AI Technology and Travel: How it’s Changing the Way We Explore India
The development of AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology has drastically changed several industries, including travel, in the current digital era. The way we explore India is one area in which AI is having a significant impact. AI is transforming the travel experience, opening up new options and enriching our experiences in previously inconceivable ways. Examples include personalized trip recommendations and intelligent virtual tour guides. In this blog, we will explore the fascinating ways artificial intelligence (AI) technology is transforming the travel industry in India and enabling visitors to explore and fully immerse themselves in the nation. Travellers’ individual requirements and preferences are catered to by a variety of cutting-edge applications and services that have emerged as a result of the fusion of AI and travel. AI technology is enabling tourists to experience India like never before, from customised trip recommendations and knowledgeable virtual tour guides to seamless language translation and augmented reality experiences. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating ways AI is transforming the travel industry in India, facilitating the discovery of its beauties and empowering visitors to make lifelong experiences. India is a nation with many different cultures, languages, and topographies. It is a country with both age-old customs and contemporary advancements. The way we explore India is changing as a result of the quick development of technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most important technical developments that has had an impact on the tourism business. India’s tourism industry is changing because to AI technology, which makes it simpler for tourists to plan their visits, find their way around unfamiliar places, and get a taste of this intriguing nation’s culture. Personalized Recommendations In order to provide smarter recommendations and more individualised experiences, AI algorithms are continuously learning from user preferences, behaviour, and feedback. Utilising this technology, travel platforms provide individualised recommendations for activities, lodging, food, and other services based on user interests and preferences. AI is revolutionising how tourists explore India, enabling them to find hidden gems and make lifelong memories. It does this by recommending off-the-beaten-path locations, genuine local experiences, or specialised activities The capacity to offer individualised recommendations is one of the most important advantages of AI technology in the tourism industry. To make personalised recommendations for lodging, activities, and restaurants, AI systems examine user interests and behaviour. Travellers can now receive recommendations that are specifically tailored to their interests, spending capacity, and travel preferences. For instance, machine learning is used by AI-powered recommendation systems like The Tarzan Way to provide consumers personalised trip plans. To provide personalised travel itineraries, these services examine user data, including search history, booking trends, and travel preferences. By giving them recommendations that are based on their needs, this not only saves travellers time but also improves their trip experiences. Intelligent Itinerary Creation The way we arrange our travel is also changing as a result of AI. AI algorithms are increasingly being used for intelligent itinerary building. Based on the choices, interests, and limits of the user, these algorithms generate optimised travel plans. For dynamic itinerary changes, they can also include real-time data. Our product, The Tarzan Way, employs AI algorithms to produce custom trip plans for individuals. To design an itinerary that is best suited to the user’s requirements, we consider variables including travel time, distance, and price. By giving them a well-planned schedule, this not only saves travellers time but also enables them to make the most of their trip. Smart Accommodation and Transport Suggestions The way we travel in India is also changing as a result of AI-powered apps for locating the finest lodging and transit choices. These technologies make it simpler for travellers to locate the best offers on lodging and transportation by using machine learning to forecast pricing trends and availability. Our platform uses AI technology to offer consumers helpful travel and lodging suggestions. Numerous platforms employ AI algorithms to optimise routes and give users the most cost-effective transportation options, as well as machine learning to forecast hotel room demand and change prices. Language and Cultural Assistance India is renowned for having a wide variety of languages spoken throughout the nation. Travellers who may not be fluent in the local languages can communicate with one another thanks to AI-powered language translation technology. Instant translation of text, signs, and even spoken phrases is possible with the help of mobile apps and gadgets with AI translation skills. This makes it possible to communicate with locals easily, read menus, and comprehend critical information. Travellers now have more opportunities to interact authentically with Indian culture, people, and heritage thanks to this advancement in AI technology. Tools for language interpretation and translation powered by AI are also revolutionising how we discover India. These resources support cross-cultural understanding and assist travellers in overcoming language obstacles. Travellers can get real-time language translation through websites like Google Translate and iTranslate. These technologies make it simple for visitors to interact with locals, read signage, and find their way around unfamiliar places. Additionally, they offer etiquette advice and cross-cultural counselling to help visitors better grasp the cultural customs of the areas they visit. AI-Enabled Travel Safety and Security Additionally, AI technology is significantly increasing traveller security and safety in India. Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solutions are enhancing security measures and enhancing the whole travel experience, from facial recognition systems at airports to smart monitoring systems in public settings. AI systems can also examine data trends to find anomalies or potential threats, generating early alerts and aiding in crisis management. Travellers can experience more peace of mind by utilising AI technology since they will know that their security and safety are top priorities. AI technology is increasing travel security and safety. Travel risk assessment is being done using predictive analytics and machine learning, and real-time monitoring of travel advisories and safety alerts is becoming increasingly prevalent. Travellers can get up-to-date safety and security information from websites
