Want to boost your productivity? Take a travel break

Remember Ranbir Kapoor in `Ye Jawani Hai Deewani`? A flamboyant travel journalist! His role underlined an important truth: travel brings happiness, which is often infectious.

It`s a fact of life- all of us want to be happy and enjoy life but pressures of life, work stress and deadlines, weigh us down and lead us to suppress our basic quest for happiness. This is one reason why periodic breaks from work and monotony are important for professional growth.

A recent research, by Mark Rose kind of Alertness Solutions, found that the respite effect of vacation can increase work performance by as much as 80 percent.

It`s to do with the brain`s refuelling mechanism. As we take a break, the body gets a chance to recover from the toll of chronic stress. Another study suggests that office workers who take frequent travel breaks return to work with better stamina and dedication.

Today, forward-looking organizations have come to accept the fact that regular travel breaks enhance workplace efficiency. While some are modifying their Human Resource policies to extend the leniency around leaves and travel allowances, there are others who are even paying their employees to take vacations. Not surprising.

Kapil Goswamy, the CEO and MD of BigBreaks.com brings forward some good reasons as to why regular travel breaks enhance productivity.

• Break=Mental Rejuvenation: A travel break refreshes your soul. As you travel, you do a lot of soul-searching and understand your own strengths and weaknesses in a comprehensive way which y helps you to be better person, and a better professional. If you have reached the bottom of your performance chart working on tough deadlines day after day, a travel break is all you need to recharge your battery.

• Builds Organizational Skill: French poet and novelist, Anatole France said: "Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe." How true. Travel experiences build flexibility and raise the integrity of our thought process. Planning the itinerary and arranging. On the same note, travel-check-list builds our organizational skills. Collaborating and coordinating with friends and family on the trip makes us a team person. Team spirit is extremely important in professional life too.

• Helps You Stay Calm: Relaxation is an indispensable part of a travel break. It helps you break free from the robotic work atmosphere and live in the moment. More importantly, it teaches you to figure out solidarity amidst chaos. Travelers keep on meeting new people and destinations, but at the same time, they are always engrossed in a state of mental tranquility and do not panic when an emergency situation arises. Well, composure is all it takes to be cool in the workplace, right?

• Sharpens Curiosity and Awareness :Tourists are inquisitive about the places they visit. If you travel frequently, you become a good explorer. Great conversations are often the bonus while you take a road trip with your soul mates. Besides exploring new vistas and dimensions of your life, a travel break allows you to get some valuable insights which may help in your professional life.

• Gives Your Confidence a Boost: If you travel often, you may find a surprise turn in your journeys. Frequent travellers get used to this over time. Uncertainty is a part of our professional lives. Whatever the issue, knowing that you can deal with it, gives you a big-time confidence boost. This is crucial in professional life.

• Builds Soft Skills: Last but not the least, travel breaks can dramatically enhance soft skills such as managing emotions, recognizing opportunities and understanding the diversities of people and cultures. Avid travelers are forced to move out of their comfort zone and build better communication skills. Over a period of time, you build a sense of empathy for your co-travellers and become a more humane person, willing to embrace change. Besides, social interactions make you happier, as you get to learn new behavioural trends which can be significantly useful in professional life. Frequent travellers also acquire valuable coping skills which enable them to lead from the front in personal as well as professional life. 

Winter special: Take these treks before the snow melts

Winter is here and if slithering through the days in a hibernation mode is all you have planned for this winter, you might want to reconsider it.

Here's a great offer. It is time to be a winter jock this season. If you thought winter is not an ideal season for treks, ixigo the meta search engine recommends these beautiful and enthralling winter treks in India which will for sure prove you wrong.

These snow treks with all-white landscapes are going to provide you with some incredible experiences which you don't read about in the storybooks.

Chadar Trek, Leh-Ladakh

Because ice skating on the rink is too mainstream.

Hit the trekking experience of another level altogether with one of THE MOST DANGEROUS TREKS in the world. Walk on the snow blanket of frozen Zanskar River through the whirly passages of snow-clad mountains. The magical charm and beauty of the snowy valleys are unparalleled. The temperature of the region drops as low as -20-degree celsius by the night. You might want to work on your stamina before you embark on this exhilarating journey.

