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News18
5 days ago
- News18
Long Weekend, Big Energy: 5 Trips To Fuel Your Soul
Last Updated: Celebrate mid-year under a different sky and make space for experiences that feel unscripted. Here's how to make the most of three days and nights This August, make the most of the long weekends around Independence Day and Ganesh Chaturthi. Celebrate mid-year under a different sky and make space for experiences that feel unscripted. Here's how to make the most of three days and nights. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Just under an hour from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah is more than meets the eye. Kayak through lush mangroves, explore Al Jazirah Al Hamra, a coral-stone pearling heritage village full of stories, or soak in its spectacular sunsets by its expansive coastline. Looking for high-adrenaline activities, head to Jebel Jais to zip over mountains, wadis, and valleys over the world's longest zipline. Base yourself at Mövenpick Resort on the Al Marjan Island. Enjoy breakfast spread in the privacy of your villa, cocktails at Ula Beach Bar, and swim in the Arabian Gulf, and rooms that frame the sunset perfectly. Why now: 4-hour flights to Dubai, 45 minutes' drive to RAK, e-visa for Indians, special summer deals on hotels Kalkudah Bay, Sri Lanka Sri Lanka's east coast is still under the radar, which makes it perfect for a three-day reset. Stay at Teardrop Hotels' Kalkudah Beach House, a 5-key retreat tucked between coconut palms that offers direct access to the golden shoreline. Swim or snorkel in the mornings, cycle through the village by noon. For culture, explore Batticaloa's lagoon or Dutch Fort by tuk-tuk. By evening, savour crab curries and toddy under the stars. There's no fixed schedule, just a gentle rhythm that lets you do plenty, or very little. Krabi, Thailand Set in the embrace of Krabi's dramatic cliffs and teal waters, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a refined slice of southern Thailand. Start your mornings with yoga by the sea, then hop onto a longtail boat for a day hopping through Hong Island, hidden coves, snorkeling spots, followed by a picnic on white sand. Back at the resort, try Thai cooking class or indulge in a signature massage using herbal compresses. Evenings are all about sunset views from the infinity pool and a relaxed dinner at Lae Lay, starring Andaman prawns and citrusy cocktails. Why now: 6-hour flights via Bangkok to Krabi, fast-track e-visas for Indians (approved in 1–3 days), cool light monsoon air, hotel deals South Western Coast, Qatar Hilton Salwa Beach Resort is an oasis in itself and offers both energy and ease. One minute you are diving into Desert Falls Water & Adventure park, one of the largest in the region, the next, you are enjoying a well-deserved spa session at the award winning eforea Spa, Take a dune-bashing excursion if you are feeling adventurous, or unwind with walk along the marina and conclude the day with a dinner at one of the seven on site restaurants.. The architecture here feels Mediterranean, but with the welcoming spirit of the Gulf, and layered with surprises. Tokyo, Japan Anchor your visit around Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan. Begin with a sweeping view from the Tembo Deck or Galleria. On a clear day, you will even spot Mt. Fuji. At the base, visit Solamachi Mall for hand-dyed kimonos, washi papers, and coffee served kissaten-style. Squeeze in a street food walk through Asakusa, jazz in Shimokitazawa, and a quiet hour at Meiji Shrine. As the sun sets, head back to Skytree's Sky Restaurant 634 for a Franco-Japanese dinner with a view that doesn't need a filter. Wondering where to go? Pick a place that brings you back to yourself and one that doesn't demand plans, just your presence. view comments First Published: August 13, 2025, 08:30 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
29-04-2025
- News18
7 Destinations, One Unforgettable Summer, Endless Family Memories
Last Updated: We have mapped out destinations that promise connection over chaos, stories over schedules, and memories that linger long after the backs are unpacked. Planning a trip with the whole family. We know multi-generational trips can be equal parts magic and mayhem. Moreover, with summer vacations around the corner, we know you are looking for the sweet spot, somewhere between serene and scream-worthy. Which is why we have mapped out destinations that promise connection over chaos, stories over schedules, and memories that linger long after the backs are unpacked. Where Family Adventures Roam Wild The first safari is often one of those long-anticipated holidays in the family travel calendar. It's the kind of holiday you talk for years on return. In addition, often called out as the ideal first-time safari destination, Kenya is a great choice for a family safari, no matter what the age bracket. Let your first introduction to wildlife be at The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, which delivers the perfect family photos as everyone takes turn feeding the towering giraffes. For the real thing, hop on a flight to Laikipia. This lesser visited region is known for its rolling scenery, conservation initiatives, the Big Five, and its trump card – the original inspiration for Lion King's Pride Rock. No minimum age requirements here – you can ask baby Simba – just tailored adventures with junior ranger programs, interactive storytelling, and horseback riding for the family and more. Where Family Journeys Meet Paradise Family vacays that delight everyone are rare treasures, but now with four weekly flights from India, Seychelles masters this delicate balance with its tropical treasures. Once settled in on the main island Mahé – hop on a catamaran ride to Moyenne Island, stopping mid-way for might be the most comfortable underwater experience – a submarine reef safari where everyone from toddlers to grandparents can marvel at the marine life without getting wet! Once on Moyenne, the first introduction will be to the resident giant tortoises, spanning