No Schengen? No Boundaries: Your Ultimate India And Beyond Getaway Guide

News18

25-05-2025

Last Updated:
Here's a curated selection of exceptional properties that promise the perfect summer reset, each one offering distinctive experiences, immersive settings, and seamless hospitality.
Just because Europe is momentarily off the cards doesn't mean your summer holiday should be. This season, sidestep visa appointments and long-haul fatigue in favour of spontaneous, sun-drenched escapes that do not require the Schengen visa.
From the golden dunes of Rajasthan and the lush wilderness of Jim Corbett to the coastal tranquillity of Sri Lanka to the cosmopolitan energy of Dubai, these destinations deliver all the indulgence of a summer abroad, minus the red tape.
We have thoughtfully curated a selection of exceptional properties that promise the perfect summer reset, each one offering distinctive experiences, immersive settings, and seamless hospitality.
India
Udaipur Marriott Hotel
Udaipur has added another gem to its crown with the opening of the Udaipur Marriott Hotel—marking the city's first-ever Marriott property. Overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake and set against the Aravalli Hills, the hotel blends regal heritage with modern design.
Inspired by Mewar architecture, the property features hand-painted Pichwai motifs, traditional jharokhas, and a stunning chandelier-crowned staircase. The hotel offers 226 rooms and suites with lake or hill views, plush bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
advetisement
Dining includes Okra, an all-day venue with a live kitchen and alfresco seating; The Greatroom, perfect for coffee or business meetups; Udaipur Baking Co., serving artisanal pastries; and Opal Lounge, offering cocktails in a library-style setting.
Guests can unwind at Quan Spa, enjoy rooftop yoga, and explore the lakeside. The hotel also features a fitness center, poolside leisure, and a Kids Club.
With 65,000 sq. ft. of event space, including a pillarless ballroom and scenic outdoor venues, the hotel is poised to become a premier choice for weddings and celebrations in Udaipur.
Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa
The newly opened Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, nestled on the edge of India's oldest national park. Tucked away in the heart of Uttarakhand's Sal forests and along the banks of the serene Kosi River, the 99-key resort offers a soulful escape into nature without compromising on modern luxuries.
Guests are invited to experience the wonders of the wild—be it through thrilling jungle safaris, guided nature walks, or cultural village tours that celebrate the rich heritage of Kumaon. Each room is a blend of refined elegance and thoughtful design, offering panoramic views of the Malani Hills and river landscape from private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows. The culinary offerings are deeply rooted in the land, with The Corbett Kitchen showcasing local Kumaoni flavours and international fare, while the al fresco Malani Grill provides forest-facing dining under the stars. Sal Bar, inspired by the surrounding woods, is both rustic and refined—perfect for evening conversations over craft cocktails and small plates.
The property is designed to be as rejuvenating as it is adventurous. Guests can relax at the Quan Spa with treatments inspired by Ayurvedic principles or take part in wellness-focused experiences such as yoga sessions by the river and immersive cooking classes with local chefs. Families travelling with children can enjoy dedicated entertainment zones like The Jungle and the Kids Club, while fitness lovers can recharge at the fully equipped gym or enjoy downtime by the pool.
For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, the resort offers 5068 square metres of event space, including Jim Corbett's largest pillarless ballroom and two sprawling lawns with stunning natural backdrops—ideal for weddings, pre-wedding functions, and offsite retreats.
Crowne Plaza Kochi
Crowne Plaza Kochi offers a touch of leisure with panoramic views of backwaters. The hotel offers 269 spacious business rooms and suites with excellent views of the backwaters and the city. A variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces that can accommodate up to 900 people, all within a tranquil waterfront setting, makes Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred international brand for business, leisure and events. The below mentioned aspects of the property set it apart from others:
Advertisement
Sohum Spa
Sohum Spa is one of the largest hotel spas in Kerala, with a dedicated area of 25,000 sq. ft. The facilities include a beautiful reception with lobby, outdoor relaxation area with a tropical garden and water bodies, private relaxation lounge, consultation room, seven therapy suites of which three are dedicated to Ayurvedic therapies and treatments, three to western and oriental therapies and one is a couples suite with Jacuzzi.
Skygrill
A rooftop restaurant, Skygrill is known for its unparalleled ambiance and delicious barbecues and grills with an exhaustive menu of beverages.
