Quintessential Cape Town

Like any big city, Cape Town has plenty of luxury hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, its character is defined by districts and experiences that may not be postcard-perfect or wonderfully chic, but instead evoke the grit and pathos and spirit of the city.

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a great place to start a Cape Town tour. It is probably the number one tourist destination, but this bustling retail development is smack-dab in the center of a working harbor, and has been an epicenter of Cape Town since the 1600s. It is not only a great place to shop, dine, and take photos of the city; it’s also a departure point for all the ocean-traveling adventures, from banana boat adventures to pirate ship booze cruises to luxury catamaran sunset sails.

For a somber experience that’s the flip side to Victoria & Alfred, visit District Six, the former inner-city slum that saw major attention during the apartheid era when government officials removed 60,000 non-white residents.  Today, the neighborhood is being rebuilt and completely re-imagined, while some of the people that had to move out 20 or 30 years ago are getting permission to move back in. To understand more of the full story of what happened here, visit the District Six Museum, which gives a fairly exhaustive history of apartheid and the district itself.

In 2007, part of Langkawi was awarded UNESCO Geopark status, putting it on an all-star list of eco-attractions and historically significant sites. But few know what UNESCO is, let alone what it means to carry one of its designations. So here’s a little tip sheet on what the title means to Langkawi Island.

What is UNESCO?
It operates under the umbrella of the United Nations, and its guiding purpose is to make the world a better place through promoting and protecting culture, science, and education. It operates many programs worldwide, and its home base is Paris.

What does UNESCO Geopark status mean?
In order to obtain UNESCO World Geopark status, an area needs to have unique geological features and archaeology, and demonstrate that its future plans incorporate conservation, eco-tourism, and/or sustainable development.

Traveling to the exotic Indian coastal state of Goa? No doubt you’ve heard a lot of opinions and suggestions regarding this famous but very far-flung resort destination, which, in spite of being the Indian tourism capital, still remains largely unexplored by Americans. To help you get the most from a Goa trip, Seema Prakash, the India product manager for noted tour operator and India experts Cox & King did a Q&A about the destination, its origins, and its place within an India trip itinerary.

Trip: How is Goa different from other destinations in India?

Seema: Having been under Portuguese rule, there is a lot of Portuguese influence mixed with the Konkan/coastal regions of India. Climatically, Goa is a lot like Bombay as it has a hot and humid climate for most of the year.

Trip:  What is it particularly known for?

Seema: The focus of tourism is generally in the coastal areas (beaches), though visits to Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus also occur in many tours.

With 66 hotel locations in India, including some of the country’s landmark properties, Taj Hotels & Resorts is synonymous with luxury—not just traditional, but also evolving with the landscape. True to form, the hotel chain just announced the worldwide launch of a new brand, Vivanta by Taj, which will bring some young, cosmopolitan “design hotel” sensibilities to a country that’s energized and on an upward swing. Here, Taj executive Jodi Dell LeBlanc chats about the new hotel brand—the prototype of which debuted in Bangalore in 2008—and how it suits the pace of this up-and-coming city.

Trip: What do people come to Bangalore for?

Jodi: Bangalore is the IT capital of the country, housing numerous IT companies in the city, and becoming the second-largest IT hub in South East Asia. The corporate movement has considerably increased post-recession, and in the past ten years the city has grown in every area, be it new hotels opening, real estate businesses, research centers. The tourist locations in and around the city are visited by the locals as well as the domestic and international traveler: Tipu Sultan's Palace, the Bull Temple, ISKON Temple to name a few.

Trip: How does Taj's offering fit into this?

Jodi: Each of our brands has been created to appeal to a distinct psychographic segment.  We have multiple hotel brands operating in Bangalore.

Though the Riviera Maya deserves its reputation as a Spring Break destination and, more recently, a luxury enclave perfect for honeymooners, it’s also one heck of a great family vacation spot. With amazing attractions that are also educational, exhilarating adventures that’ll have little ones giggling non-stop, and a host of affordable all-inclusives that will keep them fed and wonderfully taken care of while you get some well-deserved time in the sun, the Mayan Riviera is one of the few places that lives up to its “something for everyone” promise.

While the pyramids at Chichen Itza are jaw-dropping, they also get tremendously crowded in high season, and the heat of mid-day is difficult for anyone to take in large doses—parents and children alike. If you feel like your children are old enough to appreciate an archaeological tour, book one early in the day, perhaps as part of one of the immensely popular packages that include an afternoon swim at a cenote (freshwater sinkhole).

