Goa is the nation’s smallest state and is one of India’s most sought-after places to visit.
Sometimes described as a “beach paradise,” Goa is a great place to spend a holiday with the
family. There are many things to do in Goa, shopping is undoubtedly an essential part of the
trip. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a strict budget or are looking to indulge or if your preferences
could be described as sophisticated or perhaps a little bizarre. There’s something unique in
Goa. All you have to do is find it. Here is an inventory of 9 places famous for shopping in Goa
that will delight the shopper within you.

Anjuna Flea Market

There are many things to do in Goa. The market is one that you must not skip. In North Goa,
Anjuna became an important place for “Western hippies” in the 1960s. In the 1960s, when they
ran out of money but were unwilling to leave the city, hippies were compelled to sell their
belongings, and everything from clothing, jewellery, art, and even guitars were traded to help
sustain. This was the start of the well-known flea market in Anjuna, which began to survive and
evolved into one of the top markets to shop in Goa. Buzzing with activities, the market covers all
of Anjuna Beach. Through the years, people from all over the world who reside in Goa have set
up shops that sell fashions imported from their respective countries with custom designs and
manufactured in Goa, the city itself. With a variety of custom Goa tour packages you can
surely enjoy an unforgettable vacation filled with memories.

Among the many other activities in Goa, it is possible to relax and unwind from shopping at one
of the many Chai stalls or restaurants that offer live music. Cafe Looda, with its breath-taking
beachfront location and live music starting at 5 pm, is a favourite for tourists. You can shop here
for many different locally made clothing teas, fancy jewellery, exotic spices, hand-crafted toys
and gifts such as handmade items, leather bag bed sheets with embroidery, and more, which
artisans auctioned off from the local area and gypsies.

There are some things to remember before visiting this vibrant market. You can bargain, but be
careful not to go too far. You can bargain and obtain a great price, but that takes some
experience as sellers will try to lure you in, and in a matter of minutes, you’ll have signed a
contract to purchase. Do not bargain too much because these sellers have very little money,
and the bargain could leave them with small margins.

Calangute Market Square

If you’re someone who has an obsession with arts, literature, and handicrafts and literature,
then Calangute Market Square of Goa must be one of your top destinations to explore. Nearly
15 kilometres away from Goan capital city, Calangute is often referred to as Calangute, the
Queen of Beaches.

Calangute appears to be a concoction of the vernacular term called ‘Koli-gutter, meaning ‘land
of the fishermen.’ The area is four miles of beach, and palm trees line it. There is a local
Calangute market that is a magnet for thousands of people each year. The popularity of it is
attributed to hippies who discovered this stunning beach in the 60s.
Its Market Square is a beguiling tourist destination that has an opportunity to sunbathe and feast
on delicious food and several stalls and shakes selling various items ranging from delicious
seafood, local wines to trinkets crafted from seashells.

The Saturday Bazaar held at the beach is brimming with an array of goods that range from
hand-crafted jewelry and leather items made from local artisans objects of souvenirs, pots,
jewelry, and clothing locally and imported from across the country. It’s not unusual to see
vendors selling sarongs and palm-readers eager to reveal the fortunes of their patrons at the
marketplace square. Do not miss this market in your list of places to go in Goa. At the center in
Calangute is a charming Tibetan market that sells a variety of rare gems along with statues of
Buddha as well as other Hindu gods made from clay and wood.

Shopping in Goa is not complete without a visit to the market in Calangute Square. It is visited
by Kashmiri sellers selling carpets, embroidery and other items. Bargaining might be difficult,
but don’t be afraid to leave when you think you are being sucked into an overt sales pitch since
some of the goods can be purchased cheaper at some other markets for fleas.

Mackie’s Night Bazaar

It is located at the Baga City Resort, Mackie’s Night Bazaar. It is another night market to go
buying and selling in Goa. The market began following a heated dispute between the owners
and organizers of the original night markets, the Night Market Ingos in Arpora. Many stalls and
shops in the market provide a range of hand-crafted products made by local artisans, including
shoes, clothes and jewelry. These items are original and are made with natural materials.

