Hi-Tea Gastronomical Drama at Tea Center

Our avid foodie & trotter Vijaya Das Panicker explores the swanky Tea Center in Mumbai - a haven for all chai lovers. Here's what she says:

"The beautiful expanse of Marine Lines in Mumbai is sure to tempt one to take a break from his/her busy business schedule. And, when on a whimsical break do take a detour to the Tea Center at Veer Nariman Road, Churchgate where the simple “TEA” is a gastronomical hospitality business enterprise.

Build around 1953; this place was opened by the Tea Board of India as a tea promotion initiative and has over the years become the most happening hangouts for the eloquent. The ambiance is characteristically elegant and has a quaint charm, with wooden furniture and Victorian lamps, creating a déjà vu of a distinguished bygone era. And, to add to its grandeur, one can even catch a live piano performance. The place is highly exhilarating to a creative sensibility.

The cozy setting and the bell-system for table service brings out a whole new experience of ordering a tea from the exotic tea menu, which includes the Maharani of Darjeeling (Rs.125/270) and the Maharaja of Darjeeling (Rs.120/250) full-bodied co-pins cup with muscadine grapes characterized with honeydew, the Rose Tea (Rs.80) a blend of black teas and sun-dried rose petals to give a clear soft taste of tea with the sweet fragrance of rose, the Kulhad Masala Chai (Rs.50), a tea liquor and milk with select aromatic spices served country style, to our local favourite Masala Chai. There is also the Kashmiri Kahwa (Rs.75), also called Bombay chai, a favourite amongst the Kashmiris, is a fine blend with cardamom and cinnamon sticks, enriched with almonds, pistachio and saffron, and is brewed in a samovar with an overdose of sugar without milk. A tea connoisseur can also enjoy sipping the famous Earl Grey Tea (Rs.90), a fine tea with bergamot. And, if one prefers the cold concoction, they can pick from the selection of iced teas, all priced between Rs60-75. There is also the Spicy Tea (Rs.50), a choice of spicy tea, which can be savoured with hot Indian samosas, pakodas and vadas. There is also a varied choice for enjoying a crispy snack. For the refined palate there is the crisp fish and chips platter (Rs.150) and the Chicken Pasta with white sauce (Rs.175).

The tea drinking experience at Tea Center turns one into a fan of an exotic tea. So, when in Mumbai, do as the Mumbaikars do and don’t wait for a rainy day to visit the Tea Center to enjoy a good cup of tea with crunchy and spicy snacks."

Mahabaleshwar - Getaway with a Gang of Friends

Vijaya Das Panicker heads out to the hills of Mahabaleshwar with her friends. With its super height, misty hills and the yummiest of strawberries grown locally, it's a delight for all those looking for a quick getaway from Mumbai. Here's what she says:

"The only way to beat the Mumbai humidity is to take a flight of fancy to the nearest hill station. And, that’s exactly what my pals and I did last week - we packed our knapsacks and headed straight to the dreamy land of Mahabaleshwar.

It was 4 in the evening when we set out for the sojourn. All set, we geared up the Tavera car and sped out from the damp streets of the city of dreams. The excitement was contagious and the traffic snarls throughout the way did not dampen our spirit of fun and gayness, for Mahabaleshwar was just 290 kms from the city via Pune. Fighting all odds we were off the Mumbai -Pune expressway and heading towards Lonavala - where we stopped for a snack break. The piping hot tea and the pakoras that we had at the way-side dhaba was nothing less than inspiring and energized our weary souls for some serious action with the numerous tunnels playing hide-n-seek with our senses. The winding roads on the way accompanied by the thick smog were becoming too much of a mystery to wind through than the pages of a Sherlock Homes mystery novel. But, we survived and it was fun all the way with friends doing a sudden jig amidst the beautiful surroundings and bantering about all the odds we crossed through till we reached Mahabaleshwar.