Three attractions which could easily take up an entire day are the theme parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha, and a boat ride over to Isla Mujeres. Xcaret is a cultural and eco-theme park spanning the jungle and the coast, with sights ranging from Monkey Island to Paradise River to a living history Mayan village. Xel-Ha is a magnificent water park, instead of slides being the main activity, it’s an interactive “natural aquarium” where guests can use Sea Trek underwater helmets to move about with 90 different marine species. Isla de Mujeres was sacred to the Mayans, but these days it’s known for great snorkeling, its new Underwater Museum, its sea turtle sanctuary and its inexpensive beach restaurants. At all three places, the ultimate splurge kiddie activity is a dolphin swim.

Some Caribbean destinations may have struggled over the past few years, but nothing can keep the Dominican Republic down. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The past three years have seen hotel brands from Dreams to Palace Resorts to Barcelo opening new properties and renovating existing ones. Here’s the skinny on the most exciting changes afoot in DR development.

For families, all-inclusive hotels are the way to go. Until recently, the all-inclusive offerings in the DR couldn’t match up to the Riviera Maya or Jamaica. That's all changing in a big way. Exhibit A: In the winter of 2010 the Barcelo Bávaro Beach Resort opened. One of the frontrunners in Dominican Republic development, this self-contained all-inclusive paradise encompasses several properties, all neighboring each other on a 1.2-mile stretch of prime beachfront property. Recent renovations poured tens of millions of dollars into the various hotels, updating everything, transforming some of the older buildings, and rolling out new brands to appeal to a changing demographic. The newest is Barcelo Bávaro Palace Deluxe, billed as the ultimate family destination in the DR for various reasons, including a centralized entertainment complex with a theater, and a designated “Family Suites” area with its very own water park.

Thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerica Reef, Cozumel holds excellent standing among divers and swimmers. It offers an appealing range of underwater activities like SCUBA dives, snorkel adventures, and then a whole bunch of activities that fall somewhere in between.

If you haven’t spent any time in a beach resort with fairly calm water, then you probably haven’t heard of any of the following activities, because they’re specifically geared toward casual tourists who want to see underwater life without committing to the SCUBA certification process. There’s helmet diving, offered by Sea Trek in two island locations—it basically outfits participants with an oxygen-fed helmet-and-torso ensemble that allows them to walk around on the ocean floor like astronauts in flippers. Then there’s power snorkeling, which is a very different experience than regular snorkeling: A motorized scooter propels people through the water at hurried speeds, so the fun is as much about steering as sightseeing. The closest alternative to real diving is snuba, where the tank is left on the surface, and the person is connected by an extended air hose. You can go to depths of nearly 20 feet this way—not nearly as deep as in a real SCUBA dive, but much deeper than witha snorkel.

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

Langkawi & What it Means to Be a UNESCO Geopark

In 2007, part of Langkawi was awarded UNESCO Geopark status, putting it on an all-star list of eco-attractions and historically significant sites. But few know what UNESCO is, let alone what it means to carry one of its designations. So here’s a little tip sheet on what the title means to Langkawi Island.

What is UNESCO?
It operates under the umbrella of the United Nations, and its guiding purpose is to make the world a better place through promoting and protecting culture, science, and education. It operates many programs worldwide, and its home base is Paris.

What does UNESCO Geopark status mean?
In order to obtain UNESCO World Geopark status, an area needs to have unique geological features and archaeology, and demonstrate that its future plans incorporate conservation, eco-tourism, and/or sustainable development.

Traveling to the exotic Indian coastal state of Goa? No doubt you’ve heard a lot of opinions and suggestions regarding this famous but very far-flung resort destination, which, in spite of being the Indian tourism capital, still remains largely unexplored by Americans. To help you get the most from a Goa trip, Seema Prakash, the India product manager for noted tour operator and India experts Cox & King did a Q&A about the destination, its origins, and its place within an India trip itinerary.

Trip: How is Goa different from other destinations in India?

Seema: Having been under Portuguese rule, there is a lot of Portuguese influence mixed with the Konkan/coastal regions of India. Climatically, Goa is a lot like Bombay as it has a hot and humid climate for most of the year.

Trip:  What is it particularly known for?

Seema: The focus of tourism is generally in the coastal areas (beaches), though visits to Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus also occur in many tours.