Altitude: 3,322 m

Level: Difficult

Duration: 9 days, 8 nights

Trek length: 70-100 km

Roopkund Trek, Uttarakhand

A trek to the mystery lake.

A lake filled with 200 human skeletons, perched in the lap of Mt. Trishul! You ought not to miss the spooky yet exciting trek to the Roopkund Lake. The mysterious meanderings of the skeleton lake have fascinated many trekkers and travellers. The trek trail goes through beautiful Rhododendron forests, mountain rivers, and scenic meadows. If you are an avid trekker, put this fascinating winter trek in Uttrakhand on your list.

Altitude: 5,029 m

Level: Moderate

Duration: 8 D/ 7N

Trek Length: 53 km

Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand

A whiplash with snowy delights.

One of the easiest treks in the Himalayas, Kedarkantha winter trek is a delight for those who like the snow. The trek spans through astounding landscape passing through beautiful hamlets, snowy courses, and breathtaking views of majestic Himalayas. Feel yourself lucky gazing at the great mountain ranges, such as Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Black Peak. It is a great getaway trek from Delhi. Do not forget to make a snowman.

Altitude: 3,850 m

Level: Easy

Duration: 6D/5N

Trek Length: 20 km

Nag Tibba Trek

Trek all the way to the humble abode of Nag Devta.

Humming with a rich diversity of birds and animal, Nag Tibba trek is a visual treat for the first time trekkers. Be a spectator to the splendid views of Chanabang and Doon Valley and the great Gangotri Peaks. It is a circular trek which at no point overlaps the trail. Hence, enjoy a myriad of delighting nature scenes. Another great thing about this trek is its exquisite camping sites.

Altitude: 3,050 m

Level: Easy

Duration: 3D/2N

Trek Length: 20 km

ChoptaChandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand

Lo, and behold the beautiful panoramas of the Garhwal region!

Chandrashila Trek is an all-season trek that provides you with all-embracing views of the Garhwal Himalayas and the beautiful views of Nanda Devi, Kedar, Trishul and Chaukhamba peaks. Chopta, 'the Mini Switzerland of India', is where you will get a chance to surpass breathtaking pastures laden with snow. This winter trek in India takes you through Tungnath, where the highest temple of Lord Shiva is situated.

Altitude: 4,023 m

Level: Easy

Duration: 5D/4N

Trek Length: 20 km

Brahma Tal Trek, Uttrakhand

Return to the blue lagoon!

A rare and exceptional winter trek, Brahmatal Trek could be the best trek of your life. A good dollop of snow and a beautiful lagoon nestled between the snow-capped mountains are enough reasons to go for this winter trek. The trails wind through verdant forests and beautiful meadows, which will sure take your breath away. The views that this trek offers will leave you gaping out of wonder and delight.

Altitude: 3,352 m

Level: Moderate

Duration: 6D/5N

Trek Length: 30 km

Harki Dun Trek, Uttrakhand

Arrive at the amphitheater of Gods!

Boy! This trek is a bundle of joy with its beautiful valleys and amazing views that feel straight out of a fairytale. The arduous trek is a delight in winter springs with everything covered in an ivory sheen. Walking through the snowy trail, one can see the lofty mountain peaks rising on either side of the valley. This winter trek should be on every trekking enthusiast's list.

Altitude: 3,566 m

Level: Difficult

Duration: 8D/7N

Trek Length: 77 km

Goecha La Trek, Sikkim

Perch in nature's lap.

Cradled between the imposing peaks of Sikkim, Nepal, China, and Bhutan, lies a land of unparalleled beauty which invites trekkers and adventurists. Embark on the daredevil Goecha La trek that passes through scenic Yuksom-Dzongri pass and grand views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Feel close to nature as you pass through the forests of Rhododendrons to the valleys wrapped with lichens and moss.