Mindful Travel: A Guide to Slow and Sustainable Travel in India
Introduction: In a world filled with fast-paced travel itineraries and overcrowded tourist attractions, there is a growing movement towards a more mindful and sustainable approach to travel. Mindful travel encourages us to slow down, immerse ourselves in the local culture, and have a positive impact on the places we visit. With its rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant communities, India offers a perfect canvas for mindful travel experiences. This guide aims to introduce you to the concept of mindful travel and provide insights into how you can embark on a slow and sustainable journey through India. By embracing mindfulness, we can cultivate a deeper connection with the destinations we explore, interact with local communities respectfully, and minimize our environmental footprint. From experiencing ancient traditions in spiritual hubs like Varanasi and Rishikesh to exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations like Hampi and Mawlynnong, we will delve into the beauty of India’s diverse regions and offer suggestions for immersive and sustainable activities. By practicing mindful travel, we can create meaningful memories, support local economies, and contribute to the preservation of India’s cultural and natural heritage. So, let’s embark on a journey that nourishes the soul and leaves a positive impact on the world around us. Understanding Mindful and Sustainable Travel Mindful and sustainable travel goes beyond merely visiting popular tourist attractions and ticking off items on a checklist. It is an approach that emphasizes connecting with the local culture, minimizing environmental impact, and supporting local communities. By practicing mindful travel, we can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destinations we visit while leaving a positive legacy for future generations. Mindful travel encourages us to slow down, be present at the moment, and engage with our surroundings. It involves immersing ourselves in local traditions, trying authentic cuisine, and interacting with local communities in a respectful and meaningful way. This may include participating in cultural activities, volunteering for local initiatives, or supporting local artisans and businesses. Sustainable travel focuses on reducing our ecological footprint and preserving the natural environment. This can be achieved by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, opting for public transportation or cycling instead of relying on private vehicles, and practicing responsible waste management. It also involves respecting wildlife and natural habitats, refraining from activities that exploit animals, and supporting conservation efforts. In India, mindful and sustainable travel can take various forms. It can mean exploring rural villages and promoting community-based tourism, engaging in eco-trekking and wildlife conservation activities or supporting local artisans and craftspeople. By embracing these principles, we can ensure that our travel experiences in India are not only enriching for ourselves but also contribute positively to the cultural, social, and environmental fabric of the country. Research and Planning Research and planning are essential for a mindful and sustainable travel experience in India. Here are some key steps to undertake: Destination Research: Begin by researching different destinations in India that align with your interests and values. Look for places that offer opportunities for cultural immersion, sustainable activities, and eco-friendly accommodations. Consider the environmental and social impact of tourism in the area and choose destinations that promote responsible tourism practices. Local Culture and Customs: Familiarize yourself with the local culture, traditions, and customs of the places you plan to visit. This will enable you to respect and appreciate the local way of life and mindfully interact with the community. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to communicate and connect with the locals. Sustainable Accommodation: Look for accommodations that prioritize sustainability, such as eco-lodges, homestays, or hotels with green certifications. Check if they have initiatives in place to conserve energy and water, minimize waste, support the local economy, and preserve the natural environment. Consider staying in locally-owned establishments to contribute directly to the community. Transportation: Choose sustainable transportation options to minimize your carbon footprint. Whenever possible, opt for public transportation, walk, or cycle to explore the destinations. If long distances need to be covered, consider taking trains instead of flights as they are more eco-friendly. Responsible Activities: Engage in activities that promote sustainability and respect for local resources. Support local artisans and businesses by purchasing locally-made souvenirs and handicrafts. Be mindful of wildlife encounters and choose responsible wildlife tourism options that prioritize animal welfare and conservation. Waste Management: Be conscious of your waste generation and practice responsible waste management. Minimize the use of single-use plastics, carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, and dispose of waste properly in designated bins. Respect for Nature: Respect the natural environment and wildlife by following designated trails, not disturbing flora and fauna, and adhering to responsible ecotourism practices. Avoid activities that exploit animals or contribute to habitat degradation. Engage with Local Communities: Interact with local communities in a respectful and meaningful way. Learn about their traditions, support local initiatives and social enterprises, and engage in community-based tourism activities. Respect local customs, dress codes, and etiquette. By conducting thorough research and planning, you can ensure that your travel experiences in India are mindful and sustainable, and leave