Travel and flavors September 2014

RNI No: 122229 KERENG/2013/49674

www.travelandflavors.com

September 2014 `50, AED 7, $5

Viva La Spain

Special

Must visit places of Spain

Sahas

Nepal

Adventure land of Ramoji Film City

A journey through the historical mountains of Himalayas

Kottiyoor

A unique temple festival held in the forest

Volume 2 Issue 9 | August-September 2014 Founder & editor Ravi Deecee Executive Editor Ratheema Ravi DC MEDIA - OPERATIONS

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INside

Regulars Into the Wild by Rathika Ramasamy 10 Travel News 12 My Shot 20 Strange Travellers 98

22

India

16 Fun & adventure galore at Sahas 18 Protecting bee-eaters of

Naguvanahalli ď ś

GLOBAL

33 In the footsteps of a missing traveller

Kerala

38 Kottiyoor ritual festival

cover story

Viva la Spain!

An enchanting journey through the must visit places of Spain

16

18

33

38

KTM Special

42 Aanavilasam 44 Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere 48 KTDC 54 Thekkady Wild Corridor 56 Clouds Valley 58 Wonderla 60 Ayurveda Mana 62 Silvertips 64 Somatheeram 66 Fragrant Nature 68 Carmelia Haven 70 Rainbow Cruises 72 Spice Routes 74 Smile Centre 76 Spice Tree resort 78 Omega Dental 80 Riya 82 UAE Exchange: Thailand 84 Vythiri Resort 86 Surya Samudhara Niraamaya 88 The Hill District Club 90 Olive 91 Gateway Malabar 92 Nilambur Kovilakam 94 Hindsutan Beach Retreat 96 Spice Land 97 Ramada Alleppey

editorSpeak contributors Rathika Ramasamy is India’s first woman wildlife photographer and one of the world’s top 10 wildlife photographers

Salim Pushpanath is a renowned photographer based in Kerala, South India. He has published several photo books based on his many travels

Renuka C Sekhar is a Bangalorebased fashion designer and travel writer. Being a travel maniac she loves to explore new places and meet new people

Jenny Thingshung is a food writer and journalist based in Delhi. She is also an ardent travel buff, who specialises mainly on the diverse cuisines of the North East

Florian Mayer, German national, an avid traveller and freelance photographer. He is also the brain behind Sqnish, an emerging social networking app in Germany

8

travel & flavors August-September 2014

O

f late, travel by road has become a craze among serious travellers around the world. May be, other means of travelling are faster and that they take less time and require less energy. However, such trips don’t seem to be pleasing genuine travellers seeking to know about different cultures and customs prevalent in various parts of the world. The advantages of travelling by road are many, provided right company of co-travellers and proper local assistance to ensure hassle-free movement from place to place. Such journeys though strenuous virtually open up a new world before you.

Hit the roads of Spain to experience the life and culture of the people in that country. You will be welcomed by many unique festivals and ceremonies in the countryside and the locals will tell you the stories behind each one of them. It brings you opportunities to know more about the lifestyles, eating habits and occupations of the people, and every region holds strange beliefs and religious practices unknown to the outside world. You can feel what actually this Mediterranean country is. It is much more than what you really imagined. History, art and culture unravel before you through architectural wonders belonging various eras, music and performing arts which still exist in villages. One can come across the relaxed lifestyle of people amid all sophistications along with marvellous cuisine and plenty of nightclubs. This is typically Spanish. The cover story ‘Viva La Spain’ takes you around all the important places and cultural events of this country.

This issue also focuses on Kerala Travel Mart (KTM), the largest gathering of the travel and tourism fraternity in the country, to be held from September 18 to 20 in Kochi. Organised by Kerala Travel Mart Society in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, KTM has already made a mark in the tourism industry with the participation of national and international clients. Since it is a KTM special issue and a good number of pages are set aside for the event, we are not in a position to carry many other stories, including columns, which our readers may be expecting as usual.

Enjoy reading !

Into the wild

T

he National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for the endangered gharial (long-nosed, fish-eating crocodile), the red-crowned roof turtle and the endangered Ganges river dolphin.

The best way to explore the sanctuary is to hire a boat, with an experienced driver and also a guide. The main attractions of the park are, of course, the gharials, the Indian skimmers, mugger crocodiles and the sarus cranes. During winter, you can also spot migratory birds like the red-crested pochard, the ruddy shelduck, lesser-whistling ducks, bar-headed goose, and comb duck among others. Other places of interest near the sanctuary include the conservation area for the sarus crane, Bhararpur Bird Sanctuary and Keetham Forest Reserve.

Stay at Chambal Safari Lodge, Agra Hotels.

How to reach Chambal is 70 km from Agra. The nearest airport is at Agra. Agra and Mathura are the major rail junctions with a number of trains from all over the country.

Rathika Ramasamy is India’s first woman wildlife photographer and one of the top ten wildlife photographers of the world

10 travel & flavors

August-September 2014

Encounter with endangered gharials

Travel News

Economy Hotels World Asia meet from September 15 Singapore: The sixth annual meet of Economy Hotels World Asia will take place at Novotel in Singapore from September 15 to 17. It is the only conference in Asia focusing on the economy hotels and limited service

17th Asian Games to begin on September 19 Incheon (South Korea): The 17th Asian Games Incheon 2014 will start on September 19 at Incheon in South Korea.

The 16-day athletics event will take place at various venues in and around the metropolitan city and will conclude on October 4. About 13,000 athletes and officials and about 7,000 media persons from the 45 Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) member states will participate in the Asian Games. There are 28 Olympic

sport events and eight NonOlympic sport events in the 17th Asian Games.

The Hotel Show Dubai Dubai (UAE): With the participation of more than 16,700 hotel and hospitality trade professionals from different countries, the Hotel Show will be the largest business-to-business event in the hospitality industry in the Middle East and Africa. The event will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from September 28 to 30.

The exhibition presents a full view of the hospitality industry with exhibitors featuring hotel investment,

12 travel & flavors

development, design, architecture, refurbishment, operation and management.

The Hotel Show will conduct conferences and workshops where over 50 industry heads and leading global players will share their knowledge and ideas in order to improve hotel and restaurant facilities. Debates, panel discussions, presentations and case studies on topics like sustainability, technology, build and development, architecture and design, facilities management and improvement etc, will be held. It is an opportunity for suppliers to the industry, buyers, managers and developers or owners to learn more about the latest developments in the field.

August-September 2014

segment. It will bring together over 200 economy hotel operators, owners and hospitality experts to discuss the latest innovations and most attractive development opportunities in this high growth sector.

The event is a platform

offering solutions for hotel owners, operators, developers and investors with a pre-conference workshop, strategic conferences, a networking platform, an exhibition and multiple social networking activities.

IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific Conference Bangkok (Thailand): Incentive Travel and Conventions, Meetings Asia (IT&CMA) and Corporate Travel World (CTW) Asia-Pacific will take place at Bangkok Convention Centre, Central World Shopping Mall in Bangkok, Thailand, from September 30 to October 2. Both the events offer its delegates an unparalleled platform to do business, learn and network. Since 2012, the event has incorporated luxury travel in its ambit.

Participants can learn more about corporate travel management issues, trends and best global practices. Each corporate travel manager will receive 10 business appointments and infinite networking opportunities.

Resorts and Entertainment

Galaxy Macau (China): The fifth annual Resorts and Entertainment will be held at Galaxy Macau in China from September 25 to 26. The innovative ideas shared by influential

hospitality leaders at the event will help develop world class resorts so as to remain in the forefront in the ever competitive industry.

The event is considered to be an opportunity for government agencies, industry associations, developers, and hospitality and leisure operators to network and exchange ideas.

Thus spake the shot / Mount Simetsberg

Reaching atop Mount Simetsberg Photo & Text: Florian Mayer

I

went on a hiking trip to Mount Simetsberg on February 15 this year along with my friend Cindy who took the picture. Simtetsberg lies in the beautiful Bavarian Alps at an altitude of 1,836 metres. It was a fantastic day with heaps of sunshine. From the summit, you can see the broad chain of the

14 travel & flavors

Bavarian and Austrian Alps. Down in the valley, you see the Walchensee, one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria.

Cindy and I started late morning from Munich and parked our car at the hiking parking lot in the town of Walchensee. It took about three hours to reach the summit.

Since it was winter,

August-September 2014

the upper part of the mountain was all covered in snow. Hiking was quite exhausting because we had to walk through deep snow. Reaching the top was great. For Cindy, it was one of her first winter hiking tours. We spent quite some time at the summit, having our “Brotzeit�, what we call food and snacks in

German and enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

When we left the summit, we ran down some part of the mountain allowing us to fall into the soft snow.

This was really fun. After two hours, we arrived exhausted at our car. On the way home, we were completely tired but very happy with the trip.

adventure land / sahas

Fun &

land venture in d a t s e n y Asia’s fi Ramoji Film Cit l t ra a e Sahas fers sev ities f o d a b Hydera venture activ ad also fun and nly youth but o for not ilies and kids fam

16 travel & flavors

e r o l a g e r u t n e adv s a h a S t a

Still young for an adventure - Ramoji Rao, the living legend

S

ahas, the Ramoji adventure land in Hyderabad, invites adventure seekers to enjoy pure thrills of being in the rough terrains and bumpy roads, all in the grandeur of nature! Fun and adventure lovers are summoned here for an adrenaline rush, intimate and shared fun with family and friends, boosting confidence and personal

August-September 2014

excellence in the midst of exotic locales.

Be it roughing it out in the rugged terrain or funny fight-to-finish, Sahas is prepared for all. Family members can have fun at its inflatable arena or with Net Courses or buddies racing at ATV rides or soul mates ensconced in zorb balls rolling down in the longest zorb platform in the country.

“We have designed Sahas as Asia’s finest adventure land with a vast range of adventure activities,” says Ramoji Rao, the Chairman of Ramoji Group. Set in rocky hills, high altitude plateau, low-lying sloppy meadows and stone-cliffs, Sahas has the technology built into its artery which aids the tactics, strategy, speed and operation of each individual sport. Designed with international standards by a renowned French team, Sahas provides the best of action and best of fun.

The variety of activities include High Rope/ Harness Course, Net Course, Paintball, Zorbing, ATV Rides, Mountain Bike, Target-Shoot Range

(Archery/Rifle Shooting etc.), Inflatables (Sumo Suit Fighting) and Bungee Ejection. The ATV rides at Sahas have an exclusive track for children and women. Net Courses and Inflatables have separate arrangements for kids.

Besides, its inflatable arena with Human Foos-ball, Melt-down, Body Zorb fight and Tele-Boxing has a true variety of hilarious sports loved by the kids.

The other features of Sahas include Paintball arena which has a gallery and themed obstacles.

Sahas also has the longest zorb platform for the roller zorb activity in the country, with a length of 220 ft. The target shooting zone offering the Angry-

Bird theme caters to all, from the novice to the experts. Be it the lower net courses, separate ATV tracks for the amateurs or fun fights with inflated zorb ball, all the risk-averse arrangements are made with special protective gear for the junior participants.

All the activities conform to international safety standards and are pursued in the presence of experts, specially trained instructors who can guide the young all through the course.

Sahas is not just about lots of nerve for youth, but is also a perfect day-out for family and friends, groups, school/college groups, fitness freaks, diehard adventure lovers and corporate professionals.

“We have designed Sahas as Asia’s finest adventure land with a vast range of adventure activities,” says Ramoji Rao, the Chairman of Ramoji Group.

August-September 2014 travel & flavors

17

Go Green

Protecting bee-eaters of

Naguvanahalli To be able to watch the enveloping dusk around you with plenty of birds for company seems not so easy but at the Naguvanahalli village in Karnataka, that’s what you get Raghavendra Pattar

A

three-hour drive from Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, takes you to the place inhabited by nearly 46 species of birds. We began our bird-watching and photographing them by 8 am. Our first object was a bee-eater that smugly perched on a twig, glancing around as if admiring the landscape. It detected a dragonfly some 100 feet

18 travel & flavors

away and took to air in a jiffy. The blue-tailed bee-eaters are rare, colourful birds and feed on dragonflies and bees. The blue-tailed bee-eaters are migratory – they migrate to breed and are found only in parts of peninsular India. The place is known for breeding of many small birds like white breasted kingfisher, pipit, common blue kingfisher and the bushchat.