Altitude: 4,206 m

Level: Difficult

Duration: 10 D/9 N

Trek Length: 60 km on one side

Kauri Pass Trek, Uttarakhand

A snow-laden paradise!

The greatest discovery of Lord Curzon, Kauri Pass in Uttarakhand is one of the best places to trek in December. The trek begins from Joshimath which is an evolved hub for trekkers and pilgrims. Behold the imposing views of the stalwart Himalayan peaks and confluences of the buzzing rivers. Walk through the luxurious Himalayan meadows called 'Bugyals' and the verdant Oak and Deodar forests where you may even find the pug marks of a leopard or the Himalayan Black Bear.

Altitude: 4,268 m

Level: Moderate

Duration: 4 -6 days

Trek Length: 33 km

Still planning to stay indoors this winter? Let's hope not. Be a sport and build some endurance before you set about on these intriguing winter treks in India. If not now, when?

Most Exciting Reasons To Choose Bali For Your Honeymoon

Bali is world renowned as a tropical paradise as well as one of the favourite honeymoon destinations for newlyweds. Apart from being a perfect place for a romantic getaway, there is an innate spirituality and mysticism that surrounds the entire place. The stunning beaches and mountain slopes make for a picture perfect honeymoon. In addition, couples can enjoy strolls on the beach and quiet meals at some roadside cafes while soaking in the culture and beauty of the place.

Read on to know why you should be heading for Bali for your honeymoon. Also, we give you a list of some of the best things to do in Bali. These activities are sure to make your trip memorable.

#1 Hangout at Stunning Beaches

Bali is known for its beaches, with crystal clear water and stunning sights. There are quite a few activities that you can engage in when on the beach. Both of you can enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach in addition to diving and snorkelling, as well as enjoy the beautiful sunset while taking a stroll on the beach. In fact, there are a host of hotels, villas and resorts that provide couples with fun and romantic activities to engage in on the beachside.

Beautiful sight of sunset at a beach in Bali

Some of the other activities include a camel ride in Nusa Dua Beach, or you can enjoy each other’s company at a romantic candlelight dinner at the Jimbaran Bay or Tanah Lot beach. You can also watch the sunset and enjoy a Kecak (fire) dance performance at the Uluwatu Temple. Uluwatu, one of the most famous sea temples in Bali, is perched at a cliff about 70 metres above the Indian Ocean.

Sunset view at Uluwatu Temple

#2 Explore the Adventurous Side

When you go to Bali, don't forget to take a look at the adventurous side of this island as well. Couples who enjoy adventure can choose some fun outdoor activities here. These challenging activities are perfect as they also bring a couple closer together.

You can go for a trekking trip to Mount Agung, which is the highest volcano in the area. And, if you are hiking to Mount Agung, make sure that you get a chance to catch the sunrise there. Mount Batur in Kintamani is another famous peak for trekking is in the East of Bali. Although it is 1700 meters high, the trek to Mount Batur is relatively easier than the other mountain treks.

The rivers in Bali are surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes and also possess an abundance of greenery. White water rafting will certainly be a thrilling experience for all newlyweds. Surrounded by the view of the countryside, you can explore the Telaga Waja River, which is one of the most popular routes here. You can also go on a Dolphin sighting boat trip in Lovina Beach, on the north-western side of Bali.

Must Read: 7 Most Thrilling Honeymoon Destinations for Adventure Lovers

#3 Experience the Local Flavours

If you and your spouse plan your stay in the rural parts of the island, the resort or hotel will arrange for rural-based activities for your enjoyment which is keeping with the theme of the surroundings. You will enjoy outdoor activities which include biking, trekking, and hiking to the nearby waterfall.

Ubud is one of the best places in the city if you wish to interact with Bali’s culture and people. Known as the cultural heart of Bali, it is famous for its handicrafts. It has museums, temples, paddy fields and wide gardens to explore.

Soak in the breathtaking view of Ubud

For meals, be prepared to taste some of the local fare, which is both wholesome and nutritious. Engage in some of the local traditional arts like pottery, cooking, painting and even dancing with your better half.

