DOWNLOAD RCI MEMBER APP! PG.13
08 Idyllic
getaways just a DRIVE AWAY
30 Hit
Refresh KODAIKANAL
JUL/DEC 2020
PLAY | EAT | SHOP | RELAX | EXPLORE
Of Maharajas and Medieval Forts
RAJASTHAN
The Mystique OF JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
Island Beach Retreats
#AlwaysMore
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Monsoon 2020 CONTENTS FEATURES 08
Idyllic Getaways Just a Drive Away Lonavala, Yercaud, Wayanad, Coorg and Silvassa
14
Dive in Maldives, Andaman Islands, Goa, Fort Lauderdale, Tenerife, Hawaii
RCI Recommends
22 Island Beach Retreats Sri Lanka, Maldives and Andamans
Staff Story
28
Of Maharajas and Medieval Forts Rajasthan
30
Hit Refresh Kodaikanal
Also in this Issue
04
Editor's Note
PG.42
The Making of Magical Holidays An interview with Sujit Paul
20 Barbeque Bay A multi-sensory dining experience 32
Fee Reckoner
35
The Mystique Of Jim Corbett National Park
44 RCI.com 45
New Affiliation ENDLESS VACATION | 3
Editor’s
NOTE Better things are shaping up If you’ve been following RCI social media, you’d have come across our campaign, ‘Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations’. There’s no denying the fact that these are difficult times. But we are hopeful of better and beautiful things ahead. In fact, better things are already shaping up at RCI and we have a lot in store for you. For starters, your RCI world just got even bigger. Enjoy access to more than 6,00,000 resorts, hotels, affiliated properties and get preferential member pricing. Truly, there has never been a better time to be a RCI member (Pg. 26). While we may have to wait a while to get back to vacations, our survey showed that members are eager to take a break. And we’re looking forward to putting you back on memorable holidays again. We are listening to you and your feedback helps us to offer a better experience with RCI. Do write to us at indiarci@rci.com. If you’d like to share your RCI vacation memories, mail them to editor.ev@rci.com. Also, look out for the latest updates and exciting offers on our social media channels. I hope, the stories we’ve put together in this edition of Endless Vacation will inspire you to plan your future getaways. Stay safe, stay inspired.
Aruna Jathar
4 | JUL - DEC 2020
Share your vacation memories. Now get your vacation stories featured on Endless Vacation magazine. Simply send in your story, with lots of exciting pictures, and your interesting holiday experiences will be shared with the RCI community! Email us at: editor.ev@rci.com
ENDLESS VACATION | 5
Dream destination? It would be Bali, for the way they have safeguarded the legacy of ancient Hinduism in various Balinese temples coupled with its pristine white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and volcanic mountains.
Favourite family getaway? Sapa Valley, Vietnam.
A must-try cuisine you'd recommend to members.
MEET RISHI We are glad to introduce you to Rishi Verma, Head of India Subcontinent–RCI.
Rishi has been with RCI for over a decade and brings with him a lot of knowledge and insights on Vacation Ownership industry. We are certain that under his guidance, RCI India will be able to deliver its members the best of vacation experiences in the coming days. Over a casual talk, Rishi shares with us some interesting titbits on travel and life at RCI.
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I would recommend all food enthusiasts to travel to Ubud, Bali for an amazing assortment of vegan food. In India, if you wish to attempt some vegetarian cuisine, then nothing can beat the true Rajasthani food – Dal Baati Churma, just delectable and mouth-watering.
Your favourite travel book/movie? Not one but rather two. The first one is The Bucket List; splendid performances by Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson for a sentimental, predictable yet endearing story. The movie has captured India, China, Egypt, Tanzania, France, and the US beautifully and can give you a few concepts to plan your next trips. The next one is Eat, Pray, Love where Julia Roberts (as Liz Gilbert) is on a quest for selfdiscovery that takes her to Italy, India, and Bali.
What makes RCI an exciting place to work?
and compassionate organisation. What makes RCI an exciting place is the sense of accomplishment we feel when we send millions of our loyal members on their dream destinations year over year.
A message you’d like to pass on to RCI India members at this time? These are unprecedented times and warrants strict measures. We have a moral obligation to secure our wellbeing and focus on doing what’s right for the community. Avoid any potential risk—wear a mask, maintain social distancing, follow safety and hygiene protocols. Remain positive and remember that ‘this too shall pass’.
RCI resembles a close-knitted family and I have seen this culture in its offices globally. We are a secular company and I feel proud to be a part of a caring
ENDLESS VACATION | 7
Idyllic getaways just a DRIVE AWAY Lonavala Yercau d
Wayanad Coorg
Silvassa
While the current situation has brought with it some travel restrictions, a road trip is the best thing you can do. Here, we bring you some lesser–known idyllic destinations to explore. Go ahead, plan your trip and enjoy a memorable holiday.
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Lonavala Lake
Lonavala
The beautiful hill station of Maharashtra: dreamy, scenic, and mesmerising, Lonavala. A drive away from Mumbai and Pune, this hill town is an all-time favourite for travellers. The pleasant climate and natural beauty that dominates the area is unmissable. The place is renowned for its cascading waterfalls, old caves, pristine lakes, and religious spots. The hill station in Sahyadri ranges is 622 metres above sea level and serves as a perfect summer holiday destination. The Lonavala Lake, Rajmachi Fort and caves, Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, and Bushy Dam are the main tourist attractions. This place is heaven for trekkers. Given its hilly terrains, trekking is the one thing that can be enjoyed thoroughly here. For those interested in trekking can trek up to Duke’s Nose and Rajmachi Fort and caves and soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the surroundings. Tiger's Leap
Yercaud Lake
Yercaud
In the state of Tamil Nadu, there is a quaint hill station, Yercaud. If you reside in either of the four southernmost states, a literally ‘cool’ weekend getaway awaits you. As per tourist attractions, there is the Yercaud Lake which provides panoramic views of the hills and lush green lawns of this hill station. Travellers can indulge in a wide range of activities, including various types of boating. Here is a 32-Km Loop Road which begins from the Yercaud Lake and takes one through the agricultural plantations of Yercaud. This is one of the most scenic journeys you will have as it offers the taste of culture, imprints of the heritage, the essence of lives, and the varied developments of the hill station. On your way to the Lord Murugan Temple, there is a cave that is believed to be created by the bears and according to the primitive people of this surrounding. Known as the Bear’s Cave, it also served as a secret hideout and escape route to the ruler, Tipu Sultan. If you are curious to travel back in time and know how life had been during the Stone-Age era, the Kottachedu Teak Forest is then a must-visit.