August-September 2014

It is a paradise for birdwatchers because of the sheer number of these birds and the joy true enthusiasts experience with them. On the flip side, these birds choose sandy banks or open flat areas as their nesting ground and unfortunately this particular site was a dhobi ghat often used by villagers who litter the site with plastic and other garbage. Also, these birds frequent this area

by March to breed and abandon nests by the end of April. The birds often face a lot of disturbance due to the dhobis who let their donkeys loose to graze which scare away these birds from their nesting ground.

These birds are somewhat sluggish in the mornings and may be found huddled next to each other on wires sometimes with their bills tucked in their

It is a paradise for birdwatchers because of the sheer number of birds and the joy enthusiasts experience with them backs well after sunrise.

They sand-bathe more frequently than other bee-eater species and will sometimes bathe in water by dipping into water in flight.

The breeding season is from March to June.

Unlike many bee-eaters, these are often solitary nesters, making a tunnel on a sandy bank.

Like almost all coraciiform, the beeeaters are cavity nesters.

Their nests are burrows dug into the ground, either into the sides of earth cliffs or directly into level ground. Both types of nesting site are vulnerable, those on level ground are vulnerable to trampling and small predators, whereas those in cliffs, which are often on the banks of rivers, are vulnerable to flash floods, which can wipe out dozens or hundreds of nests. Many of these birds nest either on cliffs or on level ground, but prefer cliffs.

The blue tailed bee-eater always nests on level ground. The burrows are dug by both birds in the pair as well as any helpers that have joined the pair. The soil or sand is loosened with jabs of

the sharp bill, and then the feet are used to kick out the loose substrate.

There may be several false starts where nests are dug partway before being abandoned; in solitary species this can give the impression of colonial living even when they are not.

The process of nest building can take as long as twenty days to complete, during which the bill can be both blunted and shortened.

Nests are generally used only for a single season and are rarely used twice by the bee-eaters, but the abandoned bee-eater nests may be used by a host of birds, snakes and bats as shelter and breeding places.

put them for drying on the ground and on boulders, thereby hindering nesting of these birds.

To add to the problem, sand mining in the area too has led to the decrease in birds nesting here.

Following complaints from villagers and wildlife photographers, eminent cricketer Anil Kumble took note of the situation from villagers and Gram Panchayat members present there. Kumble noted that the place used to see thousands of birds and if it continues, the birds may stop coming here.

After observing the clothes dried on the ground and sand mining, Kumble held a discussion with forest officials on the measures to be taken to ban such activities. “Steps will be taken to fence around seven acres of surrounding land where birds breed and a guard will be appointed to protect the place,� he said. APCCF Shivananda Murthy, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Forest Officer M Shivappa, village head Javaregowda and others were present during Kumble’s visit.

Unfortunately, no measures have been taken so far.

Note to photographers

Please avoid going too close to the nest as this prevent the parents from taking food to the chicks inside the nest.

Conservation activity

Although the hamlet and the surrounding areas have been a haven for the avian kingdom, in recent days, many people who come to the river to wash clothes

August-September 2014 travel & flavors

19

MY SHOT The bustling capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a heavenly destination with the stunning background of ancient forts, standing as a testimony to the bygone era. The city attracts a number of people like the sadhu in the picture.

Chitra Priyadarshini Freelance photographer

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August-September 2014

Monsoon Resorts Cover story / Spain

Viva la Spain!

22 travel & flavors

August-September 2014

This Mediterranean country is much more than what you really imagine.

Marvelous cuisine, vibrant nightlife with plenty of nightclubs, world-famous festivals, relaxed lifestyle and the sophistications here are only Spanish Savithri S Iyer

T

he remarkable story of Spain is best conveyed through its splendid art and architecture. The ruins of the erstwhile Roman Empire, the great cathedrals, the awe-inspiring Islamic architecture, all speak of a country where the greatest civilisations left its indelible marks on the sands of time. From the ancient days to the more recent time of Salvador Dali, Picasso, Gaudi and Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Spain has brought out a sense of bravado, machismo, passion and romance in you. Spain is one of the few places where the ancient monuments and modern architectural creations coexist.

It’s a country which believes in living in the moment. It’s scintillating, sensual and stirs something in your senses.

Try sitting through a performance of flamenco in one of the best theatres of Spain without batting an eyelid or with your mouth wide open, then you would know what you’re in for. Its mainland is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the south and east, along with France and Andorra and the Bay of Biscay, Portugal and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and northwest.

The history of the country is believed to be dating back to nearly 25,000 years.

Around 200 BC, Spain came under the Roman rule after which it was named Hispania. During the Middle Ages, Germanic tribes conquered the region

August-September 2014 travel & flavors

23

Spain

and later the Moors. It emerged as a unified country in the 15th century following the marriage of the Catholic monarchs. It expanded into an empire in the early modern period with territories across the globe. The legacy of this power is evident with 500 million people across the world speaking Spanish, making it the second most spoken language in the world. Spain is today a democratic nation, the 13th largest economy in the world and is a member of several international bodies such as the NATO, OECD, UN and WTO.

Must visit places Barcelona

Think about Barcelona and the first thing that pops into our minds is the Spanish soccer league.

But then Barcelona is beyond all that. Located in the north east of Spain, it is one the top travel destinations of the country. It offers everything that you look for in a European city right from the historic architecture to lively shopping avenues and nightlife. The main attraction of the city would be Ciutat Vella,

the old city, where tourists look for the Gothic Quarters.

Here they would come faceto-face with its beautiful old churches, famous bridges and the ruins of the Roman era. If you want to spend some time with your loved ones, then take a walk with them through the cobbled streets lined with shops, outdoor cafes where you can have a nice hot brew of tea or coffee and bask in the beauty of the city.

La Placa Catalunya with its shops, statues and fountains is a cool place for hangout.

The tree-lined pedestrian avenue, La Rambla is also a great shopping place. You can catch a movie, or even have fun watching the street performers. The city boasts of a number of architectural marvels designed by the famed architect Antoni Gaudi, many art galleries, museums, theatres with flamenco performances and what not.

Festival season is the best time to be in the city and you would find yourself lost in the colourful fiestas, the true passion of the people and of course the food. With its love affair with sports, the city is also home to many sports teams and the largest football stadium in the world, Nou Camp. For the fans of spook and excitement, Montserrat, one of the most visited sites in the city, could be a treat.

Accessed by hiking, trains or cable cars, it is the site of secret caves, an underground lake and so-called UFO sightings, and is a really great place for camping and hiking.

Madrid

The capital and the largest city in the country,

Madrid is quite well known for its sizzling nightlife. The city is home to a number of universities and constitutes diverse ethnic groups that make it one of the continent’s most colourful cosmopolitan cities. The city, noted for its cleanliness is truly spectacular with a mix of old and new architecture. The capital city comprises several neighbourhoods that offer their own unique character and attractions ranging from historic quarters to older and much more crowded communities, university areas, multi-cultural districts and of course party scenes.

Puerta del Sol, lying in the heart of the city, is a large plaza that serves as the site for festivals, important gatherings as well as street performances.

The Plaza Mayor known for its souvenir shops, cafes and the lively San Miguel Market is truly worth a visit. Some of the most popular attractions of the city include Royal Palace, the residence of the monarch of Spain, a string of glorious and majestic cathedrals and several historic landmarks.

The city offers many things like beautiful parks, zoos, bullfights, football matches, shopping destinations etc.

Madrid’s nightlife is among the most vibrant in the world.

There are bars, clubs, discos, flamenco dinner shows and all night parties, all of which is suited to the preference and budget of visitors.

Granada

The historic city of Granada in the province of the same name offers the perfect blend of spectacular attractions, cultures and a hip

Historic centre of Valencia

Granada in Spain is famous for its intricate hidden gardens at various ports of the city.

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August-September 2014

The Old Cathedral of Cordoba in Andalusia

Spain

Puerta del Sol in Madrid

nightlife. However, the icing on the cake would be in the form of the great Alhambra, the pinnacle of Moorish art that captures Andalusian history and obviously one of the greatest architectural sights in the continent. Feast your eyes on the architectural marvel of this Moorish palace and luxurious gardens along with the Arab baths, and you’ll know why the city is such a historic landmark.

Along with the Alhambra, the 16th century Granada Cathedral with its

splendid domed ceiling is among the city’s most noted landmarks.

The neighborhoods of Sacromonte and Albaicin are the essence of the city’s culture. Sacromonte is noted for its Christian abbey and the sites where tourists can now see how gypsies traditionally lived in cave dwellings. Your tour wouldn’t be complete without a round of sizzling flamenco and zambra. The Arabic quarter called Albaicin is a hundred-year-old spice market where you can see the Moorish

Try sitting through a performance of flamenco in one of the best theatres of Spain without batting an eyelid or with your mouth wide open, then you would know what you’re in for

A museum dedicated to the football club FC Barcelona is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Barcelona.

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August-September 2014

architecture, cobbled streets, and a medley of vendors. It is a great place to have a nice evening stroll with your family or friends. Just outside the city, you would find the Nevada Ski station which offers a wide range of activities from snow skiing and sledding to mountain climbing, horse riding and cable car rides. You can also spend your evenings at a local tavern, sampling tapas or catching a dinner show at a theatre or a flamenco performance.

Seville

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is also the region’s top financial and cultural centre. With exceptional tourist attractions, lively festivals and a buzzing nightlife, it is a top tourist spot in Southern Spain.

The city is home to a number of beautiful and historic landmarks of which the grand

The ancient fortress of Alhambra in Granada

The Ciutadella Park in Barcelona

Cathedral of Seville, the spot where Christopher Columbus is said to have been buried, walks away with top honours. The Real Alcazar, an extravagant Moorish palace with a room where Columbus is supposed to have planned his voyage to the New World, is another site worth a visit. The city is also

home to the Metrapol Parasol, the largest wooden structure in the world and the site of Europe’s first tobacco factory.

Museums, galleries, theatres and entertainment venues have made it the region’s cultural capital.

The legacy of its power is evident with 500 million people across the world speaking Spanish, making it the second most spoken language in the world After sunset, the city transforms into a buzzing nighttime entertainment spot with bars, nightclubs and flamenco dance halls. Every year, the city draws attention of the world owing to the San Fermin or the famous Running with the Bulls. The April Fair, one of Spain’s most popular events, is held in the city and it is here that the streets

Marmalades made from the oranges of Seville are considered to be one of the best in the world.

August-September 2014 travel & flavors

27

Spain

turn into one huge party hall with centuries old customs, traditional costumes, flamenco, bullfighting and what not.

Valencia

Valencia, one of the largest cities of Spain, is most famous for the Fallas Festival and the architectural masterpieces of

Heritage Site. The island has some of the most famous clubs in the country along with plenty of bars. Summer is the best time to visit the island, especially if you’re a party hopper waiting to swing to the smash hits of DJs playing at various clubs and bars in the place. Of late, the local

The city of Madrid offers many things like beautiful parks, zoos, bullfights, football matches, shopping destinations etc. Madrid’s nightlife is among the most vibrant in the world the City of Arts and Sciences.

The city is dotted with restored historic buildings which include stunning churches, old monasteries like the San Miguel de los Reyes and the Silk Exchange Market which was the site of an ancient silk trade centre. The City of Arts and Science is a massive cultural and entertainment complex which houses a science museum, planetarium, arts museum and IMAX theatre. One of the popular neighborhoods of the city is the Barri del Carme which has a colourful architecture, diverse ethnic groups, trendy shops and outdoor cafes. The Fallas Festival held every March is an opportunity for the various neighborhoods to display their paper machè figurines of different size and colour for an entire week. The town of Bunol in the city is the site of another famous festival called the La tomatina, celebrated in the last week of August every year. The festival is widely regarded as the greatest tomato fights in the world.

Ibiza and Mallorca

Ibiza is synonymous with endless partying in the Mediterranean clubs but its architecture is a World

28 travel & flavors

government is trying its best to encourage a quieter tourism with new rules that instruct all nightclubs to close at least by 6 in the morning. Although it is known for its party scene, the island has several cultural sites like the remains of the first Phoenicians settlement at Sa Caleta and the monument erected in honour of Christopher Columbus in Sant Antoni. Mallorca is one of the best natural destinations in the Mediterranean with limestone cliffs, the turquoise hued waters and the vast plains carpeted with carobs, olives, almonds and olives.