Built on a plateau, Mahabaleshwar is 1372 m above seal level and located in the district of Satara. And, for the two-day break we lodged at Cloud Green, a part of Brightland. Here, the accommodation was spacious and comfortable for good nights sleep and had every other amenity at one’s beck-and-call. The new day dawned on us with exploration on our minds – after a healthy Poha breakfast, we set out to explore the getaway. The exploration started with us spotting a group of monkeys prancing around the place (and we thought we were the only monkeys around!). Initially we contemplated to take a walk by the shady paths or take a horse ride to the town area, but the group preferred to take a car ride. The first stopover was the Bombay Point, to check-out the first dawn break and then Kate’s Point that one had heard so much about for its suicidal tendencies. Nevertheless, Kate was breathtaking and beautiful and made us click many Kodak moments for posterity sake.

And, while in Mahabaleshwar, the one place not to miss out on is the famous Mapro Garden. It is here that one can relive their childhood fantasy. The highlight of the garden is its gigantic strawberry statute at the entrance, which had all the guests going for a feel of it and posing front of it for the fun sake. Jams, Falero and many other sweet delights can be purchased here at sinfully discounted rates. A 15 minute ride took us to the market area, a pedestrian-only street with shops selling everything from fancy locally-made items to sweet-meets. We purchased some fresh and yummy fudge for Rs120/half a kilogram to take back home.

Trekking was in the agenda but due to the smoggy weather we postponed it for our next venture together. So, if you want to drive in the monsoon blues, do drive to Mahabaleshwar and see the colour of life shining back at you without the smog (pun un-intended)."

Khau Galli - A Perfect Foodies Destination

Vijaya Das Panicker, an avid traveller shares her experience at Khau Galli, a brand new restaurant in Mumbai. Done in typical Mumbai ishtyle and an array of road-side food specialties, this is a must visit for all foodies. Here's what Vijaya says:

"Missed your holiday reservation? No worries, just drive down near to the Versova Telephone Exchange and take a seat on the Chaat Express called Khau Galli, and fill in to your stomach’s content to gluttony’s delight, which is sure to make you nostalgic of a childhood train journey with your family.

The place is a child’s fairyland that has a façade of a sturdy truck with huge wheels and a signal poll, which opens the main entrance when the light turns green. The interior is like a long distance train boggy with ceiling fans, racks, and the ever nostalgic green handles of a local train. And, don’t miss out on the windows that are fitted with LCD TVs, which broadcasts the passing landscapes and railway platforms complimented with appropriate sound bytes, that resonates – chai, chai,chai... :-)

This joint believes in self-service and follows coupon system, which one has to purchase from the main entrance counter. The typical Mumbaite menu features everything from hot and spicy Paav Bhaji to Paani-Puri. But, the menu is interspersed with creamy Pasta preparations (yummy!), and a wide selection of Chinese cuisine, which is sure to tantalize one's taste buds with its Paneer Manchurian dry, Chilly Chicken, Chicken or vegetable fried rice. There are also many more delicacies like Frankies and Dosas, all priced reasonably between 150-200Rs.

Diners can wash down their meal or snacks with a goblet of creamy Lassi or salted Chaas, or with some fruit juice, which are wholesome in its content. Foodies with a sweet tooth can entice their taste buds with a plate of hot Jalebi with Rabri or Kulfi.

Khau Galli is an ideal treat for the entire family and presents an Indian essence through its appearance. The concept is very interesting and brings back a child in you.

Address: MHADA, Near Versova Telephone Exchange, 4 Bungalows, Andheri (W), Mumbai; Landmark: Near Versova Telephone Exchange"

11 Super Luxury Stays in Goa

A complete tourist hot-spot, Goa is probably one of the few places that combines all ingredients of a perfect holiday. Covering the Konkan coastal area, one can find churches, temples and traditional houses covering the entire length of the city. Of course what makes Goa so loved is its long stretches of beaches, each sporting its own quaint name. The beaches are naturally the hub of all activities, and one can find everything here – from throbbing pubs, shopping stalls and eateries serving a world of cuisines. Considering its popularity, Goa is easily visited any time of the year. Visit this sea-side town for a complete holiday experience.

