Hello 6E-November'2022

First

You've been working hard throughout the year and it's almost time to slow down and take a welldeserved break. Just a month away from Christmas and New Year, as businesses around the world race against time to wrap up all pending tasks, we turn the limelight on the crisply-dressed flyers zipping through airports minding their own business – the corporate travellers.

In this issue of Hello 6E, we focus on the destinations they frequent and how they unwind after work.

In the Offbeat section, we travel to five of the world's busiest commercial hubs – Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Singapore and Dubai – to discover what makes these cities special as bleisure hotspots.

In the Duel Action section, we

fly you to Hyderabad, India's tech and start-up hub, and set it against Hong Kong, another global business destination.

In the Vignette segment, feast your eyes on some of the world's best and sleekest bars, where one can relax after the day's toil.

In other sections of the issue, Bollywood singer and composer Amaal Mallik takes us with him

on a hike around Himachal Pradesh, revealing his inspirations for music. And we learn about the heritage of the ubiquitous Goan handicraft –azulejos, the charming tiles.

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PUBLISHER

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FirstRow

Glimpses of domestic and international destinations of IndiGo network.

Cover

This issue of Hello 6E focusses on the corporate traveller, who zips through airports for work. On the cover is vibrant Singapore, one of the world's busiest commercial hubs.

Goa's artistic heritage through the journey of the handcrafted azulejos tiles.

Head Niraj Batra

Contents

OffBeat

Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Singapore and Dubai - corporate travellers choose their favourite work-travel destinations!

Discovering similarities in two different cities of the world.

MyCity MyWay

Bollywood musician Amaal Mallik talks about how the Himalayas inspire him.

Viewpoint

Rediscovering Chengdu in five ways.

Vignette

Relax at these iconic watering holes post a hectic day.

charter

by the Ministry of Civil Aviation stating your rights, please contact our crew.

SANDWICH DAY

What's between the breads

World Sandwich Day celebrates the legacy of John Montagu, the 4th earl of Sandwich, England. It is said that the modern sandwich was born when Montagu's servants put some meat between two slices of bread as a way for the earl to easily have his meals!

W hen you fly with us, do try the ever popular Chicken Junglee Sandwich. Available on pre-booking only!

THE ART OF POSITIVE PARENTING THE TEEN YEARS

issue of power lies at the root of most conflicts between teens and their parents. Many parents fail to realise that such power plays must be avoided. Dr. Manimekalai Mohan, Founder & Managing Trustee, SSVM Institutions, Coimbatore, offers a few tips on good parenting.

Adeep

How can we stop children from being defiant and answering back?

There is always a connection between backchat and defiance.

Parents' impulsive and angry responses to backchat fuel their children's defiance.

Don't respond to backchat with words. Instead, walk away or do something else. It defeats a power play.

Avoid telling the child what to do, instead talk about what you can do. Lead by example.

Is there anything we can do to help our teens cope with peer pressure? Peers will have more influence on children’s thinking, attitudes, values and behaviour as they become adolescents. It is possible for a teen to feel isolated or shunned if he/she attempts to resist peer pressure. It takes effort and willpower to not be part of the crowd.

Help children and teens say ‘no’ whenever necessary and maintain their dignity.

Encourage kids to voice their own opinions and not always have to please others.

Is it possible to discipline our children without smacking them?

As a parent, it is imperative to discard smacking from the parenting toolkit.

Resist your first impulse to smack.

Try distraction, move the children to a different area, just stay quiet and wait until the situation changes.

To teach responsible behaviour, emphasise consequences, and acknowledge thoughtful behaviour with a smile and a hug.

How do we get children understand that ‘No means No’?

There is no need to explain a 'no' since it is a complete sentence. Often, children do not understand this and persist until they get a positive response.

It is sometimes necessary to have a 'no means no' policy at home. Ignore your child's tantrums to a 'no'.

How do we stop our teens from being quitters and giving up easily?

One of the traits that define success and resilience is perseverance. Perseverance is worth encouraging in your kids.

Use the correct vocabulary in your conversation to motivate them. Remind kids of history and teach them not to quit halfway. Encourage them to stay on the home mission until the end, not to quit their sports team until the season’s end, etc.

How should the parent react when a kid lies or alters the truth?

It is common for kids to lie and alter the truth for a variety of reasons.

Sometimes they want to escape negativity, avoid disappointment, make themselves seem influential, and sometimes they fantasise. Don’t let children escape negative consequences through their lies or stories.

Encourage children to tell the truth even if it is against them.

How can we change our teens who seek attention?

Ignore the teen’s attention-seeking approach. On the contrary, give them lots of positive attention when they do something good and deserve it.

Make attention-seekers feel useful, worthy, and free to follow their own interests.

Make sure the child is aware that activities are worthwhile and that the world does not revolve only around them.

parenting!

