Restaurant review- Informal @ Tolstoy Lane, Delhi

With ever increasing foodies in today's world and many restaurants coming up to suit palettes of foodies, the competition amongst restaurants has become very stiff. Restauranteurs have become super smart to keep pace with latest tastes and choices of their guests. One such restaurant cum bar - Informal at Tolstoy Lane is an example of the same. Having two floors to itself with quirky setting, the look and feel of Informal is jazzy. Open area on the first floor adds to the glamour with DJ playing nice songs.

Food

I first had my breather mocktail called Curvature which had orange and lime chunks with peach and apple juice mixed.  It tasted fresh and energizing.

Curvature mocktail

Dahi kebabs with yoghurt and dil were different with curd stuffed in bread. It was a nice and crispy combination which I found irresistible.

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Dahi Kebab with yoghurt and dil

IRCTC unveils Heritage Circuit, a must experience

IRCTC Heritage Circuit special train

Heritage Circuit as the name suggests is the trip to major Heritage Sites of the world in India. This circuit launched by Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) includes a visit to World's most popular pilgrim destination Varanasi, famous Khajuraho, world renowned Agra for One and Only Taj Mahal and beautiful Fatehpur Sikri.

This complete package provided by IRCTC includes transfers to cities by train, local sightseeing, food and accommodation at 3* properties. This is a 4nights and 4 days trip.

The train has got a dedicated Safdar Jung Railway Station like other specialized trains such as Buddhist Circuit, world renowned Maharaja Express and more.

Delhi Safdar Jung Railway Station

Decoration at Safdarjang Railway station

Train provides three accommodation options for full trip 1st AC, 2nd AC and 3rd AC. Prices of all options and itinerary are present at http://www.irctctourism.com/TourPackages/RailTour/Heritage-Circuit-Semi-Luxury-Tourist-Train.html

Why is IRCTC Heritage Circuit a must experience?

1. There is no direct train from Varanasi to Khajuraho. Anybody wanting to visit these four destinations would have to shell out a lot of money and time on road transfers

2. IRCTC Heritage Circuit provides an end to end fully paid travel, stay, food, transfers and itinerary. So one only needs to make one time payment and just sit back and relax leaving everything else to IRCTC. Not an extra penny is spent after making one time payment.

3. For solo or first time travellers including International visitors this is the safest and most secure option. Reason being- all itinerary , stay , sightseeing is already fixed by IRCTC. Security is a crucial factor thoughtfully taken care by IRCTC. So one is already rest assured that there would be no compromise on quality of travel, stay,food and safety.

4. Train being kept neat and tidy, there is no problem in overnight stays or long journey

5. Most economical and well organized trip. The stay includes 3*accommodation.

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Nidhi KM

Mosaic Hotels Noida warmly welcome 2016

Mosaic Hotels Noida

With New Year on the verge and excitement at the brim, won't it be a super combination if you get to welcome 2016 while staying at a perfect location, having luscious meals and experience curated specifically as per your needs. Yes, Mosaic Hotels Noida brings to you great offers when you want to spend family time.

Package options at Mosaic Hotels Noida

Flluid Restaurant at Mosaic Hotels Noida

1. Flluid, bar-cum-restaurant at Mosaic Hotels Noida offers dinner on the 31st Dec, 2015, with unlimited snacks and choice of free flowing IMFL (Indian Made Foreign Liquor) drinks at a special offer INR 7,999/- plus taxes (per couple), female stag entry INR 3,999/- plus taxes, child below 5years entry free and child between 5years to 10 years INR 1,999/- plus taxes (per child) with DJ and Dance Floor. Big groups and family gatherings are also invited at Mosaic with the special arrangements for private group parties in banquets.

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Photographs and content credits Mosaic Hotels Noida

Room at Mosaic Hotels, Noida

How Shangri La celebrates Year end bash in Delhi

The Lobby at Shangri La

With advent of festive season, Shangri La too celebrates Christmas and New Tear with full zeal and zest. The hotel has used innovative green ways to decorate the Christmas tree.

There are ample Christmas cakes, chocolates, food and desserts and guess what! ‘Christmas Elegance’ and the ‘Spirit of Christmas’ Hampers this season.

For details and customization of hampers, please call 91 11 41191020 or e-mail foodandbeverage.slnd@shangri-la.com

Superior Room

What's hot at Shangri La this Christmas?