Live music performances and partying the night away are among the many activities you can do
when visiting Goa, and Mackie’s Night Market offers the perfect DJ sets and stages to enjoy
these types of events. Even though Mackie’s Night Bazaar is conducted in a minor manner
compared to Ingo’s Night Market, it does have the advantage of a more extended trading
season.
Also Read: Exotic Destinations: Top 5 Places to Explore in Delhi

 

Ingo’s Saturday Night Bazaar

Are you looking for the top activities in Goa? Get your Saturday night going and make your way
to Arpora to experience the bustling Ingo’s Night Bazaar. It is an excellent alternative to the
oppressive Thursday afternoon’s flea market. The night market in Arpora is a great place to
shop in Goa can be broken down into three sections:

lower Sphere filled with kiosks filled with hundreds of local Indian vendors selling exotic items
such as Kashmiri Carpets, pashminas crochet, hammocks, spices, and clothing, as well as a
variety of international designers offering western clothing accessories, bags, and shoes.

The Central Sphere is located in the middle of the market. It features an event stage bar for
wine and beer, as well as food stalls selling delicious Goan seafood, as well as additional
exciting items such as chocolate fountains, dim sums, and Gyros.

The Upper Sphere extends from the hummock’s petite size to the rear of the market. It is lined
with international designers, local hawkers, and tequila cocktails served with fresh fruit and live
DJ sets.

 

Mapusa Market

One of the largest Goan trading centers in the past, Mapusa Market, is said to have been a
significant factor in the growth of the surrounding town because the trade carried out at the
market was a significant source of income for the inhabitants. Although you can find nearly
everything in Mapusa that includes everything from pottery, textiles, and textiles to groceries,
the market is well-known for its meat pickles, fruits, and vegetables, as well as indigenous Goan
spice and condiments.

You can also find local Goan fish such as Chonak or Modso and sweets such as bebinca, dodol
and the amount. As with other markets that sell goods in Goa, the Mapusa Market also follows
the expected susegad timing (during the afternoon) in which the market shuts down. This makes
Mapusa an ideal location to explore, meet new people, and snap pictures of the vibrant
surroundings. Make sure to add a visit to Mapusa to your list of things you can do while in Goa.

It is highly recommended that you go to the market on a Friday to have the most enjoyable
experience. There are no middleman costs for goods. The most important thing to bear in mind
is to get to the market earlier as it is incredibly crowded in the middle of the morning. After
shopping it is possible to go to the Alankar Theatre to enjoy a film with the whole family. You
can take in delicious food as well as fresh Goan juices at the nearby stands. Therefore, you
should include a trip to this venue in your list of places to visit in Goa.

 

Panjim Market

If you want to take the essence of Goa home and take it with you, go to the Panjim Market is the
place you must go to shop in Goa. It is a mix of street-side stalls and theatres and stalls; this
Panjim Market can be described as the biggest market in Goa with various products, including
local hand-crafted carpets and an array of exotic wines.

The sour smell of curry pastes and spices, as well as the vast array of items available for
purchase, are tempting and challenging to resist. If you’re looking to purchase expensive and
high-end products, head directly into one of the shopping centers within the region. There are
great teahouses and restaurants. Also, visiting the famous local Mario Miranda’s work is a must
while in Panjim. Bargaining is possible. However, many of the products available are priced
reasonably. Going to Panjim Market Panjim Market is a must when looking for activities you can
do while in Goa with your family.

Le Souk

Looking for the best activities to enjoy in Goa? The location is Ashwem Beach. Le Souk by
Amarya is the very first premium market to shop in Goa. The market is open all day long, and
this open-air market is replicating the tented stores of Moroccan bazaars, offering exotic goods
and clothes. In Le Souk, you are invited to browse through the various textiles and accessories
from several of the most renowned international and national designers in Goa like Jonas G for
casual men’s clothing, Shades of India that creates handicrafts through an amalgamation of art
from the past with Indian textiles, or the designs of Nana-Ki whose clothes are made from
natural fibres and traditional methods of embroidery.