a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Engaging with Local Communities Engaging with local communities is a key aspect of mindful and sustainable travel in India. It not only enriches your travel experience but also promotes cultural exchange, fosters mutual understanding, and supports the local economy. Here’s why engaging with local communities is significant and some responsible ways to do so: Cultural Exchange: Interacting with locals allows you to gain a deeper insight into their way of life, traditions, and customs. It promotes a mutual exchange of knowledge, ideas, and perspectives, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. It can also challenge preconceived notions and stereotypes, promoting a more inclusive and tolerant mindset. Respect and Sensitivity: When engaging with locals, it is important to respect their traditions, customs, and social norms. Observe and follow appropriate behavior, dress modestly if required, and be mindful of local sensitivities. Show genuine interest in their culture, ask questions respectfully, and be open to learning from their experiences. Learning from Locals: Locals
Pros and cons of Travelling via Travel Company
In the digital era, you get all the comforts in a click, but if it is about travel you have hardships while choosing hotels, and locations, curating the Itinerary or finding the best travel deal from companies. Indecision with approaching a company or trying your plan of action, here are a few points to remember. Pros and Cons of having a travel advisor: PROs: A pic from the retailmenot website Perks and Deals: Travel companies want their customers to be happy and strive to curate the best deals and rewards that benefit their loyal customers. Travel freaks opting for the same company for their trips would always have an edge on all voyages. A pic from the reliancemoney.com website Hassle-Free: The checklists, permits, and pre-booking tasks are managed by the operators and the experiences of these stays and activities are enjoyed by the tourists. This way, you are not relying on internet research or a potentially out-of-date guidebook. A pic from the Tarzan way website. Travel Buddy: A Pre-planned journey can sometimes go up and down due to unforeseen conditions on both ends and can only be managed by experienced men in the department like agents. The travel agents are on your side all time to ease the trail handling the hurdles and hiccups on a journey. A picture from the Balancecareers.com website. A Pro: The travel agent is a PRO as they have first-hand experiences with these places. They can also clue you into various petty things that are easier to convey person-to-person, such as local customs, hacks, survival tips, and any “do’s” or “don’ts. They also guide you about the scamster and check on safety at stays and activity spots before heading. A pic from the zurihotels website. Safety and Security: A trip to the border states or foreign destinations includes many inner line permits, security checks, Border permissions, etc., which can be unknown to the tourists of other parts and travel agents get all that on hand for us. Cons: A picture from the edit.com website. No Flexible Itinerary: You follow the group protocols, timelines, and scheduled activities. On-spot changes like extending the trip, camping at beautiful locations, taking part in ongoing activities, and trying all crazy things cannot be easy. This turns hard if you do not choose the right and suitable package for yourself. A pic from Unsplash.com Oversight Something: The tourists do have a vague travel plan with the best places to visit and top things to do before they reach the travel agent and if that does not work out somehow depending on time, money, weather, and other conditions it can be a sad travel story for the customer. A picture from Financialexpress .com website. Budget Fluctuates: The internet is loaded with guides, travel websites, pictures, and websites promoting tourism but choosing the right one among them is a task and sometimes novice travelers end up spending more for an experience. Get the thrill out of your heart with The Tarzan Way to curate your own experience for a hassle-free expedition.
Ultimate Travel Guide For An Indian Voyager
India is primed to welcome the international tourists planning a holiday for the new normal travelogue. India would be a perfect novelty trip for foreigners with distinct climatic conditions, livelihood, traditions, and sovereignty while exploring varied people, food habits, historic sculptures, shopping hauls, venerated shrines, and serene landscapes. Being an absolute vacation spot, post covid there are a few careful considerations before you plan a travel to India. Look into the details mentioned to ease you while prepping your itinerary for the popular destinations of India and explore delicacies in the narrow streets of old Delhi, Royal forts of Rajasthan, and heritage sites of Madhya Pradesh, temples of Bhuvneshwar, shopping the handicrafts at Hyderabad and boat house stay at Kerala backwaters. All the metropolis in India has a unique charm to accord the foreigners to take back the best memories from the land of Mystery and Diversity. A pic from mediasalon.com Vaccines and Norms before Boarding: Check your vaccinations dues and dates before the trip and verify the vaccines approved by WHO before booking up to the bustling cities of India. Air travelers must complete the ‘Air Suvidha self-declaration form’. Travelers from specified countries need to upload their vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 (RT-PCR) test report to support their Air Suvidha declaration. Rules and restrictions change timely depending on the number of cases; check it before your takeoff. COVID-19 restrictions including night curfews, section implements, and limits to public transport capacity are continued in some states and union territories. The list of the vaccines approved in India https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/coronavirus-the-complete-list-of-covid-vaccines-currently-in-use-in-india/photostory/89300567.cms A picture from tripsavvy.com Minimal Backpack: Post pandemic the backpack needs to be updated with some essentials like sanitizer, disinfected spray, masks, and a medical kit. One needs to also carry a record of your prior travel and health history, vaccine certificate, and handy covid test kits. Carry the Indian currency, passport, and license if any in your pockets