ENDLESS VACATION | 9
Chembra Peak
Tholpetty Wildlife
Banasura Sagar Dam
Wayanad
Wayanad in Kerala exhibits one of the most beautiful natural surroundings and offers a surreal break from the dullness of everyday life. Known for its enchanting scenery, Wayanad is one of the most mesmerising tourist destinations in Kerala. There are thundering waterfalls, lush greenery and verdant meadows that let you have an unforgettable vacation. From historic artefacts to the most mesmerising creations of nature, Wayanad is a splendid destination that one must check off from their bucket list as soon as possible. Chembra is the highest peak in the Wayanad Hill Range that is also the trekking paradise. It offers mesmerising views of the verdant surrounding and is surely unmissable. One of the most bewitching places to visit in Wayanad is Banasura Sagar Dam which is a picturesque tourist hotspot. Famous for being India’s largest earthen dam, it boasts of wondrous natural beauty with beautiful flora and fauna, majestic hills, and sparkling waterfalls. Next comes the Kuruva Island, located in the middle of Kabini River, is a natural paradise that is replete with diverse flora and fauna in the most idyllic setting. Dominated by evergreen forests all around, it is a mesmerising picnic spot away from all hustle and bustle of the city. The most exciting thing about Kuruva Island is their famous boat rides on bamboo rafts. 10 | JUL - DEC 2020
Soojipara Water Falls
Offering an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the must-visit places of Wayanad. This natural habitat is a great sightseeing place to witness elephant herds, deer, langurs, panthers, tigers, Indian bison and the rare Slender Loris. Abbey Falls
Coorg
Standing at 1452 meters above sea level, the town of Coorg with its green woody slopes, misty mountains, colourful scenery, cascading falls, dense tropical forest, tea, coffee and spice plantations is a paradise of nature lovers. This enchantingly beautiful place is known as the ‘Scotland of India’ and also ‘Kashmir of South’. The first thing to visit there would be the Abbey falls located
Lake Dudhani
River Rafting
between the natural greenery of spice estates and coffee plantation. The falls is exotic with its water cascading over rocks into the pool. Next, is the Dubare Elephant Camp situated on the banks of River Kaveri. A popular tourist spot, the camp attracts tourists, especially wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. It presents tourists with an opportunity to be close to elephants and engage in various activities related to them. Honnamana Kere is the largest lake in the region of Coorg. It not only attracts just nature lovers but also religious tourists. It has religious importance and is named after the Goddess Honnamma. One can also see a temple dedicated to Goddess Honnamma, located near to the lake. Located at the foot of Pushpagiri Hill Ranges, Mallalli Falls is one of a kind as it is conducive to trekking. Trekkers will come across interesting zig-zag routes with beautiful natural settings around them which makes the experience all the more interesting and unforgettable.
Silvassa
The capital of the Indian Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Silvassa used to be a Portuguese hub. It was a tiny village before the Portuguese rulers decided to declare it a city in 1885. A serene place that is hand-crafted for a vacation backed by the absence of hype makes it one of the foremost interesting destinations to visit. When it comes to bio-diversity, this place is unmatched. Silvassa is the answer to your long prayer of getting out of the mundane life. When you think of taking a vacation and enjoy some quietude, do not overlook this beautiful place. Originally a tribal belt, there are many places to visit in Silvassa, and Khanvel is the best among them. A proper place for nature lovers that will throw you off your feet with its natural attractions, which includes dense forests, flowing rivers, and a deer park. A pristine location, Khanvel is one of the finest places of Silvassa. Another attraction is Dudhani, a popular water sports destination. Apart from water sports, one can enjoy the scenic landscapes of Dudhani and interact with the native tribes of the place and get familiar with the local culture. Another very interesting tourist spot would be the Vasona Lion Safari Park which is a wildlife sanctuary. It shares boundaries with Satmaliya Deer Park. This safari park is a reservoir of Asiatic lions. The park is sprawled across 25 hectares of land and is a spectacular place especially for the young ones. This park remains open all days except on Mondays. ENDLESS VACATION | 11
Send a friend Guest certificates are a great way to gift your loved ones with a holiday!
When you can’t get away, make sure your holiday doesn’t go waste. For only r3,728, your friends and family can check into one of more than 4,200 affiliated resorts across the world.
Purchase Guest Certificate on RCI.com or visit help pages for more information.
12 | JUL - DEC 2020
Search for your dream vacation with the RCI Member App. Booking made easy.
QUICK SECURE ACCESS Quick and secure access to your RCI Weeks® account using your devices’ finger print through touch ID technology.
SEARCH We’ve made it easier to search on the app using the TYPE AHEAD and ENHANCED CALENDAR options.
EXCHANGE Access all your RCI Weeks Exchange options at the touch of a finger.
BOOK We’ve made it convenient and secure to book your next getaway on your mobile device. Available on iOS and Android
ENDLESS VACATION | 13
EXPERIENTIAL HOLIDAYS WITH RCI
Dive in Six fun snorkelling destinations you can add to your bucket-list. Maldives| Andaman Islands | Goa | Fort Lauderdale | Tenerife | Hawaii
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Y
ou don’t have to be a certified diver to come face-to-face with some of the sea's most fascinating creatures. In fact, in some destinations, you can simply wade from the sand into the shallows with your mask and snorkel to enjoy incredible marine life encounters. From swimming with manta rays in Maldives to spying sea turtles in Tenerife, RCI India has assembled some beautiful and fun destinations to experience snorkelling. With RCI offering stay options in all of these destinations, go ahead and plan your trip!
