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Australia's culinary scene is a spectacular fusion of nature, culture, and adventure that goes beyond the typical dining experiences. Here are some extraordinary culinary adventures worth exploring: Image source Conde Nast Traveler on Google Dive into Aboriginal food culture through guided bush tucker tours. Led by knowledgeable indigenous guides, these tours offer insights into traditional hunting, gathering, and cooking practices. Explore the bushlands, learning about native ingredients like bush tomatoes, lemon myrtle, and kangaroo meat while indulging in unique culinary experiences. Experience the magic of dining under the vast Outback skies. Enjoy gourmet meals prepared by skilled chefs in stunning settings. Picture dining by a crackling campfire or under a blanket of stars, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Australian Outback. Australia's diverse regions offer farm-to-table experiences where you can visit local farms, orchards, and vineyards. Engage in hands-on activities like picking fresh produce, participating in cooking workshops, and enjoying meals made from farm-fresh ingredients. Coastal areas like Tasmania, South Australia, and Queensland offer seafood safaris. Join expert guides on fishing expeditions or visit bustling seafood markets where you can taste freshly caught seafood while learning about sustainable fishing practices. Discover the art of winemaking with tours to renowned Australian vineyards. Engage in grape picking, cellar tours, and wine blending sessions. Immerse yourself in the picturesque vineyard settings while savouring world-class wines with gourmet meals. These culinary adventures are a blend of culture, nature, and adventure, providing a deeper understanding of Australia's diverse culinary heritage while offering unforgettable experiences in extraordinary settings.

Dubai might not offer the typical European markets or snowy scenes, but it's brimming with festive joy at the year's end. The city lights up with glowing reindeer, colossal snowmen, and vibrant Christmas decorations, signalling the holiday spirit. Although Christmas brunches are popular, December in Dubai offers an array of festive events from delightful afternoon teas to bustling Christmas markets. The city invites you to indulge in the Christmas vibe with a variety of activities, including dining, shopping, and celebrating the season. Image source Curly Tales on Google Image source Khaleej Times on Google Sonara Camp's Winter Experience: Venture to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a festive market, where you can engage in gingerbread house making, meet Santa, and enjoy Christmas movies under the stars. Christmas Dinner at Heston's: Atlantis The Royal hosts a six-course Christmas menu curated by Heston Blumenthal, presenting historic British recipes with a modern twist against the city skyline. Dog-Friendly Christmas Festival: Head to Jumeirah Golf Estates Golf & Country Club for live music, Santa’s grotto, and a dog walk show featuring canine Christmas costumes. Beach Picnic at Waldorf Astoria: Embrace a romantic Christmas vibe with a pre-packed picnic basket filled with gourmet delights at Waldorf Astoria Dubai The Palm. Sinatra Gala Dinner at Sola Jazz Lounge: Raffles The Palm hosts a Christmas Eve gala dinner with live jazz by Ciaran Fox, reminiscent of the legendary Frank Sinatra era. Time Out Market's Festive Tasting: Experience unique festive dishes at Time Out Market Dubai from renowned restaurants like BB Social Dining and Pickl. SAL at Burj Al Arab: Enjoy a private dining experience under the stars at SAL, transformed from a beach club to a chic festive venue. EXPO’s Winter City: Explore Winter City at Expo City Dubai, offering an eco-educational Christmas experience with Santa’s House and sustainability workshops. Armani’s Festive Afternoon Tea: Experience an Italian festive afternoon tea at Armani Caffe in the Mall of the Emirates. Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers: Enjoy a winter wonderland experience with festive food, pop-ups, and live bands at Plaza Terrace. Madinat Christmas Market: Visit the festive market at Madinat Jumeirah Fort Island for a charming winter setting with various attractions. Gingerbread House Building: Dine at The Restaurant at Address Beach Resort while letting kids build their gingerbread house on the terrace. Vacheron Constantin Christmas Tree: Witness an elegant Christmas tree collaboration at Mandarin Oriental, complemented by a festive afternoon tea at Noor Lounge. These activities offer a diverse range of experiences, from immersive markets and fine dining to outdoor events and family-friendly gatherings, making Dubai an exciting place to celebrate the festive season.