for road trips to ease travel time during toll checks, borders, and high alert areas. Pack only the essentials as the tourist destinations in India are well furnished to provide the best experience for the guests (Aditi Devo bhava) A pic from mytravelindia.com Curating an itinerary for your trip to India: Make a flexible trip as a long voyage would be tiresome initially and do plan a backup for unforeseen delays and shutdowns. Try planning your expedition according to the seasons to experience the best times in India. Preparing for a holiday on Christmas eve, and enjoy the best new year’s bash while staying at shacks in Kerala, Goa, or Puducherry. Planning a trip in monsoons then Gujarat, Rajasthan, and most of the southern parts with slight showers and a soothing breeze bestows the best time for travelers. In summers the hill stations like Dalhousie, Manali, and North-Eastern states would unleash high temperatures and save you from the ferocious sun. The central part of India is an all-time favorite destination with the best temperature, famous shrines, and heritage sites to add to your itinerary at any time of the year. Give it a go for the traditional attire of Indians while visiting the shrines as few temples and mosques have dress codes to follow during darshan. A click from jfwonline.com Points to consider: Remember to continue the covid habits like social distancing, sanitizing, and face shields. Take home the handmade souvenirs or best-crafted gold jewelry made by traditionally practiced craftsmen. Cope with Hindi while interacting or traveling with natives. Avoid cramped places and unhygienic food giants. Ensure you have a manual plan as the internet can’t be accessed at remote and high-altitude places. Try on bargaining skills at the popular shopping streets, the favorite time pass of Indian women. Relive your stress and treat minor body aches with natural ayurvedic massages. Travel across India with the best travel buddy-like travel way to ensure your holiday without a hiccup. Get the best out of your time, money, and energy on your fun-filled and safe journey to the cultural land.
Utmost and Ultralight Backpack for Trekking
The best view comes after the hardest climb to make it hands down and put up with the fatigue, look through the jotting to be a Minimalistic hiker. Minimalistic hiking allows us to spend more time wandering around and appreciating nature. Trekking to the tops is always enduring and tiresome, carrying goods and chattels would be even more tiring, packing the essentials mean a backpack with things needed during the trek. Start with a small bag and put in only the top listed things like safety kits, basic electricals, and torch as they are always needed irrespective of your trip. Invest in handy and convertible items to bask the trek and camping without a hassle. Light weight backup is harmonious to mountaineers, adventure freaks, and novices. We segregated the trek essentials according to the seasons, duration, and regions to help you while packing the stuff. Short Trek – Stroll on weekends A picture from travel. earth website A trail to the isolated hilltops is more fun-filled and rejuvenating than a casual walk or a long drive on the busy streets of cities. Pack and unpack the stuff for a getaway would vary from long distant treks. A short trip needs a less loaded bag with little quantities and minimal essentials like basic toiletries, battery backup, safety kit, food, and beverages. As the trip is sorted and the weather could be predicted carrying stuff accordingly would be a smart move. Long Treks – Expedition to long trail A click from the travel. earth website. Long treks are all about walking miles together and unwrapping the beauty of nature on foot, bulky bags would dispirit the trekkers. Try out a minimalist approach considering versatile products and handy things like multiuser cutlery, convertible tents, and gears. Seasonal Trekking- Tread according to temperatures A picture from the sea watersports website Nature would embark you on the path of green meadows with small cascades and gushing glacier waters irrespective of seasons. Varied essentials must be picked for different temperatures and regions. Nature bestows its seasonal beauty to travelers along with challenging terrains in summer, landslides in monsoon, and avalanches in winter. To get through these tests and experience the charm on your expedition you need to be well equipped with all the essentials. Apart from the regulars’ different temperatures would hold your different needs, carrying stuff according to the destination like layers would work for cold places, comfortable tracks in summers and convertible raincoat warmer would help during monsoons and winter drizzles. Religious Treks: A pic from most spiritual treks in India blog. Heading to shrines needs similar essentials with addons and slight like traditional wear apart from tracks, pooja items for worship, comfortable footwear to walk along with palanquins, sacred things, and bathing items. As most of the religious treks are done by troops, we could list out the needed and distribute them according to the convenience. Most of the pilgrimage sites are well constructed and equipped with all the puja essentials to help the devotees. Carrying personal stuff and basic items to visit the premises would ease your pilgrim journey Plodding to the hills: A picture from the tourmyindia website. The deserted lands, forts, and few historic places are sited at the top, and reaching these places would be no less than a trek. A day pack, hiking pole, sunscreens, hydrated liquids, and headgears are some must-haves irrespective of the trip for the dry land to beat the heat. Carry tents to rest and some food to revitalize yourself as the rugged terrains would sponge the energy. Walking on milky snow: A click from the bike adventures website Sliding on the snow with a rucksack is a cakewalk, but walking against the slide, escaping the puddles dealing with icefalls, tackling health and well-being is a task. Tracking weather conditions leads to the destination, and self-health is always helpful. Most of the Himalayan ranges are blanketed with snow and need a prep before your trail like covering yourself top to toe, packing some mufflers, ear gears, poncho, and some hot beverages to maintain your body temperatures. Tourists with breathing issues need utmost care while trekking and must carry medicines and a breathing pump to avoid any hurdles.