Holiday Inn Resort Goa
Holiday Inn Resort located at Mobor Beach, Cavelossim, in South Goa, overlooks the Arabian Sea. This Mediterranean-inspired resort with its direct access to the beach is as enchanting as it is unique. The resort is ideally located for a relaxing and fun filled vacation in Goa. It offers spacious rooms with balconies that open up to majestic views of the Arabian Sea and landscaped gardens. Holiday Inn Resort Goa can be the perfect destination for a monsoon getaway with family if one is looking for the following:
Fine Dine Restaurants
advetisement
Within the luxurious resort, indulge the finest nuances of Indian and international cuisines, including the 24-hour Zest Cafe and Kitchen, which specializes in Indian and Global cuisine.
The Beach Grill is the perfect restaurant for those lazy beach sunsets. At The Fig and Olive, one can indulge in Mediterranean Classics, and sundowner lounge, with awe-inspiring views over-looking the pool and gorgeous landscaped gardens, over cocktails. Some romantic private dining options are available as well on demand.
Indulge in a relaxing evening
Guests can enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating experience by the pool, or de-stress, and soothe their city-frayed nerves with rejuvenating therapies at the Spa Villa. Created to escape the pressures and stress of the everyday world this tranquil spa setting is perfect to indulge guests' senses and achieve serenity with amenities ranging from massage, sauna, and steam bathing. One can choose from one of many ayurvedic treatments in a traditional environment aesthetically designed.
Destination Monsoon Weddings
advetisement
The resort offers indoor and outdoor venues, including the Ballroom, which is one of the largest pillar-less banquet halls in Goa at 5,068 sq ft with 1,26,000 sq ft of lawns which can be sectioned off as required, absolutely ideal for romantic destination weddings.
Six Senses Fort Barwara
Nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, Six Senses Fort Barwara is a 14th-century fort thoughtfully restored into a luxurious sanctuary of wellness and heritage. Overlooking the sacred Chauth ka Barwara Mandir, the all-suite resort seamlessly blends regal Rajasthani architecture with contemporary design and the brand's deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and holistic living. From tranquil private courtyards and suites with sweeping views to the immersive spa housed within original palace walls, the property offers a serene escape into mindful luxury.
This summer, the resort invites guests on a five-night wellness immersion curated to align with the cooling and restorative rhythms of the season. Designed to nurture the body, calm the mind, and awaken the senses, the journey includes a 45-minute Ayurvedic consultation, twice-per-stay Takradhara treatments, Abhyanga massages, a Rasayana detox body wrap, and a deeply rejuvenating facial. Daily rituals feature breathwork, yoga and meditation sessions, labyrinth walks, sound healing with crystal bowls, and the resort's signature Alchemy Bar experience. Guests enjoy daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner at The Cortile, with menus focused on nourishing, seasonal ingredients. A private Aarti at the ancient temple completes the experience, offering a moment of quiet spiritual connection in an extraordinary setting. Ideal for those seeking a complete reset, this retreat is a return to inner balance amidst timeless surroundings.
InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road
Nestled in Jaipur's verdant landscape, InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road is conveniently located near Jaipur International Airport, connected to Delhi Mumbai Expressway, facing Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre. With 218 spacious rooms and 51,000 sq. ft. of banqueting space, the hotel has a timeless beauty and provides magnificent views of the greenbelt. Rejuvenate in the spa, take a dip in the open-air pool or relish the authentic culinary scene in our speciality restaurants.
voco Jim Corbett
India welcomed its First voco with the opening of voco Jim Corbett, marking IHG Hotels & Resorts' sixth brand debut in the country. Located in the heart of Uttarakhand's Dhikuli region, the property spans 13.5 acres along the Kosi River and offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush forests and natural beauty.
Voco Jim Corbett reflects the brand's signature hallmarks – 'come on in,' 'me time,' and 'voco life' – through relaxed settings that encourage connection and downtime. The resort features thoughtfully designed guest rooms with scenic views, an all-day dining restaurant, and an alfresco eatery overlooking the river.
The Tattva spa in the resort presents a range of treatments and therapies that draw inspiration from ancient healing techniques and modern wellness practices. Apart from the Jungle Safari which Jim Corbett is known for, voco also offers mountain drive, taking you through the beautiful landscape of Jim Corbett, allowing you to soak in the nature. River rafting at Kosi River is another key offering at the resort, and it is truly one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy the speedy waters at Corbett.
Another exciting way for you to enjoy the scenic views of Jim Corbett is through the hilltop dinner, where you get to indulge in food cooked by the locals of the city, allowing you to enjoy authentic local food. However, if a hilltop dinner does not excite you then you can end your day by indulging in a privately curated BBQ night featuring the freshest ingredients and a private chef at your service. Unwind and enjoy complimentary karaoke, combining delicious food, expertly crafted cocktails, with fun entertainment for a perfect night.
