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Delhi and much of North India are currently suffering from a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 45°C. Even popular hill stations like Nainital, Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, and Ranikhet are experiencing unusually high temperatures above 30°C. But don't worry! Here are six cool destinations you can fly to from Delhi, all with temperatures under a pleasant 25°C, easily accessible via short flights. Leh, Ladakh With temperatures ranging from 9°C to 17°C, Leh offers a perfect escape from the heat. You can reach Leh with a direct flight from Delhi for around Rs 6,000. Enjoy the crystal-clear skies and mild weather, perfect for exploring ancient monasteries and the stunning landscapes of Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. Darjeeling, West Bengal Darjeeling's temperature ranges from 16°C to 20°C, providing a refreshing break. Fly to Siliguri for about Rs 5,000 and then take an hour-long drive to Darjeeling, totalling 5.5 hours of travel. Explore lush tea gardens, ride the heritage toy train, and enjoy the serene mountain beauty. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir With temperatures between 13°C and 21°C, Gulmarg is another cool destination. Fly to Jammu for approximately Rs 6,000, followed by a drive to Gulmarg, which takes about five hours. Enjoy gondola rides, flower meadows, and the perfect weather for hiking and golfing. Belgaum, Karnataka Belgaum, with temperatures from 21°C to 25°C, offers a mild climate. A direct flight from Delhi costs around Rs 7,000. Explore the historical Belgaum Fort, Kamal Basti temple, and Gokak Falls, shop at Khade Bazaar, and enjoy the vibrant Kailesh Fair. Heatwave Guidelines by the National Disaster Management Authority: Avoid going out in the sun between 12-3 pm. Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, and porous cotton clothes. Keep animals in the shade and provide plenty of water. Avoid high-protein food, alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks which dehydrate the body. Take a break from the intense heat and explore these cooler destinations, each offering unique experiences and a refreshing escape

Waterfalls, nature trails and monsoon delicacies—these homestays have it all Image source Moneycontrol With the arrival of the monsoon in various regions of the country, these homestays offer new experiences, including outdoor adventures, seasonal delicacies, and unforgettable rainy days surrounded by nature. Whether staying on the edge of a hill near a cascading waterfall or within a lush green forest that thrives during the monsoon. Here are six homestays that allow you to relish the rainy season. Greenara, Kerala It is located in a rewilded forest, making it a perfect destination during the monsoon. During the monsoon, streams flow through the area, and natural ponds on the property come to life. Guests can stay in one of the two mud cottages with bamboo roofs, simple interiors, and open-air showers. It offers guided walks around the property, showcasing replanted century-old trees, unique plant species, and a tropical landscaping workshop. You can also savour the Kerala meals like idiyappam, avial, and fish curry when you stay. Fagunia, Uttarakhand One of the most popular homestays is located on a hill in Faguniakhet. This is a three-bedroom homestay. Accessible via a narrow path, the homestay offers stunning views and direct access to the Fagunia waterfall. Guests can assist in harvesting seasonal monsoon vegetables from the farm and enjoy dishes like fiddlehead fern stir fry and much more. Vanilla County, Vagamon, Kerala Vagamon, a hill station spanning the Idukki and Kottayam districts, is best explored during the monsoon season. Vanilla County, located 8km from Vagamon, offers a serene retreat in the Mavady Hills. The eight-bedroom bungalow, built in 1947, provides various activities such as nature walks, offroading, and guided plantation tours. Guests can also engage in a spice trail, church visit, or toddy-tasting experience.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson announced the introduction of a three-class cabin to the airline's narrowbody fleet and the start of interior upgrades. This significant move is part of Air India's plan to enhance the flying experience. The upgrade will benefit the narrowbody fleet used for domestic and short-haul international flights, aligning them with the already upgraded widebody A350 and new B777 aircraft. Over the next two years, all widebody planes will also be refitted. This effort aims to transform Air India into a world-class airline. Air India has refitted two A320neo aircraft, VT-RTW and VT-RTZ, with a three-class configuration. These planes now feature 8 luxurious Business seats, 24 extra legroom Premium Economy seats, and 132 comfortable Economy seats. This marks the first time Premium Economy is available on Air India’s narrowbody aircraft, providing passengers with more choices. The new three-class configuration will be used on the following flights: Delhi to Bengaluru: Flight AI 0803 departs daily at 06:10, arriving at 08:55. The return flight, AI 0505 , leaves Bengaluru at 09:50, reaching Delhi by 12:40. Another flight, AI 0502, leaves Delhi at 13:30 and arrives at 16:25, with the return flight, AI 0503, departing Bengaluru at 17:15 and arriving in Delhi at 20:05. Delhi to Chandigarh: Flight AI 0463 departs daily at 20:45, arriving at 22:00. The return flight, AI 0464, leaves Chandigarh at 22:45 and arrives in Delhi by 23:45. Additional Flights: Flight AI 0813 from Delhi to Bengaluru departs at 08:00, arriving at 11:00, and the return flight AI 0507 from Bengaluru to Delhi departs at 11:45, arriving at 14:35. Another flight, AI 0815, leaves Delhi at 15:45, arriving in Bengaluru at 18:40, with the return flight AI 0509 departing Bengaluru at 19:30 and arriving in Delhi at 22:20. This upgrade in Air India's fleet is a significant step in the airline's transformation into a leading global carrier.