Dr Manimekalai Mohan

Founder & Managing Trustee SSVM Institutions, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

be it Steve McCurry or Raghu Rai, the prestigious photographic agency Magnum Photos is a platform that includes some of the world's best lensmen. Armani/Silos, Milan's fashion art museum, is paying a tribute to such photographers through the show 'Magnum Photos: Colors, Places, Faces'. Stay at the premium Armani Hotel Milano as you visit the show curated by legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani. The show will on view till November 6.

fter the pandemic, the popular Pushkar Mela is set to return this year with much fanfare. Held in the holy city of Pushkar, Rajasthan, it is an annual camel and livestock fair that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. Be sure to visit the Lord Brahma temple and the ghats of the Pushkar Lake. Do pick up rose-flavoured products like rosewater and gulkand (a sweet preserve of rose petals). This year it is being held from November 1 to 8.

Here's a sneak peek into what's in store from the genres of travel, lifestyle, events and festivals, books and films, and tech.

a r o u n d t h e w o r l d a

Culture, art and the Indian creative thought process... all of these and more will come together at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex. Promising to be a cultural landmark, the centre will include open spaces for performing as well as visual arts, where Indian and the global creative processes will meet.

imagine a tented city spread across an island surrounded by soothing blue water. That's the unique Jal Mahotsav festival, a watercation held in Hanuwantiya in Madhya Pradesh. Along with the spectacle of nature, enjoy staying in the premium and cosy tents, and take part in various adventure sports. The festival starts on November 25, 2022, and will continue till January 25, 2023.

French business leader André Lacroix is known for his leadership skills developed over more than three decades with such worldleading organisations as Burger King, PepsiCo, Euro Disney, Reckitt Benckiser and more. In his new book Leadership with Soul (published by Eska), the CEO of Intertek Group, reveals his formula to make businesses flourish using his universal humanist principles.

KIIT MAKES BIG STRIDES IN TIMES GLOBAL UNIVERSITY RANKING 2023

The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Deemed-tobe-University at Bhubaneswar has made a significant jump in the Times Higher Education’s World University Ranking 2023. The University has been placed in the cohort of 601-800 as against 801-1000 in 2022. The improved performance demonstrates the University’s sustained focus on quality teaching, research activities and a steady rise in its global reputation.

KIIT, which was founded by noted educationist Dr Achyuta Samanta in 1997, has planned a series of initiatives to highlight its academic achievements coinciding with its silver jubilee year. Nine per cent of its total student strength comprises foreign students coming from the Far East, African nations and Central Asian republics.

The rankings have also revealed that KIIT has fared much better than other legacy institutes not only in Odisha but in Eastern India as well. The Times World University Ranking is widely followed by academia including students in deciding their institute of choice for pursuing higher studies.

Teaching environment, research output, citations, industry income and international outlook were among the key parameters that determined the ranking list.

As many as 10 researchers of the University and faculty members, some of whom are Padma Awardees are listed among the ‘World’s Top 2 Percent Scientists’ by Stanford University.

Academicians, cutting across institutional affiliations have hailed the achievements of KIIT, underscoring the institute’s emphasis on quality teaching and research output. They equally lauded the tireless efforts of Dr Samanta and his visionary leadership to transform the University in a short period into a globally renowned institute.

Dr Samanta, however, said the improved ranking was the result of the collective efforts of the faculties, students and staff.

The latest ranking aside, the Education Ministry’s NIRF 2022 has also placed KIIT as the 20th-best university in the country, awarding high scores in parameters such as teaching, learning resources and graduation outcome. KIIT was also adjudged as the 23rd-best Indian university in the overall category by the Times Higher Education in its Asia University Rankings for 2022. This was as well a significant jump of seven places over last year.

Today KIIT is the pioneer in research and development. The KIIT Technology Business Incubator (KIIT-TBI) is one of its kind in Odisha. It has incubated many business entities out of which 34 have graduated to set up full-scale commercial enterprises.

Research and innovation are important hallmarks of a worldclass university. KIIT has established 19 Centers of Excellence

with industry to promote collaborative research. KIIT Faculty are actively involved in research and consultancy works attracting financial support to the tune of a few million dollars every year.

Currently, nearly 100 research and consultancy projects funded by various national and international funding agencies like UBS Promedica Foundation, Switzerland; Karolinska Institute, Sweden; DST, DBT, MNRE, Govt. of India, Board of Research in Nuclear Sciences, etc. are ongoing with substantial budget outlay.

As KIIT is celebrating the significant milestone of completing 25 years, it has become a trusted destination for professional education for students from all parts of India and over 65 countries. It has been consistently achieving academic accolades transforming itself into a world-class knowledge hub.

The University has countless talents who not only are celebrated names in their respective domains, but they are also contributing to their nation’s growth as successful bureaucrats, entrepreneurs and start-up leaders.

KIIT is the first Indian university to get Internationalization Strategies Advisory Service (ISAS) Badge from the International Association of Universities (IAU) which marks the achievement of milestones along the journey of internationalization.

The University has the distinction of having the largest number of foreign students on its campus in the State of Odisha. In addition, hundreds of foreign students come to the campus to do internships and various short-term courses throughout the year. To boost academic, student and faculty exchange, KIIT has established collaborations with over 195 globally reputed universities abroad and secured membership in reputed global educational bodies and associations.

The student-friendly policies make KIIT one of the high-indemand universities in India today. It was one of the early ones to adopt the choice-based credit system to enable students to select the course of their choice that matches their interests. Student counselling and research are the other two areas that are given enhanced focus and attention.