Santa’s Chalet: 12 - 31 December, 2015

Dining offers at Tamra:

To bring in the joy of the season, Chef Neeraj Tyagi and his team at Tamra are delighted to present our guests a delectable Christmas Eve spread and an elegant Christmas Brunch. The exquisite buffet menu offers you a plethora of choices, featuring traditional favorites such as Roast Turkey, Honey Glazed Ham, Christmas Pudding, Yule log, Plum Cake Pudding, Chocolate Fondue and much more. On Christmas day, the team has organized exciting activities for kids, carol singers and a visit by Santa Claus.

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Planet Hollywood Resort welcomes New Year 2016

Interiors at Planet Hollywood

There are two types of travellers who visit Goa. 1. Who like a happening life with water sports, night life and all. 2. Ones who enjoy calm and quiet beaches in serene lands of Goa. I personally like South Goa and when it comes to New Years celebrations, one would like to start with best of offers with maximum benefits at the perfect place. Something like this is being offered by Planet Hollywood Resort.

Package at Planet Hollywood

Serene beaches with utmost luxury along with a happy Ring in the New Year with a big bash at with DJ Aqeel on the 31st December night along with the host of other Djs, various entertaining acts, li​v​e performances by singers, accompanied by entertainment act, exquisite food, VIP tents and more and more at the biggest party event in Goa only at Planet Hollywood!

Come and celebrate the advent of New Year 2016, have delicious food and enjoy at midnight. And spend the long weekend at the ultimate beach resort. Happy 2016! You will love every moment spent here.

Early bird prices..

Want to avoid Jet Lag? Here are top 5 tricks

Viharin.com-View-from-air

Although we all get highly excited for our trips be business or leisure. Adrenaline levels are high a day or two before taking off. While we are super excited, but at the same time, it is important for us to ensure we remain excited when we reach our dear destination.

One of the most important factor to remain active at the destination is our body clock. If body clock is not right, nothing can be achieved successfully. So, what I do to ensure my body clock adjusts to the destination almost immediately. I have been to United States of America at least 4 times. What did I do exactly to set myself for the trip ahead?

Top 5 tricks to combat Jet Lag

1. Always take full sleep and rest before leaving for your trip.

2. Whenever the flight is for 15-20 hours, sleep through the flight for in 3-4 hour slots 2-3 times

3. In order to keep yourself away from sleeping, drink coffee, see thriller movies on the plane, play video games. Keep sipping water as it will not only help you in being awake but also will keep you hydrated. To sleep, you can just relax and listen to soft music and get a blanket

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13 Must follow tips for Indian Railways

Toy train station for Shimla

Since I am a frequent traveler in Indian Railways , I thought of sharing some interesting smart tips with all.

Travelling tips for Indian Railways

1. One has to plan in advance and should have a proper reservation in desired class before boarding the train. In case of impromptu plans, Railways offers TATKAL services for travel booking a day before the journey. There is e-booking offered from railways. Under no circumstances one should take help of any Touts / unauthorized persons.

2. There are multiple trains available from one point to another on a given day , hence one should plan their trip well in advance as per convenience.

3.There can be delays or changes of arrival and departures of various trains and one should inquire in advance about platform number of the arrival / departure of a particular train. One can simply ask any porter ( called coolie in Hindi) as they are well aware of present scenario at the railway station.

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Nidhi KM

Christmas offers @ Four Points by Sheraton, Vashi

With Christmas around the corner, you must be planning for a day out or a full fledged vacation. I make only last minute plans owing to various schedules of my family members. If I get last minute offers from hotels / resorts that I wish to stay in, it seems as if the offer is made for me and I have to just grab it. Four Points by Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi has again lured me with their enticing offer curated specifically to suit their guests. Splurge in food and luxury at Four Points by Sheraton.

When entertainment of kids and everyone is done with whole heart and passion, a huge success is achieved. Something like this has been done by Four Points by Sheraton, Vashi.

A beautifully decorated traditional buggy having Christmas goodies will tour Navi Mumbai handing out cookies, X-mas treats, toys and other goodies on Christmas Eve. The hotel lobby is also graced with a magnificent Christmas tree, which catches the eye as soon as one enters. A scrumptious Gingerbread House has also been crafted by Chef Mukul Jha adding to the cheery atmosphere.

The Christmas Package by Four Points by Sheraton, Vashi- Navi Mumbai

Book an unforgettable stay at the hotel with your family and loved ones with the special Christmas package. The package includes the following-

·       Accommodation for 1 night for single or double occupancy

·       Non Alcoholic welcome drink on arrival

·       Complimentary Christmas cake on arrival

·       Complimentary internet in the hotel

·       Free buffet breakfast for 2 at Asian Kitchen

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Euphoria,entertainment n food @ Connaught Place, Delhi

Showrooms all decked up for Christmas

Ever since kids were born we took them to Connaught Place (CP) just once when they were 4 and 2 yrs old. So, we thought it would be a good idea to take them there a.) to give them the concept of CP which is way beyond mall and b.) to revive our fond memories during childhood. It was a beautiful weather being second week of December.