ENDLESS VACATION | 15
EXPERIENTIAL HOLIDAYS WITH RCI
Maldives
When you visit Maldives, you have to experience one of its most popular activities-snorkelling. With about 2,500 reefs, it is the ultimate destination for people who love underwater adventures. Of these 2,500 or so reefs, nearly 900 are house reefs. Needless to say, there is nothing like snorkelling in Maldives. You can explore crystal clear blue waters and have an unforgettable time. You can perfect this vacation with RCI, by staying at Filitheyo Island Resort which has 125 villas that are spread throughout the rim of the island, the resort is in the unspoiled North Nilandhe Atoll and is surrounded by turquoise waters that are brimming with coral and marine life. Guests can relax on the soft white beaches or go snorkelling and explore the coral reef that has been completely untouched by man.
Andaman Islands The island is a full package of pristine beaches, tourist attractions, exhilarating water activities, and amazing wildlife. Amongst the top water activities, snorkelling is a recreational activity that almost everyone opts for on their Andaman holiday. The best part about this activity is that you get to witness the beauty of underwater life and admire colourful and textured coral reefs. Snorkelling in Andaman leaves everyone mesmerised after witnessing the magical world and then you crave for more. While in Andaman, you can opt for RCI’s property Symphony Palms Beach Resort, which offers guests a splendid stay amidst discrete luxury. The resort has 100 luxurious and elegantly decorated cottages.
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Goa
Goa, the land of pristine beaches, is a picturesque holiday destination that not only attracts tourists from India, but all over the globe. Flanked by the hippie vibe of North Goa on one side and the peace and quietude of South Goa on the other, this tropical haven is home to over 60 beaches. Some of the best places to do snorkelling in Goa are Sinquerim Beach, Grand Island, Monkey Island and Palolem Beach. You can perfect this vacation with RCI, by staying at Club Mahindra Emerald Palms which is situated between the gorgeous beaches of Benaulim and Varca, one can enjoy the sun, surf, sand and so much more at this charming Portuguese-style resort. It makes for one of the finest holidays ever.
Fort Lauderdale There are so many exciting sights to see when visiting Fort Lauderdale in the US. It just so happens that the best ones are underwater! In a coastal city like ‘The Venice of America,’ it’s no surprise that the ocean is an enormous draw for visitors. The crystal clear, warm waters are full of coral reefs, tropical fish, and intriguing invertebrates! Snorkelling in Fort Lauderdale is one of the best ways to see this hidden, underwater paradise. During your trip to Fort Lauderdale, choose to stay with an amazing offering by RCI, Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, which is located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.
ENDLESS VACATION | 17
EXPERIENTIAL HOLIDAYS WITH RCI
Tenerife
Tenerife, in Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a lot more than a beautiful landscape. There is a breathtaking underwater world with amazing flora and fauna. You will be surprised how easy it is to enter a world that you would have never expected to be so fascinating. Especially one creature will catch your attention: The ocean turtle. Five different types of turtles exist on Tenerife. During your trip to Tenerife, choose to stay with an amazing offering by RCI, Club El Marqués, the resort offers the charm and intimacy of a traditional Spanish village with white painted, redroofed units set in tiers down a hillside.
Hawaii
Hawaii is among one of the best destinations to go snorkelling thanks to the protected marine areas surrounding the islands. From its crystal-clear waters, its teeming sea life and the tropical, vacation-like weather to all the luxuries a Hawaiian vacation has to offer, there's almost no place like it. You can perfect this vacation with RCI, by staying at Lea Casa, which is located beside the ocean, close to all the superb golf courses, historic sites, and scenic attractions that have made Hawaii one of the world's leading vacation spots. 18 | JUL - DEC 2020
Let RCI find your dream holiday. With
ngoing Search. Know exactly what you want or have a perfect holiday in mind? If yes, then Ongoing Search is the perfect holiday search option for you! Ongoing Search is like putting yourself on a waitlist for your holiday. You simply enter your desired holiday criteria and RCI searches for you 24/7, notifying you once a resort match is found. It’s a simple, hassle–free way to look for the holiday of your dreams! *
Benefits of an Ongoing Search: Save time and avoid hassles: When you open an Ongoing Search, RCI does the work for you. We search 24/7 for your exchange holiday, based on the criteria you enter. There’s no need to keep going back to check for your requested holiday. RCI will notify you as soon as a match is found!
Get prioritised access to member deposited inventory: When you open an Ongoing Search, you get prioritised access to member deposited inventory, giving you a better chance of finding the holiday you want. It's like a waiting list for your holiday!
Club Mahindra presents
Barbeque Bay
A multi-sensory dining experience
I
f you were to describe your dream vacation, your checklist would probably include stolen moments with your loved ones, scenic backdrops, indulging in some fun games and experiences or simply relaxing your time idyllically, away from the hustle-bustle of city life. However, no holiday is complete without a definitive culinary experience that leaves you wanting more. Club Mahindra, known for its scenic resort settings, warm hospitality and host of recreational activities, also offers guests the chance to pamper their palate through
20 | JUL - DEC 2020
a multi-sensory feast at their restaurant chain, Barbeque Bay. Many of the families, who were on a retreat at Club Mahindra resorts, enjoyed a gastronomical spread at Barbeque Bay, trying a few of their iconic dishes. When we asked them, what distinguishes Club Mahindra’s Barbeque Bay from other barbeque joints, the answer came instantly stating how it is a delightful amalgamation of international, as well as local flavours, specific to the region where the restaurant is located.