Today, Mallorca has become one of Europe’s premier summer destinations and the splendid resorts with many lovely coves and the spectacular natural setting make it a place you would truly fall in love with. Spending a part of your Spanish holiday basking in the Mallorca sun with a nice beverage in your hand, walking hand in hand with the loved ones through the pristine sands sounds like the perfect way to sign off on your vacation and you would leave this exotic nation with the best experience saved for the last.

August-September 2014

A Flamenco dancer

DONT MISS •

•

Be sure to check out the rich, cuisines os Spain with dishes that range from tortillas to paellas, the Spanish omelette, Cochinillo Asado of Segovia, Garlic Prawns, and the Galician Octopus.

For one of the best Spanish cuisine experiences, try out the Sergi Arola Gastro restaurant.

If you visit Spain and miss a visit to Al Hambra in Spain, you have no one but yourself to blame. One of the breathtaking sights that transport you right in to the 14th century is the red tinted

walls of Alhambra.

MUST SEE •

•

Sprinkled throughout Spain’s diverse landscape are picturesque villages that would be perfect for your post card. Be sure to pay a visit to the idyllic Ainsa village nestled in the hill tops, Alquezar which offers umpteen opportunities for activities like diving and swimming and the breathtaking Albarracin.

Be sure to pay a visit to the caves in Granada.

The flamenco performance of the gypsies is brilliant enough to leave you breathless.

Women performing Sevillana dance in Seville

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Renuka’s Travels / Nepal

In the footsteps of a missing

traveller

E

ver since I wanted to write about the Hindu cultural capital of the world Nepal, I have been waiting for a mystery to unfold, a mystery about the missing backpacker Matthew Allpress who went for a solo trek in the Himalayas and never returned.

I was more inquisitive may be because I am also a lonely traveller like Allpress.

I started my lonely explorations at the age of 17 when my dad handed over a map to my first destination of a 12-hr train journey. I had an emotional roller coaster ride

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accompanied by diarrhoea the previous day but from then, I have been learning to travel and explore. I may not be a great cook or a great artist, but I love art and food, so I am a perfect traveller.

I was attracted to Nepal, its culture and tradition, especially after watching a famous Malayalam movie.

As a designer, art and culture always beckon me. The final destination for the day was Pokhra valley, the second largest hill valley in Nepal where you get a close look at the Annapurna Hills. My arguments with the guide were watched closely by a gentleman with a rectangular face, a defined, slightly pointed chin and a sturdy jaw line. He has the innocence of a Buddhist monk and looks of Tom Cruise.

He was our driver for the Nepal exploration. When I winked at Himanshu, he could only smile back.

We started our journey after the sunset, but daylight still lingered on the horizon.

The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhra was through the gorgeous countryside of the Mahabharat Range. Dotted with historic villages and ancient temples, the region is also home to the Trishuli River.

I was woken up from the nap by a lovely honk followed by

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Nepal is a major attraction for any true traveller not just because of the Himalayas but OF its ancient temples, monasteries and gorgeous countryside Renuka C Sekhar

a blind curve and crumbling edges. Now the shadows are replaced by darkness. In the gathering gloom, stars and the moon shone brighter in the sky.

The surprise for the day came when we were having our dinner at a local Nepali restaurant in Malekhu. Enjoying the taste of Nepali spices, Himanshu revealed that he is married and has three children. The elder one, he claimed, looks like me but that was not the surprise I mentioned. My surprise came in the form of a mouth-watering fish fry. The intoxicating flavour of freshly fried fish gave me a pleasant surprise.

Malekhu, a scenic sleepy little village located about halfway between Kathmandu to Pokhra, is famous for its fish.

It is a pleasant, 3-hour drive from Kathmandu on the Prithivi Highway, which overlooks the Trishuli River. During the journey, you pass through many rural villages and can obtain a snapshot of the authentic gaau-ghar life surrounded by the breathtaking mountains and the river.

Next morning, I saw the yellow shining sun rising from the ground, overlooking a panoramic sweep of Annapurna Himalayan peaks, where I could count red and splashing clouds bright and mesmerising. A warm day in Pokhra began with paragliding in Sarangot, where I was sharing air space with Himalayan vultures, eagles and kites floating over the

I started my lonely explorations at the age of 17 when my dad handed me a map to my first destination of a 12-hr train journey August-September 2014 travel & flavors

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Nepal

Every mountaineer’s wet dream, Nepal is a land where you, provided you have the nerves, can trek and bungee jump to your heart’s content.

villages and monasteries with a fantastic view of the majestic Himalayas.

I realised I landed on earth when I burnt my lips sipping masala tea offered by a co-glider.

From Pokhra, I travelled to Chitwan through the Tharu culture and heritage.

Chitwan National Park is the homeland of the Tharu, the original tribe of the region, who have their own language, culture and beliefs.

I was back in the streets of Kathmandu, squeezing through the revving cars and beeping motorbikes where I was greeted by eager street hawkers.

Exploring Kathmandu is like stepping back in time where one finds a horde of decadent architecture, wonky but stable structures with intricate details of carved wooden doorways and window frames. Shop fronts are so low that you easily miss treasures

inside. Narrow streets are filled with shops dedicated to specialist businesses from fabrics to dentistry.

There are quiet courtyards where community spirit thrives. In the last two weeks, I covered the famous Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple, Budhnilkantha and Kopan monastery.

The final destination was Pashupathinath Temple located on the banks of Bagmati River.

While I was stepping out of my hotel, I happened to read about Matthews Allpress on his lonely trekking trip to Dudh Pokhri. I wanted to know more and the information I got was that he completed a trek around the Annapurna Circuit and decided to set off on a solo trek through the centre of the Annapurna region. But he never returned, there ends his story, but then and there my story begins:

Tharu men performing

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A scene from the market

A scene from inside the Swayambhoo temple

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I started to feel blank. I didn’t know what made me feel that way. The info I got from the front desk was that he would have died. Tears rolled down while I set off to Pashupathinath Temple.

I felt heavy even to take a step, but when I reached the temple, the scenario was totally different. I saw sadhus puffing marijuana, monkeys jumping from

some visibly distraught, as the pyre was lit. It was drizzling while I walked down, but in my heart I was praying to Shiva to find out Matthew Allpress.

Days passed and I am back in my hometown, still rechecking the internet for the whereabouts of Matthew Allpress. As expected, the news flashed in front of my eyes- the skeletal remains

My surprise came in the form of a mouth-watering fish fry. The intoxicating flavour of freshly fried fish gave me a pleasant surprise place to place, priests offering pooja around the temple and in fact I felt everything was leading me to death. I was welcomed by a huge bronze bull and was shocked when I heard a woman whose husband had died and was being cremated on the temple premises crying out in pain.

Pashupathinath is sacred to Nepalese Hindus, above all to the Shaivite believers who revere Shiva as the Supreme Being, the creator, preserver and destroyer. I saw his body wrapped in a marigold cloth and lying on the pyres. The mourners gathered around,

Women performing Tharu dance

of the lonely trekker were found in a mountainous area. But the words of the sadhu at Pashupathinath Temple still echoes in my ears, “Death is only for the body, not for the soul.” Allpress, you are my inspiration to conquer the world and here is my promise for you, I will go back to Nepal, will travel through the roads not taken and will accomplish your mission. I want to be a true traveller like you who is urged to move about for physical, aesthetic, intellectual as well as spiritual reasons.

Nepali people

Getting there:

By flight: The easiest way to get to Nepal is by plane. There are several entry points into the country, all of which provide tourist visas on arrival. The entry points also provide the convenience of converting international currency

at the entry points.

Unlike earlier times, the Nepal region is far more peaceful following a ceasefire agreement by the Naxalites, opening further international corridors for the nation.

By road: In Nepal, you can also see several bikers from India traversing Nepal on their majestic

Royal Enfields. Give it a try, it is an enriching experience in itself.

MUST TRY:

Golden Temple: A

Buddhist monastery that usually ranks on the top of everyone’s itinerary in their visit to Nepal. A must see, not just for its ornate architecture, but for the feeling of calm

that engulfs you inside its premises.

Chitwan National Park:

Catch a glimpse of rare wild animals like Rhinos, tigers and several other varieties of beasts.

Make some time to visit other destinations like Lumbini, Nagarkot, Parping and Daman. They are all worth it.

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Masters Kitchen

Ramu Butler Executive Chef, Ramada Cochin Resort Vaishak E Hari

A

visit to the hallowed kitchen of Chef Ramu Butler of Ramada Resort in Kochi, Kerala, proves that he has a connoisseur’s taste with an array of well crafted dishes that make your mouth water.

A multilingual, Ramu speaks English, Spanish, French, Tamil and Telugu.

He has worked for Taj Hotels & Resorts and Palaces, Hilton in New York, Le Meridien and Cruise liner. “I am a Goan.

But I must admit that the nuance of French cuisine is something that attracts me the most,” says Ramu.

Presentation, he says, is a big part of the culinary art. He believes that besides taste and flavour, a dish should be visually appealing. He is also one of the few advocates and practitioners of molecular gastronomy, which is followed by a very few Indian restaurants today because of its commercial unfeasibility and it involves the use of chemicals like nitrogen, which requires expertise.

“I have organised several food festivals but the most popular one was ‘Three chefs, Three hundred dishes, Three continents’. And those three hundred dishes were original and not like the pickle,” he says. Another

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fest, he adds, was the Kana Sutra featuring Indianised, traditional dishes. Ramu is the winner of the 2012 Smart Chef Award instituted by the Indian Federation of Culinary Association. He also writes on culinary topics for leading dailies and organises cookery shows on TV channels.

Here are some of the dishes prepared by the chef Basil and pinenut stuffed pouched chicken breast: Fresh basil and thyme infuse the stuffing for pouched chicken breasts, accompanied with tomato gazpacho, creamy potato mash and exotic vegetable.

Dijon beef tenderloin with spinach mash and chardonnay sauce: Dijon mustard marinated beef tenderloin topped with a delicious wine-mushroom sauce accompanied with spinach mash and steamed vegetables.

Photos by Jose Jacob Ramu Butler, Executive Chef, Ramada Cochin Resort

Basil and pinenut stuffed pouched chicken breast

Pepper malai chicken tikka: Succulent cubes of boneless chicken marinated with pepper and flavourful mélange of herbs, spices and yogurt, finished in clay oven.

Double chocolate mousse: The combination of the white and dark chocolate, intensely flavourful and silky smooth. It’s a fabulous dessert to pair with coffee.

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Dijon beef tenderloin with spinach mash and chardonnay sauce

culinary tales / Exotic cocktails

A dash of

exotic cocktails

Everyone has a thing or two for a good cocktail.

Whether you are out for a grand dinner with that special someone or formal meeting or just quick outing with your bestie, cocktail is a ‘go to drink’ Jenny Thingshung

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C

ocktails have inspired many people and have managed to create a niche in movies as well. As I embarked on food exploration of India’s Northeast region, especially Naga cuisine, the only traditional drink that I have come across is the rice beer that the region is famous for. However, with modernity and change of palate, people have started exploring the exotic tastes

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of herbs and fruits found abundance in the region to create new concoctions that people fancy. Its taste is so different from what you get to drink at regular bars. The world over, there are thousands of fusions and cocktails using different flavors according to the preference of people and culture. Creating signature drinks in-house is not unique.

With a young and creative entrepreneur,

Chubamenan Longkumer, overseeing Nagaland’s Kitchen in South Delhi, it is no surprise to find new addition to its already exotic list of incredible drinks. Nagaland’s Kitchen has launched three signature drinks using an unlikely ingredient to tickle the taste bud of people. The three new drinks are Vodka- based using exotic ingredients – Naga Wild Apple Vodka Shot, Raja Mircha Vodka

With a young and creative entrepreneur, Chubamenan Longkumer, overseeing Nagaland’s Kitchen in South Delhi, it is no surprise to find new addition to its already exotic list of incredible drinks

Naga Mircha Vodka Shot

Shot and Raja Mircha Bloody Mary. The flavor of Raja Mircha, one of the hottest chilli known, may not always be a favourite for many people but when it is used in a drink as the central essence, it may surprise you with its different taste. The Vodka-based drink has the spicy tanginess of the Raja Mircha which lingers on in the mouth. Also the fiery colour adds edginess to the drink.

