This Month

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India Enchanted

Feature of the Month

Mahakumbh

In the News

Story of the month

Experiences

Cool Locations

Hotel Restoration

Wellness

Iconic Things to Eat

Indians around the world

Festivals

News from the Jungle

From Mrs Kohli’s Kitchen

Our Website

Dear Industry Colleagues,

Welcome to another edition 'Creatively Yours'.

This month, we talk about the famed Indian sweet, Jalebi, which is very common in the North. Raas Chhatrasagar is mentioned in our Cool Locations section. An intimate tented camp, it sits on the banks of a water reservoir and offers a most unique stay. One of our favourite hotel restorations is the Brijrama Palace in Varanasi. Elegant and unique, it is a staple in our hotel offerings for the city. Rudyard Kipling makes the section on Indians around the world as one of our most famous Anglo-Indian authors. And it is Mango season, so we have to have a mango dish as our recipe for the month.

We are also launching initiatives for the famous Mahakumbh fair in January – February 2025. This is the largest gathering of humans on the planet. We are having conversations with Travel planners for customs trips. Please let us know if you would like a call.

It is the last month if our 2024 ‘Be our Guest‘ portfolio for our partners. This gives you the opportunity to experience not only India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, but also the legendary services that have made us what we are today. Many will copy us, but there is only one ‘Be our Guest‘

We have been providing custom training and one-on-one strategy sessions to travel advisors and tour operators worldwide. If you would like to plan a session for you and your team, just email us at knowledge@creative.travel with your details.

Read these and other stories in this edition of ‘Creatively Yours’. Additional news items are also on our blog site.

Have a Creative Day!

Rajeev Kohli & Rohit Kohli

Etihad Airways launches New Direct Flight to Jaipur

Etihad Airways has launched a new direct route from Abu Dhabi to Jaipur, starting June 20, 2024. Operating four times a week on the Airbus A320, this service features both Business and Economy Class options. The new route aims to strengthen connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Jaipur,

Indian chutneys named among the world’s 50 best dips

Indian chutneys have earned a spot on Taste Atlas’s prestigious list of the "50 Best Dips in the World." This recognition celebrates the rich variety of chutneys in Indian cuisine, from zesty mint chutney to spicy tomato chutney and classic mango chutney.

Taj Malabar Resort & Spa reopens with a fresh new look

The iconic Taj Malabar Resort & Spa in Kochi has reopened following an extensive renovation. This luxurious resort now features modern amenities and a refreshed design while retaining its traditional charm. Guests can enjoy newly updated rooms, an enhanced spa experience, and a refined dining selection with local and international cuisine.

Air India introduces non-stop flights from Bengaluru to London Gatwick

Air India is expanding its international routes with a new non-stop service between Bengaluru and London Gatwick, starting in August 2024. Operating four times a week on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the flights will offer direct connections between Bengaluru’s IT hub and one of London’s key airports.

The Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur named Best Hotel in the World

The Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur has been crowned the Best Hotel in the World in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2024. This esteemed recognition highlights the hotel’s exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and stunning design. Set amid lush gardens and inspired by traditional Indian palaces, the Oberoi Rajvilas offers a unique blend of regal elegance and modern comforts.

The Chai Class

Take an immersive journey into India's beloved beverage with an expert. Step into the world of chai, an elixir cherished across India for its rich flavours and health benefits. "The Chai Experience" invites you to delve into the secrets of this beloved drink, often hailed as "The Champagne of Teas," in a captivating 60-minute session perfect for all ages and group sizes from 2 to 15 participants.

Raas Chhatrasagar, Nimaj: Glamping, Rajputana style

Set on the lush, 1500-acre grounds surrounding Chhatrasagar dam in the Pali district of Rajasthan, RAAS Chhatrasagar stands like an oasis against the arid desert landscape of Marwar. The dam, originally constructed in 1890 by Thakur Chattra Singhji of Nimaj, transformed dry scrublands into fertile agricultural fields, fostering a thriving community around the reservoir.

Brij Rama Palace, Varanasi: Palatial grandeur

A 200-year-old palace, initially constructed for the Maharaja of Darbhanga, Bihar, in 1812, has been lovingly restored as one of India's most opulent heritage hotels. This palace, now known as Brij Rama Palace, stands proudly on the banks of Darbhanga Ghat in Varanasi as a symbol of the city's rich history and culture.

Six Senses Vana, Dehradun

Nestled in the heart of the Sal forests at the foothills of the Himalayas in Dehradun, Six Senses Vana has set a new standard for transformative wellness. The 21-acre temple of wellness has an assembly of Ayurvedic doctors, Yoga teachers, Tibetan healers, fitness experts, acupuncturists, reflexologists, Ayurvedic chefs, and therapists to aid in your journey towards detox and rejuvenation.

Jalebi: Timeless sweet indulgence

Among the diverse array of Indian sweets, few can rival the unique appeal of Jalebi. Its vibrant, golden spirals, crispy exterior, and syrup-soaked interior make it a treat that stands out. Whether it's sizzling in hot oil at a street stall or gracing the dessert table at a grand wedding banquet, Jalebi's allure is undeniable.

Rudyard Kipling: A storyteller par excellence

Born in 1865 in Bombay, Rudyard Kipling’s formative years were shaped by the culture and landscape of British India. The lush jungles, colourful festivals, and dramatic contrasts of colonial life in India created a world of wonder and complexity, which later resonated through his imaginative literary creations and influenced his unique storytelling style.

Kandy Esala Perahera: Sri Lanka’s grandest cultural festival

The Kandy Esala Perahera is Sri Lanka’s most grand and vibrant cultural festival, celebrated annually in Kandy during the full moon of August. This historic festival showcases a stunning parade featuring elaborately decorated elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, and fire performers.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, named after India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, is an annual event held on the Punnamda Lake in Alappuzha, Kerala. Taking place on the second Saturday of August, the race features the famous snake boats, or "Chundan Vallams," and attracts around 200,000 spectators, including tourists from around the world.

Debrigarh Sanctuary becomes Odisha’s first stargazing destination

Debrigarh Sanctuary in Odisha has achieved a milestone as the state’s first dedicated stargazing destination. The sanctuary now features specialized facilities for astronomy enthusiasts, including telescopes and guided stargazing tours.

Mango & Cardamom Syllabub

Mango & Cardamom Syllabub is a sophisticated yet simple dessert that blends the tropical sweetness of mango with the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom. Originating from the traditional British syllabub, this version incorporates mango to provide a fruity and exotic twist.