Qianjiangyuan is part of the Qian Jiang Yuan National Park Administration, which oversees the area’s preservation efforts. The park, known for its quiet valleys, clear mountain streams, and breathtaking waterfalls, offers a serene environment ideal for forest bathing—a practice that involves immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest to promote physical and mental well-being.

The region is home to a unique subtropical low-altitude evergreen broad-leaved forest, which sits between areas of grassland vegetation. This diverse landscape supports over 2,200 species of higher plants, more than 440 species of large fungi, and over 2,400 animal species. Among these is the black muntjac, a rare deer species that rivals the giant panda in terms of rarity, further emphasizing the importance of the area’s conservation.

Qianjiangyuan is a natural treasure and a hub for nature education. The Science Museum of Qian Jiang Yuan National Park provides visitors with insights into the region’s ecological significance, while the Kaihua Dark-Sky Park Astronomy Museum offrs a unique opportunity to explore the stars in one of the darkest and most pristine night skies in China. Whether you’re drawn by the opportunity to witness rare species or simply to enjoy the peace and sernity of this unique ecosystem, Qian Jiang Yuan offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of Eastern China. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Aug 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Qianjiangyuan — China’s Amazon Rainforest: Perfect for Forest Bathing first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Pulau Rawa (Rawa Island)

Pulau Rawa, a speck of land on Johor’s east coast, is a jewel in the Malaysian Archipelago. This island, with ties to the Johor Royal family, is a local favourite. Imagine stepping onto the white sandy beaches of Pulau Rawa, where the gentle waves kiss your feet and the tropical breeze caresses your skin. On one side, the beach stretches out like a pristine canvas, while on the other, rugged cliffs stand as silent sentinels against the azure sky. In the middle, a tropical jungle creates a serene oasis, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers.

The warm, crystal-clear waters surrounding Pulau Rawa invite you to take a refreshing dip. As you snorkel or scuba dive, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. The sight of colourful fish darting among the coral reefs is mesmerizing. You can explore this aquatic paradise safely with a guide to navigate the strong currents. Pulau Rawa is also home to majestic Malayan sea eagles, adding a touch of wildlife excitement to your adventure.

The white sandy beaches of Rawa Island, image by H-AB Photography, shutterstock

Pulau Rawa, image by Bon04, shutterstock

Being within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, the island’s diverse natural beauty, both above and below water, makes it a must-visit for those seeking a serene yet adventurous escape.

Pulau Besar (Besar Island)

Pulau Besar is just south of Pulau Rawa, a larger yet equally captivating island. Most of Pulau Besar remains undeveloped, preserving its pristine natural beauty. Picture yourself trekking through dense jungle trails, surrounded by the symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves. The island’s coastline blends sandy beaches and rocky outcrops, creating hidden coves accessible only by kayak or small boat.

Pulau Besar island, image by drshahrinmdayob, shutterstock

Pulau Besar embodies the essence of barefoot luxury. Imagine lounging on a secluded beach, the soft sand between your toes and the gentle sound of waves lulling you into relaxation. This island offers simple living with a high emphasis on the environment. Snorkelling and scuba diving reveal an underwater paradise, with coral reefs bustling with diverse marine life. The warm South China Sea waters embrace you as you explore snorkel sites like Monkey Bay, Coral Bay, and Teluk Dalam, where the depths vary from shallow to deep, making it perfect for novice and experienced snorkelers.

Read More: Eastern & Oriental Express: A Journey Through Malaysia

Jungle trekking on Pulau Besar is an adventure in itself. Winding trails lead you through lush forests, past tiny waterfalls and natural pools. Each step brings you closer to nature, offering a refreshing escape into the island’s verdant heart. Pulau Besar provides a mini Malaysian nature escape where you can genuinely connect with the natural world.

Pulau Tioman (Tioman Island)

Pulau Tioman, more prominent and further out to sea than Pulau Rawa and Pulau Besar, has been a favourite local escape for decades. Despite recent infrastructure developments, the island retains its authentic charm. Imagine a morning hike through ancient rainforests, the air filled with the earthy scent of wet leaves and the distant call of exotic birds. As you emerge from the jungle, a pristine beach stretches before you, the golden sand meeting the turquoise sea in a breathtaking embrace.

Tioman offers a perfect blend of jungle escapades and beach getaways, making it a versatile destination for all types of travellers. The island is predominantly covered in ancient rainforests, with a few long stretches of golden beaches inviting you to unwind. Diving and surfing in the island’s surrounding waters reveal vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Being part of the Tioman Island Marine Park ensures that the natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

The ever beautiful Tioman Island, image by aksenovden, shutterstock

Coral reefs at Pulau Tioman, Image by Norhayati, shutterstock

Tioman’s charm lies in its simplicity. Picture yourself wandering through quaint village streets, where friendly locals greet you with warm smiles (and offer you economical diving packages only the way!). The island’s laid-back vibe invites you to slow down, savour each moment, and immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of this idyllic destination. Most visitors come for 2-3 days, but to truly experience the island’s magic, consider staying for a fortnight. The rich biodiversity and tranquil environment make it a haven for nature lovers, where every day is a new adventure waiting to be discovered.