With the year-end nearing, if you’re concerned about not having been creative enough this year, this is your last chance. Fortunately, you have several great arts, culture, music and food festivals slated for the coming weeks that will let you do just that before the curtains fall on 2023. Here’s where to get your creative juices flowing, whether it’s through musical performances, theatre, literature or cooking. The best art, music and food festivals to attend before 2023 ends Serendipity Arts Festival, Goa This festival of arts starts from 15 to 23 December, indulge your senses in interesting culinary tastings, thought-provoking installations, insightful films and podcasts, groovy music and dance performances. You can also participate in workshops and activities. Some special kids-only activities like an Opera Air Library, and a storytelling corner called Khao Suno, While most of the events are free of cost, some have a nominal fee and limited seating. Bangalore Literature Festival Image source Deccan Herald on Google The Bangalore Literature Festival is a two-day event happening on December 2nd and 3rd, perfect for book lovers. It features renowned speakers like Chandrashekhara Kambara, not just talks; aspiring authors and screenwriters can present their ideas to literary agents, producers, and directors who will be there. For added fun, there's Carnatic and Hindustan Music plus exciting activities and workshops for kids. Best part? It's open to everyone, and there's no entry fee. The Indian Craft Chocolate & Cacao Festival, Bengaluru Image source Paytm Insider on Google The  Indian Craft Chocolate & Cacao Festival in Bengaluru on November 25th and 26th is all about chocolate. It’s a platform to unite India’s craft chocolate experts and teach people about the nuances of chocolate. This event focuses on educating folks about cacao cultivation, and sustainable farming with Partha Varanashi from Varanashi Organic Farms. Also, you can explore chocolate and cheese pairings with Patricia Cosma and Nari & Kāge. Discover the diverse uses of cacao with Chaitanya Muppala from Manam Chocolate and explore flavour innovations with Subko Cacao’s Rahul Reddy and Manali Khandelwal. Tickets are available for purchase. Manam Theatre Festival, Hyderabad Image source Festivals From India on Google Manam Theatre Festival, happening across four weekends from November 24 to December 17, offers various theatre experiences. Each weekend focuses on a different style—puppetry interpreting epics, traditional and contemporary theatre with Adishakti, autobiographical performances by Henry Naylor, and absurdist theatre with the Durse Brothers. There are workshops on light design, storytelling for children, improv, and more. India Cocktail Week in Mumbai on December 2nd and 3rd celebrates mixology and craft cocktails. The event at Jio World Garden features renowned brands like Pistola, Sitara Rum, Don Julio, and Tanqueray, along with live music by Kayan, Prateek Kuhad, and Sickflip. Food options from Ping’s, Good Flippin’ Burgers, and Maiz Mexican Kitchen will be available. Kolkata Queer Arts, Kolkata Kolkata Queer Arts Month, curated by Kallol Datta and organized by Kolkata Pride, runs from December 8th to January 3rd. It showcases artworks exploring the queer experience in India at Experimenter on Hindusthan Road and Kolkata Centre for Creativity. Delhi Art Week, Delhi Delhi Art Week, from December 1st to 10th, highlights contemporary art across various venues in Delhi. Exhibits from the National Gallery of Modern Art, Dhoomimal Art Centre, St+art Foundation, and more will be on display at locations like India Gate, Connaught Place, and Mehrauli.

Ayodhya’s Maryada Purshottam Shri Ram International Airport is set to open in January 2024, providing flight access from Delhi and Ahmedabad. IndiGo will be the pioneering carrier, initiating flights from this airport. The inauguration precedes the Ram Mandir inauguration scheduled for January 22. Image source IndiGo on Google The airport received its aerodrome licence from the DMRC and will launch its first flight on December 30. It features a passenger terminal capable of accommodating up to 500 people during peak hours and is designed for narrowbody flights like the Airbus A320. Image source The Economic Times on Google IndiGo's inaugural flight from Delhi to Ayodhya will take off on December 30, with regular daily services commencing from January 6, 2023. The flight will depart Delhi at 11:55 am and reach Ayodhya at 1:15 pm, returning to Delhi at 1:45 pm. Additionally, a tri-weekly service between Ahmedabad and Ayodhya will start on January 11, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. More airlines are planning to join. Zoom, which recently obtained its air operator certificate from the DGCA, has applied for slots to operate a Delhi-Ayodhya-Lucknow flight starting in January.

