So you think camping in Scotland or getting those addictive body rubs followed by a dip in the infinity pool at a resort overlooking the Alps is what luxury travel is all about. The Hotel Explorer tells you what you can do right here in India if luxury travel is your thing!
Go Glamping
Oberoi Vanyavilas
Want to experience wildlife camping but can’t give up the frills? Glamping or Glamorous Camping is your answer then. The options? Luxury hospitality company Oberoi world famous for its ‘vilas’ properties that spell royal lifestyle has Vanyavilas in Ranthambore. With its sun-kissed private decks Vanyavilas has made camping sexy. Another glamorous option is Aman Resorts luxe wilderness camp in Ranthambore, Aman-I-Khas. The best season for wildlife spotting is October to May and that’s when you should go glamping.
Wellness Holiday in Mountains
The Khyber, Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg
Swiss spas set amidst Alps have enticed luxury travel fans for long. But with Ananda in the Himalayas, India has proved that we can do Ayurveda and promote wellness in a chic-cum-classy-cum-luxurious way too. Choose a romantic package or just hit this tranquil destination spa with your office buddies. Another wellness address in the hills is Oberoi’s Wildflower Hall in Shimla. Hours of body rubs, some mountain bicycling and jungle walks are sure to rejuvenate any tired soul. Here is a tip from us. Children are not allowed at both these destination wellness resorts (though the age bar varies). So if a family vacation is what you are looking for then go for the Khyber Himalayan Resort in Gulmarg that houses the L’OCCITANE Spa. Located at a height of 8825 feet in the Pir Panjal range, the view from your Jacuzzi is what we call luxury!
The Lake Experience- Maharaja Style
Leela Palace, Udaipur
Now we tell you how to holiday like a king. Yes please Indian king or a Maharaja. Book one of the palace hotels in Udaipur set on the picturesque Lake Pichola. There is Taj Lake Palace, Udaivilas and the Leela Palace. When you will have a butler at your service, a private boat at your beck-and-call and the lake view from your four post bed, you will know how a Maharaja feels. Our tip? Do take a tuk-tuk ride to the local market (yes a luxury tuk-tuk with comfortable pillows) and splurge on Rajasthani paintings, bandej and gemstones.
Tranquil Backwaters of Kerala
The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala
Alright so you have done Kerala. But wait probably you are not done yet with this God’s Own Country if you haven’t meandered through the canals, lakes soaking in the views of the picturesque backwaters cruising on a luxury vessel. The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, is the way to do exactly this! Opt for a two night or a three night journey. The package cost is approximately Rs 50,000. Do try the local delicacies on board. But we suggest if visiting Kerala don’t restrict yourself to the backwaters, spare some more time to stay at an authentic Ayurveda spa like Kairali Resort or Naturoville Vedic Retreat. You could also spend time at a luxury resort like The Lalit Resort and Spa or Zuri in Kumarakom.