In Nagaland’s Kitchen, Raja Mircha Bloody Mary uses two main ingredients- tomato juice and celery- and

Watermelon Punch

adds Raja Mircha flavor instead of the usual Tabasco sauce. The hot Raja Mircha flavor gives a sensational tickle and leaves a trail of heat in the mouth. Naga Mircha Vodka shot is not for the faint-hearted. This Vodka-based shot can be quite unassuming too.

It will lure you with the smell of the spirit and yet when you consumed it, the tastes of Raja Mircha will overwhelm you completely. Wild Apple Vodka shot is the mildest of all the three shots. This shot comes with a tinge of wild apple juice mixed in

Wild Apple Vodka Shot

Vodka. Wild Apple gives out a sense of dryness which is perfect for shots.

There are no hard rules and formula for making cocktail and I have tried my hands at creating a few punches - a simple ready to drink punch with ingredients that are available easily.

As Delhi’s summer heat penetrates, I decided to use watermelon for its cooling effect for the punch. A fruity melon punch with Vodka to kick the evening off in style, and of course, beer always comes in handy for an exciting night. For

the punch, I use fresh puree watermelon with dollops of fresh lemon juice and a good serving of Vodka and ice. I stirred the concoction a good deal with a spoon. The lemon juice infused that extra flavor into the punch. The smell is very uplifting. What I love about watermelon juice is it oozes freshness and the bright colour adds style and warm to the drink.

Well if only you can taste the drink while you read, you will agree with me that simple home-made punch could turn out to be one of the best.

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UNIQUE FESTIVAL / Kottiyoor Temple festival

Of myths, mysteries and traditions of lore- Kottiyoor

Photos by Jose Jacob Main temple complex at Kottiyoor

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The Kottiyoor festival is not like any other temple festivals in the region. Held in the middle of a forest, the month-long festival is the manifestation of rituals and traditions rooted in the Hindu mythology Lakshmi Narayanan

U

nique rituals shrouded in myths manifest at the Vyshaka Maholsavam celebrated at Kottiyoor in the month of June every year. It is perhaps one of the largest festivals in South India that lasts almost a month with people coming to this remote village from different parts of the state and outside. The festival that offers lots to see, explore and rejoice even for casual visitors since it is held in the middle a thick forest which otherwise remains quiet and deserted for the rest of the year. For those who are

keen on learning more about rituals and traditions, this festival is an opportunity and their journey to the temple and stay here could be a rich experience.

Kottiyoor, a scenic village blessed with natural resources in the valley of Palukacchimala (a hill) surrounded by the Bavli river, is situated in Kannur district of Kerala. The venue of the festival is not a typical one and not a large site as you think. What you see here is a small temple and a few temporary shops on the premises, that too only

during the 28-day festival. But pilgrims flood the site of the Kottiyoor temple and make various kinds of offerings unique to the Vyshaka Maholsavam. Devotees love to visit the temple even when it rains heavily. Situated on the banks of the Bavli river, the temple and its surroundings usually receive heavy rainfall during the annual festival.

Rituals and customs

The festival begins with the arrival of the sword, which is believed to have been used to decapitate King Daksha, at Akkare Kottiyoor performed

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Kottiyoor temple festival

The Kottiyoor Temple is considered one among the oldest temples in India constructed in tandem with the nature.

from Muthirikavu Temple.

A number of rituals are performed in the temple during the festival. These rituals are associated with the Hindu mythology. An important ritual of the Vyshakha festival is called Rohini Aaradhana. The Kurumathoor Nayikan Brahman, the title name of the head of a Vaishnavite family in the area, is the custodian of the ceremony.

He represents Lord Vishnu.

A Namboothiri performs the rite and embraces the Swayambhu Shivalinga.

The uniqueness of the temple is that all castes in the Hindu community have a role in the rituals held during the festival. People belonging to as many as 64 Hindu castes participate in the rituals. Each ritual is assigned to a particular

caste ranging from Brahmin to tribal.

Neyyattam and Elaneerattam (pouring of tender coconut water) are

According to myths, Akkare Kottiyoor is the place where Daksha, the father of Goddess Parvathy, held a yaga for rain special ceremonies on the occasion. For Elaneerattam, the temple receives lakhs of tender coconuts from devotees as their offerings to Lord Shiva.

The ‘auda poovu’ (bamboo flower), the main ‘prasada’ of the Kottiyoor temple, is considered to be the blessing of Lord Shiva,

Devotees drinking holy water from the ‘Theertha’ pond

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the deity of the temple.

Resembling the beard of Daksha, the ‘auda poovu’ is quite popular among devotees who come to the temple to take a portion

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of it to their homes. It is believed that the ‘auda poovu’, brings prosperity in life. Some even display it on their vehicles hoping that luck would be with them wherever they go.

Every year, lakhs of ‘auda poovu’ are sold here on the occasion.

Each day has different

rituals which are performed following the principles of the Vedic times. Only temporary thatched huts are erected for the festival rites, which are removed after the festival.

Every year, thousands of pilgrims come to the yajna bhoomi. The idol of Shiva, the Swayambhoo Shivalinga is kept on the Yajna ground. Pilgrims can enter the temple only after taking bath in the Bavli river. Women devotees are permitted only on certain days.

History and myth

The Kottiyoor temple has a long history. There are two temples- Ikkare Kottiyoor, situated on the right bank of the Bavli river and Akkare Kottiyoor on its left bank. Ikkare Kottiyoor

A devotee carrying tender coconut for ‘Elaneerattam’

has been built in the architectural style followed in Kerala temples and is a Nalukettu temple. Lord Shiva is the main deity of both the temples. But Akkare Kottiyoor follows a different tradition. While Ikkare Kottiyoor has daily poojas along with offerings to the deity and is open to devotees throughout the year, Akkare Kottiyoor built in the middle of a forest beside the meandering Bavli river remains closed for the whole year except during the festival.

Kottiyoor Mahadeva Temple is often known as Dakshin Kashi (the Kashi of South India). Kashi is a pilgrimage centre on the banks of river Ganga and is considered one of the holiest sites in the country.

Another specialty of Akkare Kottiyoor Temple is that, unlike other temples of South India, there is no Srikovil or Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) here. Instead, the idol of Swayambhoo Shivalinga is kept for worship on a raised platform made with river stones named ‘Manithara’ and the rituals begin here.

The open platform is accessible to the devotees.

The entire shrine seems to resemble a Shivalinga.

There is another raised circular platform beside the main shrine which is called ‘Ammarakal Thara’, where one can see a large Lakshmi lamp (a lamp of prosperity) and an idol covered with a palmyra leaf umbrella.

According to legend, Sati Devi immolated herself on the ‘Ammarakal Thara’. An extension of the Bavli river flows down between the two shrines. Ikkare Kottiyoor Temple is believed to have been created by Lord Parasurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu whereas Akkara Kottiyoor Temple is a Swayambhu naturally formed. The rituals during the Vyshaka festival were set by Sri Adi Sankaracharya.

According to the Hindu mythology, Akkare Kottiyoor is the place where King Daksha, the father of Goddess Parvathy, held a yaga so that his land would be blessed with abundant rainfall.

The festival of Vyshaka is the culmination of this myth. Every year during the festival, the village receives plenty of rainfall, and the major rituals in Akkare Kottiyoor Temple take place in heavy rains.

The famous Dasksha Yaga ended in tragedy with Daksha’s daughter Sati (Parvathy) committing suicide by jumping into the sacrificial fire for humiliating her husband Lord Shiva.

The present day festival is the revival of the old one.

A Kurichya tribal found a Swayambhoo Shivalinga while hunting in the forest, which led to its beginning.

It is a fact that even today no one is allowed to cross the Bavli river to visit the temple after it was closed.

GETTING THERE

Devotees moving towards the main temple complex

The nearest Thalassery railway station is about 62 km away and the nearest airport is located 125 km away at Karipur. Bus services are available from Thalassery, Kannur and Mananthavady.

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KTM SPECIAL / aAnavilasam Luxury Plantation

Stay in harmony with green A Aanavilasam Luxury Plantation House located in a vast seven-acre land, just 8 km from Thekkady, is a great place to stay in. Surrounded by the pristine cardamom and pepper plantations, this great vacation spot really gives the feel of an exotic travel destination

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anavilasam Luxury Plantation House is ideal for a plantation stay as well as to see how spices are grown, harvested and processed.

Anavilasam offers a range of accommodation options to meet the needs of guests. One can choose from luxury suite rooms, luxury pool villas and presidential suite. The contemporary design includes two suites, two private pool villas, a deluxe room and a presidential suite, appointed with

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luxurious bed and linens.

Suites are individually styled and have an elegant country-house feel where comfort is paramount. The rooms open to stunning stone-tiled verandas with sweeping views of the estate. Hospitality is generous and abundant, and the staff is caring and able to meet everyone’s needs and desires.

Just 15 minutes from the plantation house is the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the oldest and well known sanctuaries of the state. Indeed, the house

is in a truly remarkable spot, surrounded by nature’s spectacular gifts.

One can make beautiful country drives, head to the charming towns of Cumbum and Lower Camp where one can enjoy bullock cart safaris and bask in the lush landscapes.

Aanavilasam Luxury Plantation House is the right stepping-off point for a beautiful nature holiday.

The opportunities for relaxation offered by the region are endless. visit: www.aanavilasam. com

“Green Leaf� Classified Government Award Winner

Chowara P O, South of Kovalam, Trivandrum 695 501, Kerala, South India. www.soma.in www.somatheeram.in mail@soma.in mail@somatheeram.in

The Ayurveda people

KTM Special / Vasundhara Sarovar

Stunning and graceful

The five-star resort Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere in Vayalar, Alappuzha offers a unique Kerala experience unlike any others and pays homage to the rich and diverse history of the state

T

he tastefully decorated lobby aligning the resort is proof of how well the history blends seamlessly with the contemporary. The atmosphere in the resort is one of a dreamy silence, almost relaxing by itself.

The lazers amongst you have only to amble right into the compound to enjoy the therapeutic effect of the cool breeze bouncing off the backwaters. An astonishing array of suites in the resort commands a panoramic view of the backwaters, the compounds

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and the swimming pools.

Heritage villas would be an enlightening experience for those among the tourists yearning to know a little more about the history and the culture of Kerala.

It is apparent even at the first sight that a lot of pain has been taken to ensure the most authentic Kerala experience for the visiting tourist.

The moment you enter a heritage villa, you can literally feel the clock rushing back in time as the rare artefacts and relics usually seen

only at the hallowed Kovilakams and Naalukettus of old become commonplace objects around you.

Don’t worry, you won’t have to spend your night on a dank mattress.

You will be well provided for with sufficient air conditioning, high speed internet and so forth. You can even conduct a meeting with your boss in America if you wanted, although that would defeat the entire premise of enjoying a vacation!

A unique feature of the resort is the floating cottages, quite a fad among the visitors. With beautifully furnished rooms and a private Jacuzzi overlooking the backwaters, you can just relax to the steady rhythm of the lapping backwaters and the feel of a tranquil breeze against your skin.

If you think that skimming through the backwaters in an air conditioned houseboat with a Jacuzzi in the upper deck your forte, try out the luxury houseboat facilities offered by the resorts. Try out the traditional Kerala toddy fresh, straight from the coconut tree collected by toddy tappers along the way and the sumptuous, freshly caught fish cooked by the chef in your boat. Add that to a mini bar, home theater and the Jacuzzi and you have a party!

During no time in your stay in Vasundhara Sarovar, an all age friendly resort will you have to be worried about gorging yourself to obesity or losing the healthy glow that you worked so hard to obtain.

Apart from a state-of-art fitness gym and yoga centre overlooking the backwaters, the resort also provides facilities for free consultations with the in house Ayurvedic doctor.

Complementing the same are spa that can cosset you into a near comatose stage of relaxation, with traditional Ayurvedic therapies, deep tissue massages and aromatherapy.

Fall under the bewitching spell of the chef’s virtuosity in Mystic Spice, the dining place that serves a whole spectrum of dishes ranging from Asian, Oriental, Arabic, and Mediterranean handcrafted to perfection. Buffets are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Most of the fruits and vegetables used in

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Vasundhara Sarovar

the restaurants are grown in-house. Organic farming is practised at Vasundhara Sarovar and the waste generated at restaurants is used as manure for plants.