With 66 hotel locations in India, including some of the country’s landmark properties, Taj Hotels & Resorts is synonymous with luxury—not just traditional, but also evolving with the landscape. True to form, the hotel chain just announced the worldwide launch of a new brand, Vivanta by Taj, which will bring some young, cosmopolitan “design hotel” sensibilities to a country that’s energized and on an upward swing. Here, Taj executive Jodi Dell LeBlanc chats about the new hotel brand—the prototype of which debuted in Bangalore in 2008—and how it suits the pace of this up-and-coming city.

Trip: What do people come to Bangalore for?

Jodi: Bangalore is the IT capital of the country, housing numerous IT companies in the city, and becoming the second-largest IT hub in South East Asia. The corporate movement has considerably increased post-recession, and in the past ten years the city has grown in every area, be it new hotels opening, real estate businesses, research centers. The tourist locations in and around the city are visited by the locals as well as the domestic and international traveler: Tipu Sultan's Palace, the Bull Temple, ISKON Temple to name a few.

Trip: How does Taj's offering fit into this?

Jodi: Each of our brands has been created to appeal to a distinct psychographic segment.  We have multiple hotel brands operating in Bangalore.

Though the Riviera Maya deserves its reputation as a Spring Break destination and, more recently, a luxury enclave perfect for honeymooners, it’s also one heck of a great family vacation spot. With amazing attractions that are also educational, exhilarating adventures that’ll have little ones giggling non-stop, and a host of affordable all-inclusives that will keep them fed and wonderfully taken care of while you get some well-deserved time in the sun, the Mayan Riviera is one of the few places that lives up to its “something for everyone” promise.

While the pyramids at Chichen Itza are jaw-dropping, they also get tremendously crowded in high season, and the heat of mid-day is difficult for anyone to take in large doses—parents and children alike. If you feel like your children are old enough to appreciate an archaeological tour, book one early in the day, perhaps as part of one of the immensely popular packages that include an afternoon swim at a cenote (freshwater sinkhole).

Three attractions which could easily take up an entire day are the theme parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha, and a boat ride over to Isla Mujeres. Xcaret is a cultural and eco-theme park spanning the jungle and the coast, with sights ranging from Monkey Island to Paradise River to a living history Mayan village. Xel-Ha is a magnificent water park, instead of slides being the main activity, it’s an interactive “natural aquarium” where guests can use Sea Trek underwater helmets to move about with 90 different marine species. Isla de Mujeres was sacred to the Mayans, but these days it’s known for great snorkeling, its new Underwater Museum, its sea turtle sanctuary and its inexpensive beach restaurants. At all three places, the ultimate splurge kiddie activity is a dolphin swim.

Some Caribbean destinations may have struggled over the past few years, but nothing can keep the Dominican Republic down. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The past three years have seen hotel brands from Dreams to Palace Resorts to Barcelo opening new properties and renovating existing ones. Here’s the skinny on the most exciting changes afoot in DR development.

For families, all-inclusive hotels are the way to go. Until recently, the all-inclusive offerings in the DR couldn’t match up to the Riviera Maya or Jamaica. That's all changing in a big way. Exhibit A: In the winter of 2010 the Barcelo Bávaro Beach Resort opened. One of the frontrunners in Dominican Republic development, this self-contained all-inclusive paradise encompasses several properties, all neighboring each other on a 1.2-mile stretch of prime beachfront property. Recent renovations poured tens of millions of dollars into the various hotels, updating everything, transforming some of the older buildings, and rolling out new brands to appeal to a changing demographic. The newest is Barcelo Bávaro Palace Deluxe, billed as the ultimate family destination in the DR for various reasons, including a centralized entertainment complex with a theater, and a designated “Family Suites” area with its very own water park.

Thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerica Reef, Cozumel holds excellent standing among divers and swimmers. It offers an appealing range of underwater activities like SCUBA dives, snorkel adventures, and then a whole bunch of activities that fall somewhere in between.

If you haven’t spent any time in a beach resort with fairly calm water, then you probably haven’t heard of any of the following activities, because they’re specifically geared toward casual tourists who want to see underwater life without committing to the SCUBA certification process. There’s helmet diving, offered by Sea Trek in two island locations—it basically outfits participants with an oxygen-fed helmet-and-torso ensemble that allows them to walk around on the ocean floor like astronauts in flippers. Then there’s power snorkeling, which is a very different experience than regular snorkeling: A motorized scooter propels people through the water at hurried speeds, so the fun is as much about steering as sightseeing. The closest alternative to real diving is snuba, where the tank is left on the surface, and the person is connected by an extended air hose. You can go to depths of nearly 20 feet this way—not nearly as deep as in a real SCUBA dive, but much deeper than witha snorkel.

