All aboard Deccan Odyssey: A jaunt in Maratha Heartland

Of various ways to unfold the glorifying history of Marathas, Deccan Odyssey train tour is a sumptuous course to explore the mesmerizing terrains of Konkan and Deccan region along with a halt in sun and sand paradise, Goa. A journey spanning over 168 hours includes a dash of culture, leisure and heritage mixed with the opulence of tastefully decorated interiors and impeccable hospitality.

The Royal Blue interior of the Deccan Odyssey Train

Winner of the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler Award, Deccan Odyssey is often compared to the likes of the Blue Train of South Africa. The luxury train journey on board Deccan Odyssey is highly recommended to the travelers looking forward to foretaste the traditional Indian hospitality.

The train has the total capacity of 88 passengers in its 11 elegantly appointed coaches. The interiors of the train flaunt the thematic décor of Deccan region and come equipped with state of the art amenities to provide comfort and pampering to the guests.

Facilities on board Deccan Odyssey includes two tastefully appointed restaurants Peshwa 1 and Peshwa 2 that serve a blend of delectable cuisines from east and west for the platter of the guests.  An on-site bar named Mumbai Hi with an eclectic collection of wines and spirits and separate carriages for business conference and spa are also provided on board to deliver a royal experience to the guests.

Deluxe Cabins of Deccan Odyssey

The itinerary of this Indian luxury train enables the guests to discover the beauty of Deccan Plateau in Maharashtra in a endearing and unique perspective. The weeklong journey includes tours to Mumbai, Sindhudurg, Goa, Vasco, Kolhapur, Ajanta, Ellora and Nashik.

Fairy Queen: Three Cheers for Steam Railway - Indian Luxury Trains

Fairy Queen: Three Cheers for Steam Railway - Indian Luxury Trains

Against all odds the Fairy Queen, India’s oldest running steam locomotive is all set to make a comeback. Shunted off after rare parts of the loco were stolen last year, the Fairy Queen comeback is considered to be no less than miraculous. The brass parts of the 156 year old engine, which are almost irreplaceable, were vandalized and stolen last year when the locomotive was parked in a railway shed.

Top Ten Most Famous Awe-Inspiring Landmarks in the World

Landmark is a term usually designated to monumental structures such as forts, palaces, churches, cathedrals that were constructed to commemorate a historical yet remarkable event. But this is not the only criteria on which landmarks are chosen, natural phenomena in physical structures such as rock mountain formations, gushing waterfalls or any other creation that is beyond the imagination of human mind. Mentioned below is the list of top ten most famous awe-inspiring landmarks in the world.

Petra, Jordan

Portals into Past - Petra in Jordan

Emblazoned as World Heritage Site by UNESCO and voted as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Petra was described as “a rose-red city as old as time” by an award winning poet John William Burgon. The city is known for its red sandstone structure brilliantly carved out of Rock Mountains and water channel systems.

Great Pyramid of Giza

Man made or the visitor from outer space built them? The debate goes on

As you gaze at the Great Pyramid of Giza from far behind, everything around just looks like a speck in the backdrop of this gigantic structure. Such is the magnitude of this pyramid which stands proud as the tallest man-made structure in the world and is listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Eiffel Tower, Paris

One of the most iconic landmarks of the world, the Eiffel Tower

It is impossible not seeing Eiffel Tower if you are visiting Paris which is often considered to be the most romantic destinations in the world. Owing to the sheer size of the tower and strategic location on the Champ de Mars, the upper part of Eiffel Tower is visible from all over Paris. The Eiffel Tower was constructed as the entrance arch for the World Exhibition in 1889 and since then has become the most-visited paid monument in the world.

Novelist Guy de Maupassant - who claimed to hate the tower - supposedly ate lunch in the Tower's restaurant every day. When asked why, he answered that it was the one place in Paris where one could not see the structure. Today, the Tower is widely considered to be a striking piece of structural art.

