travel bug
Ever let the fancy roam, pleasure never is at home. The great English poet of the romantic era, John Keats may have written this poem two centuries ago, but never before has it applied to travel mad denizens with such velocity. Figures have it that India is all set to become the fourth largest global spender on travel by 2030. With a booming transport industry, and the internet shrinking the globe into a village, increasingly disposable incomes matched by increasing curiosity, here’s putting the spotlight on the travel preferences of frequent travellers.
Come summer and it is time to relax and enjoy, catching up on rest and spend time with family and friends. It’s that time of the year when offices look lean and seen with empty chairs. There is always something appealing about travelling in the summer time. One thing is true, summer has the most opportunity in terms of vacation options—from finding an ideal vacation spot to strategies of navigating the vacation scheduling. Corporate Citizen talks to corporates and professionals on how they maximise their summer vacation experience
On the wings of a dream
-Ruta Talwalkar,
Model, former educational entrepreneur and HR professional
My favourite vacation spot in India and abroad
Oh I love to travel whenever I get the chance. It all started with a bunch of college friends planning a trip to the romantic capital of the world—the inimitable Paris-for our 40th birthdays and I haven't looked back since. I have travelled quite a bit in the last few years and visited beautiful places both on Indian shores and overseas. Abroad, the place that took my breath away was Norway. There's not much I can say here except that when I reached Aurlandsfjord, in Norway, for the Fjords tour, it was surreal. One look at the majestic mountains and something inside me stilled. There were no words, no chaos in my mind, no drama and lastly no ego, it was like I melted into nothingness, all I wanted to do was bow down. In India, Ladakh stands out for its rugged, natural beauty. And of course, there's something about the mountains and rivers in the same frame.
Budget vacation for me would be any beach destination away from the crowd
Whether it's Awas beach in Alibag or a less frequented beach in South Goa or a quiet corner of a beach in Malgund Beach, Ganpatipule, Maharashtra. For those willing to go the distance though, the beauty of the Andamans, is totally worth its while.
Shopping buff, err not really
I don't generally shop on vacations except for fridge magnets depicting where I have been.
A travel memory I’d like to forget
When my train to Goa was delayed by 13 hours, it threw my plans out of gear and then I got sick due to the stress and frustration. Of course I made up for it by extending my stay.
The finest moment of all
Staying right across Pangong lake, Ladakh, and catching the sunrise and experiencing snowfall all in one trip.
On the anvil
Top places in the near future are the Northeast India, Kashmir, Amritsar, Krabi (Thailand) and the list goes. on.
Why I travel
We get so engrossed in our day to day mundane lives that it's necessary to lift up our heads and look beyond the horizon, to explore, to tread new paths, to meet new people, to be open to new experiences—it's an opportunity that very few get so if you do, then grab it with both hands. You won't regret it. In a nutshell, travel to me is the finest aspect of life.
Do’s and don’ts for tourists:
- Be willing to explore, the non-touristy spots, the local cuisine, the culture.
- Keep an extra set of clothes handy in a backpack. You never know when rivers and oceans beckon or itineraries change, lots of sunscreen and some food always.
- Always follow the local rules and advice. In short, your host knows best.
Travelling transforms you
-Monisha Shah,
Home maker and wife of Vishal Shah, CEO, Jumpball Eduventures Pvt Ltd
It’s fun to explore the world, be it beaches and mountains. It all begins with the joy of planning and after the holiday ends, the happiness of learning about history and of life itself. Travelling is a transformational journey!
My Favourite travel spots in India as well as abroad
My travel escapades in India have been fascinating and memorable. My favourite destinations however are all situated in the famous temple towns of South India that hold on fiercely to their rich historical, cultural, religious monumental heritage and are architectural marvels. These include Tirumala Tirupati, Srirangam, Thanjavur, Hampi and Trivandrum. My favourite travel spot abroad is Italy the food, the natural beauty, the stunning landscapes and the fun interactions with the locals there make it extra special.
A budget vacation I would suggest
Is Thailand. From the gorgeous beaches to endless opportunities for the adventurous kinds. Thailand has it all. If the trip is planned well in advance, you could definitely get awesome deals on flights and hotels. The experiences and hospitality of Thailand is unmatched.
Shop till you drop
We generally try and find out the local specialties in food herbs and spices and carry those back with us. Local chocolates and local brand clothing are always a must buy. We also like to collect coins, fridge magnets and keychains from those countries.
