GoAir · on return flights to India where they could visit the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort or the Lake Palace of Udaipur. “GoAir's direct flights to Phuket are a game-changer for India

February 2019

GoAir CONNECTS INDIA

TO THE MIDDLE EAST

February 2019

GoAir’s Exclusive Inflight Magazine

Now fly direct from Kannur to Muscat and Abu Dhabi

GoAir.in FEBRUARY 2019 3

Dear Go-getterA warm welcome aboard!

The demand for air travel continues to be high with airlines reporting

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Routesonline, a leading global aviation portal. This milestone would not

JEH WADIA

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4 FEBRUARY 2019 GoAir.in

RUNWAY Fresh off the Runway 18This Month

GoHolidays 22A Vacation is Calling!

Check-in 24Mark Your Calendar

Getaways 26Take-off!

Round-trip 2824 Hours in Ahmedabad

FEBRUARY 2019contents

GoAir CONNECTS THE MIDDLE EAST

Cover Story

and date palms to beaches and traditional Arab markets, this culture 60

GEAR UP

Cuisine

Fine Dining Spots in Bhubaneswar 32

only in 2001, its love affair with food dates

the city of temples, make sure to go to these hand-picked destinations to get a taste of

32

34

Offbeat

Unusual Adventures for Valentine's Day 38

junkie, an adventure seeker or a luxury

Discover

Phuket: A Fine Family Destination 46

and extravagant cultural shows to luxury cruises and delectable street food, Phuket

things to see and do on the gorgeous Thai

3846



Wanderlust

Phuket: A World-Class Hub for Yachting 52Today Phuket is steadily becoming one of the best cruising destinations in the world.

Indulge

Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous 2019 — A Big Hit 58The fourth edition of the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous at Royal Phuket Marina in January, welcomed thousands of yachting enthusiasts and wealthy lifestyle-seekers from around the re-gion.

Discover

Best Things To See And Do in Malé 64Visit this fascinating island nation, offering a variety of experiences from adventures in the sea to gastronomical escapades and everything in between.

Lifestyle

Tips for Hiring a Wedding Photographer 72Planning a wedding can be quite a task; posing for endless portraits, even more so. We get a wedding photographer to help you

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Why Lease?

Interested in any other car or these cars for other locations? Contact us!

For more information: Email: [email protected] | Call: 1860 500 5050/1860 419 5050

leaseplan.co.in

Leasing is a smart way of acquiring vehicles. It allows you to unblockyour capital and provides for financial flexibility that a business demands.It also takes away the hassle of maintenance, insurance, repairs and resale.What you are left with is more cash and time to grow your business!

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`32,000 `28,000*Hyundai Creta

`44,500 `40,500*Toyota Innova Crysta


OWNERGO AIRLINES (INDIA) LTD.

CHAIRMANMANECK DAVAR

DIRECTOR-MARKETING & SALES GEETU RAI

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT-ADMINISTRATIONBOBBY DANIEL

EDITORIALASSISTANT EDITOR JULIE SAM

DESIGNCREATIVE ART DIRECTOR SHAIKH PARVEZ

ART DIRECTORYOGITA IYER

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER BHARATI KHULE

ILLUSTRATIONS SWAPNIL REDKAR

DIGITAL & GRAPHICS NINAD JADHAV, SACHIN BHOGATE

MUMBAI - SUDHIR VALVARA/ASHWIN IYER/ROHIT BANDEKARPeninsula Spenta, Mathuradas Mill Compound, N. M. Joshi Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai - 400 013.Tel: 022-2481 1010•Fax: 022-2481 1021Mob.: +91 98212 15361 / +91 98202 00737/ +91 9987279990 E-mail: [email protected],[email protected]

NEW DELHI - VIJAY BHAGAT 1102, 11th Floor, Akashdeep Building, 26/A, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi – 110 001•Tel: 011-4669 9999/ +91 9871271219 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

BENGALURU - SANDEEP KUMAR/TINA PILLAINo. 606, 1st Floor, Rear Building, 80 Feet Road, 3rd Cross, Opp. Koramangala Police Station, Bengaluru - 560 095Tel: 080 4161 8966 / 080 4161 8977 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

KOLKATA - PULAK GHOSH32/6 Gariahat Road (S), Dhakuria,Ground Floor, Kolkata - 700 031.Tel: 033-4073 5025 E-mail: [email protected]

CHENNAI - SHOBA REBECCA8/4 , First Floor, Meridian HouseMontieth Lane (Behind Westin Park Hotel), Egmore, Chennai-600008Tel: 044 42188984 | 84 E-mail: [email protected]

GUJARAT - SANJAY CHAWDAMob.: +91 98240 43072 E-mail: [email protected]

For any GoAir business related enquiries, contact:NORTH: Gagandeep Bhatia, [email protected]: Gaurav Patwari, [email protected]: Satyabrata Singh, [email protected]: Vishal Lagad, [email protected]

Printed using CTP technology at Spenta Multimedia Pvt LtdGO GETTER, the monthly magazine of GO AIRLINES (INDIA) LTD, is Published by Spenta Multimedia Pvt Ltd, Peninsula Spenta, Mathuradas Mill Compound, N. M. Joshi Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai - 400 013. Printed at Spenta Multimedia Pvt. Ltd., Plot 15, 16 & 21/1, Village Chikhloli, Morivali, MIDC, Ambernath (West), Dist. Thane. Unsolicited articles and transparencies are sent in at the owner’s risk and the publisher accepts no liability for loss or damage. Material in this publication may not be reproduced, whether in part or in whole, without the consent of SPENTA MULTIMEDIA or GO AIRLINES (INDIA) LTD.

How to do a Digital Detox 80You could be on a vacay but giving up on your tech gadgets and the Internet could be painful. Here’s how you can temporarily bid goodbye to your gizmos and stick to your much-needed break.

Wanderlust

Grape Escapes 84There is something magical about being able to look out of your window and witness a sprawling vineyard. What's more? Stock up on some delicious wines.

Smart Tips Pack for a Holiday 90Look for these handful items before you

Tech The Best Gadgets you can Buy 92Buying a tech device is nothing less than an investment. Whether it's a smartphone that makes you a smarter photographer,

we give you the best recommendations.

Offbeat

The Many Treasures of West Sikkim 100Follow the uncharted path into West Sikkim to experience nature and beauty in its pristine, unadulterated form.

LANDING What your Cards Reveal 96

ABOVE AND BEYOND GoBuzz 108 Find out what’s been going on behind the scenes at GoAir.

GoPride 111 Celebrating our star performers.

Smiles on the Go 112We are delighted that we could put the 'Heart in Smart'. Here's what our Smart Flyers have to say.

Know your Fleet 113

Have a Safe Flight 114

experience. Your safety is our priority. Here are a few ways you could improve your journey to reduce those minimal

Smart Experience 116 Find out about the offers and add-ons

Flight Schedule 120 Flight departure and arrival information.


On the cover: Lukas Bischoff Photograph/Shutterstock.com

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STEP 3

STEP 5

STEP 4

STEP 6


Fresh o f f t he Runway

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Wills Lifestyle stores, premium ITC hotels in India, select Health and Glow outlets and on Amazon

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Fresh o f f t he Runway


Monte Carlo Winter Collection

Turn some heads this season with Luxuria, Monte Carlo's winter range. A delight for fashion connoisseurs who look for both style and quality, the men's range includes cardigans and pullovers, blazers, jackets and trench coats among others. For women, the collection features shrugs, cardigans, and shawls, fabricated with Italian linen silk and Turkish Lurex yarn. In addition to being warm, these pieces are also quite lightweight unlike regular winter wear, which makes them ideal for any occasion and lifestyle. Available at: Monte Carlo outlets, multi-brand outlets and on montecarlo.inPrice: R5,000 onwards

Laisey — 3-tier Bath Organiser

Tired of searching drawers and your go-to products every morning? This gorgeous galvanised iron and wood three-tier bathroom organiser is your new best friend. The open design keeps everything in plain view and easily accessible. The antique look of the piece further adds a little personality to your bathroom. Go ahead and spruce up your home a little!

Available at: fabuliv.com Price: R3,999

Spiced Teas — The Kettlery

With the temperature taking a dip, the best way to keep yourself warm and cosy is by sipping on the spicy blends at The Kettlery. Packing the warmth of ginger, angelica and dandelion roots with the spiciness of cinnamon and peppercorn, The Kettlery has over 75 different kinds of world-class quality teas and blends to choose from; White Queen, Winter Cinnamon, Spice Roots and Green Ginger to name a few. The Kettlery’s signature accessories and proprietary designer tea sets give it an edge as a premier product-focused tea brand in the country. Time to throw a tea party!