Statue of Liberty, USA

Statue of Liberty

One of the most iconic structures of the United States of America without a doubt is the Statue of Liberty. Also known as Lady Liberty, Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France to the United States and symbolizes the Roman goddess of freedom Libertas wearing robe whose one hand bears a torch and other bears a tabula ansata which means a tablet evoking the law. The UNESCO "Statement of Significance" describes the statue as a "masterpiece of the human spirit" that "endures as a highly potent symbol—inspiring contemplation, debate and protest—of ideals such as liberty, peace, human rights, abolition of slavery, democracy and opportunity."

One immigrant who arrived from Greece famously said, "I saw the Statue of Liberty. And I said to myself, "Lady, you're such a beautiful! You opened your arms and you get all the foreigners here. Give me a chance to prove that I am worth it, to do something, to be someone in America." And always that statue was on my mind."

Colosseum, Italy

A Noble Ruin - Nostalgia of a grand empire

Arguably one of the greatest architectural marvels built in the days of Roman Empire is the Flavian Amphitheater also known as Colosseum. With a capacity of holding a crowd up to 50,000 spectators, this giant elliptical stadium was meant for public entertainment events such as gladiatorial contests, mock sea battles, animal hunts, and Mythological dramas.

Acropolis of Athena, Greece

Parthenon - Acropolis of Athena

The word Acropolis literally means “zenith point of the city. The ancient Greeks used to choose an elevated ground or a hill to build their towns which enables them to fortify and defend their settlements at the time of war. Settled on a limestone hill, Acropolis comprises of a magnificent temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena- Parthenon, a monumental marble gateway-Propylaea, Erechtheum-a temple known for its intricate architectural detailing and the temple of Athena Nike- a goddess who brought so many victories to the town.

Great Wall, China

Is it really visible from space? Well the answer is no

With a length over 8,800 kilometers from the mountains of Korea to Gobi desert, The Great Wall of China is the symbol of China’s unity and known for its artificial constructions. The wall has contributed a lot in the development of China’s history and played a vital role in promoting tourism in China. From a far distance it looks like a giant dragon curving its path from east to west.

Opera House, Australia

Opera House, Sydney, Australia

A multi-venue performing arts centre, Sydney Opera House was designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is a perfect specimen of architectural and structural creativity and innovation. Renowned as one of the most impressive structure as the twentieth century, the path-breaking structure was constructed by a Danish architect Jorn Utzon after winning an international design in 1957. This world class performing arts center is owned and managed by Sydney Opera House trust and is one of the major and unrivalled tourist attraction in Australia.

Easter Island

Moai Statue in Easter Island

Easter Island is a Polynesian island situated in the South Pacific Ocean about 2000 miles from Chile’s west coast. According to a popular culture, the people of Easter Island are believed to have come from a mythical city called Hiwi Lay in the east. This island holds visitors attraction due to 15 moai ahu statues that represents a very impressive and creative accomplishment. Easter Island is indisputably one of the most fascinating places on earth and also rated as one of the top 10 places to visit in the world before you die.

Taj Mahal, Agra

"A teardrop on the cheek of time"

The passionate love of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife transformed into a majestic monument known as Taj Mahal, a Mughal monument idolized as the symbol of immortal love in all corners of the world. One of the most iconic structures in the world, Taj Mahal is an exquisite white marble monument inlaid with semi-precious stones set on the red-sandstone platform. Firm believers in true love gather in front of this majestic monument from all across the globe. Bejeweled with several precious stones and calligraphic inscriptions on large pishtaq adds to the exquisiteness of this imposing structure.

Ultimate Romantic Vacation Ideas in India

With February already staring us down, couples can’t help to look ahead for the day of love. It is the time when most of the couples plan a romantic vacation to relive some intimate and cozy moments in perfect isolation. Now romantic vacations should be spent at such a place where you and your partner can sit down for a while and express your love and gratitude for each other. Mentioned below is the list of five ultimate romantic vacation ideas in India for unparalleled romantic experiences in India.