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

Insider Tips for a Goa Trip

Traveling to the exotic Indian coastal state of Goa? No doubt you’ve heard a lot of opinions and suggestions regarding this famous but very far-flung resort destination, which, in spite of being the Indian tourism capital, still remains largely unexplored by Americans. To help you get the most from a Goa trip, Seema Prakash, the India product manager for noted tour operator and India experts Cox & King did a Q&A about the destination, its origins, and its place within an India trip itinerary.

Trip: How is Goa different from other destinations in India?

Seema: Having been under Portuguese rule, there is a lot of Portuguese influence mixed with the Konkan/coastal regions of India. Climatically, Goa is a lot like Bombay as it has a hot and humid climate for most of the year.

Trip:  What is it particularly known for?

Seema: The focus of tourism is generally in the coastal areas (beaches), though visits to Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus also occur in many tours.

With 66 hotel locations in India, including some of the country’s landmark properties, Taj Hotels & Resorts is synonymous with luxury—not just traditional, but also evolving with the landscape. True to form, the hotel chain just announced the worldwide launch of a new brand, Vivanta by Taj, which will bring some young, cosmopolitan “design hotel” sensibilities to a country that’s energized and on an upward swing. Here, Taj executive Jodi Dell LeBlanc chats about the new hotel brand—the prototype of which debuted in Bangalore in 2008—and how it suits the pace of this up-and-coming city.

Trip: What do people come to Bangalore for?

Jodi: Bangalore is the IT capital of the country, housing numerous IT companies in the city, and becoming the second-largest IT hub in South East Asia. The corporate movement has considerably increased post-recession, and in the past ten years the city has grown in every area, be it new hotels opening, real estate businesses, research centers. The tourist locations in and around the city are visited by the locals as well as the domestic and international traveler: Tipu Sultan's Palace, the Bull Temple, ISKON Temple to name a few.

Trip: How does Taj's offering fit into this?

Jodi: Each of our brands has been created to appeal to a distinct psychographic segment.  We have multiple hotel brands operating in Bangalore.

Though the Riviera Maya deserves its reputation as a Spring Break destination and, more recently, a luxury enclave perfect for honeymooners, it’s also one heck of a great family vacation spot. With amazing attractions that are also educational, exhilarating adventures that’ll have little ones giggling non-stop, and a host of affordable all-inclusives that will keep them fed and wonderfully taken care of while you get some well-deserved time in the sun, the Mayan Riviera is one of the few places that lives up to its “something for everyone” promise.

While the pyramids at Chichen Itza are jaw-dropping, they also get tremendously crowded in high season, and the heat of mid-day is difficult for anyone to take in large doses—parents and children alike. If you feel like your children are old enough to appreciate an archaeological tour, book one early in the day, perhaps as part of one of the immensely popular packages that include an afternoon swim at a cenote (freshwater sinkhole).

Three attractions which could easily take up an entire day are the theme parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha, and a boat ride over to Isla Mujeres. Xcaret is a cultural and eco-theme park spanning the jungle and the coast, with sights ranging from Monkey Island to Paradise River to a living history Mayan village. Xel-Ha is a magnificent water park, instead of slides being the main activity, it’s an interactive “natural aquarium” where guests can use Sea Trek underwater helmets to move about with 90 different marine species. Isla de Mujeres was sacred to the Mayans, but these days it’s known for great snorkeling, its new Underwater Museum, its sea turtle sanctuary and its inexpensive beach restaurants. At all three places, the ultimate splurge kiddie activity is a dolphin swim.

Some Caribbean destinations may have struggled over the past few years, but nothing can keep the Dominican Republic down. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The past three years have seen hotel brands from Dreams to Palace Resorts to Barcelo opening new properties and renovating existing ones. Here’s the skinny on the most exciting changes afoot in DR development.