If you travel to central Bali, don’t forget to visit the Munduk waterfall and coffee plantations. This area is Bali’s hidden gem that would allow you to enjoy some quiet time alone, away from the crowds.

#4 Pamper Your Senses

Talking about time alone, you might want to take a ferry ride to the idyllic Gili Islands. Once here, get ready for the white sands and clear blue waters to welcome you. Rent a horse carriage to ride on the beachside or go swimming near the coral reef. You can also lounge in the hot springs or go for a swim to the magnificent Tirtagangga water palace.

A couple may not always want to explore the outdoors, but would rather prefer staying indoors or even take advantage of a relaxing spa treatment. Indulging in a Balinese massage is a great way to relax and ease your wedding planning stress. You and your spouse can also laze around in the in-house swimming pool or the resort’s very own private beach. If on a restricted time limit, a few days of rest and relaxation is the best way to spend a honeymoon.

Bedugul Temple in Bali

#5 Get Ready to be Entertained

If a couple prefers spending their honeymoon in the crowded parts of Bali, then they should definitely visit Kuta, Legian and Seminyak. These places are home to some of the best restaurants that serve delicious meals, nightclubs, and beach clubs, among other fun entertainment options. The various high-end and mid-range boutiques and shops are perfect for shopping sprees too.

Ariel view of the cliff-perched Rock Bar at Ayana Resort

You two can go out to Bali’s most famous beachside, multi-cuisine restaurant Potato Head Beach Bar in Seminyak. Kuta Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bali, where you and your sweetheart can enjoy the Island’s party scene. You can also have a drink at Bali’s famous cliff-perched bar at Ayana Resort.

Bali has so much to offer for a newlywed couple who are on their honeymoon. All they need to do is commit to truly enjoying their time alone in the best possible way. So, are you ready for this exciting, adventurous and romantic getaway?

Images Courtesy: Bali Facebook Page

Source: bollywoodshaadis.com

10 Places In Andaman And Nicobar Islands That You Must Visit On Your Honeymoon

Andaman and Nicobar is a great place for the couples to spend time on the most romantic getaway of their life, i.e., the honeymoon. Blessed with lush greenery, immaculate beaches, and unusual marine life, it has everything needed to enjoy a blissful vacation with your spouse. And if you do your homework right, knowing about the places to visit beforehand, will let you have the best time of your life without spending a fortune.

Here are some of the places that you must include in your itinerary when visiting these beautiful islands:

#1. Neil Island

Images Courtesy: www.panoramio.com

Located around 40 kms to the south of the Andaman Islands, Neil Island is one of the hottest tourist spots of this place. The beautiful island is rich in biodiversity with enchanting tropical forests, sparkling sandy beaches, and unexplored coral reef. Travel to this dreamland using the boat service available from Port Blair, and soak in the serenity of this place. Indulge in water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling at the Laxmanpur, Sitapur and Bharatpur beaches.

#2. Campbell Bay

Image Courtesy: www.birding.in, www.a-z-animals.com, www.andaman-island.ru (clockwise from left)

Image Courtesy: www.hydepark.co.il

Located in the island of Great Nicobar, Campbell Bay is yet another place to get romantic in the most natural setting. It can be reached by helicopter from Port Blair. However, using the sea route is more economical. The main attraction here is the Campbell Bay National Park. It has lush greenery with tropical evergreen forest having orchids and tree ferns. The animal attractions include crab-eating macaque, megapode, giant robber crab, and Nicobar pigeon.

Recommended Read: Best Honeymoon Destinations for Bike Lovers

#3. Little Andaman Island

Image Courtesy: www.knowandamans.com

Image Courtesy: Risto Penttinen Youtube Channel

Another mesmerising island in the Andamans is the little Andaman Island. Couples can indulge in elephant safari, go for an exciting trek, or enjoy water surfing and boating. There are two gurgling waterfalls here, i.e., the White Surf Waterfall, and the Whisper Wave Waterfall, that every couple must enjoy. You can also enjoy soaking up the sun with your partner, at the serene and beautiful Butler Bay or Harminder Bay.