The monsoon in Maharashtra is a call to adventure, offering lush green landscapes, sparkling waterfalls, and a refreshing coolness that invites you to explore the outdoors. From easygoing strolls to challenging climbs, here are 3 beautiful monsoon treks in Maharashtra. Bhivpuri Waterfalls, Karjat This beautiful place is located about 100 km from Mumbai, Bhivpuri Waterfalls is a breathtaking spot that truly comes to life during the monsoon. The trek to the falls takes you through Bhivpuri village, past meandering streams and grazing animals, making it a perfect family outing. Once at the top, you can enjoy the scenic beauty and maybe even take a dip in the cascading waters. Nearby, you can also visit the Bhivpuri Dam, a hydroelectricity plant, and a Sai Baba temple. Duke’s Nose, Khandala Named after the Duke of Wellington, this trek offers two routes to the top: a shorter 2-hour route from Kurvande village and a longer 4-hour route from Khandala Railway Station. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Khandala and the Sahyadri peaks. For those seeking more adventure, rappelling and rock climbing are available, and in October, you can participate in the slacklining festival. Karnala Fort, Raigad This trek combines nature and history as you climb to the Karnala Fort through the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. The trail offers sightings of birds like the paradise flycatcher and magpie robin. You can choose between a motorable trail and a rocky track that converges at the base of the 14th-century fort. Don’t miss the Pandu Tower, a 125ft basalt tower that was once the fort’s watchtower. These treks provide a mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and physical challenge, making them perfect for anyone looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the wonders of Maharashtra's monsoon season.

Wayand set in the northern hills of Kerala, the quaint hill station of Wayanad is rich with roaring waterfalls, sprawling tea estates, and winding trekking routes with spectacular views and caves. What Is The Perfect Time to Visit Wayanad? The ideal time to visit Wayanad is in the winter season between November and February. This is peak tourist season in the region, with temperatures dipping to 20 degrees Celsius. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor adventurers such as morning boat rides of Pookode Lake, and trek up to viewpoints like Lakkidi and Neelimala to take in some mesmerising landscapes. Summer in Kerala is hot and humid and not the best time to visit and explore places but monsoon is the best to visit. The hill station receives heavy rainfall between June and September. Clouds hover low in the hill station at this time and surroundings turn lush green. Here, don't miss the breathtaking waterfalls with rain. Heavy rainfall increases the risk of landslides in the area. Temperatures in Wayanad throughout the year March to May: 25°C-35°CJune to September: 24°C-31°COctober to February: 20°C-30°C How many days are enough for a trip to Wayanad? A three- to four-day trip is sufficient for a trip to Wayanad. This gives you ample time to enjoy treks, waterfalls, and visits to the bamboo forest and the Phantom Rock (a local attraction of a large rock shaped like a skull). You can also head to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for a safari to spot elephants, deer and langurs. You can also head to Kabini, about an hour’s drive away, for more safaris to spot tigers, leopards, black leopards, dholes, sloth bears, elephants, gaur and a variety of deer, monkeys and birds.

