Over the last decade, we’ve flown to some amazing destinations that have a special place in our hearts. As we look forward to new beginnings, let’s take a look at the aspects we cherish about these holiday spots. Whether you’ve visited them or not, be sure to browse through this list for some travel inspiration!

BY ANANYA BAHL AND MAYURI GHOSH BHATTACHARJEE

Bali

Spirituality and an exciting night life come alive in this picturesque island along the Indian Ocean.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Visit the ‘Gates of Heaven’ at Lempuyang Temple for postcard-worthy photographs. Bali flaunts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the coast of Nusa Dua is a perfect spot for relaxation. Adventurers will enjoy exploring the secret coves and lagoons of stunning Nusa Penida.

Eat: Sample delish nasi goreng at Warung Galuh Bali. Meat lovers will enjoy babi guling (spit roast pig) at Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka 3. Vegan cafes abound due to its large international population: try Kynd Community Seminyak for a bite.

Experience: Enjoy the scenic vistas as you trek through the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud. Tick off a bucket-list wish by scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Nusa Lembongan. Make sure to indulge in a Balinese massage after the adventure!

Kochi

A waterfront haven with aromatic spice markets, backwater canals, and charming Dutch influences.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Catch an exciting Kalaripayattu martial arts performance at the Great K V Kathakali Centre in Fort Kochi. Then, step into the past by exploring the architectural, artistic, and retail attractions at the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), and Jew Town.

Eat: Beyondburg Inc. delights with its delectable American deli-style sandwiches and burgers. Enjoy artisanal croissants, café bites, and refreshing cold brews at Pandhal Café & Deli. Don’t miss Charcoal Shack, where the rich Arab influence on the city shines through in their flavourful shawarmas.

Experience: Cruise through tranquil backwaters on a traditional kettuvallam (house boat), as you savour the soothing vibe of ‘God’s Own Country’! Watch a breathtaking sunset at Mahatma Gandhi Beach, where iconic Chinese fishing nets create a striking silhouette against the pink-hued sky.

Muscat

Of vibrant souks, blue-domed mosques, azure horizons, and an ethereal ambience reminiscent of the Arabian Nights!

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Marvel at the majestic architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where a breathtaking 14-metre-tall chandelier with 6,00,000 crystals steals the spotlight. Stroll through the Royal Opera House, immersing yourself in Oman’s musical heritage; you can even learn to make your own music here!

Eat: Delight in traditional Omani dishes like mandi and shuwa at Rozna, an impressive, fort-inspired eatery. For a unique dining experience, enjoy a meal within a spectacular man-made cave at The Cave Restaurant, renowned for its inventive dishes and warm hospitality.

Experience: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Ad Dimaniyat Islands for an unforgettable snorkelling adventure with sea turtles and whale sharks. Wander through the lively Mutrah Souq and shop for local crafts, frankincense diffusers, silver jewellery, Arabian lanterns, and spices—a feast for the senses!

Darjeeling

Colonial-era charm, lush tea gardens, and sweeping Himalayan vistas as far as the eye can see!

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Catch the sunrise over the snow-capped Kanchenjunga at Tiger Hill. Luxuriate in nature at the nearby Lamahatta Eco Park. Or visit the Darjeeling Zoo, famed for its conservation efforts, to see red pandas, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and other endangered animals.

Eat: Start your day with Darjeeling tea at Keventers. Next, head to Kunga Cafe for their thukpa and juicy pork momos bursting with brothy goodness. Finally, treat yourself
to freshly baked treats at Glenary’s, while taking in the panoramic views of Kanchenjunga.

Experience: Take a heritage ride aboard the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, fondly known as the Toy Train, and savour the charms of the winding Batasia Loop. For an offbeat adventure, trek to the lesser-known Tonglu view point in the Singalila National Park.

Paris

The ‘City of Love’ shimmers with sparkling culture, nightlife, fashion, and ever-lasting romantic flair.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Sometimes, doing the classic circuit is the best way to see a large megalopolis. The Eiffel Tower, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Arc de Triomphe, and Jardin du Luxembourg never go out of style and are worth repeat visits!

Eat: Sip on decadent hot chocolate at Angelina Paris (this one’s an Instagram favourite!). Reserve a table at the iconic L’Avenue for classic French dishes such as steak tartare and foie gras. Finish in a grand way with the best Breton-style crêpes at Breizh Café.