Where to find Barbeque Bay This one-of-a-kind, signature restaurant is currently present at five Club Mahindra resorts. Emerald Palms, Goa, Kandaghat, near Shimla on the Chandigarh-Shimla Highway, Corbett, Madikeri, Coorg and Lakeview Resort in Munnar.
What’s on the menu?
Club Mahindra - Kandaghat
Barbeque Bay, with its live, on-the-table grill experience and a buffet, is conceptualised by Club Mahindra’s Chef Debraj Bhaumik. From Corbett Resort’s popular Cucumber ke Kurkare Kebab and Gulkand ke Kebab to Kandaghat’s Tandoori pineapple and Galawat ke Kebab, Munnar’s Cajun chicken and Rampuri macchi and Club Mahindra Emerald Palms Resort’s Carolina Style Barbeque Fish and Five Spice Cottage Cheese Skewers, he has painstakingly curated the extensive food menu. Not just this, he has also designed the interiors of the restaurant, whether it’s the dining room setup or the choice of cutlery. You will be left mesmerised! What’s the food like, you ask? The chefs use locally sourced organic produce to create an array of unlimited vegetarian and non-vegetarian barbeque dishes. For the menu, they have even crafted 50 signature vegetable kebabs. From melt-in-the-mouth kebabs and bread spreads to delectable curries, salads, drinks and desserts, this food haven is a must-visit on every vacationer’s itinerary. So, next time you embark on a Club Mahindra holiday, give your family a memorable dining experience at Barbeque Bay.
ENDLESS VACATION | 21
Island Beach Retreats Sri Lanka, Maldives & Andamans.
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From Goa to Kerala to Pondy to Diu, there is no dearth of beach holiday spots in India. However, if you wish to add a dash of exoticism to your holiday, think of island beach retreats. Here, we bring you three such islands with some of the most stunning beaches you will find. Take off to bliss!
ENDLESS VACATION | 23
Sri Lanka - A sand-jewelled paradise!
Maldives - A flock of mystical a
They say when you look at Sri Lanka from space, there appears to be a white outline (of sea and sand) around the island making it shine. That is quite literally what Sri Lanka is–a diamond risen from the ruins of wars and political unrest. Breathtakingly beautiful in its originality and warmth. Beautiful and enormous beaches, elephants galore, charming people, food to die for and of course, the tea gardens, that’s Sri Lanka for you—a dreamy home away from your own!
They don’t call Maldives, a sunken garden, and beds of corals and laden with the worl Maldives is the picture-perfect tropical get the unique feeling of tranquility intertwine place so lovely! As the shades of blue of th you tend to wonder how a country so wide nook and corner of it.
Best time to visit: December to March is the best time to visit the west and southwest coasts.
Best time to visit: The best weather–and between November and April.
Not to miss: Adam’s Peak, Galle, Kandy, Pinnewela Elephant Orphanage, Pettah, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Yala National Park, and whale watching trips
Not to miss: Marine life, Dolphin excursi Surfing, Male, Male Fish market, Nationa Friday Mosque
RCI at your service in Sri Lanka! RCI affiliated resorts at Negombo and Koggala beach offer the best taste of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is best experienced with the locals and these resorts provide you with the best taste of everything local! 24 | JUL - DEC 2020
Experiencing Maldives the RCI way!
More than a vacation, Maldives is an expe unimaginable pearl-white sands. Try RCI Island Resort, Hondaafushi Island Resort
atolls!
, for no reason. Sprawled over beds ld’s most beautiful white-sand beaches, taway. You cannot match the luxury and ed with the sheer joy of having seen a hese islands continue to mesmerise you, espread can be so breath-taking! Every the best time to visit the Maldives–is
ion, Diving, Scuba diving, Snorkelling, al Museum, Maldives Victory, Old
erience-of luxury, quiet peace, and I’s all-inclusive packages at Filitheyo t, and Meedhufushi Island Resort.
Andamans - India’s own Hawaii Islands Embellished with care in the southern Bay of Bengal, 582 islands come together as Andaman and Nicobar, pristine and white-sanded, precious as jewels, strewn across a broken string of lush tropical rainforests. With 36 lush islands yet to be explored, an active volcano bubbling with life and white sandy beaches to feast your eyes on, discover the extraordinary secrets of the Andaman and Nicobar islands. Located approx. 1,760 km away from the mainland of India–Andaman Islands have proven to be a great holiday destination for families. Best time to visit: Andaman is a year-round destination with pleasant weather. The best time to visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands is considered between October and May. Not to miss: Scuba Diving, Parasailing, Cellular Jail in Port Blair, Trekking to Mount Harriet, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Turtle Nesting at Diglipur, Ross and Smith Islands Experiencing Andaman the RCI way! Symphony Palms Beach resort in Havelock Island offers you a splendid stay amidst discrete luxury. Summer Sands Beach Resort, a luxury beach resort located in Neil Island is a paradise in its own sense. ENDLESS VACATION | 25
Did you know that you now have even more ways to save on your holidays with RCI online? You can now enjoy holiday options right at your fingertips with 6,00,000 hotels and resorts close to home and all around the world. Book your hotels stays at preferred member pricing and enjoy even MORE savings when you book Hotel Exchange.
26 | JUL - DEC 2020
Excited yet? Here's how to book! Step 1. Access 6,00,000 hotels by logging in to RCI.com and then selecting the SEARCH FOR A HOLIDAY tab. Here, you'll be able to choose between the Cash only or Trading Power and Cash option to book a hotel.
Step 2. Key in your desired destination, followed by check-in date, check-out date, rooms and travel size to begin a quick search.
Step 3. Modify your searches with the left navigation bar filters and select View Deal from the searched results to find out more.
ENDLESS VACATION | 27
RCI STAFF STORY
Of Maharajas and Medieval Forts Rajasthan is a must-visit destination for its rustic charm and character. Hop on, as RCI’s Vacation Guide Harsha takes us on a quick tour of the princely state, the land of majestic palaces and forts.