Cruise Journeys
Cruise journey is a perfect choice for romantic vacations in India. It is a perfect romantic escapade which allows you to explore the treasure troves of backwaters, lakes and high seas. Whether it’s about houseboat stay in Kashmir amidst the tranquil backdrop of Dal Lake or sailing through the sleepy backwaters of Kerala in a traditional houseboat and feasting upon the breathtaking views of palm –fringed backwaters and aquatic life, cruise journeys offers a secluded stay in the comforts of a cruise boats.

Luxury Train Travel

Ultimate Romantic Vacation Ideas

Luxury trains in India are one of the best options to spend romantic vacations with best of comforts and exclusivity.  With 6 luxury trains operating in different parts of India, discerning travelers have multi-options to choose from when it comes to luxurious romantic vacations in India. Palace on Wheels, India’s maiden luxury train and adjudged 4th best among the best luxury trains in the world, offers an enchanting voyage across various destinations in Rajasthan. With its upcoming journey slated to commence just after Valentine’s Day, Palace on Wheels is the apt choice to plan a romantic vacation in Rajasthan.

Exotic Beach Holidays

Beaches are Goa are perfect romantic getaways in India

Beach holidays in India are prefect romantic getaways for honeymooners, couples and couples. The sun, sand and sound of the waves takes away all the stress and worry of daily life and that is what required for an ideal romantic holiday. Besides relaxing and strolling along the sandy beaches, tourists can also stay in some of the most opulent beach resorts in India. Goa is one of the most loved destinations for beach holidays in India and a perfect escapade for romantic holidays in India. In order to make your beach stay memorable, various renowned hotels in Goa provide special offers for the occasion of Valentine’s Day.

Romantic Spa Breaks

Romantic Spa massage for couples are in vogue these days

One of the best ways to spend a romantic yet rejuvenating holiday in India is to discover a world of relaxation and wellness and get in touch with your inner-self by indulging in an array of spa and Ayurveda therapies that revitalizes your mind, body and soul. Ananda in Himalayas has won many accolades as one of the best destination spa in the world. Built around the former palace of Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal, Ananda in Himalayas offers a blend of traditional Indian science of Yoga and Ayurveda and international spa therapies which helps create equilibrium between mind, body and soul.

Wildlife Tours

Luxury Wildlife Properties add to the romance of the call of the wild

Wildlife vacation are yet another off the beaten track experience to celebrate and spend some quality time with your partner and loved ones. Be it the romance of Kipling’s Kanha or the allure of Jim Corbett in the lap of Himalaya, wildlife tour adds to the exotic dimension of romantic breaks in India. To cater to the demand of discerning travelers, an array of luxury resorts and wildlife tents by renowned players in hospitality industry offer pampering stay to the guests. Besides the world class amenities and impeccable hospitality, the serene ambience amidst the bucolic setting and facilities such as spa add to the romance of wildlife vacations in India. Taj Group of Hotels in a tie up with &Beyond of Africa offers complete wildlife package across select wildlife sanctuaries in India. It is one of the most comprehensive as well as eco-friendly ways to discover the romance of Indian wild.

Luxury Tourism - Creating Insider Experience is the Need of the Hour

India’s rise in the travel and tourism industry was acknowledged during this year’s edition of the World Travel Awards in Qatar where this ‘incredible’ country was voted as “World’s Leading Travel Destination” and the Incredible India campaign by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to promote India as a global tourist destination led to it being voted “World’s Leading Tourist Board”.

Maharajas Express - Creating Insider Experiences

The Tourism Ministry of India has played an important role in the development of the industry, initiating advertising campaigns such as the 'Incredible India' campaign, which showcased India’s culture and tourist attractions in a fresh, impressive way. The campaign helped create a colorful image of India in the minds of consumers all over the world.

When it comes to demand generation in travel and tourism industry, China and India are leading the way with close to double digit growth in this industry. India’s tourism industry is experiencing a strong period of growth, driven by the burgeoning Indian middle class, growth in high spending foreign tourists, and coordinated government campaigns to promote ‘Incredible India.