Experience: Head on over to the vineyards on Butte Montmartre for a special wine-tasting tour in the heart of the city. Families can enjoy guided bike tours that will take them through various points of interest like The Louvre, Palais-Royal, Pont Neuf, and more.

Srinagar

A jewel in India’s crown, replete with Mughal opulence, paradisiacal natural beauty, and unending allure.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Do visit the charming Shalimar Bagh to admire the flowers, canals, waterfall, and more. Say a prayer at the Hazratbal Shrine and make sure to stop by the Shri Pratap Singh Museum to see Kashmiri and other regional artefacts on display.

Eat: Tuck into a glorious wazwan (multi-course Kashmiri meal) at Ahdoos restaurant. Stop by Le Delice for a delectable French pastry or croissant. And enjoy masale tsote (chickpeas wrapped in bread), a street-food staple, at the stalls near Ghanta Ghar.

Experience: No trip to the city is complete without a ride on a shikara on the pristine Dal and Nigeen Lakes, with shopping for souvenirs from the floating ‘boat shops’ and clicking pictures of the floating post office as mandatory pit stops.

Maldives

A treasure trove of picturesque vistas and lush green islands sprinkled across turquoise waters.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Landing here is a sight to behold in itself, so make sure to keep your cameras ready! The country is home to resorts for every type of holiday—there’s something for everyone here, whether you’re seeking romance, special family time, or a thrilling escapade.

Eat: Enjoy spectacular seafood varieties, traditional and international, across islands, prepared by versatile chefs. Be sure to check out Kalhu Odi in Malé for a grand Maldivian gastronomic experience replete with masburi (tuna steak) and masfen (fish-flavoured broth).

Experience: Underwater adventures of all kinds are the order of the day here! Go snorkelling and scuba diving amid manta rays, turtles, and sharks (the playful kind). Couples will agree that a stay at a quintessential water villa is unlike any other experience they’ve ever had.

Udaipur

Ornate palaces, tranquil lakes, and centuries-old Rajputana grandeur bring royal dreams to life in Mewar’s capital.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Glide along Lake Pichola on a boat, passing the iconic Jagmandir Island and Taj Lake Palaces. Explore the City Palace for its fascinating architecture and exhibits, and end the day watching the sunset from Sajjangarh Palace.

Eat: Savour a traditional Rajasthani meal under the stars at Ambrai, perfectly situated by the lakeside. Enjoy mouth-watering Italian pizzas at Poppy. For dessert, try the ghevar (Rajasthani sweet) at Chhappan Bhog.

Experience: Shop for handicrafts and textiles at Hathipole and Bada Bazaar. The lively Chetak Circle offers a vibrant setting to shop and eat, while Bagore Ki Haveli is the place to go to enjoy a colourful dance performance.

Bengaluru

Where lush gardens harmoniously coexist with modernity and a scintillating nightlife.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Explore the stunning Bengaluru Palace, showcasing Tudor-style architecture and lavish interiors filled with antique furniture and royal memorabilia. Follow this up with a leisurely stroll at the stunning Lalbagh Botanical Garden.

Eat: Pair chilled beer with mutton ghee roast at Bob’s Bar in Indiranagar, a popular hang-out spot for the locals. Relish the iconic benne dosa at Vidyarthi Bhavan. Follow that up with yummy Mysore Pak from Sri Venkateshwara Sweet-Meat Stall.

Experience: A picnic at Cubbon Park, home to over 6,000 trees and colonial-era statues, is unmissable. Take a safari tour at Bannerghatta National Park for a close look at some wildlife. For a quiet end to the day, Ulsoor Lake is perfect for boating and unwinding.

Goa

A seaside getaway where palm trees and Portuguese culture sway in sweet harmony with pulsating parties and blissful relaxation.

WHAT WE LOVE!

See: Visit Panjim’s colourful Fontainhas quarter for shopping and café-hopping. The Ashwem and Morjim beaches are tranquil escapes for leisurely beachside snoozes. Head out on a boat ride from Candolim to see dolphins at sunrise.

Eat: Tuck into a classic Goan thali at Vinayak Family Restaurant in Assagao and Ritz Classic in Panjim. The state is also home to several new concept restaurants: the eclectic Second House, Padaria Prazeres bakery, and Makutsu, a yakitori eatery offering Asian flavours.

Experience: Go trekking to Dudhsagar Falls for a grand time amid nature. And since nothing spells fiesta like true-blue local fairs and parades, try and make sure to visit in February for the Goa Carnival.