The sprawling campus is a veritable melting pot of nationalists, cultures and ethnicities. The vastness is manifested in many ways. It has an exciting mix of pupils who come from myriad backgrounds. It enjoys an enviable reputation of having the largest number of foreign students on any campus in Eastern India. And it offers a fusion of unique architectures in every radius block that represents the distinctiveness of the 23 individual nonscholastic extracurricular activities.

maggie O'Farrell is the author of the New York Times best-seller Hamnet, and from her comes a new book - The Marriage Portrait. Set in Renaissance Italy it tells the story of the young duchess Lucrezia de Medici, the third daughter of the grand duke Florence. But her peaceful life takes a tumultuous turn when her older sister dies on the eve of her wedding to the ruler of Ferrara, Modena and Reggio. O'Farrell vividly brings Renaissance Italy to life through the story of this resilient young woman.

the Tata Literature Live! The Mumbai Litfest has returned with its 13th edition after being hosted in virtual mode due to the pandemic. Being held at NCPA, it will also see sessions being held at other venues in the city. To meet both the virtual and on-ground demand, this year’s event will see yet another innovation: a hybrid festival. The online sessions will be held on November 9 and 10, while the physical event will be held between November 11 and 13.

with Dussehra and Diwali festivities coming to an end, it's time now to gear up for the New Year. Do it with a detoxifying vacation that will restore your body's natural balance. Fazlani Natures Nest, a wellness retreat located between Mumbai and Pune, offers several healing packages with the goodness of Ayurveda, naturopathy, acupuncture, acupressure and physiotherapy.

A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF SOME DOMESTIC & INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS OF INDIGO

PATNA

List

PLAN IT RIGHT

FACT

Patna was known as Patalipattan or Pataliputra in the ancient times, and was the capital of Chandragupta Maurya in the 4th century. Today, the city by the Ganges is the capital of Bihar.

B est time to visit O ctober to May

Patna Museum is a very popular site and offers rare art objects, including a World War I cannon and a casket that is said to contain the relics of Lord Bud dha.

Litti chokha with sattu or roasted gram flour is one of the most popular dishes in Bihar. Relish it at any street food stall in the city. Also try the chana ghughni

Madhubani painting is a traditional art form of the state. Bihar Emporium is the best place to buy such objects of Madhubani art as paintings, bedsheets, dress materials, etc.

EAT IT RIGHT

G IFTING ZONE

Images are for visual representation only IndiGo to PATNA w ww.goindiGo.in

Bihar

Currency Indian Rupee

INDIA

FACT Mangaluru, also called Mangalore, is a bustling port on the Arabian Sea coast. Yet it retains its old world charm with terracotta tiled houses and palmfringed roads.

MANGALURU

IndiGo to MANGALURU w ww.goindiGo.in

Map not to scale

B est time to visit S eptember to April

C heck List

EAT IT RIGHT

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Currency Indian Rupee.

Authentic Mangalorean dishes like tuppa dosa, phanas molik and biscuit roti are best had at the New Tajmahal Cafe. Also try kori rotti and kori gassi (Mangalorean chicken curry) in the city.

He ad to the World Konkani Centre that serves as a centre for the preservation and overall development of Konkani language, art and culture

Hampankatta Market is one of the oldest such shopping destinations here. The market is known for handcrafted items, local spices, fruits and sweets.

Karnataka

INDIA

GIFTING ZONE

Images are for visual representation only

VISAKHAPATNAM

C heck List

Visakhapatnam is known for its biryani joints, serving authentic flavours of Andhra Pradesh in the iconic rice and meat preparation. If you are a vegetarian, then try the mouth watering pulihora, a spicy combination of rice and tamarind gravy.

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Visit Borra Caves, o ne of the largest in India and home to million-year-old stalactite and stalagmite formations. A lso plan a trip to Araku Valley in Eastern Ghats.

GIFTING ZONE

Visakhapatnam is known for sarees, especially Pochampally and Ikat. You can also visit the

Ayurvedic shop Pachipulusu Venkata Sannaiah & Son at Kurupam.

EAT RIGHT

are for visual representation only

DOHA

Map not to scale

IndiGo to DOHA w ww.goindiGo.in

List

H ISTORY CALLING

FACT

Q atar is the first country in the Middle East to be hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022.

B est time to visit November to April.

Built on the site of Doha’s ancient trading market, Souq Waqif has an oldworld charm that reminds one of a bygone era. Buy fragrant oudhs and attars, Aladdin-style lamps, spices, glass ornaments and pearls.

The Corniche has been the heart of life in Doha. Enjoy a stroll on the seven-kmlong crescent waterfront promenade. The best views are from the water's edge close to the Museum of Islamic Art, with dhows (traditional boats) in the background.

The Museum of Islamic Art s howcases Islamic art and artefacts from around the world, including A rabic calligraphy, early Islamic books and woodwork. The stunning building was designed by legendary architect, IM Pei.

Currency Qatari Riyal.