As we reached , it was jam packed with cars. After a lot of search we could find parking. It was ofcourse a reliable one.

So much of foot fall was there! CP was all decked up with big showrooms of big brands like Van Heusen, Levis , Cinema Halls, luring restaurants, cafes, fine dunings, shops, road side vendors displaying all kinds of stuff such as books of all kinds, fiction, cultural, action, strategies etc.

Some vendors had a display of artificial jewellery, handcrafted bags, sofa covers, purses, street food. Oh my God, CP was so happening! I just loved being there n recalled my childhood memories when I used to go with my parents as a kid and even before marriage.

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Nidhi KM

Hand crafted items on display at street vendors

Responsible Tourism Summit 2015 by Outlook traveller

Mr. Indranil Roy, President and Publisher, Outlook group

Very curious to know about what all Responsible Tourism entails, I was eager to attend the Responsible Tourism Summit 2015 by Outlook traveller. When I read the agenda, I got even more curious. Mr. Indranil Roy, President and Publisher, Outlook group welcomed us. He provided the reason why Responsible Tourism is important. Responsible Tourism , brainchild of Outlook Traveller presented by Kerala Tourism started three months back with an aim to make all travellers conscious of an urgent need to respect the environment and culture of a destination.

Post welcome by Mr. Indranil, there was Lamp lighting ceremony.

Lamp lighting ceremony

Mr. Vinod Zutshi, Secretary , Tourism Government of India welcomed the initiative of Responsible Tourism. He said, Outlook Traveller is one of the best publication in the country that promotes Domestic Tourism. That the Government is keen to support Responsible Tourism in every possible way. He added that the time is now to take action to be able to conserve our ecosystems while making best use of destination and other resources of Tourism.

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Fashion show

Sahara Palace Marrakech by The Park Hotels

Sahara Palace Marrakech

Marrakech, an important tourist destination in Africa famous for palaces, museums and gardens is gaining popularity amongst tourists day by day. If one of the leading Indian hotel group enters the city, makes a visit to Marrakech even more worthwhile. Yes, The Park Hotels, India's leading hospitality brand has entered into management services and marketing agreement with Sahara Palace Marrakech since September 2015.

Don't you think its an icing on the cake! Mesmerizing grennery gracing 54 hectares of luxury palace hotel with breathtaking views of Atlas mountains will surely make your trip a successful one.

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Royal Suite

Gourmet High Street Festival 2015

Gourmet High Street Festival 2015

Reading a lot about Gourmet High Street Festival 2015 and having attended it last year, this year as well I was keen to witness. When I got an opportunity, just jumped at it. This time I went with my hubby and both kids. When they heard about the festival, they got excited.

Leisure Valley Park

We started from our house around 3 in the afternoon and reached by 4 pm. It was an elaborate function. Vast ground in Leisure Valley Park was dedicated to Gourmet High Street Festival 2015. A big banner of celebrity chefs welcomed us. First area was dedicated to an academy of Chefs where culinary skills were being showcased.

Venue of Gourmet High Street Festival 2015

A section of area was for kids to play. Going further was a cooking studio where participants were getting live tutorials from chefs.

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Festivities at Le Meridien Delhi

Christmas tree at Le Meridien Delhi

Excited at the start of December with jingle bells , Christmas carols, cakes, chocolates, chimes , and many more!

Santa Claus with kids

What if kid's wish is granted by Santa Claus at Le Meridien Delhi ? So, what kids want? Santa Claus, Chocolates, cakes, sandwiches! They will get all this on 25th December and that too at Le Meridien Santa's Pals event. All you need is a Golden ticket to enter Santa's Pals.

Not only this, the 25 feet tall Christmas tree awaits kids. Tree is all decked up. This year the speciality about the Christmas tree is that its decorated with 3000 waste CDs adhering to the principle of reduce, reuse and recycle.

My experience about the carnival kick off at Le Meridien Delhi

As I entered there was an anchor leading the show wearing a magician dress, hat and holding a wand. Suddenly Christmas Tree lit up with beautiful green light and CDs shining bright with a bright star upright. Just loved the sight. How poetic!

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Nidhi KM

Review of restaurant Boulevard, Saket - Delhi

Boulevard, Saket- Delhi

Boulevard in Ras Villas Mall is located prominently behind DLF Saket Mall. Entrance to the restaurant was superb with green grass carpet and open air seating.

