursuits. With almost 85+ temples which are exquisitely carved, it’s the decorations with which they are so liberally embellished that have made Khajuraho so famous.

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Rann of Kutch (Gujarat)

Rann of Kutch is a seasonal salt marsh located in Thar Desert in Kutch, Gujarat. During the winter season in India, there is a 3 month long festival called Rann Utsav which display the talent of craftsmanship, food, music and culture. 

Goa

You really need no reason or time to fall in love with Goa. Beautiful beaches, peaceful lifestyle, entertaining night life and good food are all you want. International tourists come here to spend days, weeks or even months especially during the winter time when it’s very cold in countries like Europe and Russia. Just sit back, relax and get sun kissed.

12 Most Magnificent New Year Eve Celebrations in the World

On 31^st December, as the clock will strike 12, we will be ready to welcome the new year with open arms. New Year Eve is celebrated worldwide by all individuals regardless of their religion or nationality. Raucous, Ribald or Relaxing - whatever you are in mood for, you will find the apt celebrations across the globe. So, be prepared to drink, dine, dance and crash this New Year’s Eve. We can find celebrations happening in all the places in the world in some way or the other but there are many countries who believe in greeting the first day of the year in a truly extravagant style!

The NYE celebrations in these 12 countries will make you book your tickets right now!!

Sydney, Australia

Be among the firsts to ring in the New Year along with thousands of people who gather around the Sydney Harbour for one of the most spectacular fireworks at midnight. You can expect to see indigenous smoking ceremonies, aerial flyovers with messages in the sky, light shows and a lighted boat parade. You can join the dance party at Bondi beach or being summer time in Australia, you can dance your night away in your favourite shorts!

Image Source: Wikipedia

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Always a party town, millions of people gather to celebrate the New Year’s Eve. The party starts from 6pm on the famous 4-mile long strip that is closed for vehicles and is open for those who want to walk around, drink, club hop, dance and enjoy various fireworks being shot from many hotels. So for the people who are in a mood for a little debauchery, the sin city – Las Vegas is for you.

Image Source: Wikipedia

New York City, USA

New Year in the New York’s Times Square is what millions of people around the globe wish to be a part of, especially those who are watching it live on TV, where another millions of people are already counting down the seconds to midnight to witness the huge ball being dropped from a flagpole atop the former New York Times Building, for which the iconic square is named. This is a 100 years old American tradition. You will witness star studded entertainment, pyrotechnic lightshow, world class fireworks display and people streaming between lively clubs.

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Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

You will be swept away by the carnival atmosphere on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Millions of visitors are dressed in white, which is a tradition called Reveillion, lined up near the beaches and throwing flowers in the waves at midnight for the African sea goddess Yemanja. Afterwards, the beaches, streets, bars and roads are filled with people enjoying drinks and music & dance. The fireworks in the sky above the far-fetched sea are truly a spectacular watch.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Dubai, UAE

Dubai is home to many of the worlds’ iconic structures – Burj Khalifa, Burj-Al-Arab, Atlantis the Palm and to witness the extravagant celebrations at these places is a lifetime experience. The parties hosted by Dubai stands out from the rest of the world. The Dazzle, the midnight fireworks, the shows the performances by superstars bring such an unparallel dimension to the parties that it is difficult for others to match it especially in terms of its grandeur. Dubai has so much to offer that once you are here on 31^st December, you will be compelled to come year after year.

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London, England

Over a million visitors gather around the bank of Thames River and start the countdown as they wait for the Big Ben to strike 12! The magnificent show of lights & fireworks start subsequently, the highlight being the swirl firework from the London Eye and the city getting echoed by British rock music. The celebration continues until wee hours of the morning with activities planned for the next day including the three-hour parade of marching bands, colourful floats, costumed dancers and a procession of queen’s horses.

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Paris, France

The City of Love turns into The City of Fireworks with hoards of people waiting to ring in the New Year with a bottle of champagne in hand and the view of Eiffel tower in front of them. The glittering Eiffel tower showcases one the most beautiful display anywhere when fireworks burst from the entire length of its iron structure. The streets of Paris come alive with people celebrating, making rounds of bars & clubs with their family and friends.

Image Source: Wikipedia/citywonders

Madrid, Spain

The tradition of eating twelve grapes one by one for each stroke of the clock at midnight on 31^st December is considered a sign of good luck in the coming year. Whether you believe it or not the experience is a lot of fun when millions of people are doing it together in front of the clock in Puerta del Sol Plaza. The atmosphere is amazing: confetti, music and streamers everywhere, people in wigs, hats and masks watching the Gran Via for fireworks.

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Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese title for New Year is Shogatsu and it is said that Japan was one of the first countries to make use of excitement of fireworks to celebrate special occasions so we shouldn't be surprised at how seriously they commemorate the New Year - setting fireworks that can be viewed for miles across the Tokyo Bay. The tradition of ‘Hatsumode’ is completed by visiting the temple where the temple bell rings 108 times at midnight. If you stay through 2^nd January, you can access the palace ground, that is one of the two days when it is opened for public.

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Hawaii, USA

The attractive beaches of Hawaii are filled with people enjoying at the beachside bars and clubs where special activities are planned for the celebrations including theme nights and contests. New Year in Hawaii means gorgeous weather, breathtaking views and lively galas. Outdoor music concerts and boat cruises are special attractions as the beautiful water gets lit up by the midnight fireworks.

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Moscow, Russia

In Russia, during the winter season, the day becomes very short giving way to an extremely long party night. The celebration takes place at the Red Square that looks amazing with vibrant lights and splendid fireworks. The clubs and bars in Moscow offer lavish, louder, bigger and extravagant parties that will definitely amaze you. Watch out for the fireworks display that is set off behind the gleaming domes of St.Basil’s Cathedral.

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Goa, India

India’s coastal “party state” Goa regularly tops the travel lists as one of the best places to celebrate New Year Eve. The party starts 4-5 days before 31^st December with the famous SUNBURN and VH1 Supersonic events which are fairly similar – dancing on the sand, big main stage pyrotechnic shows and performances by the superstars of EDM and trance. The beachside bars explode foot tapping music and people dance all night long. The striking firework above the ocean is a great show.

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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.

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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.