Why it’s not the right time to travel(& why it is)
The world is recovering from a pandemic that we never saw coming and we are adamant to recover and move forward and not look back to the pain and suffering the second wave of Coronavirus had on the nation. The cases of the virus have dropped drastically and most of the restrictions have been lifted in many states so that people can get back to their affairs but the “new normal” is very difficult to become a reality. Traveling is something that had been affected the most during the lockdown and now that everyone is free to move, even people who did not like traveling are moving towards the mountains or beaches since traveling is the only cure from this state of despair. Here are a few thoughts on why you should not travel right now and why you should. The Monsoon season is upon us Most of the travelers find respite in either hilly areas or beaches and both of them are prone to dangerous natural activities during the monsoon season. The landslides in the mountains destroy roads and bridges like the one that recently happened in Kinnaur and the tides are so high on the beaches that a person can not even get close to them. Monsoon is gripping mountains roads but they look amazing! Since the travel restrictions have just opened up for traveling, people are thronging these places without prior information and knowledge about the places and even required documents due to which traffic build-up has become another problem as well. Although it might not be the best time to visit mountains or the best time to travel to beaches, it might be the right time to travel right now too. Since the cases of the Coronavirus have just started going down and people have been vaccinated, it might be right to go out on a getaway since we all have been cooped up for so long in our homes. Monsoon treks can never be better To make sure you have a safe travel journey during monsoons, do the following things: Research about the weather forecast of the place you’re visiting on the dates you’re going to travel. 90% of the time the forecast is right and you should make changes accordingly. Read recent news related to weather incidents or natural calamities in the place you’re visiting. Look out for landslides, cloud bursts, road blockage, high tides, river level rising, and thunderstorms. A few states in India have proper guidelines if you wish to enter that state for traveling. Do read the guidelines beforehand and keep your documents ready accordingly. Keep your Monsoon gear ready, raincoats or poncho, an umbrella, rain cover for bags, tire kit if you’re driving, a headlamp, waterproof phone case, mosquito repellent, and some extra socks. You can find more tips and tricks on our blog page here and if you’re looking to travel and want to create your own experience head over here. Too many people are traveling A major problem while traveling right now is that everyone is looking to travel and all the major tourist spots have witnessed a lot of crowds. Due to this influx of too many travelers, the markets and tourist attractions are getting crowded and no social distancing norms are being followed which might become a big safety issue. As a result, people are opting to stay in hotels or indoors and not wander outside to these famous attractions. People thronging the streets of Manali with no Social Distancing Due to so many people traveling and crowding major tourist attractions, another major problem is finding availability in hotel rooms and the cost of accommodation going up. Since a lot of people are traveling, it also becomes hard to have a flexible schedule and plan. Major tourist spots can be crowded with people but that’s why they are major tourist spots because tourists are going there. This might be the right time to skip these major places and head over to some amazing hidden gems near major tourist spots. Instead of Manali, visit Jibhi, instead of Shimla visit Theog, instead of Mussoorie visit Landour, instead of Nainital visit Naukuchiatal. Check out our blog on hidden gems in India here. A view from Naukuchiatal that beats all the major tourist spots It might not be the best time to visit Manali or the best time to visit Goa but if you do want to visit the major tourist spots, you can change the way you travel, try out the following things to make sure to get a safe and amazing travel experience: Try Staycation: Staycations are basically vacations where you get a wholesome experience of the place you’re staying in and enjoying all the activities and amenities of the stay while staying safe from crowds of people. Relieve your stress on a Workcation: As the name suggests it’s a combination of Work + Vacation where you take your workspace where you travel. Stay in your hotel with an amazing ambiance in your favorite location and work during the working hours and exploring when you get off work. Take the offbeat route: You can always wander on to unique and unexplored places near your destination. There are always villages and natural whereabouts where you can stay near the major tourist attractions. Start your adventure on a trekking trail: Treks are often underrated and people don’t really travel to treks since most of the travelers are looking for a peaceful getaway. You can pick up a 2-3 days hike or go on a week-long adventure on some amazing treks in India To personalize a safe experience visit our travel support page at www.thetarzanway.com/travel-support The Coronavirus is still looming at large The reason why we all want to travel is Coronavirus and the reason why we are hesitant to travel is also the Coronavirus(pretty ironic), we all are frustrated because of
Dear diary, India is amazing!