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Amer Fort
Pichola Lake
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Udaipur: The first stop on my Rajasthan tour was Udaipur, also known as the ‘city of lakes.’ The star attraction here is the famous Pichola Lake, best explored on a boat ride. You can spot mansions, palaces, and temples near the lake. The submerged palace in the middle of the lake is a mesmerising view (Boat ride costs Approx. R340). Next, I headed to Rajasthan’s largest palace complex, the majestic Udaipur City Palace. Located at the east of Lake Pichola, the palace gives you a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle the kings of yore (City Palace Entry: Approx. R240).
Kumbhalgarh: If there was one fort that conveys the spirit and the glorious past of Rajasthan, it would be Kumbhalgarh–my next stop. The fortress, which is fondly called as the ‘Great Wall of India’, is located 84 km from Udaipur. From the top of the fort, one can see the wall meandering into the horizon against the backdrop of greenery and the Aravalli range (Entry: Approx. R15). Jaipur: Jaipur, known for its monuments and colourful markets, was my next stop. One of Jaipur’s fascinating sites is Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Maharaj Jai Singh II to calculate local time and interpret the position of celestial bodies (Entry: Approx. R50). I also visited the Albert Hall Museum, which showcases relics from Jaipur’s history such as coins, jewellery, swords, and household items like makeup kit and more. A visit here takes you on virtual time travel (Entry: Approx. R40). My next stop was Amer Fort, a sprawling complex from the 16th century. It houses the popular Sheesh Mahal, a chamber decorated with thousands of tiny mirrors. A walk through the fort tunnel that connects with Jaigarh Fort is a thrilling experience (Entry: Approx. R200).
Jal Mahal
Jal Mahal is another architectural marvel submerged in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Though entry is restricted, one can view the palace up close taking a boat ride. Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Breeze, is one of the popular stops. Consisting of 953 windows, Hawa Mahal allowed the royal ladies to watch public activities on the street, without being seen by the public (Entry: Approx. R10).
Wax Museum
Nahargarh Fort located on the Aravalli Hills offers a panoramic view of Jaipur city. The popular Jaipur Wax Museum and the Mirror Palace are situated inside the fort. The wax museum houses iconic figures like APJ Abdul Kalam, Sachin Tendulkar, Mother Teresa, and more (Wax Museum Entry: Approx. R350). In Jaipur, shopping is a must if you are into clothes and handicraft items. Jaipur’s modern offerings set against its historic backdrop, offers the best of both worlds, all packed into one scintillating city.
ENDLESS VACATION | 29
RCI STAFF STORY
Hit
Refresh
RCI’s Vacation Guide, Swetha takes us through Kodaikanal’s popular attractions she visited on her first staff exchange. Kodaikanal is a charming little hill station beautifully set among the lush shola forest of Western Ghats. With mesmerising natural beauty and unusual sights, Kodai welcomes us for a refreshing holiday. I visited Kodaikanal with my friends in December 2019. During our stay, we checked off some of the top Kodai spots from our list. Here are some of them.
Kodai Lake: The star-shaped artificial Lake is Kodai’s star attraction which is located at 7,500 feet above sea level. We went for an early morning stroll around the lake, an area that is well-maintained by the tourism department. You can also hire bicycles or go for a horse ride around the lake. We opted for a bicycle ride followed by a relaxing boat ride. Like most first time tourists to Kodai, we spent our first day around the lake. (Entry: R40) Coakers Walk: Coakers Walk is a kilometre long pedestrian pathway constructed along a mountain slope. Visit there for a quiet and peaceful walk and take in the panoramic view of the valley. The hanging mist and the vistas like a painting will remain etched in your memory. (Entry: R10) Pine forest: Planted by a British Forest Officer in the early 20th century, the pine forest still got its allure and offers lots of photo ops. We went for a horse ride and enjoyed a nature walk. This romantic setting is ideal to while away time in the heart of nature. (Entry: R10) Devil’s Kitchen: Located on the outskirts of Kodai town, Devil’s Kitchen aka Guna Cave became popular after the Tamil movie, Guna. Though the cave is now off-limits, the area still attracts tourists. The Pillars Rocks, one of nature’s miracles nearby, offers unforgettable views of rocks rising upwards.
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Sterling Kodai Lake: Sterling Kodai Lake offered us a pleasant stay. The serene ambience and the view of Kodaikanal Lake from the resort are the highlights. As evening falls, the lake view gets even more romantic. The resort offers a perfect setting for great photoshoots. The DJ at the resort also put up a splendid performance.
Clockwise: Kodai Lake, Coakers Walk,
Dolphin's Nose: Dolphin’s Nose is a rock shaped like a dolphin’s nose overlooking a deep cliff. While the views are unmatched, one has to act with caution standing near the cliff. The trek down to the site is a bit challenging but you’d thank yourself for it later. Echo Point, a short trek from here, is another beautiful spot with deep valleys on three sides. Waterfalls: Kodaikanal is also known for its pristine waterfalls. We visited a couple of them, namely, Bear Shola Falls, Fairy Falls, and Pambar Falls. We trekked through a steep and treacherous path behind Pambar
Pine Forest and Dolphin's Nose.
House to reach Pambar Falls. The cascading falls over a rock formation ends into a natural tub. We played in the freshwater and took a refreshing bath. While there, enjoy the rich flora and fauna along with melodious bird songs.
Sterling Kodai Valley: My visit to Sterling Kodai Valley was a refreshing experience. Sterling Kodai Valley is located elegantly on a gently sloping hill overlooking mountains. Check-in was quick and we received a warm welcome. Swetha Recommends The local restaurants, as well as the resort serves appam and dosa with three varieties of chutney. The crispy chicken corn nugget at the resort is highly recommended.
Stay During our one week break, we stayed at two resorts, Sterling Kodai Lake and Sterling Kodai Valley, two equally beautiful resorts. The staff at both the resorts was friendly, helpful, and I must add, that the rooms were clean. ENDLESS VACATION | 31
Fee Reckoner
FEE RECKONER A handy guide to the updated rates of RCI services.