The aptly named Chemmeen is an open pavilion restaurant that serves specialty sea food dishes, featuring several exotic and rare specimens rendered even more exotic by the exquisite balance that the chef has strived to obtain between the traditional, foreign and everything in between. Did I forget to mention the incredibly romantic candle light supper?

There is also a pool side bar and cafĂŠ, Zephyr, which can be a perfect spot for you to socialize with your compatriots or enjoy a drink or two with your buddies. Go for a swim, have a snack or a drink and relax on the couch; the prescription recommended by countless tourists following the prescription to the letter. There are also a plethora of recreational activities like fishing, biking or shopping for myriad curios that one can pursue within the four walls. A sample Kerala experience that one cannot miss!

Vasundhara Sarovar received State Pollution Control Award for the measures adopted to minimise the impact on nature and environment. It was also the winner of Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award for 2013.

Visit: www.vasundhararesorts.in

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Rediscover yourself in Nature’s bosom.

SpiceTree, Reservation Office Spice Tree Resort, 2nd Floor, Pulimoottil Plaza, Thodupuzha, Kerala, India 685 584 t: +91486 2223577, m: +91 94460 03466 Resort Address Spice Tree Munnar, Nadukkurissu, Muttukad-Periakanal Road, Chinnakkanal P.O Idukki, Kerala, India - 685 618 P+91 4868 214222, 249111, e: booking@spicetreemunnar.com w: www.spicetreemunnar.com

KTM Special / KTDC

Your dream host in Kerala KTDC is a public sector organisation that conducts and regulates tourism activities in Kerala. It also operates numerous hotels, resorts and tourist rest houses in key locations in the state making it the official host oF God’s Own Country

K

erala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) provides 835 rooms under various categories through its premium/luxury and budget Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotels. It has also got 11 Motel Araam, 21 Restaurant and Beer Parlours, three restaurants and a boat club, two tourist reception centres and a marina.

In Thiruvananthapuram, KTDC’s Mascot Hotel, originally built to house the officers of the Royal British Army during the World War I, is today a well known

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heritage business hotel.

Conveniently located, it is just 7 km away from International Airport and just a few minutes’ walk from the central railway station. The hotel boasts of many facilities like banquet, conference halls, Ayurvedic centre, health club, swimming pool, doctor-on-call, currency exchange and souvenir shop.

KTDC Samudra Kovalam on the other hand is a premium beach resort with all rooms overlooking the sea. The premium jungle lodge located in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, KTDC Aranya Nivas provides accommodation in its 20 deluxe rooms, nine premium rooms and one suite room. Other facilities include Ayurveda therapies, swimming

pool, restaurant and handicrafts emporium.

KTDC Lake Palace Thekkady was once the summer palace of the King of Travancore, British Viceroys and Governor Generals, in the jungle. Situated on an island in the Periyar lake, one can see wild animals from the room itself. A heritage jungle resort, KTDC Lake Palace is accessible only by boat.

KTDC Bolgatty Palace Kochi built by Dutch traders in 1744, the oldest of its kind outside Holland, is today a premium heritage resort spread in 15 acres on an Island. Only four Palace suite rooms are provided in KTDC Bolgatty Palace. Apart from other facilities, it has got nine-hole golf course attached to it.

KTDC Bolgatty Island

Resort on the other hand provides 24 deluxe rooms and six lake front cottages for guests. KTDC Marina House adjacent to it provides accommodation in various categories such as deluxe golf course view, deluxe marina view, suite golf course view and suite marina view.

Its International Marina is the first full-fledged marina of international standards in India.

Located in eight acres of land in Munnar, KTDC Tea County, the premium hill resort of KTDC, is a honeymooner’s paradise. It provides accommodation in 36 deluxe rooms, 26 premium rooms and four suite rooms and one royal suite room.

Retreat to 90 acres of land on the banks of Vembanad Lake if you would like to

take a break from the hassles of mundane life.

KTDC Water Scapes at Kumarakom is one of the best premium backwater resorts of Kerala where you can wake up to the calls of a variety of birds.

KTDC also offers budget accommodation under the brand Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotels and other hotels at Ponmudi, Thekkady, Thiruvananthapuram, Malampuzha, Bathery (Wayanad) and Guruvayoor. KTDC also provides various Kerala packages for tourists like customised packages, season packages, individual property packages, monsoon special packages and budget packages. KTDC also plans to develop hotel projects in Kozhikode and Alappuzha.

Visit: www.ktdc.com

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KTM Special / KTDC Suvasam

Captivating beauty of Thanneermukkom

A quiet village in Alappuzha district with splendid natural beauty, Thanneermukkom on the banks of Vembanad Lake holds a special charm in the minds of visitors

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he salt water barrier at Thanneermukkom built across the lake prevents the entry of salt water into the fresh water. It also helps the farmers of the region where farming is done below sea level. A place with a rich history, Thanneermukkom is today an important tourist destination. Aptly named KTDC Suvasam (which means a pleasant stay in Malayalam) at Thanneermukkom provides the same for tourists at affordable rates. KTDC Suvasam which is easily accessible from Kochi and Alappuzha (one hour) is located enroute to Kumarakom.

KTDC Suvasam overlooking the Vembanad Lake has got 37 rooms designed like cottages, each with a garden in front and of course a view of the lake.

It boasts of a well-equipped restaurant and a conference hall. A perfect getaway from the stress and hustle of urban life and a window to take a glimpse of the calm rural life, KTDC Suvasam brims with freshness and greenery.

Take a stroll through the recently renovated property or catch a glimpse of the fishermen and farmers who paved the way forward battling adverse life situations.

Visit: www.ktdc.com

KTM Special / KTDC Rain Drops

A home away from home Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has come up with a hospitality venture in Chennai named KTDC Rain Drops as part of its image makeover and expansion. It is located in a prime spot and is designed with the features that can bring in business travellers

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August-September 2014

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n the heart of the Chennai city, you never feel away from home as KTDC Rain Drops with its magnificently designed rooms and suites offers you a comfortable stay. KTDC Rain Drops conveniently located at Greams Road in Chennai is in close proximity to the offices of major shipping and IT companies, Consulates of USA and UK, major shopping malls and healthcare providers. Furthermore, KTDC Rain Drops’ proximity to Marina Beach, the world’s second longest beach, will surely add some extra fun and pleasure to your holiday. KTDC Rain Drops also aims to target the potential class of business travellers taking the advantage of strategic location.

It boasts of 90 well-appointed rooms- 83 Deluxe Rooms and seven Suite Rooms. A multi-cuisine restaurant, conference hall, laundry facilities, travel assistance, doctoron-call, currency exchange and Wifi facility are also provided. Reasonably priced KTDC Rain Drops delights all travellers by providing a relaxing accommodation in Chennai, the Gateway to South India.

Visit: www.ktdcraindrops.com

KTM SPECIAL / Thekkady Wild Corridor

Alluring wilderness of

Thekkady What’s common among a casual traveller, a nature lover, honeymooners, a corporate weekender and an adrenalin junkie? All are looking for some exclusiveness, solitude and relaxation and that is exactly why all land up at Thekkady Wild Corridor

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ocated in Idukki, Kerala, Thekkady Wild Corridor has got something to offer everybody whether it is the nature lover, honeymooners, a corporate weekender or an adventurer. By checking into Thekkady Wild Corridor, you are leaving your hectic life behind and signing into the hands of laidback comfort.

Nestled in the heart of Kerala, Thekkady Wild Corridor is seated in eight acres of plantations on sloping hills which afford breathtaking views and access to the surrounding forests and nature. This location is unique that it affords travellers both privacy and accessibility. The enchanting sights of coffee and tea plantations cascading and shining in the bright sunlight can be so captivating and is sure to remain in your memories.

Close to the Thekkady lake and wildlife sanctuary, Thekkady Wild Corridor is the perfect place to combine adventure with relaxation.

Thekkady is a well known location for seasoned and novice travellers alike for its beautiful lakes and streams, lush forests teeming with wildlife, mountainous terrain and refreshing climate.

Thekkady Wild Corridor offers accommodation in deluxe villas, super deluxe villas, royal villas and romantic villas. Cleverly designed deluxe villas offer privacy and seclusion with an extra-large private terrace. Magnificent views of the hills along with luxurious bedroom and

Nestled in the heart of Kerala, Thekkady Wild Corridor is seated in eight acres of plantations on sloping hills which afford breathtaking views and access to the surrounding forests and nature. This location is unique that it affords travellers both privacy and accessibility spacious bathroom are the charming things about super deluxe villas.

Romantic villas, designed for the lovers and honeymooners, feature an indoor Jacuzzi room along with other amenities like spacious living room, bedroom, private open balcony and circular bathroom. The ultimate in luxury is, however, royal villa.

Positioned at the extremity of the site to ensure privacy and breathtaking views of the hills, royal villa consists

of two bedrooms with an outdoor Jacuzzi and open shower together with large terraces. The interior finishes are a blend of rustic fusion.

The multi-cuisine restaurant Lemon Grass at Thekkady Wild Corridor provides an extensive menu with the best of traditional Indian and global cuisine along with an excellent wine cellar. The poolside restaurant Rainbow offers continental, Chinese, traditional Kerala and Indian dishes. Apart from this, Thekkady Wild Corridor is a perfect venue for events and conferences. Thekkady Wild Corridor’s Spanish Lounge is a favourite venue for marriages and many, including foreigners, have tied the knot here.

Special Ayurveda packages for guests along with Yoga classes are also offered here along with a modern spa. On request guests can also avail of outdoor activities like jeep safari, bamboo rafting, bullock cart ride, plantation walk, trekking, elephant ride, boating and fishing, sky tram and trek.

Thekkady Wild Corridor believes in the perfect combination of providing cottages and rooms with that touch of elegance and luxury, while ensuring that the environment still holds that faint essence of traditionalism and rustic living. To enjoy living close to environment, there is no other place better than Thekkady Wild Corridor. visit www.thekkadywildcorridor.com

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KTM Special / Clouds valley

In the valley of clouds

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Aptly named Clouds Valley, the four star leisure hotel nestled on the top of Munnar is indeed a highland of peace and harmony, and is a place you would love to drop by again and again

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amous for its tea plantations, Munnar has been a hotspot for tourists visiting Kerala.

Well connected to all areas, Clouds Valley is located in the valley of famous Kannan Devan hills in Old Munnar. The hotel is located 1½ km from the Munnar town, 12 km from Mattupetty Dam and 13 km from Eravikulam National Park.

Clouds Valley Leisure Hotel offers 52 elegant and very spacious rooms with the choice of Suites, Valley View Rooms and Deluxe Rooms. Whether you are a business traveller or a person seeking to unwind, Munnar is the best place as it has nice mountain weather and hotels like Clouds Valley for comfy stay.

The hotel has all amenities such as Wifi connectivity, 24-hour room service, doctor on demand, travel desk facility, top notch business centre and banquet conference. You

will soon find that there is nowhere else better to return than the cosy comfort and warmth of Clouds Valley Hotels.

Put on your sweaters, mufflers and go for a walk or a ride, the hotel will provide all necessary facilities and directions for the same. Mingle with the locals; they know the best spots around the completely green hued Munnar. Once you are refreshed with the sights and sounds around the place, then relax in the warmth of a blanket.

Apart from the cosiness, the hotel offers Ayurvedic treatments for the visitors in association with Dhanwanthari Vaidyasala. Clouds Valley Hotel boasts a number of experienced doctors and masseurs who ensure that the traditional method is applied in a manner that is most beneficial to you. The hotel offers a well crafted package of therapies designed to relax, refresh and rejuvenate the body.

Visit: www. cloudsvalleymunnar.com

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KTM SPECIAL / Wonderla somatheeram

s, junkie k is e n i l a ren t Par For ad Amusemen pectacular as d erla Wond to be. With ts like lan h n e e c a -tec m the pl entertain r rides, hi la of ate der range ky rides, w rides, Won s the a s s rides, rs and kid re emerge hrill, o t e l l thril and Banga ers in the s n Kochi ubted win fety aspect undo ene and sa hygi

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onderla Kochi offers the biggest variety of entertainments to people of all age groups, with 59 state-of-the-art rides, including land rides, sky rides, water rides, hi-tech thrillers and kids’ rides. It is the first park in India to be certified with ISO 14001 for being eco-friendly and conserving natural resources.