Read More: 9 Luxe Eco-Friendly Resorts In Malaysia For A Guilt Free Getaway

These three islands, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Besar, and Pulau Tioman, offer a unique and rustic escape from the mainland’s busy life. Each island has its own personality and charm, providing visitors various experiences, from adventurous water activities to peaceful jungle retreats. The simplicity and tranquillity of island life, combined with the stunning natural beauty, make these lesser-known islands in Malaysia genuinely worth discovering. ◼

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© This article was first published online in July 2024 – World Travel Magazine.

The post 3 Dreamy Island Getaways in Malaysia Only Locals Know first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Alleyways and architecture

In Jodhpur’s lanes, rickshaw drivers and bikes rush to their next destination, accompanied by flocks of pigeons. Tiny courtyards breathe a more peaceful air, a blue serenity that’s rarely found on the main streets of Jodhpur. Here’s where chai vendors sell their milky delights and shoe polishers carefully brush leathery footgear. Certain houses in Jodhpur’s used to be decorated with indigo paste because priests of the Brahmin caste lived there. These days many more buildings are covered in blue, providing cooler air while dispersing the afternoon glow that makes every living creature simmer away in ‘Sun City’.

Traditional blue windows and wall in Blue City Jodhpur

Interior of Mehrangarh Fort by Don Mammoser

During a private tour through Jodhpur, one gets to see the lively pathways and serene yards, but also spectacular pieces of architecture. One specific sight that’s hard to miss is the majestically Mehrangarh Fort. Overlooking the entire blue oasis at its feet, this 17th-century stronghold is the icon of this ancient city. Brave souls can choose to see the fortress and its surrounding from above. An adrenaline pumping network of zip lines connects several towers and walls of the ancient fortification, providing a birds-eye view of Jodhpur.

Old man smoking water pipe by Mark52

Flying through the air or with both feet on the ground; the guide will provide all information concerning the halls, staircases and rooms and their former inhabitants. In this jewel in Jodhpur’s crown, you’ll follow in the footsteps of mighty rulers and medieval princesses. Seven of the maharajas built their own entrance gate, giving the visitor a choice of where to enter the magnificent fortress. Black kites circulating high in the sky have replaced the traditional royal guards, keeping an eye on Mehrangarh Fort.

Celebrate the Makar Sankranti festival

During Makar Sankranti, the amount of kites in the blazing atmosphere is drastically multiplied. But rather than the birds of prey, this festival revolves around plastic or paper playthings on an invisible string for three days in a row. Makar Sankranti is celebrated every year starting on January 14 and is one of India’s few festivals dedicated to Surya, the god of the sun. Showing gratitude for the harvest in the year that’s behind, the locals send kites and lampions towards the sun. In Jodhpur, the festivities are also held at the Polo Ground.
Scenes of the silhouette of Mehrangarh Fort and the illuminated lampions trying to chase the setting sun will be printed in the visitors’ memories.

Explore the Mandore Gardens

Between the lanes of Jodhpur and the deserted ghost town Mandore lies only ten miles, but the surreal difference in experience seems to tell a time travelling story. Mandore housed the thrones of many kings, but after the construction of an elevated fortress further south, the city lost its once noble purpose. Jodhpur became the most important metropolis in the region, and the citizens of Mandore left their previously beloved capital leaving nothing but silent witnesses. Lovers of royal Indian architecture will bask in the ruins of the Mandore Gardens, the evidence of a glorious king’s residence.

Umaid Bhawan Palace is today a large luxury hotel by Stefano Barzellotti

Excursions around Jodhpur

The pattern of rolling sand dunes around Osian ranges beyond anyone’s perception. A sandy ocean called the Thar Desert covers a large part of Rajasthan, including this old town 45 miles north of Jodhpur. It is believed that the people of Osian got converted to Jainism, given the sculptures and shrines enclosed in the city walls. Exploring the stairs, arches and delicate shrines of this sacred well in the desert awakens the fantasy of every traveller without any effort. The imagination might wander off to past times when the kingdom of Marwar reigned in this part of Rajasthan. One of the most exciting ways to explore the vast emptiness of the Thar Desert around town is on the back of a camel. Go for a ride just before sunset, when the sand dunes blush in the lowering sun. In case the appetite increases on arrival, a traditional Marwari style dinner will be served while the last daylight proceeds to the other side of the globe. Private tours that include a traditional meal can be arranged in Jodhpur as well.

Stay overnight in Jodhpur

The Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel used to be the residency of the former Jodhpur royal family. The 4,850 square feet Maharani Suite makes the guest feel like a monarch indeed. A pink bathtub made from Italian marble, a private yoga room and 24-hour in-room dining are just a few of the superior amenities.