Available on: thekettlery.comPrice: R400 onwards

Urbane Valentine Gifting — Brune

Sclassic collection comprises modish belts, laptop bags, messenger bags, passport holder wallets, and nifty footwear. Each product from the assemblage is designed to bring a big smile on your partner’s face. Combining different designs and textures, the range displays unique shades that include olive green, wine, greyish blue, bronze tan and more. Feeling generous? Go ahead and customise your gift with name initials

Available at: voganow.com Price: R1,999 to R11,999

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Parx Exclusive Stores: Almora: G-35, Raghunath City Mall Aurangabad: F-22, Prozone Mall Bangalore: F-46, Phoenix Market City Bhilwara Opp Gautam Ashram, Azad Nagar Bareilly: G-32, Phoenix United Mall Bijnor: Shri Krishna Showroom Chaudhary Mall Near Pnb Bank Civil Lines Calicut: Shop No.416, Focus Mall I G 1003, Hilite Mall I Red Cross Road Beside Taghore Hall Dehradun: Khasra No. 2-4, 9, Rajpur Road I Near Great Value Hotel Rajpur Road Haldwani: Guru Gobind Singh Tower, Nainital Road I Glamour Exclusive Jaipur: Shop No. 278, M.I. Road Kanpur: Shop No.10-B, Z Square Mall Kashipur: Shraddha Elite, Ratan Cinema Road Lucknow: G-22, G-23, Singapore Mall, Virat Khand, Gomti Nagar I Vaishnavi Sales - Aliganj, Shop No. 2 & 3 Swaroop Arcade I Vaishnavi Sales - G-26, G-27,Shalimar Eldee Plaza, Bhootnath I Royal Trade Centre,Shop No Lgf-4 Lower Ground,Khurram Nagar Meerut: C-2/18, Sector-S, Nr. Central Market, Shashtri Muzaffar Nagar: 72-B, Chauri Gali New Mandi, Muzaffar Nagar New Delhi: G-137, V3S East Centre Mall Noida: B,1/5 Sector 18,Noida Gautambudha Nagar Raebareli: Near Degree College Chauraha Rudrapur: Rajiv Exclusive, H-26 Gurudwara Road, Main Market Roorkee: Opp Shiv Complex, Civil Lines Roorkee Saharanpur:

25 510/15, Near Parsvanath Plaza,Telephone Exchange Road Trivandrum: Mall Of Travancore, Shop No 33, Ground Floor

TIPSY TOPSY

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MALAPPURAM | FEROKE | KONDOTTY | U.A.E.

PHUKET 3 Nights/4 Days

From Mumbai R24,399 per person*From New Delhi R30,599 per person*From Bengaluru R25,999 per person*

Explore the best of what Phuket has to offer with this four-day plan. As you drive across the winding roads to Kata Beach, do make a stop at Wat Chalong, which is now an important cultural symbol of Thailand. And while you are making your way through the tourist guide-approved sites, do make time for Phuket Old Town in your itinerary. Made up of several small streets, witness the architectural elegance of a city that once was. The Phi Phi Islands, one of Phuket’s biggest tourist spots, is a hub of activity. Hire a boat and witness the island come to life. Log on to holidays.goair.in for more information.

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*Terms and conditions apply

MAGICAL MALÉ (MALDIVES)3 Nights/4 Days

From Mumbai R25,999 per person*From New Delhi R27,999 per person*From Bengaluru R25,999 per person*

Spend this Valentine’s Day tucked away at the romantic Biyadhoo Island Resort in South Malé Atoll. Fringed by the azure sea, and white sand beaches, the resort is famed to have the best house reef in the Maldives. Unwind at Aavun Spa with a signature ritual, which uses seashells. Choose from a range of Asian inspired massages such as Abhyanga, Balinese, Thai and Kativasthi. Follow this with an intimate dinner at Palm Restaurant. Log on to holidays.goair.in for more information.

SOUTH INDIAN SPLENDOR 4 Nights/5 Days

R20,699 per person*

Gape at the majestic palaces, or take in the calmness of the hills — this Mysuru, Bengaluru and Ooty Package is a perfect outing for a quick getaway. In Bengaluru, visit the Cubbon Park, which is a historic landmark right in the heart of the city. On Day 2, visit Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace in Mysuru. Take home Mysore silk saris, Mysore sandalwood artefacts and handicrafts, incense sticks, coffee, wooden toys and traditional Mysore paintings called Ganjifa paintings. The next day, visit Ooty which is famous for the Botanical Garden. The package includes hotels, meals and transfers. Log on to holidays.goair.in for more information.

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The perfect package for every pocket.A VACATION IS CALLING!

GoINTERNATIONALGoINTERNATIONAL



MARK YOURCALENDARA curated list of events and festivals around the country.

Check - in

KALA GHODA ARTS FESTIVAL

This arts festival only gets better with every passing year. The nine-day carnival celebrates artists, illustrators, dancers, musicians, travel experts, comedians, chefs and other creative geniuses across the country. Easy accessibility

music concerts, heritage walks and panel discussions makes it a huge draw. Rest assured that Kala Ghoda Arts Festival will give you ample Instagram-worthy shots of high art brought to the street complete with a message to take home. Did we mention the stalls selling quirky keepsakes you didn’t know you needed until you saw them!

When: February 2 to 10Where: Kala Ghoda Art Precinct, Fort, Mumbai

KHAJURAHO DANCE FESTIVALImagine this setting: the charm and grace of Indian classical dancing juxtaposed against the warmth of sandstone sculptures on a pleasant spring day. If this imagery sounds exciting, you should make a beeline to the Khajuraho Dance Festival. The festival’s location is steeped in cultural history,

and is a great opportunity to acquaint oneself with classical dance forms, vocal and instrumental music. The Nepathya exhibition space and performances of many Indian dance forms including Mohiniyattam of Kerala and Bharatanatyam of Tamil Nadu are some of the many events worth looking forward to this year.

When: February 20 to 26Where: Chitragupta Temple and Vishwanatha Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

MAHINDRA BLUES FESTIVAL

If you're looking for a soul-stirring musical experience, attend the two-day Mahindra Blues Festival. Responsible for bringing to India some of the best blues musicians from around the world, the festival is also a great opportunity to patronise and enjoy homegrown talent like Black Strat Blues. This year's lineup includes 'the ultimate female rock star', Beth Hart; American electric blues singer and songwriter, Sugaray Rayford and 12-time Grammy nominee, Charlie Musselwhite. And of course, 2018 Mahindra Blues Band Hunt winner, Arinjoy Trio will regale you with music that grows on you slowly.

When: February 9 and 10Where: Mehboob Studio, Bandra West, Mumbai

— COMPILED BY BLESSY CHETTIAR

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Getaways

KOLAKHAM, approximately 120 km away

This tiny hamlet, in the Kalimpong district of the state of West Bengal, will give everyone — birdwatchers, stargazers, soft adventure enthusiasts — something memorable to take back. You can wake up to the sweet melody of chirping birds on the fringes of the Neora Valley National Park in Kalimpong. You can also go parachute gliding in Kalimpong. Before you head to the Neora Valley National Park, a visit to the Nature Interpretation Centre

there is a good idea.

Eat: Enjoy hot tea and snacks at your hotel. Food choices are limited as the hamlet is small and quaint.

Stay: Neora Valley Eco Huts offers a cosy stay with hot meals.

Do: Watch how the local Rai Nepali community of Kolakham village roast raw fruit to make cardamom spice.

SILIGURI, approximately 10 km away

Travellers use Siliguri only as a pit-stop to get to other destinations, often ignoring the lush beauty of the place. At the Bidhan Market and Hong Kong Market, you can expect cheap deals on mostly imported goods. If you have a day in Siliguri, head to the hill station, Mirik which offers splendid

backdrop of the mighty Kanchenjunga. Sumendu Lake in

Eat: Tea lovers can try the quaint and simple Netaji Cabin in Bidhan Market. Relive your childhood with their toast sprinkled with sugar.

Stay: Hotels and lodges for all income ranges are easily available here as tourists often use Siliguri as an overnight halt.

Do: Sumendu Lake offers boating and angling activities, or you can have an impromptu picnic by the waterbody.

TAKE OFF!Three perfect trips within driving distance from Bagdogra.

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DARJEELING, approximately 68 km away

There's a lot to do in Darjeeling: one of them is taking long walks through the town, thanks to the salubrious weather. The small town still carries vestiges from its rich Victorian past, and offers stunning vistas of Mount Kanchenjunga. The Toy Train offers an unforgettable experience as it trudges through some of the most scenic mountain routes.

Eat: Try momos available at almost every eating joint, or sample authentic Bengali fare. Don’t forget to try the world-famous Darjeeling tea.

Stay: Budget, mid-range and luxury options are available aplenty.

Do: Visit Tiger Hill early in the morning to watch the sun-kissed Mount Kanchenjunga.