There’s not even any question that Kashmir is the most beautiful place on the planet. It is among the top tourist destinations in India. There are many sights to visit in Kashmir and plenty of good reasons for you to see at least once in your life! The stunning natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit place for travelers from all over the world. With several Kashmir trips available, you can enjoy the place as per your choice

Srinagar

Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir, is among the top tourist destinations in Kashmir to visit. The ideal time to visit the place is from June to October. However, if you’re hoping to take advantage of the snow, it’s recommended to visit during December through January as temperatures are likely to drop below zero. The most popular destinations to visit in Srinagar are Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, and Nishat Bagh. Shalimar Bagh is open daily from 9 a.m. until seven p.m. and Nishat Bagh from 9 a.m. until 10:30 midnight. Another attraction in Srinagar is the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, open from 7 up to 7:45 at night.

A fundamental part of any Jammu and Kashmir journey, Srinagar has several things like bird watching and skiing, trekking, and boating. To explore Srinagar in the most authentic possible manner, arrange your stay on the houseboat and get up each morning to a breathtaking sunrise.

Sonmarg

A treasure among the places worth visiting in Kashmir, Sonmarg translates to “meadow of gold” and is an expanse of breathtaking beauty. It offers a fantastic range of flowers and hiking routes that are a magnet for nature-lovers and adventurers alike. Sonmarg is a worthy spot on the list of the ‘top tourist spots in Kashmir because of its breathtaking, incredible views and breathtaking scenery. Sonmarg is highly recommended for outdoor activities such as camping, trekking, or nature treks. If you are looking for the best season to travel, June and October is the best time to stop by Sonmarg.

Gulmarg

Your trip to Kashmir is not complete without a trip to Gulmarg. The “flowering meadow” is surrounded by mountains covered in snow and is breathtaking to the point of being awe-inspiring. One of the most popular places to go to in Kashmir is renowned for mountain biking, trekking, and gondola rides. It is also famous for skiing. A ride on a gondola will provide you with a stunning panorama of the valley and should be done while visiting here. Gulmarg is at its peak in winter, which makes the perfect opportunity to make the most of the breathtaking beauty of Gulmarg.

Also Read: Exotic Destinations: Top 5 Places to Explore in Delhi

Kupwara

The best time to go to Kupwara, one of the most popular tourist spots in Kashmir during the period between April and October, is when visitors can take in the lush meadows and the crystal clear water falling down the mountain. Kupwara is the crowning glory of Kashmir, and one visit will demonstrate the reasons. Two of the most popular tourist attractions are the nearby valleys Lolab as well as Bangus. When you visit Bangus, which is located in the Lolab valley, be sure you visit the temple that is the home of Qamar Reshi Sahib.

Pahalgam

Pahalgam is widely regarded as one of the top places to go in Kashmir. The small town of Pahalgam can relax every person who is here. It is a part of Amarnath Yatra, the annually held Amarnath Yatra. Its Overa Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is home to brown bears and musk deer. It is also known for its stunning views of the forest. In addition, Pahalgam’s Tulian Lake and Sheshnag Lake are two attractions you can’t afford to leave out.

Additionally, you can also go to Betab Valley and Aru Valley on the same day. These two tourist spots provide opportunities for riding horses. The ideal time to go to Pahalgam is between June to October.

Kargil

It is regarded as one of the top tourist destinations in Kashmir in the summer. The area offers stunning views from March to June. The top destinations include Shergold, Mulbek Gompa, Wakha Rgyal, and Urgyen Dzong. It takes five hours to reach by route from Srinagar. In addition, you can go hiking within the Nun Mountains and trek to Suru Valley when there.