Getting to Jodhpur

Jodhpur’s domestic airport is located a mere 5 kilometres from the city centre. The Jodhpur Airport (JDH) is well-connected to other major cities in India, including Delhi and Mumbai, and you’re likely to find multiple flights from Air India and Jet Airways arriving daily.
For the more scenic route, head to Jodhpur by a luxury train. The historic Palace on Wheels, an ultra-luxurious train service that travels through India, offers routes that depart from New Delhi and makes a stop at Jodhpur. Regular express trains also frequently depart train terminals in New Delhi and Mumbai. ◼
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© This article was first published in Dec-Jan 2019 edition of World Travel Magazine.
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The post Discover Jodhpur, India’s Stunning Blue City first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Myanmar’s stunning Mergui archipelago

Awei Pila prides itself in its unique brand of sustainable luxury. Each of its 24 tented villas strives to integrate itself into islands untouched beauty, taking design cues from the natives’ nomadic seafaring lifestyle – the Moken only come ashore to live during the monsoon season, building their homes out of light, tented structures.

Awei Pila’s arching pool

One of Awei Pila’s airconditioned tents

So uncharted is the island that it is believed that there several undiscovered beaches remain on Pila. Strict regulations on the use of plastics and pollutions in Awei Pila also help the island maintain its otherworldly aura, and the resort offers numerous nature experiences – including trekking tours and snorkelling – to help guests understand the surrounding ecosystem more. aweipila.com ◼

(Last edited: 15 Jan 2019)
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© This article was first published online in Nov 2018 – World Travel Magazine.
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Founded in London in 1995 for mavens of the creative industry, Soho House has grown to have outposts in major metropolises around the world, including in Istanbul, Barcelona, the UK – and now, Mumbai. Each House is designed distinctively for the city that it resides in, and in the newly opened Mumbai outpost, things are no different.

Main Members’ Space- Dinning Area- 8th Floor

Main Members’ Space- Lounge Area- 8th Floor

Main Members’ Space- Bar Area- 8th Floor

Situated in an 11-storey townhouse in Juhu with 38 bedrooms, the Soho House Mumbai offers 38 bedrooms for hotel guests, a rooftop bar and pool, as well as two restaurants on the ground floor for visitors, Cecconi’s Mumbai and The Allis. The rest of the building is restricted to members-only: that includes an exclusive lounge area and a state-of-the-art screening room.

Soho House Mumbai Ground Floor- The Allis

Soho House Mumbai Rooftop- Bar View

Every room recalls elements from Indian culture and design, including sisal carpets, lampshades draped in sari fabric, and meticulous woven-cane furniture. Much of the fittings in the new Soho House Mumbai are locally sourced, some vintage, some custom-made for the property.

Soho House Mumbai – Eva Room- Events Room, 1st Floor

Soho House Mumbai Big Bedroom

Cinema on the 1st Floor

Founder Nick Jones noted that visiting any Soho House around the world allows members to experience the locality of the area, and to feel like they are part of an established local community, rather than to feel like a tourist in a foreign country.

Jones said that one of Soho House’s main aims was to create a welcoming home away from home for its international community of creatives – and judging by the luscious balconies, homey rooms and swaying palm trees that line the beachfront Soho House Mumbai, we’d say he’s hit the mark. www.sohohousemumbai.com ◼
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© This article was first published online in Nov 2018 – World Travel Magazine.
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The post Toast to views of the Arabian sea at the newest entrant in Mumbai first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Shanghai for the late Anthony Bourdain meant two culinary obsessions, namely soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) and noodles. Unfortunately the famous Nanxiang version featured in Parts Unknown has succumbed to the tourist hordes. Instead Lost Plate takes you to a shop off Changle lu.

Behind a glass window a young chef dexterously wraps pork dumplings. “There are three important things with xiaolongbao. First the size – they should be bite size. Then there is the delicacy a good one has 20 pleats whereas many street vendor versions only have 10. Thirdly the soup should be light coloured. If it is dark they have added soy sauce and sugar because they are not confident of the taste” says Nick Zhang, guide and manager Lost Plate, Shanghai.

Xiaolongbao makes for an excellent appetiser until the next stop, one sure to have met with Bourdain’s approval. Ducking down a lilong (alleyway) of old shikumen buildings the tour enters the Yu family’s front room. Waiting on the lazy Susan are fried rice and a cold dish of cucumbers in sweetened vinegar. Soon they are joined by the piece de resistance glistening plates of sliced hongshaorou pork. Yu cooks the quintessential Shanghai dish the old way – a method that takes much of the day and where the sauce is added only at the end. The result is pork that melts in your mouth with little hint of all the fat of the cut. Strictly invite only the Yus, former government officials, first opened their home six years ago. Like with many old style buildings Mr Yu cooks in an open kitchen around the back.