Dear Diary, Touchdown. India here I am. Made it to Spice heaven and I’m already giggling at the sight of the mystical ‘’tuk-tuks’’. Namaste replaces hello, chai replaces coffee, sarees replace jeans, temples replace churches, Bollywood replaces Hollywood!… Time to embrace the east and all that comes with it! All the amazing monuments and palaces were just so unique Wandering the overcrowded streets gives you the perfect first-hand cultural experience, the touch of cashmere hanging out the shops, the incense smell burning in every open window, the constant noise of the honks, the endless taste of spices, the sight of every color in every corner… You couldn’t be anywhere else. The Jaisalmer chapter: Survived an 18-hour long train ride, thoughts: the scenario was gorgeous plus the train gives me a much-needed adventure feel! The golden city, a small town, perfect to wander through all the majestic ancient architecture, felt like a time machine taking me back a few centuries! The greatest part about this Rajasthani city is that is situated right on the Thar desert, which in India means camel safari! I had a chance to do an overnight one! Hopping on a camel and through the desert, we go! The sunny desert was an experience to behold Feels unreal to be surrounded by endless dunes and just gaze at the horizon waiting for that mind-blowing sunset! Once is dark a fire-cooked meal awaits, followed by a singing session, just before laying in a sleeping bag with no roof, just a million stars! India, I surrender. The Jaipur Chapter – They call it the pink city for a good reason. You can see splashes of light pink in every corner, in every monument, in every shop. The city is magical, the Jal Mahal view makes you feel like you’re in a fairy tale, a castle on the water surrounded by mountains who wouldn’t? The Amber Fort is a must, ancient and magnificent. The views are breathtaking, the palace inside is full of details one didn’t know could exist. I ended my trip with a visit to the Monkey Temple for sunset. It was one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever witnessed. On the top of a mountain, holds a tiny white house that keeps the absolute best of views and monkeys to keep you company. The Rishikesh chapter- I’ve done little to no research about this place but heard wanders, once I got off my tuk-tuk and walked about five meters I could see why. Here’s what you need to know about Rishikesh: there’s a gorgeous holy river called Ganga, it runs through hundreds of Himalayan mountains, it’s surrounded by waterfalls, there’s a beach, there’s river rafting, it’s the Yoga Capital of the World, there are endless temples to visit, there’s a Beatles Ashram, iconic to say the least and it has for sure the best and cheapest cafes with a breathtaking view! Is that enough to make you go? Love, Carol. ♥️ Check out how to make your own personalized travel experience with The Tarzan Way.
Changing travel trends amidst covid-19
Just when we started to believe that things were going back to normal, the second wave of coronavirus hit us hard and harder this time. This raises the question that, are things ever going to be normal again? We are stepping ahead into an uncertain future, and the travel industry is preparing for the new era of travel, where everything will be changed and brand-new. Here are some of the changing trends driving the future of travel post covid. Domestic travel over international travel Domestic travel gained a lot of momentum during the pandemic, and this trend is here to stay. Keeping in mind the shorter distance, domestic travel is a safer choice. Also, looking at the current situation, international travel will be more expensive, making domestic travel an ideal choice. Staycations Staycation is when an individual or family stays at home and takes part in leisure activities at places within the day trip distance from home. People are starting to prefer staycations in their own city or hill stations and beaches close to the city, over long holidays as a means to ensure their safety. You can experience a slower pace of life while being close to your home. Road trips over local transport With social distancing being the new normal, the rise of public transport is going to be very hard. Road trips are a safer option to take up. People prefer taking their own car, or private taxis to avoid physical touch. Growth of sustainable and slow travel With the rapidly deteriorating environmental conditions, more and more people have become more conscious and are now undertaking steps to mitigate the impact of their travel. Travelers are looking for richer immersive travel experiences to unwind, explore, and connect with nature instead of just rushing around and seeing many places. Digital travel experience Amidst the pandemic, many hotels and resorts made a shift to the digital world to ensure that all guest needs were met virtually to create a safe environment for the travelers as well as the working staff. The digital experience has been transformational for leisure and business travelers, and this experience trend is digging in for the long haul. Many operation-related activities are going to be digitized, enabling contactless services. Homestays gaining popularity There’s been a growing demand for long-term homestays. With offices shut and the rise of remote work, many are leaving their home offices for the chance of working from a picturesque wellness holiday destination. Once-remote lodges, low-cost hostels, and luxury villas that prided themselves on being off the grid are amping up internet speeds and offering free wi-fi and backup data dongles with their rooms. Solo travel pacing up Another major change the pandemic has brought into people’s life is the importance of self-discovery and personal growth. Travelers are looking for more ways to spend quality time with themselves. Moreover, solo traveling also reduces the chance to get infected and gives you complete control over the itinerary. The pandemic has changed the way we travel as new travel trends continue to rise. We must adapt to them, but also at the same time take proper precautions, practice social distancing, wear masks at all times, wash our hands regularly. STAY HOME, STAY SAFE!