Here are five lesser-known non-alcoholic beverages worth exploring: Image source The Honeycombers on Google Switchel: Often referred to as "haymaker's punch," this historic drink combines apple cider vinegar, ginger, water, and sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. It offers a refreshing tangy taste with a subtle sweetness. Kombucha: While gaining popularity, it's still lesser-known to some. This special tea beverage offers a unique fizzy, tangy taste and comes in various flavours, often known as probiotic benefits. Shrubs Syrup: These are fruit-based vinegar syrups that date back centuries. Mixed with water or soda, they provide a sweet-tart flavour and can serve as a great base for mocktails. Tepache: This drink originates from Mexico, this drink is made from fermented pineapple rinds, water, brown sugar, and spices. It yields a mildly sweet and tangy flavour profile. Chai Latte: It is often overshadowed by coffee-based beverages, a well-prepared chai latte—combining black tea, spices, and steamed milk—offers a comforting and aromatic experience. These drinks offer unique tastes and experiences, sometimes flying under the radar in the realm of non-alcoholic beverages.

India's serene hideaways often unseen by locals, like Kahani Paradise in Gokarna, have such a beautiful international tourist for good reason. This luxury villa boasts five rooms offering sunrise vistas and a sixth room occasionally visited by wildlife. Image source YouTube on Google Atop a hill, the 20-acre property overlooks the meeting point of the Aghanashini River and the Arabian Sea. It's a haven where the only companions are peacocks, langurs, and the delightful melodies of birds. Image source YouTube on Google Kahani's story is one of passion and realization. Inspired by an antique door in Kerala, London-based Anthony Bellm embarked on a 15-year journey to transform his parents' dream into a reality. His dedication led to a villa adorned with antique pieces, locally crafted textiles, and the blueprint of an opulent estate within the enchanting landscape of Gokarna.

Australia, with its diverse offerings, is a perfect vacation destination for families. Whether you're looking for an artsy and cultural vibe or a nature-filled adventure, Australia has got you covered. Here are some popular holiday destinations that cater to every mood and interest. Image source Wallpapers.com on Google Canberra, the small capital city, offers a fantastic array of cultural activities. With plenty of cycling tracks, it is an ideal place for families to bond over a bike ride. You can also take a boat ride on Lake Burley Griffin or visit the National Gallery of Australia for some artsy break. Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage site that boasts a perfect balance of nature and culture. It is one of the most popular Australian holiday destinations and offers exquisite accommodation. ' Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) is a fantastic starting point to explore the park, where you can find breathtaking lookouts and Aboriginal rock sites. Take a Yellow Water Billabong ride to experience the aquatic creatures up close. Don't forget to visit Ubirr, the popular rock art gallery, which offers stunning views of the rock wonders and sunsets that will take your breath away. Image source Photos.com by Getty Images Kangaroo Island is full of life and drama. Take a guided tour of the Sea Bay Conservation Park and catch glimpses of sea lions playing in the waters or relaxing on the sand. Enjoy a picnic with family, surrounded by gorgeous views of Emu Bay or indulge in a savoury meal at the Emu Bay Lavender Farm, soaking in the purple views. Invite a little thrill to your itinerary with quad biking on Little Sahara, and don't forget to visit Flinders Chase National Park which is home to the age-old geological wonders.

Australia is a land of wonders, filled with breathtaking vistas and awe-inspiring destinations. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast or an adventure seeker, this country has something to offer everyone. Image source Pinterest on Google From the stunning Great Barrier Reef in Queensland to the iconic Sydney Opera House in New South Wales, and from the majestic Uluru-kata Tjuta National Park in Nothern Territory to the picturesque Tasmania, every corner of Australia is packed with unique experiences waiting to be explored. Image source Whitsundays tours on Google If you are a beach bum, the Whitsunday Islands are a must-visit destination, boasting 74 mesmerizing islands with crystal-clear waters and pure Silica Sand. Or if you are more of a city slicker, Melbourne's Federation Square is the perfect spot to indulge in cultural events, art displays, and delicious food. And if you're an outdoor adventurer, Tasmania's Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park offers an array of hiking trails, rugged mountains, and serene lakes that will take your breath away. Don't forget to check out the iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge for panoramic views of the city and harbour. In short, Australia is a land of wonders, and these destinations are a must-visit to experience the country's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences firsthand.