S HOP

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Images are for visual representation only

QATAR

What'sMore

Capital Cheer

From Diwali to Christmas, Delhi sparkles with lights, colours and laughter. Right from the iconic Blind School Diwali Bazaar organised by the Blind Relief Association in the heart of New Delhi, to the German Christmas Market, it's celebratory time in the capital.

Artistry

A zulejos, where art meets Goan identity

Az ulejos are ceramic tiles that are painted by hand and glazed. Believed to date back to the 15th century, these tiles allegedly voyaged to Spain and in the 16th century, to Portugal, before making their way to Goa.

Words Shruti Tomar

An independent leisure writer on all things stylish and a tutored fashion zealot, Shruti Tomar styles for spaces that catch her fancy and writes autobiographies of inanimate objects.

You find them everywhere in Goa. From railway stations to gift shops, and from hotels and churches to homes, azulejos, the vibrant, hand-painted ceramic tiles iconic to the seaside destination, dot almost every neighbourhood. But it's surprising that there was a long period of time when this artistic heritage had no footprint in Goa, and it has been reborn over the last two decades or so.

Many may assume that azulejo is linked to azul, which implies blue in Spanish and

Portuguese. While most of the renowned Portuguese tile work is in blue, the exact roots of the word come from the Arabic word azzelij that translates to "polished stone". It is a method that was used in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, not only for decorative purposes but also to shield buildings from the warm weather of these regions.

It is said, the first azulejos in Portugal were imported from Seville by King Manuel I, who used them in his palace. The country,

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initially depended on importing the tiles from other countries. Meanwhile, in Italy, artists customised their manufacturing of azulejos and began using the tiles to depict Biblical scenes. This had an immense impact on what later eventually became a characteristically Portuguese artform. By the 17th and 18th century, azulejos were crafted in high volumes in Portugal. The art stretched to Brazil and other Portuguese colonies, including Goa.

However, under the Portuguese, Goa didn't have any local unit manufacturing azulejos. Thus, the artform vanished as soon the Portuguese left. In 1998, when a young Goan, Orlando de Noronha, went to Lisbon to study Portuguese

D id you know?

T he Azulejos de Goa Gallery is located in a 250-year-old IndoPortuguese house in the heart of Panjim. You will find Goa depicted in myriad objects crafted by local artists helping connoisseurs carry a piece of Goa to their homes across the globe.

language and culture, he met artist Fernando Martins, who introduced him to azulejos. So fascinated was Noronha with this lost sliver of his hometown's history that he learnt the technique and returned with a bag full of tiles and a mission to resuscitate azulejo art in Goa. Reminiscing, Noronha, says with a broad grin, “Some of the best things in life happen accidentally. And you grow with it. Life is like that.”

Regarding the process of creating azulejos, Noronha says, “First the clay biscuit must be glazed. It can either be dipped into glaze or it can be sprayed over. Then you start painting with colours sourced from Portugal. They are then fired at over a 1,000 degree Celsius. The glaze melts and fuses with the colour. When it cools down, the shades seep in under the glaze.”

Today, most of the tiles depict Padma Vibhushan Goan artist Mario de Miranda's famous cartoons depicting Goan culture, but no two azulejos are alike. A few of the other popular design motifs include Goan fisherwomen, the local kunbi dance, and rural life among others. While it has not all been smooth sailing for Noronha, his passion to preserve this craft has kept the fire of the azulejos' kiln burning in Goa.

Images are for visual representation only

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS

Malik, who often travels with her son, says Dubai is good for children. “My son loves water sports here!” Post work, she likes to relax at a hammam.

Some of the world's best restaurants are at the Dubai International Financial Centre, the business nerve of the city.

Dr. Bhargava relaxes with road trips, and desert exploration.

THE CORPORATE LANDS

B e it Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, or Singapore, Dubai, these cities are known for their ease of doing business. We speak to a few jet-setters to find out what puts these hubs at the top of their list.

Dubai

The founder and marketing director of leather accessories brand Da Milano Italia and footwear brand Rosso Brunello, Shivani Malik, travels often to Dubai, where she has five stores. “Dubai has something for everyone. I divide my time between Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, the Palm, Raffles the Palm Dubai or One&Only The Palm Dubai. I also like the Address Boulevard next to the Dubai Mall. It's good for postwork relaxation.” Dr Siddhant Bhargava, a fitness and nutritional scientist, and co-founder of Food Darzee, says Dubai has cutting-edge, globally connected infrastructure, large expat talent pool, and ready access to both local and regional markets. "The city's laws are great for business," he says.

Stay:

The area around Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina are good for work and leisure. If you do not have much time, stay close to the airport in Deira or Garhoud.

Transportation: The fastest way to travel long distances in Dubai is the metro.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Dubai.

Words Priya Kumari Rana

Stay: Most business travellers stay in the Marina Bay and Orchard Road areas, where most of the major hotel chains are located. If you are staying at Orchard Road, you can squeeze in some shopping after meetings.

Singapore

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS

Singapore is a global hub for several businesses.

Restaurants respect privacy during business lunches and dinners. For restaurant reservations, download the Chope app.

The city's public transport is effective. Download MyTransport.SG app for information about public transportation, including Mass Rapid Transit.

Travel Tips

Images are for visual representation only

Transportation: Taxis are affordable and ride-hailing app Grab is popular. You can take the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT).