Crossing Huai Hai Central Road the groups call in on what was one of the first private restaurants in Shanghai after China opened up. Run by the same family for over twenty years it looks as if not much has changed during that time, and why indeed change when the food is this good? Most of the tables are conversing in the local dialect and not only is the menu here in Chinese but you also have to write down your order making it near inaccessible for outsiders. Food is a modern interpretation of Shanghai style. There is marinated beef covering baby bok choy with a raw egg on top, morning glory (water spinach) with a fermented soybean sauce, and finally deep fried winter melon chips.

Noodles were a solitary affair for Bourdain and given the comfort food reputation of scallion oil noodles many Shanghainese would agree. In a tiny shop just off the main shopping street noodles come topped with caramelised green onions harbouring tiny piece of pork which are then mixed. The experience is all about the food, Bourdain would have loved it. ◼

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© This article was first published in Oct-Nov 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

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The post Discovering Bourdain’s Lost Shanghai first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”At Fort Bazaar on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, an earthy interpretation of luxury takes one back in time.”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]

Does nostalgia end up having far too easy a way with me? I suppose there’s a ring of truth to this. I’ve been compelled by the textures of the past, from ever since I can remember. My bureau of travels and writings lies tinged with the fabric and the fragrances of times gone by, my navigational compass automatically attuned towards horizons and desires drenched in vintage. Perhaps it’s a sense of longing that lies at the heart of this, the need to hold on to things and places and people often already gone.

But in the courtyard of Fort Bazaar – the Teardrop Hospitality Group’s white-accented star, I’m finding an undeniable affirmation to my love affair with wistfulness. This tango with the past has landed me, yet again, smack dab in the heart of something special. I’m in the coastal gem of Galle for an encounter with relaxation and resonance. Fortune and good judgement having played their parts, Fort Bazaar is my home for the next three nights. This is the sort of address with which I’m preconditioned to forming an immediate connection.

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First built by the Portuguese in 1588 and fortified by the Dutch in the late 17th-Century, Sri Lanka’s best-preserved colonial township is now purveyor of all things hip and boutique on the island

I feel a palpable buzz to my new home. It revels in the white and lime green timbre of its colour palette; it comes to life in the lilting cadence of a courtyard dappled with divans, lamps that flicker with nonchalance come nightfall, a sprinkling of red tables and chairs, and an air of serenity that compels writers to reach for their pens; and it sparkles in the communal vibe of its mainstay – the Church Street Social Restaurant & Bar – which, being accessible from the main road, is everyone’s entry point to the property. There is a quiet grace to everything I’m coming across. This is an interpretation of luxury that believes in holding back, rather than showing off.

Location-wise, this couldn’t have worked out better. Galle is a town filled with customary hustle and bustle, but the Galle Fort – also known as the Rampart of Galle – is a treasure-trove of bohemian charm that cradles the town on its southern tip. First built by the Portuguese in 1588 and fortified by the Dutch in the late 17th-Century, Sri Lanka’s best-preserved colonial township is now purveyor of all things hip and boutique on the island. There are bars that play a bit of jazz, there are family-run Sri Lankan restaurants that serve spice and heritage with every spoonful, there are homegrown fashion labels that pour on the ethnic swagger, there are bistros that hint at the area’s long-ago heritage, and there are poster shops that offer up the perfect island memento or an homage to a nearby homeland in the form of vintage Bollywood posters.

Given my hotel’s location on Church Street, all these lie within walking distance; most of them, in fact, are an aimless amble away. I pick up a poster dappled in moonlight and the area’s defining lighthouse at Stick No Bills; I head for a vodka martini to the Amangalla; I pick up some shirts and fabric from Odel; Exotic Roots welcomes me with its Pandora’s Box of trinkets and art; Fortaleza bids me farewell after feeding me with seafood brought in that morning from the tides; The Kitchen serves up pasta in an alfresco setting kissed by ocean breeze; while my fondness for quirk and a touch of whimsy are sated at the Three By TPV boutique (on the deliciously named Leyn Baan Street). Around every corner, I feel I’m walking into a confluence of old Goa meets unapologetically unanchored Riviera… ripe with the intoxication of Bohemia, blessed by the indulgences of a maritime vibe.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Galle’s outlying beaches are their best at dawn

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Amidst conversations and laughter, amidst deep discussions and light-hearted flirtation, I duck in and out of a bouquet of pleasures. Each night ends with much drunken revelry and friendships forged. Sunsets are cherished at the Galle Lighthouse, which casts a faraway eye on the ocean beyond; fresh coconut water is partaken of on early mornings from a parade of shacks lining one of the Fort’s ramparts. Sri Lanka was once known as Serendib; as serendipity would have it, I run into friends of friends who colour this experience with their accounts of Sri Lanka. My connection with the address grows a notch deeper.

From among its 18 rooms, my Bazaar Bedroom delivers uninterrupted views of a courtyard I’m much in love with – its trees, divans of cane and white wood, curios plucked from Sri Lanka’s wealth of homegrown artistry, and candlelight that frolics in the night breeze are the stuff of poetry and memoirs. Fitzgerald would’ve loved the place, I note to myself. My room’s lime green countenance houses a queen-size bed of old wood, a bathroom with a sun-light that floods its granite form with brightness, and even a retro telephone, all of which compel you to accept the past without much protest.

