Holiday Mode on: Bollywood Stars and their X-mas & New Year Plans

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It’s the time of year when people are planning to enjoy the last break of 2015. Bags are packed, tickets booked and now is the time to head to the beaches, mountains or just another city to welcome Santa Claus and ring in the New Year.

Our Bollywood celebrities are not too far behind ... While few have decided to spend it with friends or family, others are taking a break from their frenzied schedule to get soaked into the holiday spirit and get ready for the madness to continue in 2016.

Let’s look at some of the stars and their holiday sojourn.

(New Year Eve Celebrations in the World)

Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif will be taking off to London for both Xmas and New Year. London has one of the biggest celebrations at midnight with host of festivities, fireworks and fun! Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra too will be in London from Xmas until New Year. London is one of the favourite destinations of the entrepreneur couple.

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Bipasha Basu’s will be flying away to Thailand with her love interest Karan Grover. Thailand is known for its incredible night life and exotic beaches. Neil Nitin Mukesh has grand plans to celebrate the holiday season. He will be in Dubai for Christmas and South Africa for New Year! Wow!! Now that's some travel plan.

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Hritik Roshan, who is a doting father to his two sons – Hrehaan and Hridhan, will be in Switzerland for Christmas. The gleaming snow-capped mountains will look stunning when the town will be painted red for Xmas. It’s family time for Deepika Padukone too but she will be away from Ranveer Singh as she will be celebrating it with her parents in Bengaluru while Ranveer will be looking for a shore to laze around.

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The pristine beach of Maldives is Sonam Kapoor’s choice. Home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, Maldives is a perfect choice in any season and is a favourite choice of many Bollywood celebrities. Sidharth Malhotra, who is the brand ambassador for New Zealand, will be there only with his friends. Definitely a good time to boast about the country you are associated with. 

Image Source: itimes

Madhuri Dixit Nene will be flying off to her second home – the USA, with her husband and kids. And, guess who will be coming home for the New Year?? Priyanka Chopra who has been busy shuttling between the continents because of work commitments, will be in India to give a goodbye kiss to 2015!

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International Destinations That Will Cost You Less Than an iPhone

Today is the big day for the launch of iPhone 6s & iPhone 6s Plus. The crazy fans of Apple are leaving no stone unturned to get hand on their handheld. But does an iPhone last a lifetime? Sadly NO! Now, imagine yourself on a sun kissed beach, or on top of the highest building in the world or diving in the mysterious world of ocean or getting clicked with one of the wonders of the world – These are the memories that will last forever. Yes, there are a lot of international destinations than can cost you less than an iPhone. With some good research and advance planning, you can explore and have an experience of a lifetime. And, if this sounds unbelievable, check this list of 14 international destinations you can visit in more or less 65k.

1. Thailand

It is the one of the nearest and the cheapest international destinations from India. Beaches, mountains, shopping, culture, food, nightlife – you name it and they have it. If not the entire country, few key locations like Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi can give you the desired break that too without burning a hole in your pocket.

2. Sri Lanka

Our southern neighbour is ideal for back packers and nature lovers. Rich in culture just like our own country, Sri Lanka owns quite a few pristine beaches, the greenest of the green hills with widespread tea estates, great ayurveda massages and finger licking food. A great option for pilgrimage as Sri Lanka is offers sightseeing to the locations where there is evidence of Ramayana.

3. Dubai

An architectural delight, Dubai is home away from home. With majority of Indians, there is no dearth of Indian food or locals. A shopper’s delight, Dubai has the best of the brands available in the world. There is so much to do in this country. Desert Safari, gold souks, amazing architecture, historical districts and abundant recreational activities & experiences, there is something to do for everyone!

4.  Malaysia

Turquoise water, marine life, rich heritage, stunning beaches, pleasant climate and modern architecture – This is Malaysia for you! Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Batu Caves, Langkawi, Mount Kinabalu, Taman Negara, Selangor, Sarawak are the few must visits when you plan for Malaysia. It’s a perfect scenic destination for you.

5. Bhutan

One of our beautiful neighbours, also known as Land of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan is a kaleidoscope destination for the tourists. The country is known for its untouched beauty and scenic locales. Trekking is a famous sport because of the quaint hilly terrain there. The good news is you don’t need a passport to travel to Bhutan!

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6. Singapore

A perfect blend of variety of things, Singapore is known for nature, culture, beaches, cuisine, modern structure and architecture. The Sentosa Island is a man made wonder which cannot be explored in a single day.  World class hotels, cruises, latest amenities, shopping – you name it and they have it. Singapore is a country that celebrates culture.

7.  Indonesia

Land of volcanoes, flora fauna, tropical forests & blue green water; in other words land of immaculate beauty. Indonesia is rich in Hindu culture and has a lot of temples. It is considered as one of the best destinations for under water sports because of the astonishing marine life. Seafood and Spa lovers will fall in love with this country.

8. Hongkong

This place is always bustling with light and energy. A walk on the road to witness the glitzy lifestyle or the Disneyland, Hongkong has many options to make your stay entertaining. Shopping and yummy food is icing on the cake and not to forget, no Visa is required in Hongkong for 2 weeks so you can have free spirit holiday!

9. Maldives

Dream destination for honeymooners, the beauty of this place is flawless! Maldives offers the most spectacular views that will blow away your mind. The spa, the food, the water sports; this place will spoil you with choices. Do island hopping or just relax on pearly white beaches, a lifetime memory is guaranteed.

10. Vietnam

Independence, Freedom and Happiness – these 3 words defines the country Vietnam, infact this is the motto they abide to. From the jagged scenery to certain tropical islands, it has a timeless charm to it. Vietnam has a variety of seafood and the tours to local market, islands and wildlife is a must do! Yacht or boat cruise is the best way to save money and time!

11. Cambodia

House to Angor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, Cambodia is famous for rich history and culture. The rustic beauty that Cambodia showcases should not just be clicked, but should be captured in your heart forever. Also known as the “Kingdom of Wonder”, it has mountains that make Cambodia ideal for adventure lovers.

12. Seychelles

Gaining popularity as one of the most sought destinations for newlyweds, the direct flights from India has made Seychelles easy to reach and fairly affordable. With over 100 small islands, this country amidst the Indian Ocean is one of the most exotic and untouched destinations. The tranquil beaches can take your breath away.

13. Turkey

Rich heritage culture and host of monuments defines the city of Istanbul. Food lovers can have a treat with a variety of options available. Turkish art and shopping at the bazaars are an ideal escape for the tourists.

14. Egypt

Watching the pyramids and mummies can itself be a lifetime experience. Fascinating tales, eternal history and the culture makes Egypt a treasure trove for the tourists. The sunset over the pyramids is a spectacular experience, which should not be missed. No visit to Cairo is complete without seeing the majesty of the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

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Travel to even one of these destinations can make you rich (with experience) by many folds. With so many options to choose from, which will be your next destination?

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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Let's Goooooooo.. :)

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

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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

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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

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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.