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— COMPILED BY BLESSY CHETTIAR

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India’s first UNESCO WWorld Heritage City is a potpourri of cultural scenes, architeectural marvels and delectablee cuisines. The warm hospitality of the locals will linger in your memory long after youu have left the city.

Morning

Start your day by participating in the heritage walk conducted daily by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation which starts at 8 am from Swaminarayan Temple. Pass through the live memorial built in honour of Kavi Dalpatram — a noteworthy Gujarati poet. Next, stroll through the labyrinthine alleyways of the old city and acquaint yourself with the Hindu, Muslim and Jain pols of Ahmedabad. Pols are gated community living systems of the bygone era, with some characteristic features like a common sitting area, a place of worship, a bird feeder, and secret passages for quick escape to nearby pols and one gate enclosing all. Notice the Indo-Islamic,

on the doors, pillars and brackets of the havelis.

Stop for some scrumptious fafda-jalebi at the 120-year old Chandravilas

HOURS IN

AHMEDABAD

Text TANIA BANERJEE

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Restaurant. Continue your journey

through some second haul books. Take photos of the old building of Ahmedabad Stock Exchange before ending your walk at the Jama Masjid — the biggest mosque in the city which can accommodate 10,000 people at one time. Pick up some souvenirs from the market around Teen Darwaza which is the gateway to Bhadra Fort. An Indo-Gothic citadel built by Ahmad Shah I in 1411, this fort also houses a clock tower. Climb up its winding, musty staircases to reach the roof which offers the quintessential view of the bustling city of Ahmedabad unfolding below. Hail an auto and reach Sidi Saiyyed Mosque — home of the intricately carved stone-latticed windows erected by a Sidi Muslim named Saiyyed who had migrated to Gujarat via Yemen. Wa

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No trip to Ahmedabad is complete without a taste of the local cuisine.

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Hwalled city of Ahmedabad A cacophony of sounds and a melange of fragrances would

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Though the city got its first Odia restaurant only in 2001, its love affair with food dates back to eternity. If you're planning a trip to the city of temples, make sure to go to these handpicked destinations to get a taste of local and global flavours.

Text PHORUM DALAL

FINE DINING SPOTS IN BHUBANESWARAn Odia loves his food. While he will promise to eat dalma (lentil and vegetables) and dahi bara (lentil fritter in yogurt) with aloo dum (a potato-based dish) every day, he loves to indulge in the foods of the world. The recent DOT Fest in Bhubaneswar saw the convergence of 15 international cuisines in one event, which highlights the locals' penchant for global culinary creations. With the many swanky restaurants and premium hotels sprouting across the city, Bhubaneswar is a foodie's paradise.

FROM ABOVE: At MAYFAIR Lagoon, — the buffet spread; Taipai chicken; vegetable dimsum; tandoori murg


MAYFAIR LAGOON

Tea Pot restaurant at the MAYFAIR Lagoon serves one of the best multi-cuisine buffets. You can enjoy the live music in the background while you dig into pan-Asian,

Continental and Odia fare. If you are there on a Sunday, you must try their brunch, which is immensely popular with the locals. The hotel's cafe, Mamma Mia serves some great wood-

traditional cuisine, the mutton chops at Asli Dhaba, an Indian restaurant here, are to die for.

Address: 8-B, Jayadev ViharTel: 092384 13099

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TRIDENT

Inspired by Odisha's Kalinga-style architecture, Trident is set amid 14 acres of lush green

cuisine with a pool view at Chandni, an intimate

caught; the crabs and lobsters that come from the famous Chilika Lake are a must-try as are the maccha jholo

chingudi bhajja

and Date Khatta at The Bar. The dish, made with braised tomatoes and dates and seasoned with curry leaves and mustard seeds packs a punch. End your meal on a sweet note with rasgulla (a

chhena poda (a cheese

UPRE – KITCHEN & CAFE

The latest entrant, Upre is only three months old. Its calming blue and white interior enhances the ambience and the equally enticing menu here gives you a taste of world cuisine from Mexican and Chinese to

Indian and others. The two-storeyed restaurant has a roof-top, ideal for an al-

a hookah. Don’t forget to try the chef's favourite recommendations: khow suey, roast chicken, baked crab, and Thai curry.

FROM LEFT: Chicken drumsticks at Upre – Kitchen & Cafe; and Thai salad

Address: CB-1, NayapalliTel: 0674 230 1010

FROM ABOVE: The plush interior of Chandni at Trident; the asparagus salad; mutton chops at Trident

Address: G-51, Kanan Vihar, ChandrasekharpurTel: 074400 26026

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FROM ABOVE: Assorted dishes including khichdi, dalma, chakuli pitha and chingudi checha

Address:

Tel:

FROM ABOVE: Bamboo smoked mutton at Dalma; a top view of Dalma resturant

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Whether you're a romantic, an adrenaline junkie, an adventure seeker or a luxury lover, India has a wide range of experiences for all kinds of couple goals. Skip the tried and tested for these offbeat Valentine's Day alternatives.

Text NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

Unusual Adventures for

VALENTINE'S DAY

It’s hard to miss the fact that Valentine’s Day is here. Offers and campaigns featuring roses and romance are flooding our email inboxes and social feeds. But, wouldn’t it be nice to give your other half something altogether more meaningful this year? Deciding on the perfect Valentine's Day experience is no easy feat and a box of chocolates isn't going to cut it. So, here are some ideas to inspire you.

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REVIVE YOUR VOWS AT A FORT, in Alwar, approximately 162 km from JaipurConfess your love at the 19th-century, Tijara Fort Palace built by Maharaja Balwant Singh and respectfully restored by Neemrana Hotels. Alwar is home to this unique heritage hotel boasting an expanse of beautiful gardens dressed in amaltas and jacarandas. Enjoy stunning views of date palms and the Aravalli Hills as you indulge in authentic North Indian and Continental delicacies. The view of the sunset from the terrace is surreal. This offers the perfect backdrop to whisper sweet nothings.

Where: Alwar, Rajasthan | Price: R12,000 onwardsFor more details, call 0124 4666166

GoAir offers direct flights to Jaipur from Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kolkata and other cities, as well as convenient connections. Visit GoAir.in or mobile app for more information.Connect

DINE LIKE A ROYAL, in Jaipur

Instead, dine like royalty at Sankotra Haveli, an expansive 17th-century home. You can even dig into a sumptuous lunch at the historic Amber Fort and wenjoy a cooking class with the executive chef of Sujan Rajmahal

will also give you a glimpse of the desert state's rich traditions and cultural heritage.

Where: Jaipur, Rajasthan Price: Approximately R1,92,431 per person (inclusive of transfers, accommodation, sightseeing, activities, and meals)For more details, visit tourtofeast.com

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GO PICNICKING ON A FARM, in Chennai

Experience life on a farm this Valentine’s. The Farm is an organic restaurant with cattle and fowl to give you company. Walk hand-in-hand across the eucalyptus plantation and two lakes, and watch the horses lazing around. The walk is free and available every half hour between 9:30 am to 11:30 am and 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm. The Farm is not open for dinner. Enjoy organic food such as fresh mozzarella

toppings. The banoffee served with home-made toffee on a biscuit base is too good to resist. On the way out, gift your

date some fresh fruits from the orchard, artisanal cheeses, baked goodies, and jams and preserves.

Where: Semmancheri, Chennai Price: As per food orderedFor more info, call 091760 50562

ENJOY ROOFTOP DINING WITH VIEWS TO DIE FOR, in New DelhiSnag a seat in Ottimo at West View, at the ITC Maurya for the most romantic evening with stunning views of Delhi’s sunset skyline. Artisanal cocktail in hand, there are few better ways to enjoy the capital than this! Do opt for the Lobster Salad and Burrata with Sour Cherries. Order the most extravagant choice of grilled meats, fresh garden produce and breads straight from the oven. Soak in the live music. The chef even sends the day’s amuse-bouche (a

Where: Mehrauli, New Delhi Price: Approximately R5,900 for twoFor more info, call 011 26112233

GoAir offers direct flights to New Delhi from Bengaluru, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Patna, Pune and other cities, as well as convenient connections. Visit GoAir.in or mobile app for more information.

GoAir offers direct flights to Chennai from Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune and Port Blair, as well as other convenient connections. Visit GoAir.in or mobile app for more information.

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GoAir offers direct flights to Mumbai from Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Goa, Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi and other cities, as well as convenient connections. Visit GoAir.in or mobile app for more information.Connect

SPIN THE WHEEL TOGETHER, in BengaluruGet your hands dirty on a pottery wheel at Bistro Claytopia. You can even buy ready ceramic pieces such as magnets, mugs, ornaments, jewellery boxes and small statues, and paint them together; brushes and paints will be provided. Once you’re done, the good people at Bistro Claytopia will pop your creation in their oven. It will be ready for you to take home in a week or two. The ambience here with candles and romantic music offers the perfect evening together. When hunger strikes, there are a variety of delicious bites.