How the 2nd wave of Coronavirus will impact traveling in India
The Coronavirus has struck again and struck hard again. A time where every industry had just started to revive from the unprecedented crisis and got a sigh of relief, the sudden spike in the cases of Coronavirus has ruined all of it. Traveling is going to be hit again and going to hit hard. Airlines and hoteliers are already seeing a decline in the number of bookings and a rise in the cancellation of already booked tickets. The question is, how bad is it going to be for your future travel plans? Do you need to cancel your already planned experiences? Should you postpone your plan to travel? Increasing cases is a major concern The line does not seem to straighten now! The first and the obvious problem with traveling right now is going to be the increasing number of cases and the increase in the probability of getting infected by the novel Coronavirus. The fact that India is reporting a record increase in these cases is a major concern for any traveler. Experts say that the 2nd wave of Coronavirus is going to be even bigger than the previous one. Having flattened the curve at the beginning of the year and the vaccines kicking in, the population had been relaxed and thought of it as an end to the pandemic but as the masks came off and the social distancing disappeared, the infection started spreading without getting a hint of it. Test for Coronavirus had also reduced all over the nation and restrictions put in place had come off entirely making the mindset of every person lenient over the virus and a very casual attitude over wearing masks and maintaining social distancing. This increase in cases was bound to happen and many even predicted the same. The question is should we be concerned? Whereas the increase in cases is alarming if a traveler is taking complete precautions and keeping in check with the restrictions in place, there will be no cause to worry to travel. A mask reduces your chances of transmission by 90% and if you’re not in a crowded place then these chances are even further reduced. Restrictions have been put in place in a lot of states With the increase in cases and even deaths, most of the states have started implementing some sort of restrictions to keep the unprecedented rise in check. Restrictions such as a mandatory negative test report and the number of people traveling together are the major ones that almost every state has taken into consideration and wearing masks is a must for every person in the state. Preparation being made to make you stay at home! A negative RT-PCR test has become mandatory to travel in most of the states creating another panic in a traveler’s mind. Less number of people at a specific place is also being implemented, like fewer gatherings in events, half occupancy in restaurants and public places, and even in public transport. Some states have even implemented full lockdown to break the chain of the cases. We believe that these restrictions although very important will definitely halt traveling and a traveler should vary of where they are traveling. A traveler found to have symptoms and a positive test will force them to quarantine in the place where they are making it another big problem when traveling. Shouldn’t the vaccines create an impact on the number of cases? Vaccinations are the eventual solution to this pandemic but are they really creating an impact right now? Get. The. Vaccine. Now. The current vaccinations we have do create an impact for protecting against the virus but each body reacts differently to the vaccine. You need to get 2 doses of the same vaccine a month apart for your body to develop the antibodies and even the development of antibodies takes up to 15 days. The vaccines are also effective for around 6 months and after that, we’ll have to get vaccinated again. Vaccines are effective and everyone should get vaccinated but the process of developing antibodies and getting everyone vaccinated is a slow and cumbersome process creating a problem and which is why we are seeing such an increase in cases. How is travel going to be possible now? Traveling is a big no-no during the current situation with the pandemic. We would recommend everyone to stay home and stay safe for a while till the lockdown is over and cases are reduced to some extent. Traveling with complete precautions, masks, social distancing, and complete use of sanitizer should be done. Don’t worry, you will travel again soon! After this wave ends(we hope soon too), travel is set to boom. The vaccination drive will kick in and the season to travel will be upon us. The population was already on their heels when it came to traveling before the 2nd wave and many of you already planned travel experiences for the upcoming season and those experiences will happen for sure. The first wave of Coronavirus was very different from the current one. We have vaccines available now and the medical facilities have improved a lot from the earlier scenario. Staying at homes for a week or so will result in breaking the chain of transmission, making way to vaccinate more people, and for hospitals to be better prepared for any new case, and thus, we will be able to travel again! For now, stay home to stay safe. Practice social distancing, wear a mask at all times when out or meeting someone new, refrain from touching your face, and wash your hands regularly. We hope to bring you safe and unique travel experiences in the near future to feed your wanderlust soon!