The Leela Kempinski - Rated 4.2 / 5

One of the luxurious 5-star resorts in Goa, The Leela Kempinski blends South Indian culture with Portuguese heritage. The hotel has luxurious rooms & suites as well as a state-of-art business centre.

Location: Mobor Beach, South Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• Health Spa

• 12-hole golf course

• Casino

Riviera De Goa - Rated 4.3 / 5

The latest addition to Goa’s 5-star family, Riviera De Goa has smart rooms, combined with an ideal location near the beach.

Location: Arpora Beach, North Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• 3 dining options

• Beauty salon, Thai Spa & Gym

• Casino

Goa Marriott Resort, Goa - Rated 4.5 / 5

A fabulous beach-front hotel, Goa Marriott Resort offers the best of facilities, luxurious rooms and splendid views of sunsets.

Location: Miramar Beach, Panjim - Central Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• Spa service & health club

• Golf on site

• Restaurants & lounges

Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa, Goa - Rated 4.6 / 5

Set on 45-acres of landscaped gardens, Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa is a world-class hotel built in a village-style and replete with all possible amenities.

Location: Arossim Beach - South Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• Personal resort host

• Spa & yoga room

• 5 Restaurants, cafes & bars

Taj Exotica, Goa - Rated 4.8 / 5

Tropical setting in greens, the Mediterranean grandeur and the ultimate in opulence, all lend the Taj here an exotic feel that it rightly stands for.

Location: Benaulim Beach - South Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• Jiva Spa

• 9 hole golf course

• Book Shop & souvenir shop

Fort Aguada Beach Resort, Goa - Rated 4.8 / 5

Sprawling across the age old fortress, this Taj property lets you to soak in extreme luxury and also gives you scope to go for excitement and fun.

Location: Sinquerim Beach - North Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• Jiva Spa

• 9 restaurants onsite

• Adventure Activities

The Kenilworth Beach Resort & Spa - Rated 4.1 / 5

Portuguese influence on architecture and culture is best experienced here. With the best in luxury and loads of adventure, it makes for a perfect retreat.

Location: Utorda Beach - South Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• Health Spa

• Casino

• Restaurants on site

Cidade De Goa - Rated 4 / 5

Come here for a complete indulgence in all that is luxurious and stately, the seclusion and tranquility offered work at their best for a stately stay.

Location: Dona Paula Beach - North Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• 210 rooms

• Portuguese & Italian Restaurant

Devaaya Ayurveda Spa Resort - Rated 4.3 / 5

Let nature take care of you and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Ayurveda and Nature do their best for you here.

Location: Divar Island - North Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• 60 rooms

• Restaurants on site

• Health Spa

Taj Holiday Village - Rated 4.6 / 5

A mystical atmosphere is created here by the strange amalgamation of rustic feel and modern richness. The entire charm gets an add on from the well-known Taj hospitality.

Location: Sinquerim Beach - North Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• Jiva Spa

• Golf Course

• Restaurants

Club Mahindra Varca Beach Resort - Rated 4.3 / 5

Letting you live close to the immense beauty of Varca, the resort allows you to dive deep in luxury even as you celebrate the charm of nature that lies around.

Location: Varca Beach - South Goa

Hotel Highlights:

• 205 rooms

• Health Spa

• Ayurvedic Massage Center

Best-Loved 6 Luxury Hotels in Udaipur

The Romantic City of Rajasthan, Udaipur can be visited any time of the year. Of course, considering the heat during summer, it is always advisable to visit it during the monsoon season and winters. Udaipur is truly a destination for all – whether it’s a honeymoon trip, a family getaway or simply a relaxing weekend break, the city has much to offer. The entire city is concentrated around the Pichola Lake, which is the hub of all activities. Udaipur is also known for its marvelous heritage palaces, most of which have been converted to stylish hotels, its beautifully crafted gardens and ample shopping opportunities. Visit this romantic city & carry home bright puppets, handcrafted wares and tons of wonderful memories.

Taj Lake Palace

Owned by the Taj Group of Hotels, Taj Lake Palace is located in the midst of Lake Pichola. Crafted in pure marble, the Aravalli range forms a beautiful backdrop against it. The hotel is undoubtedly one of the best luxury hotels to treat yourself to in this city. There are 83 opulent rooms & suites along with a range of other amenities, including Heritage Champagne Walks, Jiva Spa, Vintage cars available for transfers and exotic meals.