I’m made privy to the property’s other rooms as well: the Banyan Bedroom with its private verandah; the Upper Suite that looks out over the Fort from a private balcony; and finally, an Upper Family Suite with its additional bedroom. Fort Bazaar’s devotion to hospitality doesn’t falter at any stage; all rooms come inclusive of breakfast, mini bar soft drinks, afternoon tea, and evening mocktails.

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Healthy, seasonal produce forms the bistro’s main philosophy

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]In this boutique townhouse hotel, I find my senses and my literary proclivities being nourished with a restrained sense of grace. I head to the upper level library whenever the mood, or a phrase, takes me, and find myself consumed by its lush green setting; the Z Spa enhances my sense of languor to perfection by pampering me with a bouquet of luxurious treatments and therapies, including a collection of signature massages, each administered via homegrown red, green, pink, and black tea-blended Ophir products.

Teardrop’s hospitality legacy in Sri Lanka extends wider to some of the most compelling small boutique hotels on the island. It’s this schooling in the art of the small hotel that delivers courtesy, warmth, and respect each time I interact with Fort Bazaar’s staff.

Galle is a town filled with customary hustle and bustle, but the Galle Fort – also known as the Rampart of Galle – is a treasure-trove of bohemian charm, as witnessed at the Odel flagship

The only time the service ethic slips is at the Church Street Social Restaurant & Bar (the latter currently sans alcohol, serving more as a café). My companions and I have placed our lunch orders 35 minutes ago, and there’s no sign of a single plate or piece of cutlery, leave alone the food. “This is how things are right now in Sri Lankan hospitality,” a local friend tells me. “Good waiting staff keeps getting poached on rote.” When the food does arrive, most of it is worthy of the wait – including a Chicken Caesar where the poultry has been replaced by the dark sizzle of crisply grilled prawns.

Rustic family-style sharing platters of charcuterie and cheese, lagoon crab salad, and the mélange of Sri Lankan and Asian fusion cuisine have managed to rescue the hotel’s flagship restaurant from its island-like slumber

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Island life idles by from one of Galle Fort’s many cafes

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Galle, and this address, continues to leave its mark on me. I soak up atmosphere within the Fort’s centuries old walls; I savour the minutiae of Sri Lankan hospitality; scones and high tea at the verandah hit just the spot at 4, as the world idles by. It’s at the verandah café that I sit as I write this to you. The thoroughfare in front of me is eliciting notes of sepia from the air. Light and life stream though the open arches. An old jazz record plays away. Once home to a merchant who dealt in spices and tea, Fort Bazaar has ended up adding an indelible fragrance to my journeys. Nostalgia, wouldn’t you know it, remains the headiest of affairs. ◼

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© This article was first published in Aug-Sept 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

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The post A Teardrop From Serendib first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Beautiful vistas along the quaint hilly roads of Munnar

Southern India offers rich diversity to its visitors all through the year including the winter months of December and January. With its salubrious climate and breathtaking locales, one needs to look no further for an exclusive holiday. Undoubtedly, a lot is there in store for the eager traveller.

Scenic drive along Munnar Thekkady

Scenic drives

Rated among the top 10 drives in the world, the drive from Munnar to Thekkady is a journey that wholly justifies its rating. This drive, roughly around 90 km, is to be experienced to believe. The sheer beauty of nature that travels alongside you as you eat up the miles is sure to compel you to stop ever so often to soak in the scenes.

Tea plantations in Munnar

From tea plantations and cardamom estates to beautiful hills and waterfalls, there’s indeed a lot to enchant you. Another beautiful drive is from Bangalore in Karnataka to Masinagudi, stretching over 225 km. With the forest areas of Mudumalai and Bandipur on the route, you have a good chance to encounter wild elephants on the way. It does not matter if you do not have a destination in mind; it is the journey that will enchant you all through. Feasting your eyes on the greenery along the way, taking in the splendour of nature, savouring the occasional glimpses of wildlife as you traverse the route, these are drives that will rejuvenate you inside out.

Sarovaram Ayurvedic Health Center

Ayurveda

A relaxing massage, oil bath, therapeutic massage, and the likes are the hallmark of Kerala and to a large extent in Karnataka as well. Some of the most exclusive ayurvedic retreats are to be found in this part of Southern India. To have your daily stresses and worries eased out in the hands of trained staff and having oil massages tailored to your needs is the ultimate lure for your winter holiday in South India.

Ayurveda rejuvenation therapy in Kerala

Some of the most luxurious and prominent resorts are located along the seas and their sole objective is to pamper your senses with various medicinal as well as relaxing massages and packs. Experience the sublime and retreat to a world of utter indulgence while having the cares of daily life expunged from your system.