#4. Cinque Island

Image Courtesy: www.andamantravelpackage.com

Image Courtesy: www.getupandgo.in

Cinque Island is a mesmerising place with its unusual coral and marine life. Divided in north and south Cinque, this striking island is connected with the sand bar. Honeymoon couples can either visit the beautiful coral gardens here, or merely relax and unwind on the powdery sandy beach. There is no human habitation here, which makes it a perfect destination for those looking for some moments of privacy in the surroundings of nature.

Must Read: 7 Most Thrilling Honeymoon Destinations for Adventure Lovers

#5. Barren Island

Image Courtesy: www.panoramio.com

Barren Island boasts of having the only confirmed active volcano in South Asia. The island has to be visited by chartering seaplanes or boats with prior permission from the Forest Department. As the name suggests, the place is not inhabited by humans. However, you can find goats, bats, birds and a few species of rats.

#6. Diglipur

Image Courtesy: www.indyatour.com

Image Courtesy: www.thinkingparticle.com

Diglipur is a must visit for anyone holidaying in the Andaman. Enroll for an exciting trek to the Saddle Peak- the highest point of the archipelago, walk through the evergreen forest, or unwind on Lamiya Bay or Ram Nagar Beach. Other places to visit are the Alfred Caves, and the Ross and Smith Island.

#7. Mayabunder

Image Courtesy: www.andamantourguide.com

Image Courtesy: www.awesomeandamans.blogspot.in

Known for its panoramic vistas, mangroves creeks, and mesmerising beaches, Mayabunder is on the top of the list of all honeymooners visiting Andaman. Have special time with your sweetheart at the Karmatang beach, a picturesque place with sparkling clean water, soft sand, and peaceful ambience.

#8. Rangat

Images Courtesy: www.travelandaman.in

Breathe in the unpolluted, fresh air at Rangat, and fill your heart with romance at its beautiful beaches. The main attractions- Amkunj Beach and Curtbert Bay beach, will win your heart with their powdery sands and placid waters.

Also Read: Most Exciting Reasons To Choose Bali For Your Honeymoon

#9. Baratang Island

Image Courtesy: www.indiantravels.com

The couples love to explore unique limestone caves at the Baratang Island. This place is also famous for its enchanting mud-volcanos, mangrove creeks, and serene beaches. Do visit the nearby Parrot Island at sunset, where hordes of parrots flock together giving the couple a memorable experience for a lifetime.

#10. Long island

Image Courtesy: www.knowandamans.com

Image Courtesy: Andaman Sand Bay Google Plus

Long island is perfect for a romantic getaway, especially on its exquisite beach at Lalaji Bay. Spend the most romantic time with your spouse in the unpolluted surroundings of this island. You can go for dolphin spotting in the beach or trekking in the dense forest. The island is well connected by Port Blair though boats.

Now, you are aware of the fact that the Andaman Islands are blessed with the natural beauty in abundance. So, make sure you spend the most memorable time of your life with your partner, at one of the hottest honeymoon destinations of the country, i.e., the Andaman Islands. 

Image credit: Facebook/andaman

Source: bollywoodshaadis.com

7 Most Romantic Reasons To Visit Malaysia For Your Honeymoon

Planning the honeymoon is never an easy task. The honeymooners, of course look for a destination that offers them a great environment to relax and enjoy each other’s company. But at the same time, many of them also look for the place that gives them the opportunity to indulge in some adventurous activities.

For all those couples who are looking for such combination of adventure as well as serenity, Malaysia is just the right destination for you. One of the most luxurious and pleasant honeymoon destinations in Asia, Malaysia has got numerous romantic beaches. So, here are some of the exciting reasons for all adventure lovers to choose Malaysia as their honeymoon destination.

#1. Sabah

It is the second largest state in Malaysia. Also knows as the ‘land below the wind’, Sabah is located along the beautiful coastline of Borneo Island, in eastern Malaysia. It is the best place for couples who love the combination of beach with adventure sports amidst a beautiful landscape.