Up in the Queen of the Hills, a steaming plate of momos is par for the course. From popular restaurants to local favourite street-side stalls, there’s scarcely an eatery in Darjeeling that doesn’t have these Tibetan imports on their menu—steamed, deep fried, or half and half (steamed and then pan-fried). Plus, a speciality of Darjeeling momos is the momo achar they come with—a delectable, spicy dip with a base of roasted tomato and loaded with chilli. We asked locals who know their food where to find the best momos in Darjeeling—here’s what they recommend: Image source LBB on Google One of the oldest Indo-China restaurants in Darjeeling, Soaltee is the go-to place for momos for residents. “The fact that Soaltee has always maintained its standard and been consistent is why I recommend this place,” says Doma Wang, Are you a momo lover? If you're in Darjeeling, you're in for a treat! I have some fantastic recommendations for you, straight from the experts themselves. I promise you won't be disappointed. Let's start with The Blue Poppy, known as the 'Momo Queen of Kolkata.' Their momos are the talk of the town, and their sauce is to die for! Even Chef Kelvin Kwok, the owner of Thai Seoul and Burger Cartel, swears by their mutton and chicken momos. Next up is Mitho Masino, where everything is made from scratch right before your eyes. Chef Kelvin calls it one of a kind, and I couldn't agree more. You must try their ting momos - they're his favourite. If you're looking for something slightly upscale, Kunga Restaurant is the place to be. It's known for its beef and chicken momos, and it's a favourite of Yangdup Lama, the co-founder of Gurugram speakeasy Sidecar. Penang Restaurant is another gem tucked away in a bylane of Limbugaon. Their pork and beef momos are a must-try. Trust me; you won't regret visiting this place. Chok Restaurant is a tiny, cozy Tibetan restaurant that serves the juiciest of momos and taipho. It's the perfect spot for some comfort food and to eat to your heart's content. Lastly, if you're en route to Darjeeling or on your way down from the hills, Kurseong Tourist Lodge serves melt-in-your-mouth chicken momos. And if you're in Kalimpong, you must visit New Restaurant for their pork and beef momos or Nima for their fluffy pork momos. Gompu's and Lopchu are also great options. I hope you enjoy your momo journey through Darjeeling!

Sadly, travel scams are common everywhere, with various fraudulent schemes impacting travellers each year. In 2023, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received over 55,000 reports of travel fraud, resulting in a staggering $49 million in total losses. Image source YouTube on Google Safe to say, whether you are booking, travelling, or already on the road or air, here are 10 straightforward tips from cyber-security and travel fraud experts: Image source Starling Bank on Google 1. If the matter seems urgent or you feel pressured, that's your first red flag. Scammers try to play on your emotions, or they try to get you to react quickly if you don't take action, then there will be chances to be trapped into a disaster situation. They often push for immediate action like sending OTP which creates a sense of urgency. Genuine businesses do everything with ease, especially in customer service-oriented industries like hotels. Remember, if you are ever pressured to act urgently in a situation that doesn't seem right, it is more likely a warning sign of a scammer. 2. Understand the difference anything can be faked Let's be aware that phishing emails used to have obvious signs like strange hyperlinks, but now they can look extremely professional and leave a sense of doubt. If you are familiar with genuine emails from banks would include your name. However, scammers can now fake this, making it less reliable as a sign of illegal. Recognize the official websites of real businesses. Even if a page seems genuine, it could be a fake designed to steal your information. 3. Never click on a link or download an attachment from an email and never make mistakes to send money because an email asks for it. Such kinds of emails can be so convincing that is why you should just avoid certain actions no matter how fair the message looks, "If an email comes asking for money, never trust it. 4. If you are in doubt, contact the business or third-party platform directly (but don't use the contact details you find in the message)' If there is a real reason you may need to pay for a hotel or service you booked, call them directly - but use a telephone number from the company's website online, not from an email. If the message you received via a third-party booking service, you should go to that booking service and contact their customer service directly to find out if it's genuine. 5. Beware of clicking online ads One of the biggest mistakes often make of clicking online ads. As soon as you start researching an upcoming holiday, you are planning to see related online advertisements pop up on the website. But, some may be fraud. So, always double-check what's real or not of any company that's being advertised and, when you do your online research. If you are using security software, make sure you are using a browser, a website checker, and the right domain name. 7. Look for reviews Don't trust anything until you see advice from an experienced person. Scammers create fake apartment listings or hotel ads, tricking travellers. Additionally, always look for reviews of the property. Right places usually have reviews on sites like TripAdvisor. Real reviews can add credibility. If you see an ad or listing, cross-check its existence on trusted review platforms. 8. Never pay with a wire transfer Private Wi-Fi networks at hotels or apartment rentals can also be risky. Hence, it's advisable to use a VPN and log out of all accounts before leaving the property. It's also essential to use only your chargers and avoid public charging stations provided by anyone else. Recently, the FBI even warned that charging stations could be used by hackers to introduce malware onto devices, a practice known as "juice jacking." What's the catch? If you want to avoid the hassle of protecting yourself while travelling, you can consider hiring a travel agent. The travel industry has seen a rise in the use of travel agents, particularly after the pandemic, as tourists desire extra protection. However, if you prefer to book travel online, there are still ways to protect yourself from cyber threats and fraudsters.