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Unusual temples and palaces

South India is characterised by a typical architectural style for its temples known as gopurams. All major temples are built on this pattern. There are, however, some offbeat and exemplary architectural instances that stand out for their unique styles. Away from the humdrum, standing in their own majestic splendour are some of the lesser known but more exquisite temples and palaces in this region of India.

The Padmanabhapuram Palace is one such in Kerala. It is famous for its intricate woodwork and breathtaking finesse and detail. Halebidu and Pattadakal temples vie for attention in Karnataka, steeped in history and reflecting the cultural richness of a bygone era.

Padmanabhapuram Palace’s ornate gate

These temples will appeal to your aesthetics for the sheer artistry and carvings on display, more than perhaps the accent on the religious aspect.

Beautiful and serene backwaters of Kerala

Exotic beaches and backwaters

Rippling seawaters in every imaginable shade of blue and green, sun-kissed and adorned by generous groves of coconut palms, lapping waves and the serene calm of backwaters, a lazy dusk colouring the same waters a vivid red as you savour a sundowner by the waters while coconut fronds provide a beautiful backdrop- could there be anything more idyllic? Known for backwaters that rival the best in the world, Valiyaparamba and Kumarakom in Kerala beckon with their pristine beauty.

Its the simple life at its best on a boathouse in Alleppey

You need just to reach these places and let go, sit back and relax in a setting that has all the ingredients to pamper every one of your senses to the maximum.  Complementing the calm backwaters are the countless number of beaches dotting the coastline of Kerala and Karnataka that can give you the luxury of exotica.

By far the best way to explore the backwaters is on a House Boat

It is worth travelling to some of the lesser-known virgin beaches and let the sheer beauty of the surroundings take over.  Gokarna and Kanwatheertha are two such beaches that make for a luxuriant but quiet getaway.

A haven for wildlife in Thekkady

Going wild

Kerala and Karnataka are known for their abundant and varied wildlife, although the majestic elephant dominates in almost all the national parks and reserve forests.

Wild elephants in Munnar

The parks have beautiful resorts in the lap of the forest where one can chance upon herds of blackbuck while sipping on the morning tea, hear the cautionary call of the langur to signal a big cat on the prowl nearby, and invariably wake up to a cacophony of bird calls. You can trek within these parks or laze around and enjoy the sights and sounds. Kudremukh and Periyar sanctuaries need special mention here.

Kori Gassi (Mangalorean chicken curry)

Kerala Kalamandalam

Kerala Kalamandalam is a one-stop destination for every traveller who wishes for a quick immersion into the culture and heritage of this ancient land that traces its traditions back to 3rd century BC. This is, in fact, a deemed University for performing arts of different types that abound in this state. One can experience a rare Mizhavu recital here, a single major percussion instrument that forms part of the Sanskrit theatre, as well as come across various martial art forms indigenous to Kerala. The campus in itself is worth a visit with every pillar, every thatched roof, every wall being an ode to the rich cultural heritage of this state.

South Indian thali colourful as ever

Pamper your palate

The quintessential cuisine of Kerala and Karnataka is as full-flavoured and colourful as are the locals. Subject your palate to an explosion of tastes, go for the regional cuisine apart from the ever-famous dosa; although it must be said that the sheer variety of dosas across these states is enough to stump you. Indulge in various coconut dishes in sweet and savoury tastes, such as Korri Gassi and Obbattu. The Udupi cuisine of Karnataka and Malabar cuisine of Kerala are outstanding examples of local foods that bring out the masterchef amongst all. Make sure you taste the unique red banana of Kerala and various dishes built around it.

It is in the subcontinent’s peninsula that one comes to experience the exquisite. Unexplored vistas await you this winter in Southern India! ◼Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

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The post Spend Your Winter In Winsome Southern India first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Hokkaido’s Hakodate to Shikoku’s Kochi”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]

When you think of urban Japan, you think of Tokyo—and maybe Osaka, or perhaps even Hiroshima. Regardless of the Japanese city in question, you probably imagine a sprawling metropolis filled with millions of people, serpentine rail lines and blaring neon signs that light busy thoroughfares all through the night. In fact, many of Japan’s most incredible cities bear little resemblance to this stereotype—Kyoto is perhaps the best-known counterexample. While you probably won’t recognise the names of these unsung Japanese cities, from Hokkaido’s Hakodate to Shikoku’s Kochi, you’ll definitely want to visit them by the time you finish reading.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Aomori

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Aomori

Located at the northern tip of Honshu island, underrated Aomori ticks culinary and culinary boxes. At A-Factory, an impressive array of apple-flavoured products (and a self-serve cider bar) highlight the importance of apple crops to the economy of Aomori prefecture. If you can’t visit Aomori in August for the annual Nebuta Matsuri Festival, make sure to visit Nebuta House Warasse, where the massive paper lanterns are on display the rest of the year. Popular excursions from Aomori include charming Hirosaki Castle and massive Lake Towada, while understated luxury of Hotel Aomori (HotelAomori.co.jp, rooms from S$129) makes you feel at home in the heart of the city.