My top tip for travellers
Would be to plan the trip well in advance and once the place is decided, to do enough research about the place so that nothing that is an absolute must do is missed. With access to so much information at our fingertips, travel planning is actually a very enjoyable experience. We try and get information and suggestions from the local people and that definitely adds to the travel experience. Road trips give us the flexibility and opportunities to visit unique beautiful towns and villages that most people are clueless about. Avoid last minute planning as those kind of trips are never fun.
Countries that are on my radar
Are the Alaska (USA), Scandinavian countries, New Zealand and Finland. A road trip to Alaska (USA) and the Scandinavian countries would be the perfect way to experience Mother Nature in all her glory. My first trip to New Zealand was spectacular and I would definitely want to try and recreate that magic. As for Finland, seeing the gorgeous Northern lights, crossing the Arctic Circle and meeting Santa Claus and his elves in Santa Village, could anything be more magical than that.
A terrible vacation memory
Was when we were in the Netherlands at Den Haag and our apartment was broken into at night when we were all asleep and our money was stolen. We didn’t get any assistance from the hotel owners and it was quite a harrowing experience. We were grateful that none of us were harmed though.
Travel to me means
Travel to me is Living… it is my window to the fascinating world we live in. It feeds my soul. Travel is finding both differences and similarities in new cultures and customs. Talking to locals and spending time finding out every little thing I can about the place I am in at that time is very fulfilling. Travel is about discovery, education, transformation and best of all its fun.
Travel is my universe
-Ankit Agrawal,
Partner and Director, Mysore Deep Perfumery House
talks so fondly about his travel escapades
My favourite vacation spot in India and abroad
Goa is truly captivating. Its stunning beaches, lush greenery, vibrant party scene, and overall atmosphere contribute to my relaxation. Similarly, I have a fondness for Bali and Singapore for the same reasons.
A budget vacation spot I would suggest
Phuket will be a great choice; it is scenic and has easy flights from India.
Top tips for traveller’s dos and don'ts
Always have an international credit card on hand and carry local currency, or maybe some US dollars. Book hotels directly through the official websites, avoid unreliable portals that may result in booking issues. Secure your flight tickets online or through trusted IATA-approved travel agents to ensure a hassle-free experience, as booking with unknown agents can lead to complications. For safety and commute purposes, try to stay in the city centre rather than staying in offbeat places.
Shop till you drop
Europe stands out as a prime destination for branded shopping, boasting exceptional outlets and malls where products are often priced lower than in India or even the US. When I travel, I prioritise purchasing clothes and shoes, while my wife prefers buying bags.
An outstanding vacation memory
Witnessing a live lion kill in Kenya with my family during a safari—an unforgettable experience.
Top places on my wish list
Despite my extensive travels, there's always more to explore. Croatia, with its sunny beaches, is on my list. Serengeti, Tanzania beckons for its wildlife, while the allure of Cape Town's beauty calls for another trip. And let’s not forget the beauty of New Zealand too.
Terrible vacation memory
During our honeymoon in Orlando (USA), I lost around $200 at a theme park, a considerable sum in 2009. Initially, I suspected I left it in our hotel room and alerted the staff. They arrived with the police, questioning if the money was stolen. Unsure, I apologised, preferring not to accuse falsely.
Travel to me means
Travel isn't just a passion; it's my entire universe. It unlocks doors of knowledge, opportunity and experience. Despite the effort, it's enriching, connecting me with people and cultures. Travel defines me as it has shaped who I am today.
Creating timeless memories
-Sanjay Jadhav,
Communication Specialist, shares his incredible travel trails
My favourite vacation spot in India and abroad
The tranquility found in the mountains is soul-touching. That's why I always make sure to schedule a yearly getaway to a random destination in Himachal Pradesh. As for international travel, my top vacation spot is Siebnen, a charming village nestled in the canton of Schwyz, Switzerland. The landscapes there are simply breathtaking and completely captivating.
A budget vacation spot I would suggest
The enchanting, surreal and marvellous Hampi.
Shop till you drop
I never shop as these days almost everything is available across the globe. The days of exclusivity are gone.
A terrible vacation memory
Once, during a trek in Tosh, a remote village in Himachal Pradesh, my friend and I lost our way. However, with the help of some other tourists and locals, we fortunately managed to find our way back just in time for dusk and reached safety.