FULL WEEK EXCHANGE Domestic Exchange
SPLIT WEEK EXCHANGE r8,474
Domestic Exchange
r8,474
International–Short Haul
r10,169
International–Short Haul
r10,169
International–Long Haul
r22,626
GUEST CERTIFICATE
Cruise Exchange#
r14,194
Up to 2 days to check-in date*
r3,728
Provided by third party
#
Book online for guaranteed discount^ on RCI.com
Extra VacationsSM: Fee varies according to destination, season, date of travel, occupancy of the unit and the resort’s RCI rating. Ideally to qualify for and to avail Extra Vacations, ensure that a current year or future year week is deposited with RCI. Add–On Member Pack: You can get an additional RCI Membership Pack for your co–member for a nominal fee. Call RCI member helpline for more details.
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PLATINUM RENEWAL FEE 1 year
r3,898
2 years
r6,694
3 years r9,406 4 years r11,906 5 years r13,813
DEPOSIT RESTORE Restore fee
r2,414
DEPOSIT EXTENSION 3 months
r1,525
6 months
r3,092
DEPOSIT COMBINING FEE 12 months r3,050 24 months
r4,618
TRADING POWER PROTECTION FEE** Within 30 days r2,075 30+ days r4,152
RENEWAL FEE 1 year r6,991 2 years r10,720 3 years r13,516 5 years r18,177
CANCELLATION POLICY EXCHANGE CANCELLATION 30 days before check-in* r3,728 BONUS/GETAWAY SPECIALS CANCELLATION (% OF BONUS FEE FORFEITED) 61 days before check-in* 31-60 days before check-in* 0-30 days before check-in*
30% 50% 100%
RCI Deposit RestoreSM RCI Weeks Members who deposit a Week less than 271 days before the start date of such Week may receive a lower Deposit Trading Power for such Week in accordance with Trading Power Adjustment Schedule. The RCI Deposit Restore product allows RCI Weeks Members to deposit a Week less than 271 days before the start date of such Week (but at least 15 days prior to the start date of such Week) and receive the full Deposit Trading Power for such Week by purchasing the optional RCI Deposit Restore at the time of deposit. RCI Weeks Members whose Weeks are deposited by their resort and who wish to avail themselves of this option must purchase the RCI Deposit Restore product before the end of the next Business Day after receiving notice that the Week has been deposited by the resort into the member’s RCI account. RCI Deposit Restore product is not made available to all members. Please contact RCI member helpline for more details and for other terms & conditions. EXCHANGE CANCELLATION POLICY: There will be no refund if cancellations are made less than 30 days before the check-in date* | However, if the cancellation is made at least two working days before the check-in date*, the deposit week utilised can be used for future vacation confirmations, as long as it is within the validity period, and the RCI membership has not expired | The Trading Power of the deposit will be recalculated from the date of cancellation, unless the member has availed Trading Power Protection. EXTRA VACATIONS CANCELLATION POLICY: If you cancel at least 61 days prior to the check-in date*, you will be entitled to a refund of 70% of the fee | Cancellations made from 31 to 60 days before the check-in date* will be entitled to a refund of 50% of the fee | There will be no refund for cancellations made less than 31 days before the check-in date*. All fees/offers/benefits/promotions mentioned above and in this magazine are subject to change without prior notice. Fees mentioned are exclusive of taxes. Applicable taxes will be charged extra as per government regulations. Call RCI Member Helpline for details and check for latest updates at the time of availing any service. *Check-in date: as mentioned in your RCI Confirmation Voucher. Visit RCI.com to avail our special online fees. **Trading Power Protection (TPRO) can be purchased up to 14 days prior to confirmed start dates. Call the RCI member helpline for details. #“RCI does not make any representations regarding any of the services provided by cruise lines. Information about such cruise lines services is based on information obtained from the applicable providers. RCI is not responsible for, and shall have no liability for any inaccurate, incomplete or misleading information regarding services that are not provided directly by RCI.” ^Terms & Conditions apply. For the latest information on fees and applicability, call the RCI Member Helpline: Toll Free (All India): 1.800.419.2131 Bangalore: +91 80-4184 9100, +91 80-6691 5555 Email: indiarci@rci.com Website: RCI.com
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All-New RCI Resort Directory Download your free copy now
Covering India, Maldives, Andamans and Sri Lanka, the all-new RCI Resort Directory is your go-to guide to all the resorts in the India subcontinent. Click on the button below to download it for free. DOWNLOAD NOW
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THE MYSTIQUE OF JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
Having grown up on wonderful stories of Jim Corbett Tiger reserve, my excitement knew no bounds when I got the opportunity to go there. As Jim Corbett himself had said “There are events in one's life which, no matter how remote, never fade from memory”. A travel story by RCI member, Dr. Suleman Merchant MD (An avid traveller & nature photographer) ENDLESS VACATION | 35
M
y destination was ‘The Rangers Reserve’ resort, deep within the Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve. It’s a 300 km (6 hours) drive from Delhi Airport, via Moradabad, Kashipur, and Ramnagar. One drives through the hinterland of our beautiful country and experiences the different cultural nuances en route. This city dweller had the rare opportunity to witness ‘dannd-patti’, a unique outdoor kids’ game, involving climbing a tree and sprawling across its horizontal branches, by all kids, barring the ‘kid thief ’ below. It’s a great game for hyperactive kids to expend energy and for muscular development, hand-eye co-ordination; not to forget a simple way of getting the badly needed Vit D, from sunshine. After a fairly arduous drive, I was quite relieved at having reached our safe jungle abode soon after sunset, before the tigers started their nightly ambush. Tales of locals being attacked by tigers are not uncommon. The advice was not to venture out at night, especially if alone.