Where: Koramangala, Bengaluru Price: R3,200 per person (for pottery)For more info, call 0804375 9392

GLAMP IT UP — MILITARY STYLE, in Kunegaon, approximately 132 km from Mumbai

Della Adventure's new military-themed tents pitched in the heart of the jungle combine comfort and adventure. You can stay in a luxurious 500 sq. ft tent with a private patio offering stunning views, as well as other amenities such as a fully equipped mini bar and Jacuzzi. Spend the day learning commando moves from ex-Black Cat Commandos,

reserved for some romantic stargazing. And there's a salon

Where: Kunegaon, MaharashtraPrice: R13,000 onwards per personFor more details, visit delladata.com

ROMANCE IN A GLASS HOUSE, in Tala, approximately 144 km from Mumbai

Perched on the edge of a mountain, the Glass House at Forest Hills, Tala sprawls 2,000 sq. ft. and is built on two levels interconnected by a spiral staircase. The luxe amenities such as the four-poster bed, open-air bathroom and Egyptian cotton linen set the mood as do the views of the lush forest outside. If you can get yourself to tear away from the scenery, you could explore the historic Kuda Caves around the area. Activities such as horse riding and kayaking are also available on site and you can even pet some horses, emus and ducks here.

Where: Tala, Maharashtra | Price: R33,999 per night for twoFor more details, call 098192 02000

GoAir offers direct flights to Bengaluru from Ahmedabad, Goa, Mumbai, New Delhi, Lucknow, Patna, Hyderabad and other cities, as well as convenient connections. Visit GoAir.in or mobile app for more information.

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GoAir offers daily direct flights to Phuket from New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru as well as convenient connections from Kolkata and Patna via New Delhi. The airline also offers connections to Phuket from Goa and Ahmedabad via Mumbai; and Lucknow and Pune via Bengaluru. For more connections and bookings to Phuket, visit GoAir.in or mobile app.

From adrenaline-pumping water activities and extravagant cultural shows to luxury cruises and delectable street food, Phuket offers something for everyone. Here are five things to see and do on the gorgeous Thai island.

Text SATARUPA PAUL


A FINE FAMILY DESTINATIONPHUKET:

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While Phuket offers an incredible nightlife to enjoy solo or with friends, it's also an ideal destination to unwind with the whole family. This mountainous island in the Andaman Sea in Thailand even packs an adventure or two. So, if you're wondering where to holiday in the summer break this year, look no further.

TAKE A SPEEDBOAT CRUISE TO PHANG NGA BAY

highly recommended activity on any visit to Phuket is a day-long cruise through the

emerald green waters of Phang Nga Bay with stunning views of limestone cliffs, mangrove forests, caves and lagoons, and the bay between Phuket and southern Thailand’s mainland. Charter a yacht or the more affordable speedboat cruise and see popular sights such as Khao Phing Kan. If you're in no hurry, the slow-paced long-tail boats offer relaxed sightseeing. Many of these cruise packages include lunch on-board or on one of the many small islands that dot the bay. Several packages also include sea-canoeing through the ‘Hongs’ of Phang Nga — collapsed cave systems open to the sky and surrounded by towering limestone walls.


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ENJOY A TRADITIONAL LUNCH AT A FLOATING VILLAGE

icture this: the setting is a lovely, family-run restaurant housed in a wooden cottage built

on stilts, right on the edge of the sea. Open on all sides with not one window to bar the pleasant breeze from wafting in, the restaurant's cosy interior offers breathtaking views of the sea and faraway islands. A large wooden table is laid out with an extensive spread of local delicacies from seafood and Thai curry to Pad Thai noodles and spicy Tom Yum Goong soup. Notable for being built

such surreal dining experiences and is easily reachable by long-tail boats or speedboats from Phuket. You can also rent bungalows overnight for as little as 300 Baht (approximately r600).

IGNITE THE ADVENTUROUS SPIRIT WITH WATER SPORTS AND OTHER ACTIVITIES

great scuba diving destination, Phuket has several earmarked spots to explore the wonders of the sea. The Phi Phi Islands, located a short

boat ride away, have a diverse marine life and the fascinating wreck of the King Cruiser. At Shark Point, you can watch harmless Leopard Sharks up-close, swimming in their natural habitat. Similan Islands are another popular diving spot and Raya Islands are excellent for casual snorkelling.

You can choose to enjoy other equally adventurous activities such as ziplining, paramotor flying, parasailing, paddle-boarding, kite-surfing, bungee jumping, wakeboarding, and kayaking. Hop on to a banana boat for a choppy ride on the sea — fun for the entire family!


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INDULGE IN THE CULTURAL EXTRAVAGANZA OF THE FANTASEA SHOW

from all over Asia, particularly India, China, Burma and other Southeast Asian nations. While it can be

intimidating to explore it in its entirety, you can get a glimpse of it at Phuket FantaSea, an approximately 70-minute cultural extravaganza that includes Thai mythology. A popular attraction, it's showcased every night in a stunning 140-acre theme park, with cutting-edge technology and special effects that further elevate the experience. From acrobats, illusions and pyrotechnics to stunts, aerial performances and more, a crew of over 400 people and animals and birds, entertain. There's a grand 4,000-seat restaurant serving an extravagant buffet dinner too. You can also visit the lively carnival village, enjoy games and parades, and shop to your heart's content.

GO BEACH HOPPING, STREET FOOD HOGGING AND SOUVENIR SHOPPING

huket has some great beaches to unwind on with the family. The 30-odd beaches that line the coast of the island, offer food choices to satiate all kinds of palates, cravings, and budgets. While the palm-fringed Kata Beach with its white sand and clear water is always chock-a-block with families,

Kamala Beach is less crowded even in high season. Surin Beach is another good place to sunbathe while cooling off with a drink.

Karon, a resort town, has a good selection of dining, shopping and nightlife options. It is home to a beautiful Buddhist temple where a popular bi-weekly market is hosted. You can get bang for your buck here and shop for all kinds of souvenirs as well as clothes, shoes, handbags and more.

Nightlife-central Patong Beach is lively and the beach here offers many activities. Rows of food stalls line the streets here, selling everything from seafood to sausages and the famous Thai pancakes. You can also indulge in some retail therapy at the many shopping malls and roadside shops here.


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Phuket is home to sandy, white beaches, blue seas and stunning surrounding islands. A short cruise from Royal Phuket Marina opens up a world of island gems, more than 30 untouched beaches and coves, and hidden treasures underscoring Phuket’s reputation as being one of the best cruising destinations in the world.

Today, even as the island’s reputation is the envy of many yacht owners and sea-lovers alike, Phuket's yachting reputation wasn't always so robust. That was until one man took it upon himself to firmly place Phuket on the international yachting scene — Mr. Gulu Lalvani, Chairman of Royal Phuket Marina.

Having travelled the world, Mr. Lalvani fell in love with Phuket many years ago, so much so that he chose Phuket as his regular tropical island getaway despite having a 12-hour flight from his UK-base to get there! When it came to retirement, Phuket is where he made his new home. Not one to play golf, Mr. Lalvani saw the potential of the island to become a yachting Mecca to rival anywhere in the world.

At the time, crippling duties of more than 200 per cent on the import of yachts to Thailand were stifling the marine industry's development. Mr. Lalvani met with Thailand’s Prime Minister to discuss the problem and explain his vision for Phuket’s yachting future. This meeting proved to be a turning point for Thailand's marine industry; and in 2004, the Thai Government reduced the duties to zero.

In his own words, Mr. Lalvani explains: “I had cruised Phuket as well as many top destinations in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. In my eyes, Phuket was the best. Even the surrounding islands and seascapes are spectacular. I knew that if more people had the chance to see what I was seeing, Phuket’s marine industry would grow.

A WORLD-CLASS HUBPHUKET:FOR YACHTING



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what is known today as the Royal Phuket Marina. It has won many awards over the years and remains the only marina in Thailand to have been awarded the 5-Gold Anchor standard, the highest honour in the marine industry.

Boat owners from all over the world started to come to Phuket in greater numbers after the import duty was reduced to zero. After experiencing what Royal Phuket Marina has to offer, ultimately many relocated their boats to Phuket. Today, it is the boating hub of Asia and is firmly established on the global yachting map.

Phuket is the playground for pleasure boating in Asia. It's not only boat owners who enjoy cruising. Charter opportunities are numerous with smaller sail and power boats available, up to luxurious superyachts catering to the uber-wealthy.

Phuket's marine success, however, couldn't have happened without world-class onshore facilities

“I convinced the Prime Minister at the time that to grow boating in Thailand and attract wealthy yacht owners, the import duties needed to be addressed. He agreed. I also committed that if he would reduce the duties then I would invest my own money and build a world-class marina in Phuket,” adds Mr. Lalvani.

