Exciting new experiences to try with your family this summer in Dubai
Live the Game at Pac-Man Live Experience
Step into an electrified maze and transform into the legendary yellow chomper at the Pac-Man Live Experience. This retro-meets-reality attraction lets families race through a life-sized, glowing labyrinth with wearable tech that tracks your moves and score. With immersive projections, real-world power pellets, and ghostly challenges, it's as thrilling as it is nostalgic. Post-game, recharge at the themed café or snap selfies in the neon-lit photo zones. A one-of-a-kind activity that combines fitness, fun, and family competition.
Eat, Chill and Have Fun at Ribambelle
Combining the best of dining and play, Ribambelle is an imaginative family destination where children can learn, explore and let loose. Spread across two interactive floors, it offers a vibrant play area with everything from a mini car garage to a ball pit and dress-up zones. Upstairs, a workshop station hosts creative classes like cookie baking, milkshake making, and DIY bath bombs. While the kids play, parents can enjoy wholesome meals at the charming café with panoramic waterfront views. A summer haven for all ages.
Find Bargains Galore with Dubai Summer Surprises
Make the most of the season with Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) – the city's beloved shopping and entertainment festival. From unbeatable retail deals and shop-and-win promotions to family-friendly fun and live performances, DSS turns every mall visit into a celebration. Shoppers can unlock up to 90% off on leading brands, enjoy daily deals, and discover savings across thousands of experiences citywide. Families can also unwind with staycation offers at top hotels or plan memorable getaways to iconic attractions. Don't miss the action-packed opening weekend and Beat the Heat DXB live music series from 4–13 July at Dubai World Trade Centre—just a few highlights of the excitement that awaits across the city. Location: Across Dubai | Dates: 27 June – 31 August 2025.
See Art Come Alive at the Theatre of Digital Art
Introduce young minds to the world of fine art in an immersive, futuristic format at the Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA). Merging classical masterpieces with modern technology, ToDA showcases works by Monet, Van Gogh, Cézanne and more through interactive exhibits, 360° projections, surround sound, and VR zones. With hands-on experiences tailored for kids and adults alike, it's a multisensory journey that redefines how art is experienced.
Discover the Magic at Boo Boo Laand
Spanning a massive 25,000 sqft inside Dubai Mall, Boo Boo Laand is more than a play area – it's a world of enchantment. From princess castles and sports arenas to robot art workshops and snow parks, every corner is designed to ignite young imaginations. There's even a sensory-rich zone for crawlers and a spa for mums to unwind. With trampolines, a chef's kitchen and more, it's the ultimate family day out – all under one iconic roof.
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India.com
2 days ago
- India.com
Ooty's Most Unexplored Trekking Paths That Reveal Hidden Waterfalls, Wild Orchids, And Breathtaking Hilltop Views
Not Just Doddabetta Peak! Mist doesn't hide Ooty. It reveals it. When the first drop of rain touches the Nilgiri slopes, something shifts. The hills breathe deeper. The tea gardens glisten. And behind the busy bazaars and tourist photo spots, a wilder, quieter Ooty begins to awaken. Most visitors rush toward Doddabetta Peak or the Botanical Gardens. Click a few pictures. Eat varkey biscuits. Head back to their hotels. But what if we told you — the Nilgiris aren't just for the checklist? They're for the wanderers who take the less-trodden paths. For those who chase moss-covered trails, hidden waterfalls, and windswept ridges where the clouds move faster than your footsteps. Let's step off the postcard view and into the secret heart of Ooty — where every bend holds a story and every stone smells of rain. What makes trekking around Ooty so special? It's not just the scenery. It's the layers. Ooty is more than a hill station. It's an intricate weave of shola forests, tea estates, tribal hamlets, and ancient pathways once used by Toda herders. In the monsoon and post-monsoon months, this tapestry glows — leaves turn a richer green, wildflowers bloom like scattered jewels, and mist dances between pine trunks. Unlike the steep Himalayan climbs or the crowded Western Ghats hotspots, treks around Ooty are gentler yet deeply immersive. They don't shout for attention — they whisper. This is a place where the sky is sometimes so low you can touch it, and the wind carries not just the scent of rain, but the memory of seasons gone by. Tired of Doddabetta Peak? These offbeat treks are calling you 1. Parsons Valley – Ooty's Untamed Backyard Hidden deep within the Nilgiris, Parsons Valley is part of a reserved forest — and it feels every bit like nature's private sanctuary. Trekking here is a journey through wild grasslands, silent pine groves, and streams that sparkle in sudden bursts of sunlight. No crowds. No stalls. Just the sound of your boots on wet earth and the occasional call of a Malabar whistling thrush. Permits are required, but that's part of the charm — it keeps the valley untouched. This is the kind of place where you take a deep breath and realize you've been holding it for months. 