Jim Corbett National Park, a famous eco-tourism destination, comprises a 520 sq km area of hills, riverine belts, marshy depressions, a large lake, and grasslands. The dense forest covers almost 73 percent of the park. It is the oldest national park in India (established -1936 ) established to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. Its Tiger Reserve boasts of more than 200 tigers currently. Tourism is only allowed in selected areas of the reserve; to protect both, wildlife and visitors. Close to 600 species of resident and migratory birds exist, including the crested serpent eagle, blossom-headed parakeet and the red junglefowl, the ancestor of all domestic fowl. There are elephants, buffalo and deer aplenty (barking deer, sambar deer, hog deer, chital etc.); leopards and other small cats like the jungle cat, fishing cat, and leopard cat too. Other animals include Elephants, Himalayan black and sloth bears, otters, yellow-throated martens, Himalayan goral, Indian pangolins, and mischievous langur and rhesus macaques. Owls and nightjars can be heard during the night. There are many species of snakes and the accompanying Indian grey mongooses.
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An evening view of The Rangers Reserve Resort
The Rangers Reserve, a RCI affiliated resort was amazingly comfortable, considering it was bang in the middle of a jungle. It is an African themed all wooden RCI affiliated resort designed in a very picturesque Swiss-style, topped with thatched roofs. International chefs serve food in charming rustic surroundings, to make your date with wilderness a truly memorable one. Naturist Devi Singh from the resort was awesome, always available with his unique insights into animal behaviour and local topography conditions etc. There are plenty of Rhesus Macaques and Grey Langurs hanging around, especially at the restaurant. So do take care. Staying within the park eliminates the necessity of purchasing a Safari permit.
SUGGESTED VEHICLES & LOCAL ROUTES
The reserve should preferably be visited in a 4WD/ all-terrain vehicle, as roads may be pretty treacherous. The ascent from the rangers reserve itself onto the adjacent jungle road requires a herculean effort from your vehicle and a very skilled driver. During monsoons, little waterfalls sprout up all over the place decimate the road structure, by water flowing freely across the small jungle roads. Landslides and flash floods are other hazards to be wary of. Plan well ahead, especially your exit, as the jungle has its own way with ‘time’.
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The 30 km route (90 mins) to Totam village goes through diverse eco-systems, giving one the experience of the Tiger reserve’s hilly terrain and accompanying wildlife and village folk. A circular route can be taken, going by one route and coming back by another. For safer wildlife sightings one should traverse the 12 km route to Chukam (with its lovely artificial lake on Tumaria Dam), along Ranikhet road, as often as one can. Going up to the main adjacent highway (309), or once the villages in the Reserve start showing up, should suffice. There are also some walking trails, river visit options, paragliding, and other soft adventure activities to be explored in the neighbourhood. TIGER SPOTTING
A tiger sighting is a game of patience and deft strategy. The traditional Jeep safaris are too noisy. Too many of them travel in noisy groups. There is a single road, going through the jungle, Ranikhet road. Early morning and late evenings, especially the latter, are worth focusing upon. Go silently to avoid the cacophony of trails of safari jeeps screeching their way through the jungle, scaring all wildlife away. Keep the engine at low revolutions, at low speed, barely making any sound. Most animals, especially deer are extremely shy and easily scared by vehicular traffic and other sounds. 38 | JUL - DEC 2020
Stop frequently, albeit safely. One will be delighted by the wildlife that is rollicking through the jungle. The mystique of the Corbett Tiger Reserve will leave you spellbound. Peacocks flying from perch to perch, flaunting their awesome colours. Numerous other bird and animal sounds echo throughout the jungle. There is no universal language in the jungles; each species has its language, and the language of each species is understood by all. Each contributes a warning upon predator sightings. The flash of the brightly coloured kingfisher, as he breaks the surface of the water, shedding a shower of diamonds from his wings as he rises with a chirp of delight, a silver minnow held firmly in his vermilion bill - the belling of the sambhar and the clear tuneful call of the chital apprising the jungle folk that the tiger, whose pugmarks show wet on the sand where a few minutes before he crossed the river, is out in search of his dinner.
The book of nature has no beginning, as it has no end. Open this book where you will, and at any period of your life, and no matter how long or how intently you study the pages, your interest will not flag, for in nature there is no finality. — Jim Corbett Most deer travel parallel to the road, if you stop frequently you are bound to see deer herds. If you do chance upon a herd of deer crossing the road, you can be assured there will be a tiger crossing exactly at the same place, following the herds' scent; a good 1.5 to 2 hours behind though, keeping a safe distance to enhance the success rate of his hunts. The deer stand no chance in front of this master predator and his ambush tactics. Folklore is full of tales of tiger/ leopard attacks, and the native villagers make it a point not to travel after dark. If they do, they go in groups, with lanterns, lathis, and other protective gear. So do take care.
A tiger sighting at close range is an awesome spectacle. Looking into the eye of the tiger can be an unforgettable experience. This majestic animal will leave even skeptics spellbound. As Jim Corbett stated, “Tigers, except when wounded or when man-eaters, are on the whole very good-tempered. However. beware—a tiger will object to too close an approach to its cubs, or a kill that it is guarding. The objection invariably takes the form of growling, and if this does not prove effective it is followed by short rushes accompanied by terrifying roars. If these warnings are disregarded, the blame for any injury inflicted rests entirely with the intruder". ENDLESS VACATION | 39
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The Making of
Magical Holidays In an interview with RCI, Sujit Paul shares how Club Mahindra is getting ready to welcome back members by providing the highest safety standards for a magical family holiday.
Sujit Paul, Chief - Member Experience Management & Business Excellence, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited.
How will member experience change post COVID-19–some measures brought in by Club Mahindra? We are evolving our resort experience to ensure the safety and well-being of all our members and staff. Adopting best-in-class technology for contactless check-in/checkout, implementing enhanced hygiene protocols with increased frequency of cleaning and sanitisation are just some of the key measures we have undertaken. In line with such commitment, we have partnered with Bureau Veritas, a global
42 | JUL - DEC 2020
leader in Testing, Inspection and Certification, to validate and certify our safety and hygiene protocols. At Club Mahindra, we have taken pride in being a repository of experiences for families to learn, laugh and grow together. We have now taken up the challenge to continue to deliver these magical moments to our members while following strict social distancing rules.