Getting there:Ride the Shinkansen Hayabusa (currently, the fastest train in Japan) from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori, then take a local train to Aomori Station. Or, hop one of several daily flights to Aomori from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Fukuoka

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Fukuoka

Fukuoka is the largest city in Kyushu island and serves as the gateway to all its incredible attractions. Walk up to the little-known Atago Jinja Shrine for a panorama of Fukuoka’s sparkling skyline, or cool off during the humid summer months with a swim at Momochi Seaside Park. A day trip to the reclining Buddha at Nanzo-in will work up an appetite, which any of the 43 Michelin-starred restaurant in Fukuoka (TIP: If you want to dine at Sagano, which has earned three stars, make reservations far in advance) will deliciously take care of. Grand Hyatt Fukuoka (Fukuoka.Grand.Hyatt.com, rooms from S$248) is arguably the most luxurious hotel in the city, though the ocean views you get at Hilton Fukuoka Seahawk (Hilton.com, rooms from S$200) are hard to beat.

Getting there: The Shinkansen Nozomi takes you directly from Tokyo to Hakata station (Fukuoka’s bullet train hub) in about six hours; otherwise, take one of the nearly 50 daily flights from either of Tokyo’s airports to Fukuoka’s.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Hakodate

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Hakodate

Formerly reachable only by plane, Hokkaido’s southern hub Hakodate gained a chance at great notoriety when the Shinkansen connected it directly to Tokyo by train for the first time, in 2017. And thanks to the city’s impressive range of attractions, which include Hakodate Morning Market (home to the “Dancing Squid” viral internet sensation), star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, the Russian Orthodox churches of Motomachi and Mount Hakodate, whose night view is consistently rated the best in Japan, it’s really only a matter of time before Hakodate’s secret is out. Bourou Noguchi Hakodate Ryokan (Bourou-Hakodate.com, rooms from S$268) pairs an ultra-modern take on the traditional Japanese guest house with soothing Japanese hot springs that flow from nearby Yunokawa Onsen.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Dancing Squid in Hakodate

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Getting there: Ride the Shinkansen Hayabusa about an hour past Shin-Aomori station, then catch a local service to Hakodate station, which is just steps from Hakodate Morning Market. Or, fly ANA nonstop from Tokyo-Haneda.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Himeji

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Himeji

Himeji Castle is widely known as the most stunning one in all of Japan, having been built in the 17th century at what was then the apex of Japanese architectural prowess. After riding a boat through the castle’s moat, or enjoying views of it from the platform of Himeji Station and the hilltop Otokoyama Senhime Tenmangu Shrine, get dressed for dinner at the Michelin-starred Sushiichi, which serves up sushi and sake (what pairs better with Japan’s finest castle than an acclaimed take on its most famous food and beverage) on traditional tatami mats. The four-star Hotel Nikko Himeji (HotelNikkoHimeji.co.jp, rooms from S$92) likewise priorities simplicity over sumptuousness, though after the day you’ve had you’re sure to sleep soundly.

Getting there: Himeji Station is just 90 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station via any westbound Shinkansen.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Kochi

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Kochi

Situated right in the heart of oft-overlooked Shikoku island, Kochi is as excellent as a jumping-off point for adventure on the Seto Inland Sea as it is for a standalone city trip. Its own 17th-century castle rivals the beauty of Himeji’s, to say nothing of the stunning panorama you enjoy from its open-to-the-public keep. Hirome Ichiba Market is a foodie’s paradise, with several stalls serving seared tataki-style Bonito, Kochi’s most famous culinary specialty.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Kochi

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Take a spiritual walk through the grounds of Chikurin-ji Pagoda, whose stone Buddhas wear knitted red caps to honor the memories of babies who didn’t make it past infancy, and make your home at the century-and-a-half old Jyoseikan Ryokan (Jyoseikan.co.jp, rooms from S$352).

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Kochi

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Getting there: Take one of several nonstop flights from Tokyo-Haneda to Kochi Airport. Or, ride the Shinkansen to Okayama (3-4 hours west of Tokyo), then take the JR Nanpu Limited Express for 2.5 hours until you arrive at Kochi Station.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Takayama

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Takayama

Everything worth seeing in Takayama centres around the ruby red Nakabashi Bridge, so you’ll want to make

sure this landmark is your first stop, not your only one. Shop for local handicrafts in the three streets of Edo-era Sanmachi Suji, or enjoy a serene stroll through the hillside Higashiyama Cemetery, which (perhaps surprisingly) is one of the city’s most popular walking tracks. Takayama sits within day-trip distance of UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakawa-go, though you might simply decide to hunker down in the on-site onsen at the impeccable Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan (HonjinHiranoya.com, rooms with full board from S$417), particularly if you visit during the frigid winter months.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Takayama Ginkgo

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Getting there: The Wide-View Hida express train runs direct to Takayama from Nagoya, which enjoys air and bullet train connections to Tokyo several times per hour.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Tottori