2. Avalanche Lake Trek – Where the Hills Keep Secrets About 28 km from Ooty town, Avalanche isn't just a lake — it's an entire mood. The trek takes you through rolling meadows, rhododendron groves, and mist-heavy slopes. In monsoon, the lake swells, reflecting a sky that changes shades every minute. Look closely and you'll find wild orchids along the trail. Sit quietly and you might spot a sambar deer grazing in the distance. Here, silence isn't emptiness — it's fullness in disguise. 3. Glenmorgan Trek – The Forgotten Pathway Once known for its old tea estate and a now-defunct ropeway, Glenmorgan remains a lesser-known gem for trekkers. The trail winds through tea plantations, eucalyptus forests, and grassland ridges with panoramic views of the Moyar Valley. When the mist parts, you can see far-off hills blurring into the horizon — a reminder that the world is bigger and calmer than your phone screen suggests. Bring your own snacks; there's no chai shop waiting at the top. But the view? That's your reward. 4. Kotagiri to Kodanad Viewpoint – A Ridge Walk Through Time Kotagiri, Ooty's quieter cousin, hides one of the most scenic ridge treks in the Nilgiris. Starting from the little town, the path leads through vegetable farms, shola patches, and tea gardens before opening up to Kodanad Viewpoint — where the land simply falls away into a dramatic valley. Mornings are best, when clouds are still curled up in the folds of the hills. Stand here long enough, and you'll forget there's a world beyond this ridge. 5. Mukurthi Peak Trek – The Roof of the Nilgiris For the truly adventurous, Mukurthi offers a high-altitude challenge inside the Mukurthi National Park. The trek requires prior permission, but it's worth every bit of paperwork. You'll cross high-altitude grasslands, skirt around crystal-clear streams, and finally stand atop one of the highest peaks in South India — surrounded by views that stretch into Kerala on one side and Tamil Nadu on the other. Up here, the wind has no patience for your worries. Why trek in Ooty's monsoon and post-monsoon? Isn't it risky? Let's reframe that. Monsoon trekking isn't dangerous if you respect the hills. It's magical. The rain transforms everything — the air smells cleaner, the trails feel softer, and the streams sing louder. The hills become more alive than they ever are in summer. Here's what the season gives you that dry months can't: Fewer tourists – The crowds stick to town, leaving the trails to you. Richer colors – Every leaf looks freshly painted. Wildlife sightings – Birds, deer, and even gaur are more active. Cooler weather – Perfect for long walks without breaking into a sweat. Yes, you'll get muddy. That's the point. Practical Tips: How to Trek Like a Local in Ooty Dress smart – Waterproof trekking shoes, quick-dry layers, and a rain jacket. Pack light – A sling bag with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Start early – Mornings are clearer; rain often rolls in by afternoon. Go with a guide – Many trails pass through protected areas. Local guides know the safe routes and the best viewpoints. Respect nature – Leave no litter. Keep noise low. Let the hills keep their peace. The silent economy of Ooty's offbeat trails Every time you choose a hidden trek over a crowded tourist spot, you make a quiet impact: You buy snacks from local tea shops instead of big chains. You reduce pressure on overvisited spots like Doddabetta or Avalanche viewpoint. You show that wild spaces have value — not just for logging or resorts, but for their beauty and biodiversity. Every step on a mossy trail is a small vote for conservation. So what's stopping you? A little mud on your boots? Good. That's how you know you've walked somewhere worth remembering. Somewhere, beyond the bus horns of Ooty town, a fern is uncurling after the rain. A stream is overflowing into a meadow. A shepherd is guiding his flock across a foggy pass. And you could be there — not for a reel, not for a checklist, but for the story. Final Thoughts Don't just visit Ooty. Wander into it. The next time clouds gather over the Nilgiris, don't hide in your hotel. Step out. Take a trail you've never heard of. Walk until your shoes are wet and your pockets smell of eucalyptus. Because the hills don't send invitations. They leave paths. And maybe, just maybe — this time, one of those paths will change you.