Additionally, for those who appreciate the beauty of the night sky, stargazing is one of the resort's must-try experiences. Set in the serene surroundings of Jim Corbett, it offers a peaceful opportunity to observe the stars and constellations, making for a truly magical experience under the open sky.
International
Thailand
InterContinental Phuket Resort
Located along the pristine Kamala Beach, InterContinental Phuket Resort is a stunning retreat offering a seamless blend of Thai heritage and contemporary elegance. Set against a backdrop of jungle-covered hills and the Andaman Sea, the resort features luxurious beachfront villas, infinity pools, and the award-winning Sati Spa. The hotel's signature dining experience, Jaras, showcases authentic Thai flavors with a modern twist.
Kimpton Kitalay Samui
Located on the serene Choeng Mon Beach, Kimpton Kitalay Samui is a luxury oceanfront resort that captures the romantic allure of a traditional fishing village. The resort features 138 rooms, suites, and villas, each offering open-plan layouts with large terraces, many with direct access to swimming pools and sea views. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, five on-property restaurants, daily yoga and fitness classes, and a full-service spa.
Sri Lanka
Cinnamon Life: The Ultimate Summer Getaway in Colombo
Located in the heart of Colombo, Cinnamon Life is South Asia's largest integrated resort and Sri Lanka's most ambitious hospitality and lifestyle venture. Often referred to as the 'City of Dreams," Cinnamon Life is more than a hotel—it is a destination in itself.
Conceptualized by internationally acclaimed architect Cecil Balmond, the resort stands as a bold architectural marvel on the Colombo skyline and is home to 687 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites. Guests can indulge in a vibrant gastronomic journey across its 12 eclectic restaurants and bars, unwind at the expansive Kurundu Wellness Spa, or soak in sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake from its striking infinity pool.
With over 160,000 square feet of event space, the resort also caters to destination weddings, large-scale corporate events, and intimate celebrations. Its central location makes it ideal for guests looking to explore Colombo's cultural hotspots, contemporary art, shopping, and nightlife—all while returning to a space that defines comfort and world-class hospitality.
Tailor-made for the discerning Indian traveller, Cinnamon Life brings together opulence, culinary exploration, and authentic Sri Lankan warmth, making it the perfect choice for a stylish city break or long weekend escape just a short flight away.
Malaysia
Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City
Situated just 27 km from Penang International Airport, Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City is the perfect stay for travelers looking for comfort with a touch of sophistication. Offering modern rooms, meeting spaces, and easy access to George Town, the hotel caters to both business and leisure guests. The rooftop dining experience with views of the skyline makes for an unforgettable evening.
Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park
Overlooking the picturesque Bukit Nanas and adjacent to the KL Forest Eco Park, the only remaining tropical rainforest in central Kuala Lumpur – Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park offers a unique urban oasis experience. The 180-room hotel seamlessly blends modern amenities with local cultural nuances, providing guests with stylish accommodations and easy access to the city's historic streets.
Vietnam
InterContinental Grand Ho Tram
Overlooking the South China Sea, InterContinental Grand Ho Tram is an expansive retreat featuring elegantly designed suites, a casino, an 18-hole golf course designed by Greg Norman, and multiple dining options. The resort is a perfect fusion of upscale leisure and entertainment, ideal for those looking for a refined yet lively getaway.
voco Ma Belle Danang
Located just steps away from My Khe Beach, voco Ma Belle Danang offers modern, stylish accommodations with a playful twist. The rooftop infinity pool, spa, and ocean-view rooms make it a favorite among travelers looking for a vibrant yet easygoing beachside stay. Its location provides convenient access to Da Nang's bustling food scene and cultural landmarks.
Dubai
InterContinental Dubai Marina
top videos
View All
Nestled in the heart of Dubai Marina with unparalleled views across the waterfront, InterContinental Dubai Marina hotel and residences place you minutes from the Jumeirah Beach and the Dubai Tram, which connects you to the city's entertainment precincts. InterContinental Dubai Marina welcomes you to experience a world-class stay with adaptable event spaces, a fitness centre, a luxurious spa, and a captivating pool — making the hotel an ultimate destination.
The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!
tags :
Air Travel Bali Travel cnn-news18 Domestic Travel eco-friendly travel foreign travel india travel Indian Travellers latest news lifestyle news18
Location :
New Delhi, India, India
First Published:
May 25, 2025, 19:41 IST
News lifestyle » travel No Schengen? No Boundaries: Your Ultimate India And Beyond Getaway Guide