Kishtwar

Kishtwar is an undiscovered tourist attraction that is less crowded with smaller crowds than the other tourist spots in Kashmir. It is awash with lush greenery that includes deodar and pine forest. It also contains hills and National Parks that are popular with people who love nature and wildlife. Two pilgrimage routes may be worthwhile to include on your travel itinerary. The best time to go is during the summer months. It’s just seven hours away from Srinagar.

Jammu

Most travelers start their journeys in Jammu, which is among the most popular tourist destinations in Kashmir. The city is famous for its sightseeing, temple tours as well as trekking that you can review. It is renowned for its Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus. Jammu is home to many sacred sites that attract devotees from all over the nation. The temple is well-known across the globe and is open all day. It also has the beautiful Bahu Fort that you can look at. Furthermore, you can go on an aerial ride or even ski in Patnitop or go on a boat ride in Mansar Lake, buy handicrafts, and visit the historical places.

It’s impossible to put words into the stunning beauty that is Jammu & Kashmir. This state in the northern part of India is blessed with the best of nature offerings, which makes it a picturesque romantic getaway and an adventure destination at the same time. Be sure to pick a Jammu and Kashmir tour package that is within your travel plans.

Whatever you want and your interests are, Kashmir is a brilliant sanctuary that appeals to your wanderlust and rejuvenates the traveler one location at a time.

One of the first things visitors seek when visiting Santorini is to swim in the cobalt waters of the volcanic sand beaches while gazing at the vast Aegean Sea taking over the horizon with endless shades of blue. And, of course, close the day with mind-blowing and soul-filling sunset panoramas as they stroll the cobbled streets of the island with the charming whitewashed houses and blue-dome churches. 

To make your life easier (choosing the best Santorini beaches can be quite tricky!), we present to you five beaches that will tick all of your boxes and offer you unforgettable moments at the Queen of the Cyclades! 

The magnificent Perivolos Beach

Perivolos is one of the longest and most impressive Santorini beaches, around 12km from the island’s capital. The picturesque stretch of black sand is considered an extension of another popular black-sand shore, Perissa Beach, and spoils sunbathers with great infrastructure. So, besides crystalline waters and umbrellas and sunbeds for hire, you will also be pampered with watersports facilities, showers, wooden paths, and even beach volley courts. 

Fancy some Greek island beach fun? Perivolos is home to trendy beach clubs featuring special events, international DJs, and lots of music and dancing. 

The idyllic Ammoudi Bay

Ammoudi Bay has perhaps the most crystal-clear waters in Santorini and the most dazzling selection of turquoise shades reflecting in them. You will find it sitting at Oia’s foothills in a tiny picturesque cove, surrounded by an awe-inspiring cliff that amazes with its fiery red color and the heart-stopping views of the glistering Mediterranean Sea. 

There is a challenge, though. To access this pristine shore, you will need to climb down some 250 steps. However, if you do decide to give it a go, you will be rewarded with superb vistas and some of the most captivating sunsets ever seen by human eyes. There are also several restaurants and tavernas serving mouth-watering seafood and other local dishes to complete the picture! 

The scenic White Beach

Unlike its other counterparts, White Beach is a white-cliffs-surrounded shore, 14km from Fira, in the historical Akrotiri village with the ancient ruins of a once-thriving Santorini settlement that makes many people associate the island with the lost Atlantis.  

The beach welcomes you with an interesting mix of pebbles, grey volcanic sand, and pumice stones, and, of course, absolutely transparent and inviting waters. Don’t expect to find lots of space for sunbathing, though, as White Beach is not as long as other Santorini shores. However, it’s quite well organized, with some umbrellas and chairs for hire and a canteen sitting in a beachside cave selling some essential supplies. 

To get here, you will need to either take the boat from Akrotiri Beach or walk from the neighboring Kambia and Red beaches. In the latter case, though, be prepared for a somewhat adrenaline-pumping path to walk. If you go with the boat taxi option, you could also opt for the full boat tour that includes stops at the Black and Red beaches as well. 