And that is exactly how it panned out. Undeterred by the tsunami in 2004, Mr. Lalvani went ahead with

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Royal Phuket Marina makes for a picturesque view by sundown; the Royal Villa comes with an attached luxurious waterfront pool


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enjoy yachting off the island's popular east coast.

For the visitor looking to explore Phuket’s offshore treasures, there are plenty of day trip opportunities. GoAir passengers can avail a special discount of 1,000 THB (approximately R2,200) off the full price for a day trip to Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island inclusive of transfer from/to hotel, soft drinks, snorkelling equipment, professional tour guide, insurance and lunch. To pre-book your trip, log on to www.royalphuketmarina.com/goair.

Royal Phuket Marina recently introduced a game-changer for owners of power boats up to 40-feet: the island’s first boat concierge service and premium fully-covered

and infrastructure, and Royal Phuket Marina has led the way in this area. A state-of-the-art marina with berthing for motor yachts up to 35 metres and accessible 24/7, Royal Phuket Marina is centrally located in the heart of Phuket on the island's east coast. Within minutes of departing the Marina, guests are surrounded by idyllic tropical islands and they can explore the world-famous Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi Islands, both of which are within easy reach.

GoAir is the first Indian airline to open up Phuket to Indian travellers, and currently offers daily direct flights from three cities (New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru). This means within a few hours' flight time, visitors can be on the paradise island of Phuket and

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Royal Phuket Marina is a yachting haven with 100 berths for boats and 81 luxury residences; Royal Villas are the only waterfront villas in Phuket to feature private attached yacht berths.

dry stack. Boats are kept out of the water when not used, reducing costs of fuel, insurance, maintenance and cleaning, reducing the need for anti-foul measures and improving boat performance and speed. For the ultimate convenience, owners can now fly in and with 30-minute notice their boat is lifted from the stack and placed in the water, waiting to whisk them off to a nearby island for some snorkelling, beach exploring or a spectacular Andaman sunset.

“Our dry stack and services offer the ultimate in convenience for boat owners. We have owners from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and all around the world, as well as India, who choose to keep their boats in our dry stack and fly in to use it at their convenience. In fact, with boat import duties being 60 per cent in India and GoAir now flying daily direct to Phuket, we are seeing more and more interest from Indians wishing to keep their boats at Royal Phuket Marina,” adds Mr. Lalvani.


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& RENDEZVOUS 2019 — A BIG HIT

THAILAND YACHT SHOW

T he four-day Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous showcased Thailand and its vibrant yachting and luxury hospitality industries, and underscored its position as a world-class cruising and holiday destination. Leading yacht brands from all over the world were present with many regional yacht premiers taking place, and all was held at the iconic Royal

Anchor marina in Thailand. Speaking of Phuket’s premier

position as the yachting playground

of Royal Phuket Marina, explained, “Phuket's beauty, pristine beaches and warm waters, and its clean air make it the number one choice in the region for yachting. Phuket is the yachting playground of Asia and the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous is an excellent showcase for this.”

The 2019 Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous line-up hit new milestones with the largest ever number of Asian yacht premiers and a display in excess of 40 yachts in the marina as well as a wide range of luxury products and services in the sold-out Exhibition Hall.

With superyachts visiting Phuket in ever-increasing numbers, the Superyacht Hub at the next-door private island, Koh Rang Noi, included

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The fourth edition of the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous at Royal Phuket Marina in January, welcomed thousands of yachting enthusiasts and wealthy lifestyle-seekers from around the region.


CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Royal Phuket Marina (RPM), home of the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous 2019; Government officials and VIPs attending the official opening of the show; more than 40 yachts were on display at the marina; GoAir was the official airline partner of the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous 2019.

a range of spectacular superyachts including the 73m M/Y Titania.

In addition to the yachts and superyachts on water, the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous delivered a four-day celebration of the yachting lifestyle with a wide range of interactive activities, ‘live’ demonstrations, sommelier wine tastings and elephant painting by Elephant Parade, as well as a classic car display, yacht parties and networking events.

As part of a special promotion to enable the Indian yachting community to witness Phuket’s world-class facilities and luxury yachting, GoAir offered a 50 per cent discount on flights to Phuket from India for yachting enthusiasts who registered to visit the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous. Also, all visitors to the show received a 50 per cent discount on return flights to India where they could visit the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort or the Lake Palace of Udaipur.

“GoAir's direct flights to Phuket are a game-changer for India and for yachting in Thailand. More Indians than ever attended the Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous this year I expect to see many buying boats and keep them in Phuket. Indian's marine infrastructure is underdeveloped and duties on yachts is 60 per cent. In Phuket we have world-class facilities, the best cruising grounds in the world and duties are zero making it the obvious choice for Indians to keep their boats,” added Mr. Lalvani.

“In fact, since GoAir’s direct flights were launched we have seen an increase in interest from Indian boat owners. Our one-of-a-kind premium fully-covered dry stack and concierge service for boats up to 39-feet is ideal for Indian boat owners who wish to fly in for a weekend and use their boat. We will have their boat in the water and ready for cruising within 30 mins of their call, and store it again afterwards,” he concluded.


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GoAir.in FEBRUARY 2019 61 GoAir.in FEBRUARY 2019 61

GoAir is set to launch direct flights to Muscat. From golden sands and date palms to beaches and traditional Arab markets, this culture steeped port capital of Oman has much to offer.

GoAir CONNECTS THE MIDDLE EAST

GoAir will further expand internationally with the launch of direct flights on the Kannur–Muscat–Kannur route effective February 28, 2019. Having recently commenced domestic operations out of Kannur, GoAir is proud to announce Muscat as its third international destination.

GoAir will operate three direct flights a week between Kannur and Muscat. Bookings are open at an attractive all-inclusive one way fare starting from r4,999*. This sector will further strengthen the airline’s growing international network and passengers will now have the opportunity to experience the comfortable yet affordable travel that GoAir is acknowledged with.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Jeh Wadia, GoAir's Managing Director said, “Muscat is a key market for us and is in line with our growth strategy and more so for the Middle East. We are hopeful that this service will also prove equally popular with our flyers."

Abu Dhabi marks the fourth international destination for GoAir. Effective March 1, 2019, GoAir will also operate four direct flights per week on the Kannur–Abu Dhabi–Kannur route. Bookings have opened at an attractive all-inclusive one way fare starting from r6,099*.

GoAir offers direct flights to Muscat and Abu Dhabi from Kannur. Visit GoAir.in or mobile app for more information.



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MUSCAT – A CULTURAL PARADISE Home to secluded beaches flanked by turquoise waters, 200-year-old royal palaces, 14th-century forts, colourful souqs (markets) and finger-licking food, Muscat, though a modern city, has retained its cultural heritage. What gives it cultural depth is the wide range of influences. An important trading port between the West and East, Muscat was ruled by various indigenous tribes as well as foreign powers such as the Persians, the Portuguese Empire, the Iberian Union and the Ottoman Empire at various

points in its history. As an important port-town in the Gulf of Oman, Muscat attracted foreign tradesmen and settlers such as the Persians and the Balochis.

Due to its long coastline bordering the Arabian Sea, seafood forms a major part of the local diet; shark is a delicacy here. Chicken, lamb and rice are staples, seasoned with ingredients like saffron, ginger and nutmeg. While street food entails light bites of the likes of shawarma (a meat and pita bread wrap) and mishkak (grilled meat), mains such as machboos (the

Arab version of biryani) and shuwa (meat marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground oven) are sure to induce a food coma.

EXPLORING THE CITY Muscat has many private beaches in upscale areas but it also has beautiful beaches that are open to the public. Sifah Beach is on the eastern coast of the city, near Jebel Sifah (Sifah Mountain) and distinguished by its white sands that have rocky outcrops stretched

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MUSCATBask in the golden sun along the sandy shores, or dive with turtles in Muscat’s famed lagoons as you go traversing around Oman’s capital city. With an abundance of architectural gems, scrumptious food, and glittering blue waters, Muscat is every traveller’s dream come true.

Kannur International Flight Schedule

From To Dep.(Local)

Arr.(Local)

Frequency Fares starting at

Effective From

Kannur Muscat 21:45 00:05 Tue, Thu, Sat R4,999* 28th Feb'19

Muscat Kannur 01:05 06:00 Wed, Fri, Sun R5,299* 1st Mar'19

Kannur Muscat 22:10 00:40 Tue, Thu, Sat R4,999* 2nd Apr'19

Muscat Kannur 02:30 07:25 Wed, Fri, Sun R5,299* 31st Mar'19

Tickets for the new flights can be booked on GoAir.in or mobile app that is available on both Apple iOS and Google Android.


CULTURAL DOS AND DON’TS

DOSThe locals are truly hospitable and friendly and so, always:

Respond to the greeting “As-Salaamu-Alaikum”, which means "Peace be upon you" with “Wa-Alaikum-Salaam”

Be modest in your dressing especially when you visit holy sites.