The ‘Club Mahindra Safe Stay’ promise is all about ensuring that our members’ resort stay is as safe as it is magical.
Transformation journey to drive operations, member engagement and sales at Mahindra Holidays?
What should companies keep in mind in the new normal–your views? Trust is everything! Travellers will remain cautious and will choose to holiday with brands that they trust will keep their safety as the top-most priority. Brands that have proven themselves by going that extra mile for their guests, will be preferred. Club Mahindra, over the past 24 years, has built for itself a reputation of trust and unparalleled hospitality. It was awarded India’s Most Popular Resort Chain by the prestigious Times Travel Award in 2019.
With its large network of resorts spread across the country, every Club Mahindra member has a worldclass resort just a drive away.
Digitisation and technological intervention for everyday interaction is now a reality. We have remained consistent in our efforts to engage and excite our members in the past few months. And we have found creative ways to create magical moments for our members, currently, when they are at home. We have also put together an array of fun and exclusive activities that they can indulge in from the safety of their homes like digital member meets for servicing and engagement, quizzes, cook-outs, yoga sessions, and online treasure hunts, and these are just some of them. Club Mahindra also launched the #LoveIndiaSeeIndia campaign. Led by charismatic actors like Ayushmann Khurrana and Gul Panag, the campaign celebrated India’s diverse spread of destinations, cultures, cuisines, and more. To minimise any inconvenience to our members, we have proactively re-credited room-nights for all reservations in the lockdown period and ensured their membership benefits stay intact. When it comes to new reservations, we now offer full flexibility in bookings and have updated our interim cancellation policy.
Do you foresee a great change in the way members would plan their vacations? Travellers’ desire for safety will play a vital role in the choices they make. There will be a growing need for flexible travel options. Today, it is more important than ever, to be empathetic. However, at the heart of it all, what drives our members to holiday with us, will remain unchanged. They holiday at our resorts to explore new destinations, discover new things about their loved ones and enjoy contemplative lulls. It is and will always be our raison d'être to serve them with the signature Club Mahindra hospitality and make moments magical!
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RCI.com Never miss out on a great deal Login into your Account on RCI.com and check for ‘My Offers’ tab on the top left of the Home Page to instantly see what exclusive offers and deals are available.
It’s good to chat Live Chat feature on RCI.com is a convenient function that enables you to chat with a RCI Guide. Our Guides are trained to help with any queries. The service is available Monday to Saturday, 9am-6pm.
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NEW RCI AFFILIATED RESORTS Sterling Guruvayur, DO65 Sterling Guruvayur features 71 spacious rooms which include 64 well-appointed classic rooms and 7 premier rooms. It is the first branded national hotel/ resort chain in Guruvayur where the signature Sterling hospitality ensures that you are wrapped around in warmth, comfort and convenience. Located in the heart of the town, Sterling Guruvayur is just a kilometre from the 5000-year-old Guruvayur Sri Krishna temple.
Sterling Atharva Jaipur, DO66 Sterling Atharva - Jaipur has 30 palatial rooms and 15 cottages with private sit-outs that offer a quiet and reflective space for its guests. There is a swimming pool for those who want to enjoy a relaxing swim. The resort offers exclusive experiences, including authentic village walks, nature walks, jeep safaris to Boraj Fort, and polo matches.Â
Sterling Rajakkad, DR91
Sterling Palavelli Godavari, DR89 Blessed with the charm of the tranquil Godavari, is an expansive retreat for a true holiday amidst nature. Sterling Palavelli Godavari welcomes travellers to the alluring Andhra Pradesh. Carefully planted with 23 exotic species of flora, the resort boasts a lush biodiversity hotspot within the 6 acres of coconut plantations. A highlight of the resort is the private houseboat for romantic getaways and meetings/events across the Godavari river.
A jewel in God's Own Country, untouched Rajakkad stands out as the idyllic break away destination offering an upscale stay and mesmerizing scenic views.Situated in the Idukki district, Kerala, with access to thrilling adventures, wildlife and numerous click-worthy view points, Sterling Rajakkad is a full-service boutique resort with 24 well-appointed rooms and suites.
Sanskruti Resort, Karjat DR87 Nested in the Ullas Valley, Sanskruti Suites & Resort overlooks the serene nature and enjoys isolation from the hustle and bustle of the city. The resort comes equipped with all modern amenities for a luxurious stay. Karjat is within driving distance from Mumbai and Pune. Sanskruti is a pet-friendly resort. ENDLESS VACATION | 45
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Don't let your holiday dreams fade away Renew your RCI membership with these great offers!
MEMBERSHIP VALIDITY 12 months & Above
Between 6 & 11 months
Between 3 & 5 months
15%* OFF
10%* OFF
5%* OFF
Why Renew? Unrivalled choice Access the LARGEST network of timeshare resorts all over the world
Unique flexibility Spend more time in the places you love with RCI's flexible exchange programme
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RENEW TODAY. Visit RCI.com or call us on 1800 419 2131 *Terms and conditions apply.
EXCHANGE VACATIONS, STARTING AT JUST
r8,474INR* PER WEEK
With more than 4,200 affiliated resorts in 110 countries, there is a RCI vacation for every kind of traveller.
RCI Member Helpline Toll Free (All India): 1.800.419.2131 RCI India Pvt. Ltd. Pine Valley, First Level, Embassy Golf Links Business Park, Off Intermediate Ring Road, Bangalore 560 071. Tel: 080 41849100/66915555 | Fax: 080 25237813 | Email: indiarci@rci.com | Website: RCI.com | CIN: U29246KA1995PTC017334 *Terms and conditions apply. Check with your RCI guide for availability and applicability. The price mentioned above is for a domestic exchange holiday.