The romantic Eros Beach

The coast of Vlychada hosts a fantastic secluded shore that has become one of the most favorite wedding background locations in Santorini due to its incredibly blissful surroundings and the spectacular beige cliffs. 

Besides great infrastructure, classy Eros beach is also a popular spot for parties, meditation classes, and yoga sessions. Rightfully, so. The energy here is unbelievably soothing, calming, and, at the same time, revitalizing. Adorned with wind-carved cliffs and almost surreal panoramas of the island and the Mediterranean Sea, Eros Beach is, indeed, an atmospheric shore exuding romance. 

For even more privacy, do head to the farthest section of Eros. And, don’t be surprised if you see horse riders galloping along the shore! Horse riding is one of the most popular activities around this part of Santorini. 

Now, if you are longing for some more cosmopolitan vibes, the elegant beach bar at Eros beach will please you with a great ambiance, lounge music, and things like hammocks, swings, and sofas. 

The utmost family-friendly Monolithos Beach

Dip your toes in the soft black sand of Monolithos beach or take a refreshing dive in the shallow waters of this beautiful shore and emerge totally re-energized. This well-organized beach satisfies all ages and requirements, from those loving water sports to families with kids.

Expect a wide range of amenities, including a football pitch, a children’s playground, basketball courts, showers, chairs and umbrellas for hire, wooden paths, stylish beach clubs, restaurants, cafes, and volleyball courts. There are even more isolated tree-lined sections that provide natural shade and lots of privacy and relaxation if that’s what you want.  

Santorini Accommodation Options

Santorini’s seaside (and not only) charms are literally endless. What is an undeniable fact, though, is that you can enjoy holidays infused with ultimate luxury and style, sprinkled with outstanding views of the Aegean Sea and even amenities like a private pool at one of the many luxury hotels in Santorini that provide VIP facilities and services. Of course, there are other alternatives as well, such as more cost-effective B&Bs and studios. However, you won’t have the range of services and pampering of high-end resorts. In any case, the choice is yours! Enjoy! 

Additional resources:

• Check out these Montenegro guides
  
  
• Benefits of going to the beach
  
  
• How to fully enjoy being at the beach

There is no doubt. Mykonos Town is the pulsing heart of the island, with the majority of attractions, restaurants, high-end shops, and clubs gathered there. No wonder so many visitors choose the Chora, as the locals call their capital, for their summer holidays. Rightfully so, with so many things to do, see, and experience on offer. 

Now, the challenging part is to choose where to start exploring the delightful Cyclades island with the snow-white, sugar-cubed houses that look like tasty iced cupcakes against a dazzling blue backdrop, the cobblestone streets, and the enchanting sights. Well, here is a small guide to help get you out of this tight situation!

1. Strolling the narrow stone-built paths of the Chora

The winding alleys that feel like a maze will take you to several different corners of the city. As you take a leisure walk through the city streets, you will be greeted with minimalist whitewashed dwellings with bougainvillaea-filled balconies and colourful wooden doors and window frames. Also, adorable tavernas, popular bars, lively cafes, designer shops, gourmet restaurants, and awe-inspiring chapels like Panagia Paraportiani church. Feel free to choose your favourite spot and enjoy a cup of coffee, refreshing cocktail, or delicious local tastes at the break of the day or just before the sun vanishes behind the horizon. Definitely, a rewarding activity to pamper yourself with.

Tip: Some sights worth your time are the Maritime Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum, and the Town Hall, especially if you are into the local culture. 

2. Getting a small taste of Venice, Italy!

Treating your soul to fantastic views of the Aegean Sea is what you will get from heading to Little Venice. The bewildering 18th-century neighbourhood has distinct similarities with the famous Italian city of Venice. It makes sense, though, considering that the entire island has strong Italian influences from the time it was under the ruling of the Italians. The beachfront at Little Venice is lined with colourful houses that literally have their balconies hanging over the water! Once the residences of wealthy merchants and sea captains, they are now turned into cafes and bars welcoming locals and visitors alike. 