If you're looking for an authentic Italian experience, you should definitely consider visiting three charming towns along the Amalfi Coast: Vietri sul Mare, Minori, and Cetara. Vietri sul Mare is famous for its brightly coloured, hand-painted ceramics. You can take a leisurely stroll through the streets lined with ceramic shops and even meet some local artists. If you need a break, head to Marina di Vietri for a swim or take a boat to nearby beach coves. In Minori, you can explore the Villa Romana to get a glimpse of the town's Roman past. Don't miss walking the Path of the Lemons to the nearby village of Maiori. And of course, a visit to Sal de Riso's bakery is a must to try some of the town's famous pastries. Lastly, Cetara is a fishing village known for its locally caught tuna and anchovies. You should definitely sample the local seafood, especially the anchovies. Take some time to enjoy the town's beautiful beach and historic watchtower as well. These towns offer a rich experience filled with history, delicious food, and beautiful scenery.

With the busy summer travel season in full swing, travellers are eager to know which airlines are excelling in keeping their journeys smooth and enjoyable. According to The Points Guy (TPG), Delta Air Lines has once again topped the list of the best U.S. airlines for 2024. This marks the sixth consecutive year Delta has claimed the top spot, recognized for its consistency across four key categories: reliability, experience, cost and reach, and loyalty. The Full Rankings Here’s a closer look at TBG's 2024 airline rankings, noting that customer satisfaction data only reflects the first five months of the year due to the Department of Transportation reporting delays: Delta Air Lines: Consistent across all categories but lost points in affordability and loyalty. Alaska Airlines: Strong overall performance. United Airlines: Notable improvements. American Airlines: Mid-tier performance, consistent with last year. Southwest Airlines: Known for lower fares, good cabin experience, no fees, and a robust route network. JetBlue Airways: High for cabin experience but low in cost reach and reliability. Hawaiian Airlines: Lost points for its limited route network. Allegiant Air: Excellent reliability but a basic service model. Spirit Airlines: Affordable but low in family travel and route network. Frontier Airlines: Ranked last due to issues with timeliness, cancellations, and fees. Frontier has introduced "business class-like" seats, and Spirit has eliminated change and cancel fees, indicating a move towards more premium offerings. Conclusion As 2023 showed relative stability and recovery from pandemic-related disruptions, travellers can look to these rankings to make informed decisions about their air travel this year. While Delta continues to lead, other airlines are making strides in various areas, contributing to a more competitive and customer-focused industry.

Italy’s charm attracts many tourists, but over-tourism has led to new regulations to preserve its beauty and culture. Here are some key measures you need to be aware of if you're planning a trip to Italy this summer: Venice To combat mass tourism, Venice has introduced a €5 daily tourist entry fee starting April 25. Other measures include bans on loudspeakers, limits on tour group sizes to 25 people, and prohibiting cruise ships from entering the historic centre. These steps aim to protect the city's heritage following UNESCO warnings. Milan The city is proposing a ban on selling pizza and gelato after 12:30 am on weekdays and 1:30 am on weekends. Additionally, new closing times for outdoor areas of restaurants and bars are being considered to reduce late-night noise. This proposal seeks to balance nightlife with residents' peace, though it has received mixed reactions from locals. Portofino The town has created no-waiting zones and banned selfies in these areas to prevent crowding. Fines for lingering too long in these picturesque spots can reach up to €275. Cinque Terre Visitors must pay €15 to hike the Sentiero Azzurro trail, and hiking in flip-flops or sandals is banned, with fines up to €2500 for violations. This measure aims to manage overcrowding and ensure safety. Florence The city has stopped issuing licenses for short-term rentals, heavily regulating this sector to maintain residential character and manage tourist impact. These measures reflect Italy's efforts to preserve its heritage and ensure a pleasant experience for both locals and tourists. 4o