Entrepreneur and industrialist Akhil Nath, who divides his time between San Francisco and New Delhi, travels extensively for work. Director of ABRO Balancing Inc., Nath says Singapore is one of his favourite destinations. “It’s touristfriendly, clean and safe. Its work-life balance is fantastic too.” Nath prefers to stay at The St. Regis, where he holds most of his meetings. If he is staying the weekend, he relaxes over the Sunday brunch at Brasserie Les Saveurs, the hotel's French restaurant. To club leisure with work, Nath prefers Marquee nightclub at Marina Bay Sands. He suggests golfers can head to the 18-hole Sentosa Golf Club. Or try island hopping with business colleagues on a yacht (typically from Singapore to Sentosa), enjoy scuba diving and snorkelling. In the evening, lounge at Rumours Beach Club in Sentosa.

is known for corporate entertaining, and business is often done over lunches and dinners. For authentic Chinese food after a hectic day of meetings, Nath heads to Paradise Dynasty on Orchard Road and to Din Tai Fung for dim sums. For seafood, he prefers one of Jumbo’s many outlets, for the special black pepper crab. His casual meetings are held at one of the city’s many coffee roasters, (favourites are Five Oars and Common Man).

Weather:

Singapore's weather is unpredictable, so keep an umbrella at hand.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Singapore.

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS

The capital of Karnataka, known as India's Silicon Valley, is the headquarters for many companies. It's also called the garden city.

Its traffic can be a challenge, so plan meetings close to your hotel.

UB City is an apt option for business travellers for its work-leisure balance. Try Toscano, a popular restaurant here.

Travel Tips

Bhatia recommends a stay at the Taj West End, located amidst lush greenery, perfect for an early morning walk. "I love Araku in Indiranagar, which serves the best coffee blends from across the world. I enjoy dining at Nagarjuna. Bengaluru also offers great world cuisine," he says. Mohanani prefers South Indian restaurants MTR, Vidyarthi Bhavan, Bheema's, and Nagarjuna.”

Bengaluru

Stay: Located in the southeastern part of the city, Koramangala is wellconnected with most of the major locations of the city.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Bengaluru.

For Gurugram-based Ankur Bhatia, founder of Jimmy’s, one of India’s fastest growing cocktails and mixers brands, Bengaluru is the "most cosmopolitan city in India, and a global melting pot". “I have lived for a year in Koramangala – one of the most exciting parts of the city, with one of India’s highest concentration of bars, Bob’s Bar being my favourite. Brassa and 10 Speakeasy are among the best cocktail bars,” says Bhatia, whose previous startup MensXP was acquired by Times Internet. Sandhya Vivek Mohanani, Founder & CEO of Evaana Wellness, loves the city's stellar financial and entrepreneurial ecosystem, abundance of manufacturing facilities and networking opportunities.

Transportation: While app-based taxi services Uber and Ola are most effective; to save time, you can try the Namma Metro.

Weather: Bengaluru enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year.

Images are for visual representation only

New Delhi/NCR

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS

There is a plethora of restaurants at Ambawatta One near Qutub Minar in Delhi. Gurugram's Cyberhub (perfect for young professionals), is great for team lunches. In Gurugram, 32nd Milestone is also apt for work and leisure. There are several plush clubs like PVR Home in Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

Travel Tips

Images are for visual representation only

Stay: For meetings in New Delhi, Central Delhi is the best. To stay near airport and Gurugram, try Aerocity.

Transportation: App-based taxi services Ola and Uber are convenient.

Delhi feels like home for Priyanka Gill, the Londonbased co-founder of the Good Glamm Group (among South Asia’s largest DTC beauty conglomerates, valued at USD 1.2 billion). A history buff, Gill loves driving through the verdant Lutyens' area and strolling through Sunder Nursery, soaking in the city’s heritage. As a business traveller, work for her is always on the agenda. However, because she once lived in the capital, there’s always a sense of familiarity and comfort. "After work, I enjoy catching up with my friends at their homes, over a drink or meal," she says. “I love to stay at the Leela Palace, New Delhi, the Oberoi in Gurugram or Andaz Delhi in Aerocity (which offers great city tours!). For meetings, I prefer the hotel’s coffee shop, business centre or the nearby WeWork. I also like the Quorum in Gurugram, that's good for working lunches,” she adds.

capital Delhi is a foodie's paradise. Talking about her favourites, Gill says, “I like dining at Indian Accent – it’s hard to beat chef Manish Mehrotra’s expertise. I love House of Ming (Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi) for authentic Chinese food and Bukhara (ITC Maurya, New Delhi) for a hearty North Indian meal. I love the Library Bar at the Leela Palace, New Delhi and Olive Bar and Kitchen in Mehrauli. Not to miss Sidecar at GK, listed among Asia’s best!”

Connect: Fly IndiGo to New Delhi.

Weather:

Delhi's very hot in summer (AprJul) and cold in winter (Dec - Jan).

Mumbai

"Flying IndiGo on business travel is always a pleasure with its on-time policy. I often fly to Mumbai [even Bengaluru] for work and it's always a good experience,” says Pushpa Bector, executive director, DLF Retail Malls.