Hans India
5 days ago
- Hans India
Gifts That Celebrate the Bond: What to Buy Your Sibling This Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is more than just a ritual—it's a celebration of the lifelong bond you share with your sibling. Whether your brother is the fashion-forward kind or your sister is a glow-getter, finding a gift that's equal parts meaningful and stylish can be a challenge. That's why we've done the work for you. This curated Rakhi gifting guide brings together thoughtful, trend-led picks that go beyond the usual suspects. From grooming essentials and wardrobe upgrades to beauty must-haves, these gifts are guaranteed to bring a smile (and maybe even a happy tear). 1. Lumaè Special Rakhi Hamper For: The Skincare-Obsessed Sibling Celebrate Raksha Bandhan with a thoughtfully curated box of skincare and sweetness. Featuring a deep-cleansing face wash, your choice of a de-tan or anti-pigmentation soap, and a nourishing night cream or rose water toner—plus a festive chocolate treat—it's a gift that shows you care from skin to soul. Price: Rs. 1,200/- Link: 2. ENGYNE's Supima Cotton Lycra Digital Flock Print T-Shirt For: The Brother Who Loves Elevated Basics Crafted from luxurious Supima cotton, this T-shirt brings a fresh twist to everyday style with its innovative digital flock print. The unique texture adds a modern edge, while the ultra-soft, stretchy fabric ensures all-day comfort. Designed with a classic crew neck and a regular fit, it's the perfect balance of effortless and elevated—ideal for those who like their casual wear with a touch of something extra. Price: Rs. 1,499/- Link: 3. PAC Spotlight Radiance Liquid Highlighter For: The Sister Who Loves Her Glow-Up Game Glow like never before with this weightless, high-impact liquid highlighter infused with ultra-fine light-reflecting pearls. It's long-wearing, crease-proof, and blends beautifully with any base—perfect for achieving that soft, luminous finish or a bold glam glow. Available in Gold and Rose Gold to suit all skin tones. Price: Rs. 1,095/- Link- 4. Cantabil's Men's White Casual Medium Checks Half Sleeve Shirt For: The Easygoing Style Icon Discover the perfect blend of comfort and style with this half-sleeve shirt, ideal for everyday wear. Made from breathable fabrics and available in regular and slim fits, it's versatile enough for everything from brunch to weekend getaways. Pair with jeans, chinos, or shorts for a laid-back yet polished look. Price: Rs. 2,599/- Link- 5. Earth Rhythm Restore Hydrating Cream Cleanser For: The Skincare-Loving Sister (or Brother) Who Values Gentle, Effective Care This rich, cream-based cleanser is a game-changer for anyone with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin. Infused with six essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, it gently cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. The non-comedogenic, fragrance-free formula is lightweight, soothing, and cruelty-free—making it perfect for daily use. Expect hydrated, supple, and visibly brighter skin with every wash. Price: Rs. 499/- Link- 6. Esskay Beauty Resources RICA Opuntia Oil for Men- Finishing Balm For: The Clean-Shaven Brother Who Deserves a Calm, Hydrated Finish Rica Men's Finishing Balm is a calming, alcohol-free after-shave treatment formulated to soothe and hydrate the skin. Enriched with Poria fungus extract, Mimosa wax, Sunflower seed oil, and Prickly Pear stem extract, it delivers immediate relief from post-shave redness and irritation. Its light, creamy texture glides on smoothly, nourishing even the most sensitive skin without any greasy for men who seek comfort and care after shaving, this balm helps restore the skin's natural hydrolipidic layer, enhancing moisture retention and overall resilience. To use, apply a small amount to the dry face and neck after shaving, gently massaging until fully absorbed. Ideal for daily use, it leaves the skin feeling calm, soft, and refreshed. Price: Rs 2,650
Mint
6 days ago
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From pet yoga to yogalele, the rise of feel-good wellness experiences