While enjoying your drink or fresh seafood dishes at a seaside cafe here, you can soak up the last rays of the sun and be amazed by the swirling of shades that dominate the Mediterranean sky just before sunset. If you come early in the morning, you may even catch local fishermen returning from their night fishing expeditions with their small boats full of sardines and other fish!

3. Heading to the highest points in Mykonos Town

Nobody leaves Mykonos without having seen the infamous windmills from up close. Situated in a hilltop location, they symbolise the rich past of Mykonos and offer pristine seascapes and romantic sunset views down Little Venice. The hallmark of the island is the Geronimos Mill that dates back to the 1700s. Today, it is renovated and privately-owned but still maintains most of its original equipment and mechanisms. For full access to a windmill that’s been preserved in its original condition, do visit Bonis Mill, though. With three floors to explore, you will be able to see how the islanders used to grind wheat to make flour. 

Another supreme spot above the city is the Castle that will enable you to take a step back in time, when Mykonos was a fortified island, protecting its residents and their belongings from pirate invasions. 

At the end of such an exciting day, the best closure probably finds you at the comfort of your exclusive villa or mansion overlooking the vastness of the Mediterranean Sea while the soft Meltemi wind caresses your senses. Magical indeed! 

Egypt has always been a popular destination, but in recent years, when world travelers in search of summer destinations have discovered the charms of all-inclusive at affordable prices, this country has become one of the high priority choices when it comes to summer vacations.

However, the older you get, the more you will start to realize that it is not good to go anywhere unprepared (this is true, of course, when you are young, too, but then you can more easily face unforeseen situations) and then you spend days before summer vacation reading forums and comments on booking websites. We bring you a short guide that will answer all your questions before you board the plane for the Egyptian sea pearl Hurghada so that you do not have to do all that.

The Hotel Is Important

Whether you are one of those people for whom accommodation is of utmost importance or maybe not, we have to clarify one thing – accommodation is the most important in Hurghada. The whole concept of vacationing there is to spend most of your time in a hotel. Hurghada does not have a public beach, and that is of the essence to know when choosing accommodation. Their four stars are two in many other countries, so do not be surprised if you get disappointed by the hotel you had high expectations for because of the number of its stars in the brochure or on the Internet. Choose a hotel that has more than one beach, and that has been built in the last few years.

Since you will only be eating at the hotel, food will also be important to you. There are hotels that adapt food more to tourists but also those that do not, so you may feel sick after a few days from the spices locals are used to and from which your stomach will ’cry.’ 

Their salaries are terribly low, so you will be able to achieve a lot with just a few dollars. For instance, make sure to put a few dollars in your passport at the reception, to get a room with a sea view, and leave them one dollar on the bed every day, and there will always be a little surprise waiting for you when you return to the room.

 

 

Never Drink Tap Water

It is a generally familiar fact about Africa, but some believe that it only refers to the consumption of drinking water, so they rush to order drinks with ice. Drink everything you drink as part of your all-inclusive program without ice. You may not like cocktails because they look quite diluted or taste too sweet, but their beer is great and refreshing. Be careful not to swallow the water while taking a shower because then you will suffer like Charlotte in the first part of “Sex and the City. “ 

You do not have to take probiotics, which everyone warns you are obligatory, from home as you can get them in pharmacies there, and you will get instructed on how to drink them.

Forget Prejudices

The Arabs have been traders since… well, since always, and it is normal that they will pull you by the sleeve and drag you into the shops. Besides, they are very harmless. Feel free to walk along Sakals and Al Mamsha; no one will be waiting to rob you in the dark street. You can use a taxi wherever you go. Do not enter it until you have bargained first because for a dollar; you can visit the entire Hurghada. Do not be afraid of their insane drivers; it is their driving style. There are no traffic rules for them; you just have to get used to it. 