generations themselves – some older than your oldest family member, others just starting their nearly 150-year journey on earth. While the adventure-seekers can snorkel through the waters of St. Anne Marine National Park, others can hike the island's trail for panoramic views and the perfect photo ops that will flood the family chats for months to come. Once reunited on the beach, your uncle that claims to be a good dancer, but has two left feet can attempt to dance to local Sega beats, creating stories that will be the topic of discussion for years to come. Where Family Stories are Steeped Whisk away your family for a quick island escape to Sri Lanka where the journey is suited to everyone's needs across the country's most enchanting landscapes. Check-in to Teardrop Hotels' historic Wallawwa, just outside Colombo, where kids can participate in a traditional kite making class, while the adults enjoy a friendly competition of a Sri Lankan cooking class under the watchful eye of the resident chef. Next head over to Camellia Hills in the central highlands, where the entire family can enjoy their chai pe charcha time with a guided visit to the Tea Leaf Centre. Later, go on a night wilderness walk with the resident naturalist. Your journey ends at Kumu Beach on the tropical southwest coast invites you to slow down and unwind. Here, family members can scatter to their preferred pace – some visiting a traditional Southern puppet museum or a sea turtle conservatory, others simply sway in hammocks to the calming sound of the ocean while the kids enjoy their time by the beach or their infinity pool to take in the magical sunset, as it dips into the Indian Ocean. Where Family Stories are Spiced Thailand has always delivered effortlessly for solo travellers, for honeymooners, for adventurers and even for families. Start your journey in Bangkok, where you and your tribe dig into the city with either chaotic tuk-tuk rides, trying the Skytrains, on foot or by colourful striped longtail riverboat. Alternatively, perhaps all four. After a good introduction to the capital, swap your cityscapes for those of serene mountains of the north. Explore some of the many temples dotted in Chiang Mai that is steeped in history. Head up to Wat Doi Suthep where you can catch the sunset and the best views of the city. Uncover secrets of Thai cuisine with a market tour and cooking class where your family will learn the skills that have been passed down through generations, and now yours too. Weaving through the rolling plantations, end your getaway in misty hills of Chiang Rai where you will be greeted with stunning views of the terraced tea and rice plantations and coffee fields. Where Family Horizons Expand Ras Al Khaimah, with its dramatic backdrop of the Jebel Jais Mountains meeting 68 kilometres of pristine beaches, holds a secret that multigenerational families are just discovering. For an introduction to the history, a trip to the Bassata Desert Village is necessary – where you share stories and meals against orange hued sunsets. For a little bit of adventure, adults and teens can conquer great heights with the Jabel Jais Flight – the world's longest zipline – or race down mountainsides aboard the Jais Sledder. These two person sleds ride a low-level track at what feels like at lightning speed. When days turn into evenings, families can reconnect at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, where private villas and rooms with sea view provide the space families require, yet with resort amenities just steps away. Did we mention it also has the Ras Al Khaimah's biggest floating Water Park that is fully supervised and open to all guests? It is the perfect way to make the most of the warm water and sun-filled days of your family getaway in the Arabian Gulf. Israel is a feast for the mind and senses for all ages. Start your narrative in Jerusalem, uncovering the city's sacred religious sites with expert guides as you wander through the old passageways, hidden springs and underground tunnels that date back to thousands of years. After working up a solid appetite, go on a culinary tour of Mahane Yehuda Market where you will hopefully figure out the age-old debate of which is the best falafel stall there. Head north to the rolling hills of Galilee, where adults can sip their way through the region's wines and indulge in traditional cheese tasting – Cabernet in hand and vineyard views all around – before continuing the journey to Tel Aviv. Wander through the old port town of Jaffa, get lost in the lanes of Neve Tzedek – the oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood in Tel Aviv or join a guided tour of Tel Aviv Museum of Art while the young ones dabble in hands-on workshops. To bring it all together – whether it is a rooftop dinner overlooking the Mediterranean or discovering a tucked-away jazz bar with the crew, the city's electric energy is the perfect finale to a trip that is connected generations through curiosity, flavour, and unforgettable moments. Just a hop, skip, and a short flight away from India, Qatar is the kind of place that makes long weekend getaways feel like an action-packed adventure. Qatar has some of the coolest museums; start by marvelling the National Museum of Qatar, a museum that draws inspiration from the country's history and geology. Here, 11 galleries offers a multi-sensory experience through visuals, sounds, aromas evoking times and even touch. Next head over to the Katara Cultural Village, where galleries, the planetarium, the beach and the performances keep curious minds, young and old, engaged. But Souq Waqif is where generations come together – bargaining for spices, eating at cafes, and getting lost in the maze-like alleys. Let us not forget the plethora of dining options available – from local food markets, casual cafes to fine dining – something for everyone's taste. 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 : destinations Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: April 29, 2025, 07:35 IST News lifestyle » travel 7 Destinations, One Unforgettable Summer, Endless Family Memories