The Bosporus Strait symbolizes Istanbul's role as a bridge between continents and empires. While the city has evolved. Image source Explore Travel on Google Istanbul is a city that stands between continents, partly in Europe and partly in Asia. The Bosphorus Strait, flowing through the city, serves as a reminder of Istanbul's unique geographical location and historical significance. Throughout history, that waterway has been crucial, much like a bridge, connecting different parts of the city and uniting various cultures that call Istanbul home. As the city changed and grew, ferries became an essential means of travel, helping people from different backgrounds navigate the Bosporus and come together. These ferries represent the unifying spirit of Istanbul, fostering connections and interactions among its various inhabitants. Wanna get into the moment of unique views from the water? Image source Turkish Airlines on Google Istanbul's grandeur is best appreciated by ferries, travelling iconic landmarks and diverse cultural sites. It's a city where the past and the present exist. What's the Role in Shaping Istanbul's Culture? Ferries facilitated migration, blending languages, customs, and food. They reveal Istanbul's vibrant mix of cultures and act as a time machine. As you will experience this city reflecting historical perspectives. Also, all the local customers and traditions grow on ferries from enjoying simit with seagulls to witnessing street performances, creating a vibrant social environment. Istanbul's ferry system is affordable and accessible, that is offering easy travel to otherwise hard-to-reach areas. It also reflects local daily life and rituals in such a unique way. Ferries provide extraordinary sightseeing opportunities, passing landmarks and offering unique experiences like visiting the Princes' Islands or exploring the seaside village. What about the environmental and wildlife perspective? The Bosporus' natural beauty, wildlife, and seagulls have become synonymous with the ferry experience and you won't imagine how it makes a magical impact by offering a calming escape from the city's hustle and gives you serenity. Image source Move 2 Turkey on Google Conclusion: Falling in Love with Istanbul Ferries aren't just a mode of transport; they're an enchanting journey through Istanbul's soul, inspiring artists, and serving as a cultural emblem. Ferries are not just rowboats but narratives of Istanbul's past, present, and evolving for the future. They offer a profound experience that makes your journey beyond through the city's waterways. In essence, the article highlights how ferries aren't merely vessels but narratives of Istanbul's past, present, and interconnectedness. They offer a profound experience that transcends a mere journey through the city's waterways.

Are you planning to make a trip to Malaysia? Still, worry about the country visa? No worries. Malaysia will soon allow Indian tourists to travel in the country visa-free. It is not the only country to do to make tourists happy journey but it is a good time to be travelling from India if you are craving pristine beaches, beautiful islands and delicious food, both on the streets as well as in award-winning fine dining restaurants. Here are three countries in Asia that have offered Indians visa exemptions and releases this year. Image source Unsplash on Google Malaysia: visa-free The Malaysian government officially bid adieu to visa requirements for Indian and Chinese nationals. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced this decision. He stated that visa-free entry would be starting from 1 December 2023. No visa will be needed for a trip to Malaysia lasting up to 30 days. Thailand: visa-free Since 10 November, Thailand has also done away with the requirement of a visa for Indian and Taiwanese travellers, providing a generous 30-day visa-free stay. This policy is slated to last until 10 May 2024, with the option of an extension depending on demand, as indicated by the Thai government. Sri Lanka: free visas Image source Freepik on Google Shri Lanka's cabinet adopted the issuance of a free visa initiative in October for visitors of seven countries–India, Russia, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan. Commencing as a part of a pilot program, this initiative took immediate effect and will extend till 31 March 2024. Previously, Indian tourists were levied a $20 (about Rs1,663) visa application fee. The new program eliminates this fee, although you would still have to apply for a visa before travelling. Coming soon: visa-free entry to Vietnam Vietnam is also contemplating the possibility of allowing visa-free entry for individuals from India and China. Nguyen Van Jung, Vietnam’s Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has advocated for short-term visa exemptions for the two countries to boost Vietnam’s recovery of tourism. Currently, Indians travelling to Vietnam require e-visas that have a validity of 90 days and allow multiple entries.