An outstanding vacation memory
Embarking on a thrilling adventure to Lucerne, Switzerland, was an absolute highlight. After hopping on a train from Siebnen and a switch at Thalwil, we arrived in Lucerne. Our first stop was the picturesque Chapel Bridge, followed by a leisurely stroll through enchanting alleyways. Indulging in croissants and hot chocolate fuelled our exploration. As we headed towards the lakefront, anticipation grew for our boat ride to Vitznau. The medieval and historic buildings along the way added to the charm. Once aboard, we dashed to the outer deck for the ultimate view. It was a memory etched in my heart forever.
Top places on my wish list
Anywhere in Europe.
Top tips for travelers Dos and Don'ts
Respect local customs and traditions, don’t always be in a hurry to capture moments on your phone. Sometimes it's best to let your eyes see it and live the moment. Do a thorough research before travelling.
Travel to me means
Getting away from the mundane life and losing myself in moments that last a lifetime—travel does that to me.
Travel is Life
-Parinitaa Rajgarhiaa,
Founder of Zero Latency, believes in having fun on travel
My favourite vacation spot
In India has to be the hills. I adore the charm of small cafes, the pleasant weather, and the simplicity of the people. Moreover, the majestic Deodar trees of India have captured my heart. Internationally, Europe holds a special place in my heart. I'm enamoured by its vibrant vibe, the natural beauty of its countries, and the quaint streets adorned with old stone buildings. The abundance of cafes and shops adds to the allure, offering the perfect setting to savour a glass of wine anywhere and everywhere!
Budget vacation spot
If you're looking for an affordable yet incredible vacation destination, I highly recommend Bali. It boasts of natural beauty, diverse cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches, making it a perfect getaway for the sun-and-sand enthusiasts.
Shop till you drop
I love picking up souvenirs for my family, friends, and home whenever I travel. Whether it's wine and alcohol, local specialties, or unique items like shawls from Kashmir or cheeses from France, I enjoy collecting pieces that reflect the essence of the destination. Moreover, I have a soft spot for crockery and always seek out the smallest piece to add to my collection, regardless of whether I'm traveling in India or abroad.
Outstanding vacation memory
My trip to Australia in 2023 stands out as an exceptional vacation memory. It was my first solo trip, and it surpassed all expectations. Australia's stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation made it an unforgettable experience. Additionally, mixing in some work activities added a unique dimension to the trip, making it even more enriching.
Top places on my wish list
While I'm eager to explore every corner of the world, my current top three dream destinations are: New Zealand, and Norway for the mesmerizing northern lights and Mansarovar for its spiritual significance and serene beauty.
Do's and Don'ts for Travellers
Do’ s
- Drink responsibly
- Carry soft and hard copies (extra set) of important documents
- Be aware of popular travel scams
- Ask or read if in doubt about anything
Don’ts
- Never wear flashy or expensive jewellery.
- Do not be over-friendly with other tourists and strangers
A terrible vacation memory
One of my worst vacation memories was from a trip to Dubai in 2019 with my family. It turned disastrous when I had to rush my sick husband to the hospital at midnight, leaving behind two unwell kids in the hotel room. Upon returning, I was greeted with a bed full of vomit from the children. It was an incredibly challenging and distressing experience.
Travel to me means
"To travel is to LIVE." For me, travelling is not just about visiting new places, it is about immersing myself in different cultures, savouring diverse cuisines, and marveling at the wonders of nature. Each journey fills my heart with invaluable memories and experiences that enrich my life in ways no other pursuit can. Travelling fuels my curiosity and appreciation for the world, reminding me of our small yet interconnected role in this vast and beautiful creation.
Exploring the world
-Prachi Trivedi,
Assistant Vice President, Deutsche Bank, shares her incredible travel trails
My favourite vacation spot in India and abroad
My favourite vacation spot in India is Goa because I love beaches. This is a destination that can cater to different segments of people. From the calm and serene beaches of south Goa to the popular and happening beaches of north Goa, there is something for everyone to do there. Internationally, my favourite destination is Paris because of its weather, architecture, and culture. The monuments are brilliant, and the vibe of the city is great. The city is very well connected, and hospitality is also great in Paris.
My budget vacation spot
Budgeting is very subjective from person to person. However, staying in hostels in Goa can cut down on the cost of your stay. So, every place in India can currently be made budget- friendly, depending on the correct planning.
Shop till you drop
I like to buy souvenirs for myself and my family from the places I visit. That helps me collect my memories together. I have a wall hanging where I collate all my souvenirs.