DON’TS Walk on a prayer mat or in front of a

person at prayer.

Decline refreshments when offered as it's considered very offensive.

Beckon someone (a taxi, waiter etc.)

over it. You can enjoy several water activities here or even unwind with a BBQ meal. Kalbuh Beach, located near the Kalbuh Park in Muttrah, is one of the best places to go swimming in Muscat; they even offer free swimming classes. With a great view of the park, the surrounding mountain and the turquoise waters, Kalbuh Beach is one of the must-visit beaches in Muscat.

Muttrah is also popular for its traditional souq. A labyrinth of bylanes, offering great bargains on souvenirs such as Arabian rugs, jewellery, antiques and the unique

Omani Khanjar (daggers worn by men around their waists; it also appears on the national flag), as well as other knick-knacks, the market is best navigated on foot.

Muscat is home to many beautiful mosques. Completed in 2001, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is most popular and covers an area of more than 450,000 square metres. The mosque features one central golden dome, the main minaret that is 90 metres high and four minarets that are 45.5 metres high. From the inside, the mosque has the second largest carpet in the world, which

is made with 28 different colours with varying shades, tied together in classical Persian Tabriz, Kashan and Isfahan design traditions. The mosque also has a central crystal chandelier, which is 14 metres tall, along with exceptional colourful roof decorations.

Another attraction is the Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace of Qaboos bin Said Al Said, the leader of Oman. It is one of six residences belonging to the ruling family and it has a history that extends over 200 years. Distinguished with golden and blue colours, the palace evokes an elegant, yet very simple and unique architecture. It has polished marble surfaces, wooden balconies and beautifully shaped gardens, all of which reflect a traditional Omani style. While entry inside the place isn’t permitted, the stunning view from the outside makes it worth a visit. Al Jalali Fort and Al Mirani Fort are both located in the harbour of the city of Old Muscat. Two of Oman's most famous forts, they were built by the Portuguese to protect the harbour from Ottoman attacks. While access inside the forts may be subject to permission, the view from the outside is impressive and truly Instagram-worthy. Ch

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Visit this fascinating island nation, offering a variety of experiences from adventures in the sea to gastronomical escapades and everything in between.

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BEST THINGS TO SEE AND

DO IN MALÉ

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TAKE A BOAT RIDE TO HULHUMALÉ ISLAND

Take a break from Malé’s bustling life and hop onto a ferry at the terminal for a short ride to Hulhumalé Island, which lies to the south of North Malé Atoll. Though a reclaimed island, it has a lot of charm going for it. It abounds in lush green trees and open beaches fringed by golden-white sands with azure blue waters stretching out till the horizon. It is also home to the popular golden-domed mosque. It is ideal to cycle, indulge in water sports, lounge on the beach or just wander around. The island has plenty of restaurants and a fairly active nightlife.

The Maldivian archipelago can be visitor. With over 2,000 islands grouped into 26 Atolls, there’s far too much to see and do. At its heart, the capital, Malé, is a fascinating place and the best place to start. Here’s a checklist of things to-do that is bound to give every soul a rounded experience.




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For cycling enthusiasts, there’s plenty of activity around Malé and elsewhere, but a fun activity is to cross the beautiful Sinamalé Bridge on a bicycle. Built across the ocean, connecting Malé to Hulhumalé

is that it has two car lanes and separate lanes for bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians. The wind can

across that much more fun.

BROWSE THROUGH MALÉ'S LOCAL MARKET

It is always fascinating to visit local is a hive of activity with vendors from all over the country selling their wares. There are seasonal

of produce. Those who are not

where the day’s catch is brought in fresh. It is a good place to see diverse seafood.

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SIGN UP FOR WATER SPORTS SUCH AS SNORKELLING, SCUBA DIVING AND SURFING

Malé is a water sports haven. The waters surrounding the island as well as nearby spots are ideal for a variety of activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and

Malé Atolls as well as Ari Atoll are good for snorkelling. Ari Atoll is also ideal for scuba diving. On view are spectacularly coloured coral reefs, which are home to sharks, manta rays, moray eels and octopuses, as well as whale and hammerhead sharks and plenty of other marine life. Pasta

GET A GLIMPSE OF THE UNDERWATER WORLD FROM A SUBMARINE

There’s something really fascinating about marine life and the best way to experience it without having to get wet or exert any effort is through a submarine dive. The vessel descends slowly to a reef about 40 metres below the surface, during which one can see colourful corals,

other sea creatures such as snappers, lion

whitetip reef shark. Caves and shipwrecks are also visible.

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GO ISLAND HOPPING

There’s something about spending the day or even a few days on the water, just cruising the waters or island hopping. Malé is surrounded by islands which are ideal for a day trip or even an extended one. It can be packed with adventure and water activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling. The trip can be interspersed with exploring beaches and interesting islands such as the deserted island of Fulidhoo; Thulusdhoo, which known for manufacturing indigenous big drums and Maafushi — for its beautiful beaches and clear reefs.

FEAST ON LOCAL STREET FOOD

Maldivian cuisine is a melange similarities with South Indian cuisine, since it has a predominance of coconuts. The streets of Malé are dotted with little eateries and carts that dish up tasty and interesting food. Some of the most common eats include bhaji (fritters), samosa (pastry), gulha (fried balls of

mas keemia kuli boakiba

there’s rice pudding called and kavaabuwashed down with sai, a kind of tea and raa, a kind of palm toddy.

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Planning a wedding can be quite a task; posing for endless portraits, even more so. We get a wedding photographer to help you find one who is on the same page as you.

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Tips for Hiring a

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

The date is fixed, and the stage is set. Your wedding is an event that you're going to remember for the rest of your life; well, with a little help from your wedding photographer. Even as all eyes are on you on your D-Day, it is your photographer who is going to capture the memories and emotions.

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Have no doubts — it’s hard to pick a wedding photographer. They are vying for your attention every time you flip through your social media feeds. Once you’ve shortlisted a few — ideally based on references/recommendations — it’s worth putting in that extra effort to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money. Here are a few tips that you should keep in mind to get the best wedding photographs which you can treasure over a lifetime.

LOOK AT FULL SETSEveryone has a few great shots where the light, the frame and everything come together, and that’s what you see on Instagram. It’s easy to be swayed by a photographer’s social media feed where they showcase their finest work, but before you make any sort of decision, make sure you look at full wedding sets that they’ve done. That perfect shot in perfect light may look great, but the measure of a good wedding

photographer is what they can pull out of tricky situations which are bound to come up in the course of a wedding. Go through full sets to get an understanding of their abilities.

LOOK AT SIMILAR-THEMED WEDDINGS Every photographer worth his salt will have a few great sets, that one lovely wedding on the beach with the setting sun and the golden-hour glow for company. But hey, here’s a reality check. If your wedding is going to be at an indoor venue, those skills may not exactly translate into picture-perfect moments.

Ask the photographer to present some photos which may be similar to your set-up. So if you’re going to have a closed hall ceremony, ask for pictures in a hall, or of the rituals you’ll be having. This forces the photographer to show you work that’s closer to their average quality, and perhaps closer to what you’re likely to get from them.

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GET A CONFIRMATION ON WHO EXACTLY IS SHOOTINGMany photography brands are built on the reputation of a certain individual, and if it is the individual’s work that you like, make sure you verify that s/he is the person coming to shoot your wedding. Far too often, clients hire XYZ photographer and discover on the day of the event, much to their dismay, that the person shooting the event is XYZ’s fifth assistant, whose work they’ve never seen. To avoid this, discuss with the photographer and get a specific commitment on who will be shooting the events. Examine that individual’s work, before making the decision on hiring the photographer.

DON’T GET TOO MANY CAMERAPERSONS At any event, there are only a finite number of camera angles available. A good photographer tries to make optimal use of these angles to get the best pictures. The more photographers and videographers you involve, the fewer the angles available to each lensman; and the more the potential conflicts between the camerapersons. Ideally, you shouldn’t have more than two camerapeople at a wedding, three at a stretch. Anything beyond this, and you may diminish the quality of the pictures significantly.

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DON’T FORGET LIGHTING AND MAKE-UPThe photographer can only capture what is in front of the camera. It is worth investing a bit of effort in ensuring that the venue is well-lit and make-up is up to the mark. These two aspects play a significant role in how your pictures will end up looking. Remember: you don’t need expensive make-up or lighting for good pictures. In fact, very often the problem is too much make-up, or too many lights. Get a make-up artist who’s skilled in make-up that is faithful to your skin tone. Avoid flourescent or LED lights, especially the coloured ones. These two simple steps can take you a lot closer to getting the best pictures possible.