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Tottori

Tottori is most notable for its proximity to Japan’s only desert, itself notable as the setting for Kozo Abe’s seminal 1962 tome Woman in the Dunes. However, the Tottori Sand Dunes (where you can actually spot real-life camels, in case you were curious) are but one reason why a trip to this small city on the northern shore of Honshu is so worthwhile. Hakuto Shrine’s stone rabbits make it a quirky counterpoint to the dunes themselves, while lunch or dinner at Wakabayashi allows you crack open Tottori’s famous crabs (the prefecture produces more of them than anywhere else in Japan) while looking out onto a fisherman’s village. Hotel New Otani (NewOtani.co.jp, rooms from S$146) is the most high-end place to sleep, though you should keep in mind that Tottori isn’t known for luxury hotels.

Getting there: ANA flies nonstop from Tokyo-Haneda to Tottori five times daily, while the train journey from Osaka (onboard the Super Hakuto Limited Express) takes about three hours.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Yokohama

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Yokohama

To the uninformed observer, Yokohama is simply part of the Tokyo metro area. The moment you arrive here, however, you’ll realize how untrue this assumption is, whether you traipse through the turn-of-last-century Sankein-en Garden (one of the city’s top sakura spots), marvel at views of Tokyo Bay from Cosmo Clock 21 ferris wheel or enjoy a decidedly modern shopping experience inside the historical Red Brick Warehouse. The best place to eat in Yokohama is the city’s Chinatown (Japan’s largest—try Heichinro Yokohama Honten to savor refined dim sum in an intimate, luxurious setting), while a sleep at the lavish Intercontinental Yokohama Grand (IHG.com, rooms from S$150) is reason alone to spend a night away from Tokyo.

Getting there: Any westbound Shinkansen will take you from Tokyo station from Shin-Yokohama in just 15 minutes, while a taxi from Tokyo will run you about ¥14,000 (S$178) one-way.◼[/vc_column_text][vc_basic_grid post_type=”ids” element_width=”12″ initial_loading_animation=”none” grid_id=”vc_gid:1541062723445-8181dc44-6d94-1″ include=”15651″][vc_column_text]Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

© This article was first published in Aug-Sept 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

If you would like to comment on this story or anything else you have seen on World Travel Magazine, head over to our Facebook page or message us on Twitter.

And if you liked this story, subscribe to our bi-monthly World Travel Magazine, a handpicked selection of editorial features and stories from Global Destinations, Inspire Me, Insider, Style File, Wellness & Travel, City Travel, Suite Life, At Leisure, Short Breaks and much more.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_grid post_type=”post” max_items=”9″ style=”load-more” items_per_page=”9″ gap=”10″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1541062723448-484d29b0-8b94-6″ taxonomies=”698″ exclude=”15205, 14466, 11296″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The post Japan’s Unsung Cities first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Sensual tranquillity in Bali”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Jungle luxury at its finest, you have discovered the most romantic bedroom in Indonesia. Fantastic bamboo architecture and dramatic construction will sweep you off of your feet and into a cocoon of magic. The Moon House features an open-air shower and copper bathtub, your own butler and private plunge pool. Natural tiered swimming pools with a view of the Ayung River enchant here as do the gardens.

Your stay is an adventure in itself. Enjoy the sustainable kolam, or swimming pond, made out of all natural materials leaving the usual concrete and chemicals of resort pools behind. Find tranquillity in the wonderful harm-free environment with a turn on the rope swing, rest in the deck chairs as you take in the beautiful view, or take a refreshing swim in the pool and admire the natural mountain stone hardscape as you float along with a few fish.

Indulge your inner child by playing the musical strings of the minang harp, an installation by visiting sound architect Rudiger Schodel. Enjoy restoring your own inner harmony in the magical world of sound therapy and vibration therapy. Cultural immersion includes participation in Balinese blessings and ceremonies, and a bamboo tour where you can learn how to make an architectural model taught at a local bamboo factory. bambuindah.com ◼[/vc_column_text][vc_basic_grid post_type=”ids” element_width=”12″ initial_loading_animation=”none” grid_id=”vc_gid:1540514320714-988540fa-e771-0″ include=”16012″][vc_column_text]

Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

© This article was first published in Oct-Nov 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.

If you would like to comment on this story or anything else you have seen on World Travel Magazine, head over to our Facebook page or message us on Twitter.

And if you liked this story, subscribe to our bi-monthly World Travel Magazine, a handpicked selection of editorial features and stories from Global Destinations, Inspire Me, Insider, Style File, Wellness & Travel, City Travel, Suite Life, At Leisure, Short Breaks and much more.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_grid post_type=”post” max_items=”9″ style=”load-more” items_per_page=”9″ gap=”10″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1540514320716-647253c3-e032-5″ taxonomies=”1211″ exclude=”15205, 14466, 11296″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The post Moon House, bamboo, music and romance first appeared on World Travel Magazine.