Wonderla is also OHSAS 18000 certified for safe ride.

It maintains international standards in terms of overall

, t n e m e t i Exc

thrill

at

know no bounds

quality, cleanliness and hygiene.

Located near Bidadi, Wonderla Bangalore is the second amusement park of V-Guard Group, which offers a number of imported 1.5 G force high-thrill rides in India, Asia’s tallest Ferris Wheel and the biggest musical fountain in the country. Wonderla Bangalore offers heated pools and water rides during winter.

Wonderla Resort located beside the amusement park in Bangalore has 84 luxury

rooms with all amenities, a well maintained multi cuisine restaurant named Woods and resto-bar Red Ice. Wonderla Resort is a great venue for weddings, receptions and corporate events. Wonderla Bangalore ranks No.1 in India according to Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice Awards 2014 and Wonderla Kochi ranks No.3.

Wonderla Bangalore ranks 7 and Wonderla Kochi ranks 13 in the list of the top 25 amusement parks in Asia.

Visit: www.wonderla.com

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KTM SPECIAL / Ayurveda mana

The Poomully Ayurveda mana promoted by Paithrukam Hospitality Group stands out as a unique centre that promotes responsible and sustainable tourism through Ayurveda practice Sajeev Kurup

Promoting Responsible Tourism through Ayurveda

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he Paithrukam Hospitality Group, started in 2005, has emerged as a leading Ayurveda centre in the state today. The Poomully Ayurveda mana, one of the most famous heritage mansions of the state, was converted into a unique Ayurvedic centre. The Poomully Ayurveda mana, promoted by the Paithrukam Hospitality Group, encourages the local community to

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take part in the daily chores which range from bringing in the grocery to cooking the special food for guests as well as housekeeping and supplying gingelly oil and honey for the preparation of medicines.

The Paithrukam Group selects people from the local community for the various day-to-day activities at its Ayurveda centres, like the example followed at the Poomully Ayurveda

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mana and Perumbayil Ayurveda mana.

As a result, employment opportunities are provided to a number of local people and the participation of women must be specially mentioned in this regard. It is very common here that local women and men are trained in various pursuits like housekeeping, therapy, guest relations and so on. It is perhaps this unique scheme that has made the Ayurveda centre so

popular and it can be said that the local staffs in many areas where this system is followed have been able to lead a better life and have earned a respectable position in society. The employment of women in various sections has made a remarkable change in their lives. From being economically deprived and struggling to make both ends meet, the women today have become an important part of the Ayurveda centre and they live a better life and are able to give a reasonable education to their children too.

Tourists coming to the state, who are keen on knowing more about the culture and heritage of the state, are in for a treat here. The services of local artistes are enlisted so that cultural acts can be demonstrated for at least two hours for guests and payment is made directly to them.

Mural painting workshops where the artists come and do the paintings and also teach interested guests or even sell their work have been arranged. The properties of the Paithrukam Group also focus on Sustainable Tourism Practices such as rainwater harvesting and use of organic manure and eco-friendly utensils. Prohibition of plastic, drugs, tobacco and alcohol on the premises is strictly followed.

A goat and cow farm along with a vegetable garden run by the local

community is also a key aspect of the Ayurveda Centre. Protection of local heritage and nature along with the empowerment of the local community helps make the Paithrukam Group a success. The Kerala Institute of Travel and Tourism

Studies (KITTS), a subsidiary of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, has identified the model projects of sustainable practices in the Ayurvedic sector in Kerala.

Visit: www.ayurvedamana.com

The Poomully Ayurvedamana, promoted by the Paithrukam Hospitality Group, encourages the local community to take part in the daily chores the team with the author

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KTM Special / Silvertips

Classic Stay in a Filmy world A paradise for movie lovers across the country, Silver Tips resort is cocooned in the rolling hills of Munnar and is a place worth marveling over

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renovated movie theatre from the British era, the theme-based resort has nearly 60 rooms named after 60 different movies and fashioned after the same. The rooms also function as a treasure hoard of memorabilia for each movie that is assigned to them. For example, the Chennai Express section has all the costumes and trivia during shooting,

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recorded in the room. In short, the resort functions as an unofficial museum for the movies and has housed several famous faces within their walls (such as SRK during the shooting of Chennai Express).

Upon entering the hotel, the spacious lobby celebrates the ‘60s Hindi movie Mughal-e-Azam.

The resort also features state-of-the-art conference halls, lounge areas, gym

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and video centres. Whether you are on the road for business or leisure, Silver Tips has it all. From free Wifi internet to satellite television, the resort ensures that you stay entertained 24/7.

Other facilities include individual telephones with voice mail facilities, laundry and a 24-hour room service.

Silver Tips also provides facilities like a small mini screen theatre on the premises, aimed at pleasing the movie lovers among the guests, and a wide array of classic English and Malayalam movies. Lagaan, named after the movie itself, is an area where the guests can enjoy a game of cricket or even learn to improvise.

Munnar has since grown into a hub for adventure sports, trekking, mountaineering etc. The hotel offers a service called the ‘Silver Tracks’ for the guests who are interested in adding a twist of spice to their holidays with mountaineering, trekking, paragliding and night camping.

Four restaurants are located within the premises of Silver Tips, namely Majilis, Tom and Jerry, Mayabazar and The Sound of Music. Mayabazar, named after a landmark 1957 Telugu film, features some of the most diverse cuisines from all different parts of the world and furnished in a manner reminiscent of the lavish layout of a palace shown in the movie.

Continental, Indian, Arabian and Chinese cuisines are all served in the restaurant.

Majilis is a rooftop restaurant that caters culinary delicacies pertaining to the Middle Eastern specialty cuisine amongst others. Tom and Jerry is a cartoon theme based roof top restaurant portraying characters from the beloved Tom and Jerry series, and furnished in a cheery, light hearted atmosphere and a complimenting cuisine. Sound of Music coffee shop, a theme based exposĂŠ of the 1955 musical of the same name, is a place to unwind with some homegrown coffee, mocktails, snacks and, depending on your preference, a game of foosball or snooker.

Visit: www.silvertipsmunnar.com

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KTM SPECIAL / somatheeram

makes Ayurveda popular

For authentic Ayurvedic treatments today, Kerala is a known destination in India. This ancient medical science of India which had almost gone into oblivion with the entry of Allopathy and other medical sciences is back in the limelight after the genuine efforts of some Ayurvedic centres and practitioners of Ayurveda

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mong Ayurvedic centres in the state, Somatheeram Ayurveda Group needs special mention. It introduced the Ayurvedic resort model providing healthy accommodation option along with quality treatment in Ayurveda for foreigners.

Founded in 1985, Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort at Kovalam in Kerala with over 15 acres of greenery all around boasts of being the world’s first Ayurvedic Beach Resort. A model Ayurveda resort which worked wonders in the field of Indian tourism industry, Somatheeram was founded by Baby Mathew (Chairman and Managing Director). In fact, Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort’s new model opened the floodgate of opportunities for Ayurveda tourism in the state.

Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort is unique in every aspect. A perfect blend of tradition, culture, history, Ayurveda, yoga, meditation and beach is what Somatheeram Ayurveda Group promises. The luxurious accommodation facilities at Somatheeram are built with a touch of Kerala tradition. Every room has laundry facilities, internet and other essentials besides 24-hour service. Multi cuisine restaurant at Somatheeram promises vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes. It also organises cultural performances on the guests’ request. A variety of other programmes such as indoor games, boating and elephant rides are also organised. Mehndi designing, which has been found to be very popular among the guests, is arranged once every week.

Baby Mathew, Chairman and Managing Director, Somatheeram Ayurveda Resorts receiving the award for Best Approved and Classified Ayurveda Centre in Kerala 2012-13 (third consecutive term) from Oommen Chandy, Hon Chief Minister of Kerala

The group has strong presence in Kerala through its resorts like Manaltheeram Ayurveda Beach Village at Chowara Beach in Thiruvananthapuram, Soma Palm Shore, Kovalam Beach, Soma Kerala Palace Lake Resort, Chembu in Kottayam and Soma Birds Lagoon Resort near Thattekkadu Birds Sanctuary, Kochi. With Soma Houseboats, it offers luxurious

Founded in 1985, Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort at Kovalam in Kerala with over 15 acres of greenery all around boasts of being the world’s first Ayurvedic Beach Resort

houseboat services through Alappuzha and Kumarakkom backwaters. Tailor made cruises are also available on request.

Somatheeram Ayurveda Group with its genuine efforts retains the sanctity of Ayurveda through a wide range of Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. All Ayurvedic treatments and therapies are taken care of by experts. The Ayurveda Hospital and Research at Somatheeram has 20 well experienced Ayurvedic doctors, 90 therapists with special training in administering Ayurvedic treatment, yoga masters, 24 massage rooms and five treatment rooms. Somatheeram is also a classified Heritage Ayurveda Resort and Green Leaf classified Ayurveda hospital.

Somatheeram Ayurveda Group has received numerous national and international awards for excellence in Ayurveda, including the Kerala government award for three consecutive years. Among them are Best Approved and Classified Ayurveda Centre in Kerala, Ayurveda Centre Europe Certification from the European Audit Institute of Wellness and Spa and Safari India National Tourism Award 2011 by Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) for the best Ayurvedic resort. visit: www.somatheeram.in, www.soma.in

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KTM SPECIAL / Fragrant Nature

e ri e nc e p x E

natures’ fragrance

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Though a small luxury hotel, Fragrant Nature Group of Hotels and Resorts’ backwater retreat in Kollam becomes popular among tourists with exceptional packages and service 66 travel & flavors

mall luxury hotels of the world (SLH) offer an unrivalled selection of some of the world’s finest small independent hotels. Comprising over 520 hotels in more than 70 countries, the diversity of the individual hotels, and the experiences that they offer is exceptional and is the sole reason for featuring Fragrant Nature Hotels and Resorts in their list.

Fragrant Nature located in Kollam is the only small luxury hotels in the backwaters. With 29 lakeside rooms amidst six acres of coconut grove, it is sure to charm any discerning traveller. Located 60 km away from Thiruvananthapuram

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Airport and half an hour from Varkala beach, the resort prides itself with using vegetables from its ‘Aroma Fresh’ Indian and Continental delicacies across all outlets.

The guests can indulge in cruising, cooking demo and lunch in a village home, fishing, visit to an elephant shelter or Varkala beach.

Prana, the Spa at Fragrant Nature Resorts, is extremely popular with its predominantly high European clients. At all Fragrant Nature resorts, the Ayurveda offered is based on the Vedic wellness principles. Besides the main therapies, there are packages to improve blood circulation, retard ageing, provide good health, longevity,

and rejuvenation. The therapists are knowledgeable, responsive and very supportive in administering treatments.

With two new projects being scheduled to open in December 2014 at Fort Cochin(First Five Star Hotel in Fort Cochin) and Munnar(4 Star) with more than 40 rooms in each location, Fragrant Nature Group of Hotels and Resorts plans a huge expansion in the hospitality scenario of the state. Future is optimistic for Fragrant Nature Group for their project in Marari to be launched next year and many more in and out of the subcontinent. visit www.fragrantnature.com

KTM SPECIAL / Carmelia Haven

A Heavenly Hideout Carmelia Haven in the thick jungles of Thekkady is a dream come true if you’re planning a holiday as much closer to nature as possible. With the excellent facilities, Carmelia would undoubtedly be the place you have in your mind

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armelia Haven, located in Thekkady, is probably one of the most beautiful plantation themed resorts in the area. With the tropical jungle and plenty of wildlife around the area, it’s not a surprise that you would be able to dream of being stranded in a thick jungle right in the middle of nowhere.

Of course, that’s not exactly what you get when you’re at Carmelia. Spread over 55 acres with over 30

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well spread accommodations which include tree houses and cave rooms designed to make you feel that you’re roughing it in the midst of nowhere, exquisite poolside villas and themed ethnic cottages that would have you relaxed and refreshed.

Situated at Vandanmedu in Thekkady approximately 4,000 ft above sea level, this little town is probably one of the largest producers of cardamom in the world.