Leave prejudices at home, and you will certainly not have any unpleasant situations. If you have fair skin and hair, women will stop you on the street to take pictures with you, which is a common occurrence. Remember that you are on a completely different continent.

 

 

Don’t Go on Excursions With the Agency

Although the agency will warn you not to trust the locals who offer you trips to the beach three times cheaper – you can. They will show you the charms of Hurghada much better than anyone from your country ever could. Do not miss the opportunity to visit Paradise Island because it really is what its name suggests. As part of the trip, you will also have the opportunity for snorkeling, where you will see fish of incredible colors such as cyclamen, royal blue, or neon-yellow swimming among the corals that seemed to be drawn by Walt Disney. It is one of the most stunning beaches you will ever see. 

One of the excursions that you must not miss is the safari in the Sahara. Our advice is to take a shorter version because that way you will also have the opportunity to visit a Bedouin village, ride a camel, drive a jeep and a quad across the Sahara, and you will still have a large part of the day to spend on the beach. An all-day safari is really torturing, with a lot of time doing nothing and a guaranteed sunstroke.

One of the rare disadvantages of vacationing in Hurghada is that you do not have much room for spontaneity. Each of your meals and snacks is planned in a minute, and since it is already dark at 6 p.m., at that moment, you will hear a whistle that will indicate to you that you have to get out of the water. After 11 p.m., you will not get a drink in your all-inclusive, so if you are looking for an active holiday for young people, Hurghada is definitely not for you because skinny dipping is out of the question there. The only happenings are the animators who walk along the beach and invite you to various aerobics and belly dancing classes and foam parties (if they can be called that). 

 

 

Here might be the right time to warn you to several things that are forbidden in Egypt: drones, sharing an apartment or hotel room with an Egyptian of the opposite sex unless you are married, gambling (so opt for online casino of top-notch game providers such as those at topcasinoexpert.com/software_provider/amanet/ if you are up to gambling on a vacation), photography near military facilities, the rainbow flag, bringing (certain) medications into the country, drinking on Islamic holidays (except in hotels)…

If you need a vacation in every sense of the word where you will not have to think about anything – then without a doubt, peek into the world of camels, colorful pillows, exotic spices, and the bluest sea you will ever see.

Remember when we used to travel? It’s amazing to think that it’s been twelve months now since the first cases of Coronavirus were reported in the United States. Life pre-2020 seems like a distant memory with the turbulence of the last year. But with the vaccines rolling out and a brighter future ahead, it’s time to start thinking of those things we took for granted and look forward to doing them again. I for one can’t wait to travel, so let’s look to brighter times and dream of exotic destinations, today lets dream of India and its capital Delhi.

Delhi and the nation’s capital contained within, New Delhi, is a bustling city with folks from all areas of life. Full of modern wonders blended with traditions of past dynasties it’s also a great spot for shopaholics. For the first time tourist though, there is an abundance of sights to visit. Be it the historical Red Fort, the Garden of five senses or family favourites such as Jantar Mantar and the Lotus Temple to name a few. The city, in general, is known for its book cafes, bars, hotels, clubs, street food and much more. However, choosing the best places to visit, in a busy city can be tricky. To whet your appetite a little, we will narrow it down and choose the Top 5 Places to Visit in Delhi.

1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)

This is one of the most beautiful spots in Delhi, once serving as the residence of the Mughal Emperors. The Old Fort combined with the zoo nearby are highly recommended tourist spots to visit by day. But, a visit let’s say in the evening time is a must-see. At night, a tantalizing display of light and sound take you on a journey through the history of the fort and the 300 years of Mughal rule.

Opening Hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Price: Regular entry is 35 Rupee (50 cents) for locals and 500 Rupee ($7 USD) for foreigners.

Light and Sound show is 60 Rupee for adults and 20 Rupee for children. The weekend will cost you extra at 80 Rupee for adults and 30 Rupee for the kids.

Tip: Visit in the evening to see the amazing light and show, shown in Hindi and English.

Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, New Delhi.