DON’T HESITATE TO NEGOTIATEWedding photography is an expensive service, but most photography vendors have negotiation room built into their pricing. If you like someone’s work but find they are out of your budget, don’t hesitate to ask for discounts. Tell the photographer your budget. Photographers, like all creative professionals, have big egos. Starting off the negotiation with the gentle ego massage of, “We love your work so much, but it’s a little out of our budget.” is likely to give you the best results. The worst that will happen is that they’ll refuse to budge and you can then explore others. Happy hunting!

Vinay Aravind is a wedding photographer.

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Eckhart Tolle, a German-born spiritual teacher, once said, “The best gift you can

give another human being is your complete and undivided attention.” Given our current, busy lifestyles, what do you think is the most ideal time to share this simple, yet beautiful gift with someone? A vacation, of course! "Now’s the chance to spend quality time with others," you might say to yourselves with relief, as you leave for your vacation destination. You’re determined to make the most of your break and leave all worries behind. No travelling to work, no

long hours in front of the laptop, cell phone, and TV. And no more waiting for the day to end just so that you can shut your eyes tired with all that screen time.

Of course, your mobile phone or tab is important on a holiday too. Your hotel bookings, maps, itineraries, everything could be stored in them. GPS can help you navigate on the streets of a new city. You could receive news about any emergency situation through the Internet faster. But there are times when you do choose to unplug and relax. Here’s how you make the most for yourself.

CARRY ONLY WHAT YOU NEEDLet’s be realistic: you are going to carry your gadgets with you, but what you can do is put an end to that

from shopping, gaming and any other apps that you aren’t planning to spend time on. Silence the

so that you can choose to see them at your pre-decided intervals, instead of being disturbed through the day. You can even go one step ahead and hide the apps so that you aren’t tempted to use it. Simply resolve to not waste your time in those pursuits, and you will actually be surprised at how well this trick works.

HOW TO DO A

DIGITAL DETOXYou could be on a vacay but giving up on your tech gadgets and the Internet could be painful. Here’s how you can temporarily bid goodbye to your gizmos and stick to your much-needed break.

Text DR KAMAT and APEXA SHAH

CLICK ALL YOU CAN, BUT DON’T SHARE PICS DURING VACATIONAs soon as you land, you might be

timeline with your check-in and

time thinking of a great one liner… then wait for comments to pour in… and again diligently take the effort to reply to each one of them. Some of your contacts might request you to send more pics, and off you go,

you realise it, your feed has lured you into its swamp. You could be up un

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among the mountains in Leh, and yet you could be busy uploading pics or cursing the network, forgetting how you really wanted to spend the time. So click pictures, but unless it’s absolutely necessary, don’t share until you’re back home.

TACKLE BOREDOM BY ENGAGING IN OTHER ACTIVITIESIt’s time to stop living your life through a screen. Instead take in what’s happening around you through your eyes. Enquire and look for activities that are unique to your destination. Participate in something you haven’t tried previously; sample a new dish; try a different adventure; shop local. This will open up your mind and create memories, which is the very purpose of travelling, isn’t it?

Detoxym: 1 or 2 capsules, before going to bed, or as advised by

your physician.

Radi: 1 or 2 capsules, before going to bed, or as advised by

your physician.

Radi 1 or

Visit www.biogetica.com to explore and buy Biogetica’s products. Use

all its online products and services. Call 8080877877 or chat with the panel of Biogetica doctors for any

health advice.

PROTECT YOUR ENERGY-FIELD FROM RADIATIONAs you take these digital detox steps, remember that other people’s gadgets such as cell phones, laptops and even power lines in your vicinity could still

interfere with your health and energy

are overexposed to digital radiation. This test involves sending three hair strands to their designated laboratory. Your sample is then analysed and a report is tailored to your requirements

This state-of-the-art analysis reveals electrical sensitivities, stresses from precise sources, and nutritional recommendations.

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However, given our lifestyles, it’s nearly impossible to stay away from gadgets forever. What we can do instead is protect our energy

bio-resonator pendant such as Biogetica’s Resonam or Resolife. These two are some of the most

devices today. These beautiful and completely safe-to-use pendants harmonize hertzian and non-hertzian

protect us from electromagnetic and high frequency radiations. Besides this, Detoxym by Biogetica can assist you in a complete detox by clearing the blockages that have

You may also use Radi by Biogetica, which is a bioregulator that improves the nutritional and energy state of the body. It potentially supports the natural adaptive response of the body to electromagnetic stress. Both these products are 100 per cent pure and potent. Happy detoxing!

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GRAPE ESCAPES

There is something magical about being able to look out of your

window and witness a sprawling vineyard. Holidaying here would

mean spectacular mountain views, glorious sunsets and copious tasting

opportunities. What's more? Stock up on some delicious wines.

Text NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

GROVER ZAMPA, NANDI HILLSituated at 920 meters above sea level and spread over 410 acres, the vineyards at Grover Zampa at Nandi Hills, make for a stunning sight. There

are no accommodation options, but the place offers day trips. The wine tasting is conducted amidst oak barrels in the air-conditioned cellar with soothing music for company. A wholesome lunch awaits you next. The place is located amidst tranquil landscapes, and offers rich history and beautiful vistas to explore. Spare some time to try and spot Asian paradise

eagles, puff-throated babblers, etc.

Where: Doddaballapur, Bengaluru Tel: 08027622826, 08027622827.

The deal: R1,000 per head on weekends. This

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FRATELLI, SOLAPUR ou can drink in the heady views (and heady wines) at this good-looking guest house, complete with landscaped gardens, winery and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rides. Up a twisting, iron staircase, there are four

designed living room where you assemble for meals. The spread is simple Maharashtrian fare but delicious. The tastings are done over a meal on a hill in the vineyard. You can sample a different

crisp and fresh white wine made from red grapes. When you have

well-trained vines. History buffs can check out the sound-and-light show at the fort in Akluj and visit the temple there.

Where: Solapur, MaharashtraTel: 099588 80577

The deal: R15,000 per night, inclusive of all meals for a couple on weekends; R10,000 on weekdays.

YFOUR SEASONS, BARAMATIof wine: lovingly created and carefully aged. It has an imposing chateau-style building, the winding old-world staircase, gorgeous

black-and-white framed photographs and antique furniture in the rooms. Accommodation is in stylishly done rooms, with views overlooking the valley of vines

has a spa and a picturesque party deck. You can bathe in a rectangular pool or take off on a bicycle tour.

Meals could be had at the picturesque poolside with a bottle of Vintners Reserve red wine. If you are an early riser, don’t decline the trek invitation. Apart from the scenic trail you could also spot a hyena or deer. Look out for the bor (wild berries) trees along the way for a quick juicy snack.

Where: Pune, Maharashtra Tel: 088560 33491The deal: R6,690 for a standard room for a couple per night, inclusive of all meals and wine tasting. Suites cost R9,050.

Solapur is approximately 255 km from Pune. GoAir

Pune from -

more information.

Connect

Connect

night, inclusive of all meals and wine tasting. Suitescost R9,050. RR

more information.Connect

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Ms. Shyamali Basu, Senior Vice President & Head - Products & Marketing, HDFC Asset Management Co. Ltd.

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID WHILE SELECTING TAX SAVING INVESTMENTS

MUTUAL FUND INVESTMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO MARKET RISKS, READ ALL SCHEME RELATED DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY.

It’s that time of the year again, when we run from pillar to post to invest in eligible investments for tax deductions. As they say, “Act in haste, repent at leisure”. Here are a few common mistakes investors make:-

1) Thinking solely about tax saving rather than wealth creation Tax saving investments save tax and are supposed to create wealth.

As simple as this statement may sound, this fact is lost on most investors.

2) Using contingency funds for tax saving investments Last minute investments to save taxes puts pressure on finances

of many individuals. To make the most of tax deductions, people commit a mistake of using their contingency funds.

3) One product approach If one looks at tax saving as a cumbersome exercise, then there

is a high likelihood of investing the entire eligible amount in one investment vehicle without considering one’s financial goals and risk appetite.

4) Buying endowment insurance plans Endowment plans mix insurance and investment and tend to be

costlier than term plans. Further, returns on endowment policies are low and cost structure relatively less transparent which undermines its utility as an investment vehicle. Since it’s a bundled product, insurance cover provided by it is lower and results in inadequate cover. Instead, it is advisable to buy term insurance with adequate coverage considering your age, income, dependents, and existing wealth.

5) Lack of awareness about multi-year commitments Certain products like ULIPs, Endowment Insurance Plans etc.

involve multi-year commitments. Failure to pay premiums subsequently results in revocation of policy. Investors, at times, are unaware about this.

6) Shying away from equity Although equities are volatile in short term, they yield higher returns

in the long term and outperform other asset classes. Since Equity Linked Saving Scheme (ELSS) returns are impacted by equity volatility, it is advisable to invest through SIPs to benefit from rupee cost averaging.