Devi Garh

One of the finest hotels in Udaipur, Devigarh is probably one of the few that are an all-suite hotel. Rebuilt & restored, the hotel has 39 suites which are built in marble and feature semi-precious stones. The hotel has a choice of fine dining options, its own Devi Garh Spa, ethereal wedding arrangements and conference facilities.

The Oberoi Udaivilas - Rated 4.6 / 5

Undoubtedly one of the most luxurious hotels in Udaipur, The Oberoi Udaivilas resembles an opulent Indian palace. Showcasing the true Mewar culture, the hotel is crafted with huge courtyards, shining pools and grand rooms. Other facilities here include the finest in dining, boat ride to reach the hotel, exotic spa therapies and rooms with private dining & private swimming pools.

Fatehgarh

Located atop a hill, this fort-like hotel showcases the distinct architecture of the traditional Rajasthani culture. The rooms are spacious and bright and done up in traditional architecture. There are numerous dining options too along with a Moksha Spa and several recreation activities. This hotel is also rated as one of the top 12 recommended hotels to stay in Rajasthan by Conceirge.com.

Trident - Rated 4.2 / 5

Located on the banks of Pichola Lake, Trident is one of the most preferred hotels in Udaipur. It is set amidst 43 acres of landscaped gardens and offers rooms that reflect the traditional heritage of Rajasthan. The hotel also provides a choice of dining options, together with a host of other facilities, including business facilities, fitness centre, kids room and swimming pool.

Jaisamand Island Resort - Rated 3.6 / 5

Built on a private island, Jaisamand Island Resort offers 20 Deluxe rooms and 15 suites that are simply luxurious. This beautiful resort provides a range of amenities, including swimming pool, spa & ayurvedic centre, recreation activities like camel rides and live music, and a range of exotic cuisines.

Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Agra

One of the most visited cities in India, Agra obviously needs no introduction. Once the stronghold of the mighty Mughals, they have left behind indelible marks as some of the priceless monuments in India. The Taj Mahal, a striking structure in white marble is undoubtedly what draws tourists here. Created as a monument of love by Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the view of the moonlight shining bright on it is simply unmatched. Not just the Taj Mahal, there are several other structures that are interesting to watch out for. From the well-maintained Ram Bagh, the stone-inlayed Itmad-ud-Daula and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri are definitely to watch out for. To house the huge number of travelers here, there are a huge range of hotels & resorts in Agra. From 5 star luxury hotels to budget accommodations, its all here.

ITC Mughal - Rated 4.3 / 5

Synonymous with luxury, this 5 star hotel in the heart of the city is set amidst 35 acres of landscaped gardens. The proud recipient of a number of awards, the hotel has excellent rooms, fine dining, travel desk, health club and meeting facilities

The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road - Rated 4.1 / 5

Part of the Taj Group of Hotels, The Gateway Hotel provides a beautiful stay option near the Taj Mahal. True to the Taj Group, the hotel provides fine rooms, excellent cuisines, business facilities and recreation options.

The Oberoi Amarvilas - Rated 4.7 / 5

Truly the finest hotel in Agra, The Oberoi Amarvilas is built in distinct Mughal style and has a choice of rooms that provides views of the Taj Mahal. The hotel offers the most delicious cuisines, swimming pools, health clubs, business centres and bar.

Trident - Rated 4.3 / 5

Ideally located close to the Taj Mahal, this is one of the most prominent business hotels. From the best of restaurants, health clubs, beautiful rooms and all equipments for businesses, it is no wonder that this is a preferred choice.

WelcomHeritage Hotel Grand Imperial - Rated 5 / 5

Situated a little away from the Taj Mahal, this hotel offers a choice 30 rooms and suites. The hotel is one of the most preferred venues for travelers to this city. With multicuisine restaurants, swimming pool, health club and conference centres, this hotel ensures a comfortable stay.