Carmelia Haven is also one of the most eco friendly

resorts that you would find in the state. Take a look around the sprawling property, which brims with activities and facilities that are completely eco friendly and naturally bring you closer to nature, and you would realise why Carmelia gets this distinction. No doubt, Carmelia Haven is an ideal destination for holiday seekers and nature lovers, and is also one of the best places for corporate conferences. visit: www.carmeliahaven.com

KTM Special / Rainbow cruises

A cruise through enchanting backwaters Rainbow Cruises offers you a truly splendid ride through the backwaters of Alappuzha, which you cannot experience anywhere else

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ne of the chief attractions in God’s Own Country is the snaky backwaters of Alappuzha. A ride through the backwaters is one of the most sought-after experiences as far as a foreign tourist is concerned.

Rainbow Cruises offers a stimulating holiday experience through the 900-km backwaters of Alappuzha. Relax in a traditional Kettuvallam equipped with all safety measures as is evident by the gold star rating awarded by the state government,

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gorging on a traditional Kerala lunch and a personalized dinner that will feature all of your Kerala favourites. Don’t miss the lush green surroundings and the quiet tempo of the village life that you get to witness throughout the cruise and duly clarified by the multilingual guide in your boat.

For entertainment in the boat, you get any number of books to read or you could even try fishing. See if you can manage to hook the famous Karimeen, which the cook

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will prepare for you along with toddy, an alcoholic drink indigenous to Kerala. Kerala’s culture and arts are presented through entertainments such as Kalaripayattu, Theyyam, Mohiniyattam, Bharatanatyam and Chakyarkoothu on request.

The defining point of the cruise is its complete adherence to all safety standards and proper solid waste treatment rather than dumping it into the backwaters.

Visit: www.rainbowcruises.in

THIRUMALA WARD, CHUNGAM, ALLEPPEY, KERALA, INDIA. 688 011 +91 477 2239701 (02/03/04) +91 477 2239705 info@lakepalaceresort.com www.lakepalaceresort.com

The name brings images of sprawling backwaters and serpenting canals strewn with canoes, houseboats and adorned with green islets. It's a historic port city that had trade relations with Greece and Rome in the Middle Ages.

The home of Kuttanadu, the rice-bowl of Kerala. A haven of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence. The centre of coir industry in Kerala. In short – a land of vivid excellence.

Lake Palace Resort. Engagingly Vivid.

Alappuzha

KTM SPECIAL / Spice Routes

Do you fancy a cruise journey through the backwaters of Alappuzha in style?

Then step in Spice Routes Luxury Houseboats which guarantee you a spectacular cruise through the backwaters and be prepared for the journey of a lifetime

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pice Routes Luxury Cruises operating from the region of Akkarakalam Memoirs, Alappuzha, is a houseboat experience like no other. The super luxury houseboat is in harmony with the nature and environment of the region while providing personalized and quality eco tours and cruise trips through the splendid backwaters of Alappuzha. Spice Routes has a reputation for providing exciting, informative and top of the range quality service to the guests. Spice Routes has been the favourite of a number of overseas as well as domestic tour operators.

Spice Routes Luxury Houseboats

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Spice it up with

Spice Routes with five star facilities, including centralized air conditioning, certainly has a cozy ambience. Spice Routes stirs in you a sense of luxury and comfort with the kind of facilities you would not have dreamt of in a houseboat.

Spice Routes brings the memories of the ancient times when spices and coir were transported through the canals of Alappuzha. Today, these barges have been converted into the luxury houseboats used solely for holidays and pleasure trips through the backwaters. Your cruise on Spice Routes would most certainly stir up some fond memories and you would feel rejuvenated, refreshed and relaxed. visit:www.spiceroutes.in

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Spice Routes has a reputation for providing exciting, informative and top of the range quality service to the guests

KTM Special / Smile centre

The hub of quality dental care Kerala has made a name in quality dental tourism in the country. Though there are many dental clinics in the state that help achieve this status, Smile Centre is ahead of the time with total care and the most advanced facilities

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he state of Kerala has made a huge impact by turning it into the hub of quality dental tourism in India in a short span of time. Though there are many centres offering dental tourism in the state, Smile Centre at Kadavanthra in Kochi stands apart. An ISO 9001:2008 certified advanced centre for complete dento-facial solutions, Smile Centre is a unit of Pramod Dental and Oro-Maxillofacial Clinic, an established dental clinic with more than 60 years of service.

It was Prof. Branemark, the father of modern dental

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implantology, who said no one should die with their teeth in a glass of water and Smile Centre helps patients from all over the world realise this dream. Smile Centre also specialises in Smile Correction, Immediate Loading Dental Implants, Laser Dentistry, Dento-Facial Trauma and Deformities along with advanced facilities to perform the entire spectrum of dental and faciomaxillary treatments ranging from basic procedures to complex facio-maxillary surgery procedures, including cosmetic jaw surgery.

Smile Centre is also one of the

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few centres offering Advanced, Immediate Loading dental implants of DrIhde Dental, Germany. These implants are unique as they are immediate loading (teeth are fixed by the third day) and are also successful in all situations where conventional dental implants (the two/three pieces) do not work. Smile Centre observes precautions like strict sterilisaton and disinfection protocols and practices advanced anesthesia techniques to ensure pain free treatment procedures for both children and adults.

Visit: www.smilecentre.in

KTM Special / Spice Tree resort

Stay and relax in

style

Away from the bustle of cities, the luxury resort Spice Tree set in the beautiful natural setting pampers the guests with all comforts and treats them to a range of special dishes

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estled amidst the beautiful Kannan Devan and Bison Valley Hills, SpiceTree is undoubtedly a perfect mountain retreat. A boutique resort, it offers you one of its kind personal care and attention. With 14 luxury suites and two individual pool villas, the resort is truly remarkable.

The pool villas, the latest addition to the resort, are meant for the convenience of the guests who look for additional luxury and space for relaxation. Of course, the scenic beauty of the mountains, forest and

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valley that you can enjoy from every single suite at the resort is an added advantage.

Plenty of activities that guests can indulge during their stay at SpiceTree are unparalleled. The rejuvenation session at the spa, The Bliss, is a favourite of many guests. Other activities include yoga, meditation, tea-tasting, ethnic cooking classes, trekking, soft treks, a book bar, plantation walks, lounging by the swimming pool, tour of Bison Valley, village tour, nature and photography

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expeditions, dolmen visits and visits to tea and cardamom fields.

Excellent teams of chefs are always on their toes to amaze the guests with their exemplary culinary skills by preparing a wide range of dishes guaranteed to tickle the taste buds of the guests and have them demanding more. Responsible Tourism is the catchword of SpiceTree which strongly believes that nature has given plenty to man who ought to do the favour in return.

Visit: www.spicetreemunnar.com

KTM Special / Omega Dental

Responsible

Dental tourism

The benefits of getting high end dental treatment at a relatively low cost and an opportunity to explore the rich tradition are the highlights of dental tourism in India

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f you are looking for the best in dentistry in Kerala, you are welcome to the world of Dr Jacob’s Omega Dental Clinic located in Thiruvananthapuram.

Dr Jacob and his team of friendly and caring professionals are trained in the UK and US in the most advanced and latest techniques in dentistry. As a full service dental office, Dr Jacob’s Omega Dental Clinic can

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handle the dental needs from regular hygiene (cleaning) appointments and teeth whitening service to implants and cosmetic dentistry. Dr Jacob’s Clinic has all the advanced amenities and it maintains world standards in quality and patient care.

Another advantage is that the cost of treatment at Dr Jacob’s Omega Dental Clinic is comparatively less when compared to treatment

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in the West. Dr Jacob’s takes care of general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, root canal therapy, dental implants, tooth whitening, ceramic crown and bridges, tooth coloured fillings, orthodontic treatment, gum disease therapy, extractions and impactions, ceramic veneers, metal-free crowns, teeth replacement and diabetes and oral care.

Apart from

dental care Dr Jacob’s Omega Dental Clinic also offers authentic Ayurveda therapy, great accommodation and a thoroughly enjoyable and relaxing vacation through their travel/ tour, hotel and Ayurveda centre associates.

Experience God’s Own Country while undergoing dental treatment at Jacob’s Omega Dental Clinic.

Visit: www.omegadentalclinic. com

KTM SPECIAL / Riya Travel and Tours

Tycoon in

travel business has now Riya Group eader al emerged as nd el a in the trav r in the cto tourism se rheaded ea country. Sp , the mpy

by GMJ Tha ot 53 as g company h India , 10 locations in one in nd in the us a Dubai

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ccredited by the IATA (International Air Transport Association) in 1982, Riya Travel and Tours Pvt. Ltd has become a leading consolidator in air fare.

It offers visa, bus-car rental, forex and overseas travel insurance among other facilities to its customers. The company with an annual turnover of more than Rs 7,000 crore employs over 2,000 professionals. Riya has now become an expert

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in the field of travel and takes pride in offering its customers responsive, competent and excellent services.

Incorporated in 2007, Riya Holidays is the leisure wing of the company. It has gained a reputation in domestic as well as international tour packages, group departures, corporate MCE movements and religious tours among others. Riya Education incorporated in 2010 with an objective of identifying and guiding

students aspiring for overseas education, be it schooling, graduate, postgraduate, doctoral levels and skill-based training, is a new venture of the company.

Riya Institute of Hospitality is the training wing of Riya Group. With the advent of e-business, travelers demand technology-driven services and with this in mind, a travel portal, Riya Connect, was launched in 2007.

Visit: www.riya.travel

KTM SPECIAL / Thailand

Today Thailand is a ‘go to’ destination for anybody looking to get away from the mundane life. It has become even a weekend destination for many as travelling to the South East Asian country is cheap and quick

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he people of Thailand are proud of their distinct culture and tradition. If you are looking for more than just a bath in the sea or a dip in the pool, Thailand may just be right for you. Those intrigued by history will find it vividly preserved in the monuments, temples and palaces throughout Thailand. The royal temples with rituals transport you centuries back. But Thailand boasts of not just its magnificent royal history but also its mesmerising culture, lifestyle and natural beauty.

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Destination

Thailand

Malls and supermarkets compete with the best in the world, be it for the brands available or the variety of things on offer. It’s a shopper’s paradise.

The Golden River cruise in the evening gives you a glimpse of the city bathed in the glowing light.

Excitement doesn’t end within the city for life outside the city is a whole different story. On the outskirts, the country’s stature and uniqueness are displayed. Well connected roads and expressways make travelling easy and

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comfortable. The floating markets have a culture distinct from any other.

The communities in the area still depend on sales from these boats for livelihood. Travelling to Thailand at least once should be on your bucket list.

Visit: www.uaeexchangeindia.com or send a mail at mail.us@uaeexchange. co.in. UAE Exchange is a Govt of India - Ministry of Tourism Approved, Tour service provider and an IATA accredited passenger sales Agent for Ticketing Services in India.

KTM Special / Vythiri Resort

Splendour of Wayanad

No other luxury resort or jungle retreat can match the ambience offered by Vythiri Resort, an exquisite eco friendly jungle getaway in Wayanad, Kerala

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rapped in the lush embrace of a tropical rainforest you can dwell here in perfect harmony with nature where the delicate, subtle sounds accompany you to bed and wake you up in the morning. Natural streams, waterfalls, hanging bridge, tree-top houses at 85 ft, stone lined pathways, majestic trees and the list of wonders at Vythiri Resort spread across both banks of a sprightly mountain stream that runs through the 150-acre property. It is the perfect jungle hideaway everyone had dreamt about. Built with bricks and wooden rafters on the roof in the style native to the region, furnished in cane, wood and fabrics of discreet elegance, the cottages are equipped with all modern amenities. The accommodations are designed so as to provide residents an

immediate experience of the surrounding sights and sounds.

Available in configurations ranging from heady tree houses to cottages on stilts overlooking the stream and further downstream, cottages with jacuzzis, private pools and a suite, everywhere, the muted hiss of the stream is a continuous serenade. A rope bridge across the stream leads to the restaurant overlooking the swimming pool at one end and a sweeping view of the forest all around.