Chef and restaurateur Gurmehar Sethi (owner of Klap, Delhi, and Ziu, Delhi and the UAE), has worked at Nobu at Atlantis the Palm, Dubai. He travels to Mumbai often (is planning a restaurant in the city soon) and likes its experimental and offbeat cuisines. “It's a true metropolis, with its skyscrapers and fast-paced life, like London or New York,” he says. He stays at the Taj Land’s End or at the premium club Soho House, which is "perfect for meetings". Vikas Gupta, CEO & founder, Three Sixty, a leather furniture design studio, prefers staying at the Trident, BKC, for its "convenient location".

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS

Mumbai's traffic can be an issue, so you need to know what time to leave for meetings.

Try Mumbai’s street food, specially at Haji Ali. From the basic vada pav to pav bhaji, Maharashtrian cuisine is highly varied.

Bandra and Marine Drive have several restaurants suiting all budgets. You can entertain or have quiet meals here.

Travel Tips

India's financial capital

Images are for visual representation only

Transportation: App-based taxi services Uber and Ola, and local cabs are convenient. Try the local train for an experience.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Mumbai.

Mumbai is located by the Arabian Sea. “After work I like to sit by the sea at Marine Drive," Sethi says. Gupta too loves to relax by the sea after work. "I take long walks at Juhu beach and never miss vada pao with chai,” he adds.

Weather: Mumbai enjoys tropical weather and sees heavy rain during monsoons.

Stay: Bandra, with sleek high-rise offices and hotels, is a good option or Nariman Point.

Shades on or off?

Believe it or not, your window shades play an important role in ensuring your safety. Here's how:

1. Keeping your window shades up during takeoff/ landing helps the cabin crew quickly assess the situation outside and form an exit plan in case of an unforeseen circumstance.

2. Once the doors are opened upon arrival, the cabin crew may ask you to close the window shades to maintain the cabin temperature and ensure your comfort and safety.

Please follow your cabin crew’s instructions for a safe flight.

To refer to the passenger charter introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation stating your rights, please contact our crew.

Duel Action

HYDERABAD

HONG KONG

Historic lanes

Built in 1143, Golconda Fort is one of Hyderabad's architectural jewels. Resting atop a beautiful hill, the fort has witnessed many iconic chapters from history. Golconda was the principal capital of the Qutub Shahi kings. The inner fort contains ruins of palaces, mosques and a hill top pavilion.

Relive the chapters of history when you saunter through the Tung Chung Fort. Dating back to 1832, this well-preserved fortress was abandoned by the British. Today, the fort boasts six old muzzle-loading cannons and Chinese archways. Nearby are the ruins of another smaller fort.

The foodie tales

Dive into Hyderabad's culinary delights during your visit to the city. Start with the iconic haleem, a slow-cooked stew made with lentils, meat and broken wheat, a kulcha (traditional bread) with lamb nihari and the Hyderabadi biryani.

Hong Kong has a passion for food like none other. Enjoy a cup of fresh milk tea with a pineapple bun before you dive into the exotic fusion of Eastern and Western flavours. Enjoy a bowl of red bean soup and take a bite of the delectable Hong Kong cheeseburger. Or, you could try stinky tofu.

Fasten your seat belts as we take you on a 360-degree ride through two destinations. There’s Hyderabad in one corner and Hong Kong in another.

Shoppers' delight

When in the city, a visit to the Laad Bazaar is a must. The market is one of the oldest and busiest, spoiling shoppers with a vibrant collection of jewellery, especially bangles. Near Charminar, dive into a myriad of shops selling pearl jewellery.

For nature lovers

A visit to Hong Kong can never be complete without strolling through the Temple Street Night Market. As the sun sets, the market comes alive with performers showcasing their skills and the street is dotted with shops offering the latest in clothes, jade products, souvenirs, jewellery and tech accessories.

Away from the crowded streets of Hyderabad lies the beautiful Lumbini Park. The park is dotted with food joints and there are boating options at the nearby Hussain Sagar Lake. Enjoy the extremely popular laser show at the park.

The Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha, leaves visitors in awe. Resting on a hill top, the tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha and chantings from the nearby Po Lin Monastery offer a peaceful escape. The site is under renovation, so check before visiting.

For night junkies

Take some time off from your busy schedule to enjoy the wonders of the night that the city has to offer. Don't forget to bring your dancing shoes when you visit Begumpet. Enjoy a couple of drinks with your friends at 10 Downing Street or Club8 before you tap your foot to the groovy music.

Get ready to explore the party life of Hong Kong when you visit Lan Kwai Fong. One of Hong Kong's party hotspots, the square is home to around 90 restaurants and bars. It hosts extravagant carnivals and celebrations during the festive seasons.

Recommendation: In Hyderabad, spend some time in the world's largest studio complex at Ramoji Film City. In Hong Kong, explore Madame Tussauds and Madness 3D Adventure, and take a ride on the extremely popular Peak Tram.