A few years ago, when Chennai-based friends Sinduja Krishnakumar, Subhashree Madhavan and Swathi Renugopal watched Game of Thrones actress Sophie Turner ditch her regular fitness routine for goat yoga, little did they know that it would spark an idea that was literally 'GOAT'. It sure wasn't winter that was coming, instead, it was the story of warmth, bonding and tail-wagging! 'We immediately thought why not combine yoga with dogs, especially the indie shelter ones that don't get a chance to bond with humans," recalls Krishnakumar who along with the other two went on to found Pawga, a pet yoga experience, in 2020. 'We tested the idea for a year before we launched and knew through our research that spending time with animals made humans release endorphins and reduce stress," she adds. The first session went on to become a resounding success and the rest, as they say, is history. 'The vibe was amazing and many people released their bottled-up emotions and relaxed. Even the puppies who were afraid of people were cuddling with the participants, by the end of it. That's when we knew we had done something great," says Krishnakumar whose team, since then, has organised their much-loved puppy yoga sessions across several venues in India to a full house. The trio, however, is not alone in this spirited pivot toward experiential wellness. Be it Van Gogh-themed yoga sessions that combine movement with immersive art; sound healing or water yoga, people are opening up to more forms of fitness nurturing the body, mind and soul in addition to creating joyful memories. Delhi-based entrepreneur and co-founder of Progcap, certified yoga teacher and mother to an infant, Pallavi Shrivastava found a seamless way to merge her love for mindful movement and music through 'yogalele' — a soulful blend of yoga and ukulele that she occasionally shares in intimate, heartfelt sessions. 'It happened quite organically. During the pandemic, I picked up the ukulele as a way to unwind. It brought rhythm and lightness during a heavy time," says Shrivastava. When her friend Christina Fernandes, who runs the Mahalo Ukulele Festival, invited her to lead a yoga session at the festival last year, everything just clicked. 'That's when I realised how beautifully the two practices complemented each other. Music lets us express freely while yoga teaches us to be present. Together, they create a space that's both grounding and joyful – a balance of breath and rhythm, intention and play." SPACES FOR JOYFUL WELLNESS As individuals find creative ways to personalise their wellness journeys, hospitality spaces too are evolving and embracing heart-led practices that are immersive, emotionally uplifting, and rooted in joy. Says Vinesh Gupta, General Manager, The Den Bengaluru, a luxury hotel which hosted a session of Pawga on International Yoga Day, 'Wellness is as much about emotional and mental well-being as it's about physical health. When we came across the concept of Pawga, which combines yoga with adorable and adoptable puppies, it immediately resonated with us. It went beyond the traditional notions of wellness and we partnered with them as part of our commitment to offering wellness experiences that are immersive, joyful, and impactful." For Anoopama Mukerjee Lohana,a spiritualist and wellness entrepreneur who has been practising yoga for over 30 years, any practice that gets one on the mat is a good start. 'Ultimately, what is yoga? Anything that brings balance to your body, breath, mind, emotions, and heart — that is yoga. For someone like Sachin Tendulkar, cricket is yoga," says the COO & experiential wellness director, Siddhayu Wellness Ayurveda, a wilderness wellness experience by Baidyanath in Tadoba and Gothangaon, Maharashtra. 'Everything is allowed in yoga as long as there's a balance. The practice, in its purity, reveals itself over time — how you show up, what you bring to it, shapes what it becomes for you," she adds. That said, she also believes that it's important to approach emerging trends with awareness and authenticity. 'Take trends like beer yoga, for instance — anything done in excess or deprivation is unsustainable. These are fads. What truly holds is something that nourishes your creative spirit, something that endures," she points out. Ultimately, in a wellness landscape buzzing with new ideas, it's clear that while the formats may evolve — from stretches with puppies to strumming a ukulele on the mat — what remains essential is intention. Whether you flow through asanas surrounded by art or find your stillness in silence, if the practice brings you joy, balance, and connection, that's what truly counts. Deepa Natarajan Lobo is an independent journalist based in Bengaluru.