Guests may choose to relax in their cottages, go for walks in the forest in the company of the resident naturalist, swim in the freshwater pool, opt for treatments at the Ayurvedic spa, play indoor games or take part in the many outdoor activities that the resort has included in its itineraries Visit: www.vythiriresort.com

KTM Special / Niraamaya Retreat

Sun, beach and heritage Surrounded by lush greenery, Niraamaya Retreat’s 31 heritage cottages at Kovalam effortlessly blend old world charm and modern day comfort. The guests can unwind amidst nature, sophistication and Indian hospitality here

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riginally built as a winter abode in the Kerala architectural style by a Professor at IIT-Madras, it was converted into a hotel in 1986 and was named Surya Samudra. In 1991, an old wooden house was transplanted from Haripad to Surya Samudra to add more rooms. The transplanted house was carefully dismantled and reconstructed into two spacious rooms with open bathrooms.

More Kerala houses were added to Surya Samudra along with a few brick houses built in a way that the sea breeze becomes an ingredient

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in the experience. Adding charm to the property, Karl Damschen, an architect from Germany, designed a restaurant which serves Kerala’s sensual cuisines. In 1999, Suite Rooms were introduced in Surya Samudra which became an instant hit. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the inviting four-poster beds and the perfect twilight guarantee guests an invigorating holiday.

Surya Samudra received the status of Heritage Hotel from the Department of Tourism in 1995 and in October 1996, the Government of India bestowed on it the Tourism Award for

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The Best Heritage Hotel in southern region. Now renamed as Niraamaya Retreat, it is the perfect place to unwind in the midst of nature, sophistication and Indian hospitality.

Niraamaya Retreat’s have another property at Thekkady amidst acres of cardamom plantations called Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club. It provides accommodation in cottages which are a blend of traditional charm, contemporary luxury and old-fashioned hospitality.

Visit: www.niraamaya.in

KTM Special / The Hill District Club

An exciting abode for tourists and nature lovers A journey through Wayanad’s woods and misty valleys blanketed in dark green takes you to the Hill District Club which will of course recharge your energy and spirit

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ituated in the Nilgiri biosphere, Wayanad is truly a temptation.

With thundering waterfalls and trekking routes, it’s a spectacle to marvel. The Hill District Club is an ideal destination for those wishing to recharge during their journey. The Club, nestled in a sprawling green abode with paddy fields and coffee plantations, is one of the major initiatives in the tourism sector that combines hospitality and

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health awareness.

It has a pristine ambience with nature friendly accommodation, refreshment outlets and traditional cuisine from the locality.

The Hill District Club is designed with state-of-theart facilities that include a mini convention centre, club building, ultra modern swimming pool, courts for indoor as well as outdoor games, 400-m long jogging track, gym, health club, children’s pool, children’s park and a restaurant. An open

stage for artistic performances, free space for cultural interactions, area for get-together and restaurants providing tantalising cuisine and accommodation with round-theclock security make the club attractive. Packages appealing to tourists of all genres from business travellers, students, families to honeymooners are available and with outstanding services, the Hill District Club is all set to impress.

Visit: www. hilldistrictclub.com

KTM SPECIAL / Olive

Olive Cochin brightens the lives of those who stay in the hotel and it has successfully made itself stand out with its hospitality ventures over 25 years

Opulence and grace

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aplenty

live is a nest of splendour located at Kakkanad in Cochin, a hotel with four star facilities along with 44 well appointed rooms and suites that blend with modern elegance. Its beautiful lobby lounge, the Olive Eva is truly a place to marvel over. It has been widely considered an ultimate joint for a light meal while enjoying the stunning ambience to top it all. The hotel is strategically connected to all the major attractions, shopping malls, amusement parks and

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what not within the city. Its rooms and suits provide you with ultra modern facilities including safety lockers, mini-bars, tea or coffee kettles and free internet facilities.

Seven Spices restaurant, the dining facility, is a place to drool over. The restaurant serves cuisines from across the world and is quite a popular one. ‘Bibianaa’ is a speciality restaurant that fulfills your craving for grills and kebabs. Along with this, the three conference rooms, ‘Edesia and Ethenia

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I and II are well equipeed to cater to all your banquets, meetings and conferences.

Another property of the Olive Group, the Olive Downtown at Kadavanthra is due to be opened on December 14. The hotel consists of over 100 well furnished rooms, Irish designed bars, Afghani speciality restaurants, coffee shops, sky roof grill and barbeques and three banquet halls besides amble parking facilities.

Visit: www.olivehotels.com

Gateway Malabar / Ktm Special

Exciting Gateway Malabar Gateway Malabar Holidays is surely a great way to have an exciting holiday. It extends its warmth to all those who associate with it and certainly lives up to the most treasured values of Indian culture and hospitality

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ateway Malabar Holidays, launched in 2006 believes that tourism plays an important role in promoting friendship, goodwill and understanding between people of different cultures. It works closely with hotels, airlines and other travel related organisations and promotes Kerala so as to raise its international profile as an exotic destination offering nothing but the best to its tourists. Gateway Malabar has now expanded its business from the Middle East market to other markets as well. It hopes that its clientele can give the best value of rates for hotels, resorts, houseboats and quality assured ground services in the country, especially in South India.

With at least three operational offices in South India and an international office in Dubai, it caters to clients from all parts of the country. The network offices in Chennai, Madurai, Trichy and Thiruvananthapuram offers strength to the organisation and the large number of devoted staff who caters to the interest of tourists who approach it. With a commitment to create and provide the best value service for its clients and partners, Gateway Malabar Holidays welcomes more people so that once they leave the place they would be nothing short but satisfied.

Visit: www.gatewaymalabar.com

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KTM Special / Nilambur Kovilakam

Splendour of the yesteryear Dating back to the 18th century, Nilambur Kovilakam situated at the foot of the Western Ghats on the banks of the Chaliyar river is an architectural marvel and a stay here could be an experience in itself

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ilambur Kovilakam with a history dating back to the 18th century is well known as it was the residence of the local rulers or the representatives of the Zamorins of Calicut.

The Kovilakam was built according to the traditional Kerala architecture and boasts of excellent skills and craftsmanship. Nilambur Kovilakam has had a great significance in the cultural development of the state and one of its most significant contributions is the support

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given to the establishment of Kerala Kalamandalam which is now a renowned deemed university for the performing arts.

Those visiting the Kovilakam can revel in the magnificence of the palace which is more than 225 years old. There are over 25 rooms but only two rooms have been converted to accommodate guests- a big living room and a bedroom attached with bathroom. Only vegetarian food is served to guests and

no smoking and no alcoholic beverages within the premises of the Kovilakam, a heritage homestay Visitors are treated to the thrilling story of the Kovilakam and the family history, and are taken around the premises. A boat ride in the Chaliyar river and a visit to the nearby palaces are also provided. The three nights stay here is sufficient to experience the pristine beauty of nature and the culture of the place.

Visit: www.kovilakam.com

KTM Special / Hindustan Beach Retreat

Lazing around Hindustan Beach Retreat Hindustan Beach Retreat is one of the premier resorts in God’s Own Country.

Situated in Varkala, the resort provides you with a unique opportunity to bask in the glory of the curative sea breeze

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he retreat, as it is rightly named, offers a plethora of opportunities for a tourist to relax. You can just laze around in your beautifully furnished room which provides a panoramic view of the blue ocean. Alternatively, one can have a relaxing swim in the pool downstairs which overlooks the sea or if you feel a little hungry, munch some snacks at the poolside restaurant. If

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you are truly in a mood for some Indian delicacies, try out the rooftop restaurant which serves specialty seafood ranging across a wide cuisine spectrum.

The resort also offers other facilities such as free WIfi for a certain period of time, parking, drinking water, continental seafood, locker to keep all your valuables, dental kit and various other facilities.

Moreover, the resort offers traditional Ayurvedic

programmes by experts which ranges up to three days. Several de-stress and detox programmes are available here. The resort is also ideally located, from the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram and also from the Cochin International Airport.

When you are not lazing around the resort, you can explore myths and fables associated with the city.

Visit: www. hindustanbeachretreat.com

KTM Special / Spice Land

Gala holiday with Spice Land

Spice Land Holidays is the only travel agency in India that enjoys a domestic network in all major two-tier and three-tier cities and overseas branch network in London, Moscow, Abu Dhabi, Sydney and Colombo

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ver since its inception, the travel services provided

by Spice Land Holidays is designed with an aspiration to make the guests feel completely at home in India and enjoy the best of their holiday.

Spice Land Holidays strives to provide world class hassle free service to all its guests. The company maintains its front runner

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position by adhering strictly to the schedules, 24-hour emergency assistance, competitive pricing and an absolute commitment to service quality thereby ensuring customer delight.

Spice Land Holidays offers services in various categories like hotel reservations in all hotels, home stays, customised tour packages throughout

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India for individuals as well as groups, special interest travel packages like white water rafting, golfing, motor racing, angling, scuba diving etc., guided tours, coach and car transfers in India, MICE related services and all-inclusive hotel packages with flexible options.

The company is also well equipped to handle tailor-made tours, drive

about packages, special interest tours and ground transportation. Spice Land Holidays’ highly experienced staff helps to provide tourists with excellent customer service.

The number of repeating/ referral clients shows the fact that the customer service provided by Spice Land Holidays pleases all guests.

Visit: www.spicelandholidays.com

Ramada Alleppey /KTM Special

The best of both worlds Alappuzha known as ‘Venice of the East’ has everything that makes the life beautiful- a rich tradition of art and culture, harmony of faiths and mouthwatering cuisine. Now Ramada Alleppey adds another feather To its cap

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amada Alleppey is not just a dream come true.

It is indeed the truth of a dream. Alappuzha’s first five star hotel, Ramada brings the world to Kerala’s backwaters.

Ramada’s legend goes beyond the epicurean passion for eating, drinking and being merry.

Ramada Alleppey sets a new paradigm of life and leisure. In the world of hospitality, what

Ramada offers could be seen elsewhere but what it conveys is available nowhere else. That was what Saint Vyasa thought of his work, Mahabharata. The presence of Ramada in the already splendid Alappuzha just adds to the charm and mystic nature of the place.

Expect the best of everything at Ramada Alleppey. With 121 well-appointed guest rooms, it is the largest hotel in Alappuzha,

where luxury is defined in the minutest detail. A 24-hour multi-cuisine restaurant Venice, a rooftop restaurant overlooking the timeless expanse of the backwaters Essence, health club and spa, the finest one in the city, board rooms and conference halls are the best in its class at Ramada Alleppey. Truly! The best of both worlds.

Visit: www.ramada-alleppey.com

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Strange Travellers

Photo Credit: HoneyTrek.com

An extended

honeymoon These days honeymoons are reduced to a couple of days or even a few hours in some cases. No one can think of a honeymoon that lasts weeks and months but here are two Americans who experienced their honeymoon for MORE THAN TWO years Tony William

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t is assumed that honeymoon lays the foundation for a married life. So what about a longer honeymoon? Will it benefit you in any way or make you bankrupt?

Take the life of Mike and Anne Howard, two American newlyweds, who had a honeymoon that lasted more than two years!

Mike and Anne call it a Honeytrek and made a website of the same name (HoneyTrek.

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com and Facebook. com/HoneyTrek) to share their experiences.

The idea of their epic honeymoon was conceived after a German couple who completed a 12-month journey around the world as part of their honeymoon.

Mike and Anne stayed at economically viable places, ate street food and occasionally treated themselves to the comfort of luxury resorts. They figured that

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the perfect time to travel was soon after their marriage. So they quit their jobs, rented out their apartment and set out on a 675-day honeymoon and visited 302 places in 33 countries across six continents .

They visited Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, South Africa, Lesotho, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania and Kenya, Nepal, China, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Wales, England, Norway and Turkey. Ask them which country they like

Trip Coach The wonders of long-term travel have made them start Trip Coach, a one-on-one guide to world travel (www.

HoneyTrek.com/TripCoach).

It helps travellers to take a long trip anywhere in the world and on any budget. In

most? They say “Myanmar” and adds Myanmarese are the friendliest people they have ever met. The worst experience they recall was at Mozambique where they had to wait for a hitchhike for hours in a rough and tumble down (read being harassed by crazies and drunkards).

They managed the trip with just $40 per person a day. Mike supported himself through his photography and Anne through freelance travel and design writing.

They partnered with Honeymoons.com to review resorts during their trip which enabled them to stay in top resorts in exchange of reviews. fact, they teach travellers how to save on flights, lodging, and daily expenses and help travellers to get off the ‘Lonely Planet Track’. (For more info and to follow along with their adventures in the U.S., visit www.Facebook. com/HoneyTrek and www.

HoneyTrek.com)