AMAAL MALLIK

"My soul liesin the

Hima

Words Snigdha Bhattacharjee

Amaal Mallik may be one of the most popular music composer-singers in Bollywood today, but his success didn't come easy. He started his Bollywood journey in 2014 as a composer for Salman Khan-starrer film Jai Ho, but it was the track “Sooraj dooba hain” from the 2015 movie Roy that made him a household name. “I am indebted to Jai Ho. It was my

first professional milestone but I think I owe my success to "Sooraj dooba hain". It’s been more than nine years since the release of the track and it is still a party anthem,” says the soft spoken artiste.

Hailing from a family of musicians, Mallik’s musical journey started quite early. “I was around eight years old when

layas"

I was gifted a toy synthesiser. It became my favourite and maybe the first stepping stone to my career as a musician. Seeing my passion and my involvement with the synthesiser, my mother introduced me to formal music training,” recalls the composersinger, best known for his melodious compositions from Airlift, Kapoor & Sons, M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story and Kabir Singh

However, Mallik, who wears many hats - being a singer, composer, producer and even lyricist - says music is not the only love of his life. He is equally loyal to travelling! A self-confessed orophile, the artiste cannot help but head to the mountains time and again. “Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir are my favourite holiday destinations in the country. Next I want to explore Uttarakhand. I enjoy hiking and trekking in the Himalayas. These mountains help me calm myself and lend me serenity. I love my holidays so much that most of the time I don’t even share many photographs of them on my social media accounts. I love travelling to small and unknown villages and towns. When I travel, I mostly go for 10 days or so and with a friend or two. I explore a place in its totality - I prefer to stay in homestays to understand the local culture, and towards the end of the trip I stay in hotels," he adds.

Explaining that while he is working, his days are spent in recording studios in Mumbai. So, when he takes a break, he prefers the calm, quiet and seclusion of the mountains. He says, “The mountains offer all types of adventure. While hiking is my first choice, I also enjoy river rafting. I recall my first very simple yet beautiful trek to a forest called Chalal [near Kasol] in Himachal Pradesh. It was magical. Since then it’s like a calling of sorts. The untouched landscape and the stunning mountain views have a hypnotic effect on me… I lose myself when I am on a mountain top watching the magic of nature unfold during sunsets and sunrises. I love sitting there by myself composing a melody. There can be nothing more incredible than being one with nature!”

Amaal Mallik is, without a doubt, one of Bollywood's most well-known young music composer-singers. He tells us about his love for travelling in the mountains.

My first Himalayan trek was to Chalal in Himachal Pradesh. Walking through the forest was magical.

briefing

I love the serenity and seclusion of the Himalayas. When I travel to the mountains, I mostly stay in local homestays. Maybe the last couple of days of my vacation are spent in a hotel. I prefer walking around unknown villages in Himachal to explore them.

Favourite holiday

"One of my favourites was the Waichin Valley trek [near Kullu, Himachal Pradesh]."

Himachal Pradesh

Shopping

Travel therapy

“Travelling lets us bond as a family. We take family vacations, but not very often because of our busy schedules. Armaan [Mallik, his younger brother and Bollywood singer] chooses the destination! There was this one time when Armaan and I were both extremely busy with work and we met after a long time at a wedding in Rajasthan and hugged each other tight; it was very emotional for the both of us!”

"I love home-cooked Indian food. Even a plate of daal-chawal is enough for me. In Manali, there is a place called Baragarh. Though it is now a premium resort, earlier, it was a small property being developed by a few people. I love going there and relishing the simple Indian food they serve.”

“Whenever I travel to Naggar and the Old Manali Market (Himachal Pradesh), I buy handmade gifts for my house and some times for my mother as she loves them.”

One Place5Ways

Chengdu

With its delicious food that has made it a Unesco City of Gastronomy, Chengdu is perfect for work and leisure. Let's also not forget its cutest residents, the giant pandas.

LESHAN GIANT BUDDHA

Overlooking the confluence of three rivers, the Giant Buddha Statue standing tall at 71 m is an archeological treasure. Built in the 8th century, it is one of the tallest stone statues of Lord Buddha in the world. It is a part of the Mount Emei (Emeishan) area, which has immense cultural significance. It is said the first Buddhist temple in China was built on the summit of Mount Emei in the 1st century.

SANXINGDUI MUSEUM

Walk through the sands of time when you visit the Sanxingdui Museum, a cultural relic of the erstwhile Shu dynasty. Opened in 1997, the museum houses relics unearthed from the Sanxingdui ruins, including bronze, jade, gold, pottery and bone items..

TOMB OF WANG JIAN

Resting peacefully under a blanket of star-lit skies, the tomb of Wang Jian scripts a tale from the yesteryears of the Shu Kingdom. The aboveground tomb excavated in 1942, opened to the public in 1979. The tomb is beautifully decorated with carvings of musicians and dancers playing different instruments. These carvings are believed to be the best surviving record of Tang dynasty court entertainment.

When in the city, visit the place that is one of the famous Taoist mountains, Mount Qingcheng. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the mountain has some of the most serene and tranquil surroundings that serve as a perfect getaway to the world of Taoism. With over a dozen temples, the mountain also offers pristine hiking experience. Revel in its spellbinding natural sights and do not miss to see the mesmeric sunset during your trek.