Ambiance

Interiors were all decked up with dim lights for people who want to have some quiet time with loved ones. The whole ambiance gave an appearance of a romantic time out with low lighting and nice songs.

Ambiance at Boulevard

Food

Seating outside

I first ordered my favourite fresh lime soda mixed without ice. Initially, the staff put ice in it and had to change it. Soda had little fizz but was very refreshing.

Palak ki chaat

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Nidhi KM

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo celebrates its inaugural decade

Mandarin Oriental Tokyo-exterior-view-night

Tokyo is famous for its rich cultural history, temples,modern architecture, parks and their landscaping. It has world's largest fish market. If you want to see all this, the enjoyment multiplies when you resort to a nice hotel at the end of the day. Isn't it? And, what if the hotel is top class, that too celebrating its inaugural decade?

Well, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is offering guests luxurious accommodation packages in December to celebrate several significant events: New Year’s Eve and the hotel’s inaugural decade on 2 December 2015.

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo has proved its unparalleled service in Tokyo. It is one of this kind. Forbes Travel Guide has listed it for its outstanding service. General Manager, Anthony Costa says, our staff goes serves in a way to provide exceptional services to guests with whole heart and passion. We strive to please the guest in our every interaction with them.

DECADE Package by Mandarin Oriental Tokyo

Experiences by guests will be customized as per their  preferences. Guests will receive collector’s items that reflect the hotel's history and Japanese culture, such as an original bespoke suitcase produced in collaboration with Globe-Trotter and Japanese textile designer, Reiko Sudo.

1. Two nights accommodation for two in a suite
2. Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo’s original “21 TC” Bespoke Model suitcase
3. Select your treat from the following:
   • Dining experience with special menu Decade at Signature
   • 90-minute special spa treatment Decade Spa Journey (Azuki scrub and Therapeutic Quintessence body massage)
   • Art museum tour (additional charge)
4. Commemorative gifts – hotel’s original notebook and fan
5. Full breakfast for two served at K’shiki or Oriental Lounge
6. Package prices start from JPY 475,000. Available from 4 January 2016.

JAPANESE NEW YEAR Package

Experience the New Year in Japanese style by celebrating it with Toshikoshi Soba. Translated as "year-crossing soba noodle", these long noodles represent a long, healthy life and are eaten only on New Year’s Eve. Other traditional cuisine and a visit to a Japanese shrine on New Year’s Day also feature in this exclusive package.

Lobby

The JAPANESE NEW YEAR’S package includes

Free visa to Indian Tourists in Indonesia

Mr Bambang Sunaryo and Ms. Shelly Chandhok addressing the media

The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia through its India office (VITO) has been strategizing on increasing Indian Tourist to the destination! Well it was important for me to attend the event Indonesia being one of the go to destinations in my list not only becasuse of its natural beauty but also to be able to explore the historical and cultural connects we Indians have with this yet another biggest Asian democracy. As I think of Indonesia, tranquil water bodies and mesmerizing landscapes come to my mind immediately. Plus somehow I believe country’s people are very warm and welcoming. You know it is also a market where commodities are available at highly competitive rates.

Mr Bambang Sunaryo and Mr. Sanjay Sondhi

Thinking all this I decided to attend the event and meet authorities of the tourism board of Republic of Indonesia. Mr Bambang Sunaryo-Representative, Ministry of Tourism, Republic of Indonesia andMr. Sanjay Sondhi, Country Director of Indonesia Tourist Office and Shelly Chandhok, Country Manager VITO India were present at the event. They took us through important facts of Indonesia and about the cultural and historical connectivity. Below is the snippet of Interaction

Which are the special focus destinations?

Toba Lake is one of the incredible lakes of the world! It is largest in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest in the world. Having a beautiful magnetizing island Samosir in the middle with mountains, waterfalls and more fascinating natural sceneries , Toba lake will enchant your senses to create a memory of lifetime. Medan where many Indians live, is rich in history and culture. Bandung is famous for branded shopping. Jawa is famous for Teak wood, Mahogany and Rosewood.

What commonalities you see in India and Indonesia?

There are many. One of them being Bali Yatra celebrated in Cuttak Odisha to commemorate occasions when mariners would sail to lands of Bali , Sumatra and Java. Many Indians live in Indonesia, there are no language or food problems since you will find Indian employees in almost every sector.

What are the plans for providing direct flight to and from India

Yes, we are aware of this challenge and hence are considering it as an opportunity to catalyse tourism from India.

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