An outstanding vacation memory
There are many. One of them was the recent visit to Pulga village, Sosan, Himachal Pradesh, where I trekked around the snow blanket, played snow with the locals there, and my body acclimatised to the weather in such a way that I was moving around without any winter layering over my head. That was an immense experience, where I was all with nature.
Top places on my wish list
Dubai, Greece, Iceland, the Philippines, London, Turkey, Seven Sisters, and Udaipur.
Top tips for travellers
Do’ s
- Always keep Google Maps handy on your phone to navigate.
- Carry cash, online transaction might not always work.
- Check about the place, people, culture, etc. of the place you are travelling.
Don’ts
- Don't indulge in activities which may hamper the culture of that area.
- Be aware of your belongings when in crowded places.
- Avoid places not well connected and risky to venture.
A terrible vacation memory
There is no such terrible memory. God has always blessed me with good memories. However, a little inconvenience I faced once in North Goa was when Google Maps navigated me to a half-built road, and I had to manually pull my moped from the rough road to the main road. That was a little hassle.
Travel to me means...
Travelling makes me gain knowledge about different geography, food, culture and, more importantly, people. Seeing new places, meeting new people and understanding their culture makes me realise that the whole world is connected to the same principle of humanity. However, it is just moulded in different ways. So, it is always lovely to explore the different aspects of it.
Passion for budget travels
-Chaitanya Tendolkar,
Director of Westbay Resort & Spa, shares his travel preferences
My favorite vacation spot in India and Internationally and why?
In India, Goa holds a special place in my heart due to its perfect blend of luxury, peace, and vibrant party scenes. Internationally, London fascinates me with its rich fashion culture, British architecture, and world-class theatre offerings.
A budget vacation spot I would suggest
Ganpatipule in India is a fantastic budget- friendly vacation spot. It offers serene beaches, picturesque landscapes, and cultural experiences without breaking the bank.
An outstanding vacation memory
On a train journey to Mumbai, I lost my phone and wallet. However, the kindness of fellow passengers restored my faith in humanity as they not only provided food but also contributed money to help me reach home safely. One of the most memorable incidents was when I had gone to Goa with my fiancé and wrote, “Will you marry me on the beach?” I showed it to her from the top of a cliff. She said, “Yes”.
A terrible vacation memory
During one trip to Goa, we encountered a scam at a local shack where we were served rotten fish at an exorbitant price. The situation escalated when we complained, resulting in threats from the vendors.
Top places on my wish list
Finland for witnessing the mesmerising Northern Lights, Lakshadweep for its pristine beauty, and exploring the East Coast of the USA are all on my travel wish list. Travel, to me, is a multifaceted experience encompassing the exploration of new cities, embracing cutting-edge technology, savouring local cuisines, and immersing myself in vibrant party scenes. It's about discovering the beauty and diversity of the world while forging connections with people and cultures along the way.
Dos and Don'ts for travellers
- Dos: Respect the rules. and culture of the places you visit, try local cuisine, and explore offbeat locations
- Don'ts: Avoid conflicts with locals, and refrain from visiting restricted areas during your vacation.
Travel less but well
-Chetan Sapra,
Manager ‑Third Party Due Diligence, Fresenius Medical Care, shares his travel mantras
My favourite vacation spot in India and abroad
In India, I like Goa a lot, so much so that I have thought about shifting there a lot of times. While people mostly go there for beaches, casinos, and clubbing, there is more to Goa beyond all this. There is so much history to Goa that you can learn through heritage tours, food walks, museums, and exploring the Goan villages. The local food too is very nice, especially, Rava fish fry.
Internationally, we did a 15-day Bhutan trip from West to East, covering the city as well as the countryside including Trashigang, and Bumthang amongst others where people generally would not go. Travelling to these locales was a spiritual experience. We experienced the slow and content life of the people, who invest time in each other. Not to mention the absolute mesmerising landscapes, be it mountains or valleys. Their rich culture, tradition, and architecture captivate you. The warm and welcoming nature of the Bhutanese people made my trip memorable.
My budget vacation spot
Is Rishikesh for it offers the opportunity to sit on the tranquil river bed of the Ganges, satisfy one’s adventurous streak with its water sports options, and the medication and yoga classes in the morning help to seek solace for the day. Every place has a peaceful corner if you are willing to explore. It has a lot of hostels and food options for every budget.