7) Ignoring lock-in period Investments in ULIPs, PPF, endowment policies have longer lock-in

period as compared to ELSS. Ignoring lock-in period of tax saving investments can throw your financial plan into disarray.

8) Not thinking beyond 80C Apart from 80C there are sections like Sec 80D (Mediclaim), Sec

80G (Donations to charitable organization), Sec.80CCD (National Pension Scheme), which taxpayers are unaware of.

Avoid these common mistakes and thus regrettable investing decisions.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not of HDFC AMC, and should not be regarded as investment advice. Investors should obtain their own independent advice before taking a decision to invest in any securities.

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TIPS If you want to experience viticulture live, you can join in the action at many wineries. The grape harvest season begins in January and continues till April.

Stock up on your favourite wines at the vineyards, which dole out 15 to 20 per cent discounts.

Apart from your camera, do carry walking shoes and binoculars for birdwatching.

THE SOURCE AT SULA VINEYARDS, NASHIK

his handsome resort sits in a silent landscape where time seems suspended. Here, amid the mountains, you can commune with nature, dine like a king and sleep in peace. The arched

windows, louvred shutters and terracotta roof add a lovely Tuscan twist to the resort. But it’s the view that will truly take your breath away. No matter what room you choose — wooden tree houses with large balconies or the suites — all of them come with unbeatable views of Sula Vineyards and the placid Gangapur Lake in the distance. There is also a luxurious pool and some wine-based spa therapies to indulge in. For meals, you have two choices — Soma for Indian meals and Little Italy for well, Italian cuisine. When you are done seeing the temperature- and humidity-controlled barrel room and the wine-making process, kick back with a glass of Rasa Shiraz and admire the view.

If you’re not too hung-over the next morning, there are plenty of local walks and treks to explore. The adventurous can even set out to explore the 200-year-old ancient rock cut caves of Pandav Leni. The Kalaram Temple and Ganga Ghat are other attractions in the close vicinity.

Where: Nashik, MaharashtraTel: 078755 55725/35

The deal: R10,000 for a night on weekends for a couple inclusive of breakfast, wine tasting and vineyard tour.

Nashik is approximately 168 km from

Goa, Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi and other cities, as well as convenient connections. Visit GoAir.in or mobile app for more information.

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There are two kinds of packers in the world — ones who maintain a check list and ones who believe that the universe will conspire to toss things in their bag. Whichever type you are, there are certain essentials that are capable of dampening a trip by their absence, more than others. So whatever your checklist, look for these

Text SUSHMITA MURTHY

PACK FOR A HOLIDAY

WATER FILTER BOTTLE A good traveller is a conscious traveller.

Leave no (plastic) traces of your visit. Invest in a

sip on local tap water instead of heaping on

mineral water bottles. It works cheaper as well!

FLIP-FLOPS/SARONG

spell h-o-l-i-d-a-y like few other things do. Ensure you always

off. Whether it’s a beach or a pool that you’re soaking in, a sarong/kaftan is the best thing to slip into. Besides, they’re so stylish!

ADAPTER If you’re a traveller in the age of smartphones, chances are that the device is indispensible to your movement — whether for social media updates, booking details, camera or for the more cliché purpose of connectivity. And pulling the plug on the phone may mean serious damage. If you’re travelling international, always make sure that you carry a multiple outlet adapter so the phone doesn’t hang up on you.

LAUNDRY POUCH Among the many joys of travelling is the fact that you’re excused from laundry duties — but not from the dirty laundry. If you’re anything like us, the idea of it cosying up with your clean linen may make you twitch. Do yourself a favour and toss a laundry pouch into your bag so the boundaries are marked.

LOCK Whatever the contents of your bag, carry a lock. All that packing and shopping could go for a toss if the bag is a free-for-all buffet. Lock it to be safe.

MEDICINES The one thing worse than falling sick in a foreign land is looking for medication in that state of sickness. Spare yourself the misery and go prepared. Just the basic — for common cold, cough etc.

BOOK Now this isn’t technically a ‘must-pack’ item — only technically. In every other way, it is. There is something so luxurious about reading on a

beach, on a hammock, in a garden or an extra-soft hotel mattress that we’d never deprive

ourselves of the experience.

OFFLINE MAPS

the place you’re visiting in case there’s bad connectivity in the area. If you’re especially

the kind of traveller who seeks places where one can ‘disconnect’, this is a great tool to

have. It reduces your dependency of

your way.

POWER BANK Travelling means being on the road for long stretches of time — obviously. Being unplugged for a long time means a phone with a drained battery. Carry a power bank and avoid being incommunicado.

SNACKS However much of a foodie you are,

doesn’t hurt to pack some dry savouries in case you feel peckish from time to time — just to calm the growling until you hit the lunch or dinner table.

Tech

THE BEST GADGETS

YOU CAN BUY

IPHONE XS

Apple’s latest ‘S’ update didn’t deviate from the iPhone X design template. The real changes were under the hood —from the brand new A12 Bionic chip that altered performance to smart HDR that impacted low light photography, and a new 512GB internal storage option. (R99,900 onwards)

Buying a tech device is nothing less than an investment. Whether it's a smartphone that makes

you a smarter photographer, or a wearable that can be

best recommendations.

Text ASHWIN RAJAGOPALAN

ONEPLUS 6T

A(Screen Unlock) sensor and a couple of special editions including the Thunder Purple, make it a compelling proposition. It is lightning quick — something we’ve come to expect from OnePlus devices, thanks to the best of breed Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor and 6-10 GB of RAM (R37,999 onwards) APPLE

WATCH SERIES 4

Apple knocked the bezels off with its fourth generation watch and expanded the screen by 40 per cent with two new sizes (40 mm and 44 mm). Other enhancements include a rejigged speaker and microphone set-up and a new electrical heart sensor. (R40,900 onwards)

GoAir.in SEPTEMBER 2018 93

SONY WH-1000XM3

These are arguably the best noise cancellation headphones (thanks to the brand’s new QN1 noise-cancelling chip) that will appeal

will also appreciate the

and deeper ear space

(R29,990)

GOOGLE PIXEL 3XL

Pover its predecessor, including a glass back with

(R83,000 onwards)

Tech

BOSE HOME SPEAKER 500

Aside from Bose’s strong audio credentials, this speaker also has smart capabilities (Amazon's assistant Alexa is baked in) with instant access to weather reports and news updates. Two custom drivers point in opposite directions to bounce sound off the walls, providing a wider sound-stage than any other smart speaker. (R39,000)

SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 9

Sdesign language we loved in the Galaxy S8 and Note 8, with an immersive display. The new S-Pen comes with a whole new bag of tricks including Bluetooth capability. New hardware upgrades mean that your phone can now pack over 1 TB of storage. (R67,900)

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S4

This is the perfect blend of productivity and entertainment. The 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display (2560 x 1600 pixels) with quad speakers is perfect for movie buffs and multi-taskers who need to get work done on the go. A 7,300 mAh battery guarantees 16 hours of video playback and the in-built S-Pen is more than handy. (R57,990)

AXY NOTE 9

FITBIT CHARGE 3

It combines the functionality of a smartwatch with the slim design of a tracker and seven-day battery life. The Charge 3 is crafted with lightweight materials and offers a premium swim-proof design with a touch-screen display, 15+ goal-based exercise modes and a host of smart features. (R14,999)

THE SPECTACLE OF A LIFETIME

, BENGALURU

12TH AERO INDIA

ATTRACTIONS AT AERO INDIA 2019

Drone Olympics on payload, surveillance and swarms with attractive prizes

Aero India Startup Challenge to be supported by iDEX

Professional photography competition with attractive prizes

Women's Day at Aero India 2019

Special issue of International Research Journalfor selected conference papers contributed for academic conferences during Aero India 2019

"Startup corner" in India Pavilion - Opportunity for best startups to showcase their products for free

Opportunity for selected students to showcase their Aerospace projectsat Aero India 2019 for free

The 12th edition is coming soon and it's going to be bigger and better than ever before.

DEX XX

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On the Cards On the Cards

What your cards reveal...An overview of what to expect this month.

Aries

You will become aware of what you have been avoiding for some time. Face it — this is your way to happiness. The cards encourage you to gather your closest friends and have fun. It's a good time to collaborate on a creative project. Focus on the path ahead without being negative.

Taurus

Prioritise on what’s important to you and direct your focus on those tasks. You will be asked to travel for work, though this could mean missing a family event. This is important for your personal growth. If you have been working on

will culminate in your favour.

Gemini

You will start working towards your vision. Your manifestation will

who will gravitate towards you because of your focus. You will create a strong foundation for future success and be surrounded by people you love. It’s a good time to start something

Documents

GoAir · on return flights to India where they could visit the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort or the Lake Palace of Udaipur. “GoAir's direct flights to Phuket are a game-changer for India