Let's hit the beach! India's coastline is like a treasure trove of stunning sandy stretches, each offering its own unique charm. Here's a laid-back guide to the best beach experiences in different Indian states 1. Goa: The Party Paradise When you think of Goa, you think of sun, sand, and endless fun! Dance the night away at Baga Beach, trying out thrilling water sports, or soaking in the laid-back vibes of Palolem Beach. Goa's got something for everyone, whether you're a party animal or a peace seeker. 2. Kerala: God's Own Country Kerala's beaches are like something out of a dream, with their golden sands and swaying coconut trees. Varkala Beach is all about relaxation and rejuvenation, while Kovalam Beach offers picture-perfect views with its iconic lighthouse. And if you're after some quiet time, Marari Beach is your go-to spot for serenity. 3. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Tropical Paradise Escape to the untouched beauty of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where Radhanagar Beach will leave you breathless with its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Snorkel your heart out at Elephant Beach or take a leisurely stroll along Kalapathar Beach, where you'll feel like you've stepped into a postcard. 4. Tamil Nadu: The Cultural Coast Explore Tamil Nadu's rich cultural heritage while soaking up the sun at Marina Beach in Chennai. Marvel at the ancient wonders of Mahabalipuram Beach, where rock-cut temples and sculptures tell tales of times gone by. And don't miss Kanyakumari Beach, where you can witness the magical convergence of three seas. So grab your sunscreen and your favorite beach read, because these Indian beaches are calling your name! Whether you're up for a wild party or a peaceful retreat, there's a beach here for every mood and moment.

Exciting news for those planning to explore international destinations from India. New non-stop international flights are now available from Jaipur, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Chennai to make reaching your preferred destinations more convenient than ever before. Here are the latest international direct flights you wouldn't want to miss this season: IndiGo has just introduced daily direct flights between Hyderabad and Bangkok, becoming the first Indian carrier to provide direct connectivity between these two cities. Air India Express has launched direct flights between Chennai and Kuwait, operating five times a week, while Etihad Airways has commenced direct flights between Jaipur and Abu Dhabi four times a week. IndiGo has also started daily direct flights between Bengaluru and Bali, and keep an eye out for Akasa Air, which will soon launch direct flights between Mumbai and Doha. With these new flights, you can easily explore the sandy beaches of Bali, the vibrant streets of Bangkok, Kuwait's rich culture, the modern city of Abu Dhabi, and the dynamic city of Doha. Why put off your plans any longer? Start planning your exciting trips and make the most of these amazing new travel opportunities.

In recent news, it has been reported that Indian passport holders can now enjoy visa-free access to Thailand for up to 60 days, significantly easing travel planning for those considering a trip to this beautiful country. This new rule grants citizens of 93 countries, including India, visa-exempt access to Thailand for tourism purposes, extending the duration of stay to 60 days. Additionally, an additional 31 countries are eligible for a visa on arrival, allowing for a stay period of 15 days. This marks a positive change from the previous requirement for Indians to obtain a visa-on-arrival for a stay of up to 15 days, before November 2023. Furthermore, the visa-free entry facility that was introduced last November allowed Indian passport holders to stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa. However, the Tourism Authority of Thailand recently announced even more favourable news, implementing visa-free entry for Indian passport holders for a period of six months, from May 10 to November 10, 2024, with a maximum stay of 60 days. This means that Indian passport holders can now stay in Thailand for a period of up to two months without the need for a visa. These changes make travelling to Thailand easier than ever and provide the perfect opportunity to make the most of your summer, whether it's exploring hidden gems like Koh Lanta, indulging in luxury hotel stays, or enjoying the delicious and diverse street food offerings. Thailand is truly a quick and easy getaway for Indian travellers.

The NCLT's Chandigarh bench has officially approved the merger of Air India and Vistara, marking a significant step toward the establishment of a major airline group. Upon completion of the merger, the combined Air India-Vistara entity will become India's largest international carrier as well as the second-largest domestic carrier, boasting a combined fleet of 218 aircraft. The merger scheme, which involves Talace, Air India, and Vistara - all part of the Tata Group - has received approval from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Singapore Airlines, a key player in this consolidation, is set to hold a 25.1 per cent stake in Air India following the merger. Notably, Vistara, a joint venture between Singapore Airlines and Tata Group, will be dissolved without undergoing the winding-up process after the merger is completed, subject to necessary approvals and security clearances within a nine-month timeframe from the date of the order. Furthermore, the order sets a deadline for the companies to secure the necessary FDI approval from Singapore Airlines and obtain security clearances from DGCA/MOCA within nine months from the order date.