2. Lotus Temple

Probably the most iconic attraction in Delhi. The Lotus Temple is the quintessential spot for those seeking a peaceful experience within the city of Delhi. The spellbinding architecture is certainly something to behold, crafted into the shape of a white lotus and consisting of 27 marble “petals”. Part of the marble of the building was sourced all the way from the same Greek mountain responsible for many of the ancient structures that still adorn Athens today, including the Parthenon.

The space itself preaches equality and unity, welcoming people of all religions. The ideas behind the design reflect the welcoming nature of the Baha’i Faith and it has won several international architecture awards since it’s unveiling in 1986.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (closed on Mondays)

Price: Free

Location: Lotus Temple, Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi.

3.Hauz Khas Village (HKV)

More than just history, HKV is now an opulent neighbourhood in South Delhi famous for its art galleries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops and buzzing nightlife with its abundance of trendy cafes, bars and pubs.

The heart of the village is the HKV complex, founded by Alauddin Khilji and tracing its origins back to the 13th century. Nowadays, it retains the old allure, splicing elements of Islamic architecture with modern urban motifs. It is located right in the heart of a reservoir and has a lovely park complete with walking paths to take it all in. The area is backdropped with domed medieval tombs from the 14th to the 16th century. 

In the Village surrounding the complex itself, the energy is contagious, so don’t miss the chance to check out a live show, whether it’s music or even stand-up comedy in one of the many popular cafes.

Opening hours:- The HKV complex itself is open from Mon to Sat, 10:30 AM -7:30 PM.

Of course, the bars and restaurants are open till late.

4. Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is an astronomical and architectural wonder, in the shape of a humble sundial. Constructed in 1724 by the famous ruler Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur, you can find it in the modern city of New Delhi. Jantar Mantar literally translates to “instrument for calculating the harmony of the heavens”. The architectural ingenuity is fascinating. 

The purpose of the observatory or sundial was to put together astronomical tables and to predict the movements and time of the sun, planets and moon. Unfortunately some of the fine, calibrated marking on the instruments are eroding. But luckily in 2010, it was inscribed on the UNESCO world heritage list and is now getting the world attention that it deserves.

Opening hours:- 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Cost per person:- 5 Rupee (about 5c/nickel) for locals and 100 Rupee ($1.30 USD ) for foreigners

Location:- Sansad Margaret, CP, New Delhi

5. Nehru Planetarium

Nehru Planetarium can be found in the lovely green surroundings of the Teen Murti House. Once home to India’s first Prime Minister, it is now a museum dedicated to his memory. The Planetarium itself is one of five in the country and conducts various Astro related programs and shows throughout the day. These are generally aimed at inspiring student and budding scholars alike. During events such as lunar and solar eclipses, special arrangements are made to get people involved with the observation and photography of such events. Telescopes can be found outside the planetarium to allow visitors to experience these astronomical wonders.

Location:- Teen Murti House, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi

Opening Hours: 9:00am – 5:30pm, closed on Mondays, English shows at 11:30am & 3:00pm, Hindi Shows 1:30am & 4:00pm. (about 30-35 mins)

Price:- 60 Rupee (80c) per person

Location:- Teen Murti House, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi

So as rough as recent times have been, there is light up ahead, and overseas travel should be on the cards once again, sooner rather than later. So maybe it’s time to start thinking about where your next adventure might be. If you’re planning on visiting India and its capital, think about a stopover too. You can go via South East Asia or depending on which direction you’re coming from, let’s say you fly from or via Europe, I recommend a stop in Dubai to see the ever-growing architectural wonders that keep shooting up every year. It makes for another exotic spot to break up the journey and has tons of options for flying into Delhi. 

So, with happier days on the horizon, why not start planning your next trip? Book your dubai to delhi flight, take your friends and family and explore an exotic and bustling city like Delhi.

Interested in the train journey from Rishikesh to new delhi during Covid, check out this clip below…

Rishikesh to New Delhi train