Image Source: Sabah Tourism Board

Here is a list of activities you can indulge in along with your partner while you are at Sabah:

• Jungle Trekking: Get an adventurous and thrilling experience while exploring the exotic flora and fauna of the rainforest of Sabah. You will get to see a vast variety of flora, from wild orchids to the pitcher plants that swallow the insects and flies. And not to miss the largest flower in the world- rafflesia.

Largest flower in the world, Rafflesia

• Coral Flyer: All the adventure lovers cannot afford to miss this. It is a zipline ride across the gorgeous Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. Enjoy the amazing view while you take the world’s longest island-to-island zipline. Take a look at the image below and you can you imagine the excitement that this activity actually offers.

• White Water Rafting: There are two words that define rafting in Sabah- rapid and white. While rapid obviously means the roiled area of the river, white implies the bubbly and frothy water created by the river due to turbulence. The rapids in the river are divided in six categories starting from one, where one means smooth water with no turbulence, and six is meant only for the experts.

• Diving: The amazing bio-diversity of Sabah offers divers a great experience underwater. You will get to see everything from the blue waters and coral reefs to some rare sea creatures, like napolean wrasse, giant clams, green and hawksbill turtles, etc.

Images Courtesy: Sabah Tourism Board

#2. Selangor

Not only is it one of the most developed states in the country, Selangor is also filled with options that can delight restless travellers anywhere. The famous tourism attractions in this place include the religious Hindu cave and shrine at the Batu Caves, I-City in the capital of Selangor- Shah Alam, the National Zoo of Malaysia, a theme park named Sunway Lagoon, and many more.

Batu Caves

I-City


National Zoo of Malaysia

Sunway Lagoon

Those having interest in racing can also drop in at Sepang International Circuit, which is the venue for various Malaysian racing events.

Recommended Read: Best Honeymoon Destinations for Bike Lovers

#3. Langkawi

Add a dash of beach romance to your honeymoon by staying at Langkawi and enjoying the beauty of sun setting over the crytal clear waters. This is a place to give a break to your adventure spree and just relax with your partner.

The popular tourist attractions in Langkawi include Telaga Tujuh (the seven wells), the Beach of Black Sand, and the Field of Burnt Rice.

Also, do not miss the boat tours to Gua Langsir (Curtain Cave), Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), and Gua Cerita (Cave of Stories).

#4. Tioman Island

A remote island located near the Singapore border, Tioman is an excellent destination for couples looking for some privacy and seclusion. There are excellent diving spots available as well. You can take a speed boat to move around the island or opt for a hike through the jungle.

The clear and warm waters and a vast sea life, offers the scuba divers and snorkelers a great opportunity to get close to nature. The peaceful and serene beaches are just perfect to spend a leisurely time with your partner.

#5. Cameron Highlands

After you have sweated it out in the tropical climate of the rest of the country, head over to the Cameron Highlands for slightly cooler environment.

The beautiful landscape consists of tea plantations and lush forests, which will tempt you to take any of the trekking trails to explore further. Visiting strawberry farms, flower greenhouses and butterfly gardens is a must when you are in the Cameron Highlands.

Must Read: 7 Most Thrilling Honeymoon Destinations for Adventure Lovers

#6. Pulau Perhentian

A great place for the honeymooners, Pulau Perhentian is certainly one place you should not miss if you go to Malaysia with your partner for a romantic holiday. The name of this place means ‘stopover island’.

To enjoy a cosy time with your partner, you have a beautiful setup of powdery white beaches, windswept palms, and sapphire blue water all around you. And if you are looking for some action in this place, then enjoy the activities like windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and deep-sea fishing.

#7. Taman Negara

One of the oldest tropical rainforests of the world is located in Taman Negara. You can explore and understand the wildlife closely through ‘observation hides’. There are huts built high above the ground level, where you can stay overnight and observe the behaviour of animals in their natural habitat.

Some other activities that you can get involved into are the river cruises and canopy walk. There is something very majestic about the landscape when viewed from the canopy walkway built in the trees.

Images Courtesy: Malaysia Tourism Board

Source: bollywoodshaadis