SOUL SEARCHING EXPERIENCES IN RISHIKESH YOU CAN’T-MISS
Looking for a way to calm your mind with relaxing places and explore the ancient Indian culture, Rishikesh is the perfect travel destination for you. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, often known as the “Yoga Capital of the World“, Rishikesh is popular for attracting tourists from all across the globe. The powerful flow of the holy Ganges has always attracted those seeking direction and inspiration from devout Hindus, yoga and meditation gurus, and even the Beatles. How to reach By Road: The road connectivity to Rishikesh is quite accessible and commutable. As it is situated 245 km from New Delhi, 50 km from Dehradun, and just 30 km away from Haridwar, You can easily find buses or taxis from these major cities to Rishikesh. By Rail: The Rishikesh Railway Station provides decent connectivity to travel here. However, Haridwar Railway Station is suggested as the best option to travel Rishikesh by train as this railway station connects with Delhi, Rajasthan, Amritsar, Varanasi, etc. By Air: There are sufficient daily flights from New Delhi to Dehradun available. The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Dehradun Jollygrant airport which is just 25 km away from Rishikesh. Many airlines provide daily flights to Dehradun. Best time to visit Rishikesh holds an evergreen destination and spectacular views throughout the year. However, the right time to visit Rishikesh is from August to March. In summer, with a temperature of 35 degrees Celsius in May-June, it can be bothering. Here are some great things to do in Rishikesh to explore its rich ancient culture and have a soulful experience you do not wish to miss out on. Witness the Ganga Aarti With an auspicious atmosphere, you can sit at the banks of the Ganges river and rejoice in the music, the appeasing breeze, and enjoy the evening Aarti Ceremony at Parmarth Niketan or Triveni Ghat. The evening starts with the chanting of devotional songs (bhajans) accompanied by prayers and a purifying ritual called “hawan”. Concluding the ceremony is the act of the “aarti”—where the ashram residents and the spectators send an offering to the Ganges by floating a small diya laden with flowers and a lighted lamp, into the River Ganga. Yoga and Meditation Rishikesh, enriched with old customs and legacy of Yoga and Meditation, gives you a unique opportunity to mitigate your whole self. There are lots of Yoga and Meditational centers in Rishikesh where you can become familiar with its strategy, meetings by incredible specialists and saints. Delightful nature, fantabulous surroundings, mountain ranges, and India’s most heavenly waterway the Ganges what else would you want to feel a tranquil bond with nature having such an amazing experience and appreciate this city. Visit the Holy Temples Rishikesh is full of countless small, big, new, and very old temples, spread in the mean streets of the city. Aside from regaling at the elaborate architectural designs, these temples ushers in a soulful experience, especially if you get a chance to witness an ongoing religious activity inside the temple. Some of the important temples in Rishikesh are as follows. Tera Manzil Temple: It is a multistory temple that is extremely popular among tourists. The temple has several deities under one roof with amazing architecture to behold. Here you can capture an unforgettable view of sundown from the top of the temple. Kunjapuri Temple: Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a sacred temple of intense importance in the Hindu religion, devoted to Goddess Durga. Situated at a height of 1676 meters from sea level on a hill, this Temple is also considered by Shaktipeeth. Bharat Mandir: Bharat Mandir is one of the very old temples among the all which is constructed by the Hindu famous saint Adiguru Shankracharya in the 12th century. This temple is devoted to Bharat, the younger brother of Lord Ram; it is to be found in the old town next to Triveni Ghat. Nilkanth Mahadev Temple: Nilkanth Mahadev temple is one of the very famed temples which is positioned at a height of around 5500 ft. The splendid architecture of the temple will stun you with its fine detail. Outside the temple, you will find several stalls stocking memoirs and Pooja ingredients. Explore the street markets The city, with hills on either side, is connected by two suspension bridges known as Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula. The markets around both these bridges are crowded with shops selling beads, precious stones, local handicraft items, and puja items. You can bring many interesting things from here like; Spiritual books, Jewellery, clothes, gems, precious and semi-precious stones, idols and other great items too. Enjoy the festivals Rishikesh, being a holy pilgrimage site, celebrates the usual Hindu festivals like Holi, Diwali, and Dussehra with great enthusiasm and love. The month of Sawan is also considered of great significance here. Rishikesh is also an ideal spot for some grand International and National Festivals like International Yoga Festival – an annual festival celebrated from 1st to 7th March every year to give knowledge about yoga, International Kayak Festival – organized to promote water activities on the Ganges, Basant Panchmi – a harvest festival, Ganga Dussehra – an annual festival celebrated in the month of May-June to celebrate and worship the River Ganges. Volunteer and travel Rishikesh is famous for its culture and spirituality. People travel here for sightseeing and pilgrimage. But, have you ever thought about adding value to society and experiencing the real taste of the city’s culture? Many volunteering opportunities available here let you have this unique experience. Teaching: You can volunteer at an NGO providing formal education to children from slum areas teaching them various subjects, art and music skills, sports, etc. As a foreigner, you can also introduce them to the culture of your country. Some NG0s providing this experience are Khushi Charitable Society, Children of the Ganges, Mother Miracle, etc. Cleaning up River Ganges: Pollution is severely chipping away at India’s beauty. The Ganja river