DU FU THATCHED COTTAGE

For bibliophiles, a visit to the iconic cottage of the brilliant Tang Dynasty poet, Du Fu, is a must. Producing some of his best creative years in the Thatched Cottage, today this is a museum dedicated to the life of the poet. Over the years, the cottage has had several renovations and updates to its structures. Take a stroll through its gardens or its interwoven pathways to explore the brilliance that served as an inspiration to Du Fu.

WENSHU MONASTERY

One of the largest and well preserved Buddhist monasteries in Chengdu, the Wenshu monastery is believed to have been built during the Tang Dynasty. Walk around the pretty gardens and see the halls where monks pray. The halls house numerous statues of Lord Buddha.

SICHUAN CUISINE

Sichuan cuisine is one of the well-known traditional food genres in China. Its rich flavours and spice seasonings make it a gastronomic experience worth relishing. Chengdu is proud of having created the first brewery, tea culture center and food museum in China.

HERITAGE FOOD

CHENGDU RESEARCH BASE OF GIANT PANDA BREEDING

Established in 1987, the research centre that started with six rescued pandas today has many of them and tourists line up to catch a glimpse of these playful animals. These adorable furry creatures are a sight for sore eyes. Get a chance to know more about them at the centre.

WHAT TO EAT

If you want to try the unforgettable taste of authentic Sichuanese dishes like dan dan noodles or twice-cooked pork, visit the several family-run small establishments that dot the city. Another dish to try is the fiery hot-pot or stew! Beware of its spiciness though.

QINTAI ROAD

When in Chengdu, get set to go on a shopping spree when you visit one of the city's famous retail areas, Qintai Road. Steeped in history, it offers a glimpse of the Han Dynasty heritage when you take a stroll through the road. Buy ornamental jewellery and antiques to serve as a souvenir of your trip here.

SHOPPING

JINLI STREET

Time-travel back to ancient China when you visit the Jinli Street in Chengdu. Lined with quaint old buildings, the street is filled with traditional artisans showcasing their skills. Do not miss the Sichuan Opera shows when you are in the area and dine in one of the cafes offering the traditional Sichuan delicacies.

Vignette

Said to have opened in 1820 in El Raval, Bar Marsella is reputedly Barcelona's oldest bar. Locals claim that Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Ernest Hemingway and Antoni Gaudí have all had drinks here. As has Woody Allen, to shoot a scene of his 2008 film Vicky Cristina Barcelona.

What do London’s Connaught Bar, Singapore’s Jigger & Pony and Delhi's Sidecar have in common? Not only are they among the world’s best bars, they are also the perfect watering holes to relax after a hard day's work.

Hidden behind a fridge door inside a pastrami shop, Paradiso in Barcelona is the world's best bar, according to the 2022 World's 50 Best Bars list. More interestingly, there is an actual speakeasy within this speakeasy-style bar!

Located in the heart of Mayfair, London, the Connaught Bar is an award-winning establishment that not just offers a drink but also a chance to relax in its ultra-stylish interiors.

While the brand Zuma has outlets all over the world, it is the Dubai site of this modern Japanese izakaya that has become renowned for its cocktails and service.

The historic Grand Central Oyster Bar Restaurant in New York's Grand Central Terminal is as old as the terminal itself. Opened in 1913, it offers a wide array of seafood and oysters, along with an award-winning wine list.

Named after an hourglass-shaped measuring device used by bartenders, Singapore's Jigger & Pony is classic yet fresh! Expect a relaxed speakeasy atmosphere with plenty of young corporates talking business and fun.

Popping a surprise, Sidecar, positioned as a 'friendly neighbourhood bar', in GK II, New Delhi, is the latest entrant in the list of World's 50 Best Bars 2022. With live music, an extensive drinks selection and unique cocktails, the bar offers a penny for your thoughts!

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We raised the bar

While some raise a glass to life, here's a happy selection of duty-free alcohol to raise a bottle to. Or two, we don't judge. Get your hands on these classics to raise the spirits of any and every occasion.

Buy on board

These products are available on your flight, and not on ground. Please contact our cabin crew if you wish to purchase them.

One of the best known vodkas, Absolut Blue is famed for its full bodied and complex, yet smooth and distinct flavour. It not only lights up taste buds but also any occasion, making it a party favourite! Should you give this a shot? Absolut-ly!

Sky Price USD 21

100cl

The name is Walker... Johnnie Walker. The signature square bottles. Coloured labels distinguishing the blends. Complex flavours. No wonder it’s been called “the Savoy, the Everest of deluxe whiskies”.

Sky Price USD 38

100cl

Pour yourself a glass of tradition with the iconic Johnnie Walker Double Black. With its naturally smoked flavour and expert blend, this is one whisky that will keep you coming back year after year.

Sky Price USD 50

Consumption of duty-free liquor in the aircraft is strictly prohibited. Duty-free liquor will be handed just before landing. Duty-free liquor allowances- Bangkok: One litre of liquor; Dubai: Four litres of spirit; Muscat: Two litres/two bottles of liquor per family, if imported by a Non-Muslim; Singapore: Free import of wines, spirits and beer not exceeding one litre each by passengers of 18 years of age and above.