Talking about the trends in travel and tourism industry in India, it is one of the most profitable industries in India credited with contributing a substantial amount of foreign exchange. Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Rajasthan are the leading tourism destinations in India in terms of total tourist arrivals.

Another new segment to watch out for in the travel and tourism industry is the medical tourism. India has been promoting its healthcare tourism by providing the visitors with private healthcare facilities and with current trends and forecast it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 60.69%.

Luxury travel segment is one segment with huge potential according to the industry insiders. Although the boom in the luxury travel segment is not at the level it was a few years, but the reports of its decline have been greatly exaggerated notwithstanding a complete Euro-zone meltdown and a looming global economic crisis. According to a recent report by Felicity Long in Travel Weekly the buzz at the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) conference in Cannes, France, in early December was a clear indication that there is indeed a strong demand in this travel niche.

According to the Future of Luxury Travel report released by the ILTM in conjunction with Horwath HTL, bookings to Asia and Latin America are currently outpacing Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean. Also of note is the finding that India, China and Russia would attract an increasingly larger share of international luxury travelers as per the ILTM report published last summer.

There are lessons to be learned for the players in travel and tourism industry. If one goes by the trend and forecasts there is a huge demand for cultural experiences among the new breed of tourists. To stay on top of the trends suppliers need to look for the ways to package cultural interaction into the guest experience.
For the travel agents, who play a vital role as sellers and re-sellers on behalf of the suppliers, the issue is less about trying to predict the vagaries of the economy than staying on top of trending luxury destinations and a changing client base.

Creating insider experiences that range from pre-packaged, off-the-beaten-track tours with local guides, to customized outings and self-guided tours with the input of the concierge staff are the need of hour. Sensing this demand, luxury travel companies like Orient-Express have invested in restoring the world's most famous train routes. And travelers are responding by packing new trains.

Much of the new boom in luxury trains has come in Asia. When it comes to luxury rail tours, India leads the way with as many as 6 luxury trains offering unique cultural experiences across destinations in India.  Indian Luxury Trains (ILT) is India’s first and only luxury train travel portal and we are looking at a great opportunity in this luxury travel niche in India” said Mr. Rahul Sharma, Managing Director of the Indian Luxury Trains. “These are really very exciting time for us here at ILT”.

Offering one stop solution to luxury travelers, ILT is also looking forward to take luxury travel to the next level through their comprehensive offering. Mr. Sharma added that availability of News, Reviews and Brochures are an endeavor in making their offering more comprehensive. Besides measures are in place to up the tempo to proactively promote luxury trains in India in international markets through media and travel market fairs.

Luxury train traveling in India began with the arrival of Palace on Wheels in 1982 to promote tourism in Rajasthan. It was an instant and huge success and 5 more trains have followed since the introduction of the Palace on Wheels. Maharajas Express, has already caught the attention of connoisseurs of luxury travel from around the world and is also acclaimed by the who’s who of travel and tourism industry as one of the most sophisticated luxury train service creating unique and most opulent rail tours in Asia.

Recreating ethos of princely traveling - The Indian Maharaja Luxury Train

“Luxury trains in India are designed to create cultural interactions by bundling the ethos and tradition of bygone era into an elegant and unique guest experiences” added Mr. Sharma “which adds to the appeal of the overall experience of the journey”. Palace on Wheels was a runner up at the recently concluded World Travel Awards in the category of “World’s Leading Luxury Train” whereas the Indian Maharaja was voted as “Asia’s Leading Luxury Train”. In the recent past, Maharajas Express was the first runners up at the Conde Nast Travellers Readers' Travel Award 2011.

One way to address the altering needs of the tourists is to shift from the concept of the merely pampered guest to one whose impetus for travel is an interest in in-depth experiences. International and even far-flung destinations are likely to become increasingly popular in these wish-fulfillment scenarios. If the kind of confidence perceptible in suppliers spill over to consumer then luxury travel might well turn out to be a market that retailers can take to the bank.