Shop till you drop
We usually buy local food items, handicrafts, and interesting food magnets
A terrible vacation memory
Once we made an impromptu detour to Kodaikanal, where I got stranded at 4 am in search of a stay. The hotel we finally ended up in was very filthy. We were on a train going to Thanjavur from Rameshwaram and saw Kodaikanal station on the way where the train stopped for just one minute. In the spur of a minute, we decided to collect our stuff and get off the train to go to Kodaikanal. But, when we got down, we learned that Kodaikanal the hill station is another three hours of bus drive. So we reached there at 2 am.
Top tips for travellers Dos and Don’ts
Dos:
- Eat local food in small eateries, they are more authentic and also promote small businesses.
- Stay in homestays to get to know the local culture. You can get some good suggestions on some offbeat places.
- Create an itinerary but be fluid. If you like a place, stay for more days.
Don’ts:
- Don’t get into Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) of travelling more and more, travel less but travel well.
- Don’t buy plastic water bottles or use plastic bags, carry your reusable water bottles and cloth bag.
- Don’t disrespect local culture or religion. Be considerate.
An outstanding vacation memory
It was when I proposed to my partner on a hike in Landour, Mussoorie.
The top places on my wish list
Are Masai Mara (Kenya) and the Amazon forest.
Travelling has made me
Street smart and teaches you how to manage when you are out of your comfort zone.
Reset your life with travel
-Anuradha Rao,
software developer, Cisco, shares her incredible travel trails
My favourite vacation spot in India and abroad
My favourite vacation spot in India is Jaipur. This city is so rich in culture and history. Additionally, the architecture of the palaces is reminiscent of the grandeur of old times. On the other hand, New Zealand is my preferred international vacation spot. It holds a special place in my heart. There is so much natural beauty all around.
A budget vacation spot I would suggest
Bekal, Kerala, is a budget vacation spot that has a peaceful ambience, historical significance, and natural beauty.
Shop till you drop
I always like to buy fridge magnets for myself because they are light, but sometimes I buy local crafts and eatables.
An outstanding vacation memory
Visiting New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, was the most remarkable experience I have ever had. I had a lot of fun with friends, food, and strangers; the atmosphere was just so amazing.
Top places on my wish list
Europe (Prague, Austria, Amsterdam) and Bali are the places I want to visit.
A terrible vacation memory
Auckland in New Zealand was a terrible experience. During my visit, heavy rain ruined my travel plans, and poor planning nearly caused me to miss my flight.
Top tips for travellers
Dos:
- Check your essentials, travel documents, itinerary, wardrobe, and weather of the location well in advance so you do not have unpleasant surprises.
- Always carry cash for emergencies.
- Pack snacks and plenty of water.
Don’ts:
- Do not have a tight travel plan, so you can allow yourself to rest and enjoy the destination.
- Do not exhaust yourself in the travel to the destination itself; preferably, pick a shorter travel flight so you can have more fun in the vacation spot.
- Do not overpack; leave some space for things to bring back.
Travel to me means...
- To take a chance to slow down.
- To soak in the local atmosphere and local culture.
- Preferably, travel with friends to make memories for a lifetime.
- A reset from the usual monotony of life.
Travel enriches life
-Chetan Sapra,
Manager ‑Third Party Due Diligence, Fresenius Medical Care, shares his travel mantras
My favorite destinations to travel to
- Leh Ladakh because I believe it will always be a spiritual experience.
- Any of the central forests in India during winter or early summer because of apricity the warmth of the Sun in winter.
- Avignon, South of France for a whiff of lavender in June and drinking a variety of champagnes.
- Vietnam for the food
- Netherlands for its canals
Dos and Don’ts for travelers
Dos:
- Make an itinerary, however also be open to spontaneity and change of circumstances or plans
- Hop on to plans made by friends who you trust – saves a lot of planning effort.
Don’ts:
- Can’t really say but I would probably be wary of strangers who are eager to please
An awful vacation memory
When a friend was approached by a random stranger near Sacre Coeur, Paris, in an attempt to extort money. Things got a little heated but eventually subsided, however it was a disappointing memory of an evening there.
Budget vacation spot I would recommend
Goa in late September because Goa never disappoints. It is a vibe. The weather is pretty great during this time and being the shoulder season, stays are reasonably priced, and one can always strike a great win-win deal.
Places on my bucket list
Japan, Iceland.
Travel to me means
enriching life, fostering friendships, and falling in love.