For families, all-inclusive hotels are the way to go. Until recently, the all-inclusive offerings in the DR couldn’t match up to the Riviera Maya or Jamaica. That's all changing in a big way. Exhibit A: In the winter of 2010 the Barcelo Bávaro Beach Resort opened. One of the frontrunners in Dominican Republic development, this self-contained all-inclusive paradise encompasses several properties, all neighboring each other on a 1.2-mile stretch of prime beachfront property. Recent renovations poured tens of millions of dollars into the various hotels, updating everything, transforming some of the older buildings, and rolling out new brands to appeal to a changing demographic. The newest is Barcelo Bávaro Palace Deluxe, billed as the ultimate family destination in the DR for various reasons, including a centralized entertainment complex with a theater, and a designated “Family Suites” area with its very own water park.

Thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerica Reef, Cozumel holds excellent standing among divers and swimmers. It offers an appealing range of underwater activities like SCUBA dives, snorkel adventures, and then a whole bunch of activities that fall somewhere in between.

If you haven’t spent any time in a beach resort with fairly calm water, then you probably haven’t heard of any of the following activities, because they’re specifically geared toward casual tourists who want to see underwater life without committing to the SCUBA certification process. There’s helmet diving, offered by Sea Trek in two island locations—it basically outfits participants with an oxygen-fed helmet-and-torso ensemble that allows them to walk around on the ocean floor like astronauts in flippers. Then there’s power snorkeling, which is a very different experience than regular snorkeling: A motorized scooter propels people through the water at hurried speeds, so the fun is as much about steering as sightseeing. The closest alternative to real diving is snuba, where the tank is left on the surface, and the person is connected by an extended air hose. You can go to depths of nearly 20 feet this way—not nearly as deep as in a real SCUBA dive, but much deeper than witha snorkel.

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

Q&A with a Bangalore Expert

With 66 hotel locations in India, including some of the country’s landmark properties, Taj Hotels & Resorts is synonymous with luxury—not just traditional, but also evolving with the landscape. True to form, the hotel chain just announced the worldwide launch of a new brand, Vivanta by Taj, which will bring some young, cosmopolitan “design hotel” sensibilities to a country that’s energized and on an upward swing. Here, Taj executive Jodi Dell LeBlanc chats about the new hotel brand—the prototype of which debuted in Bangalore in 2008—and how it suits the pace of this up-and-coming city.

Trip: What do people come to Bangalore for?

Jodi: Bangalore is the IT capital of the country, housing numerous IT companies in the city, and becoming the second-largest IT hub in South East Asia. The corporate movement has considerably increased post-recession, and in the past ten years the city has grown in every area, be it new hotels opening, real estate businesses, research centers. The tourist locations in and around the city are visited by the locals as well as the domestic and international traveler: Tipu Sultan's Palace, the Bull Temple, ISKON Temple to name a few.

Trip: How does Taj's offering fit into this?

Jodi: Each of our brands has been created to appeal to a distinct psychographic segment.  We have multiple hotel brands operating in Bangalore.

Though the Riviera Maya deserves its reputation as a Spring Break destination and, more recently, a luxury enclave perfect for honeymooners, it’s also one heck of a great family vacation spot. With amazing attractions that are also educational, exhilarating adventures that’ll have little ones giggling non-stop, and a host of affordable all-inclusives that will keep them fed and wonderfully taken care of while you get some well-deserved time in the sun, the Mayan Riviera is one of the few places that lives up to its “something for everyone” promise.

While the pyramids at Chichen Itza are jaw-dropping, they also get tremendously crowded in high season, and the heat of mid-day is difficult for anyone to take in large doses—parents and children alike. If you feel like your children are old enough to appreciate an archaeological tour, book one early in the day, perhaps as part of one of the immensely popular packages that include an afternoon swim at a cenote (freshwater sinkhole).

Three attractions which could easily take up an entire day are the theme parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha, and a boat ride over to Isla Mujeres. Xcaret is a cultural and eco-theme park spanning the jungle and the coast, with sights ranging from Monkey Island to Paradise River to a living history Mayan village. Xel-Ha is a magnificent water park, instead of slides being the main activity, it’s an interactive “natural aquarium” where guests can use Sea Trek underwater helmets to move about with 90 different marine species. Isla de Mujeres was sacred to the Mayans, but these days it’s known for great snorkeling, its new Underwater Museum, its sea turtle sanctuary and its inexpensive beach restaurants. At all three places, the ultimate splurge kiddie activity is a dolphin swim.

Some Caribbean destinations may have struggled over the past few years, but nothing can keep the Dominican Republic down. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The past three years have seen hotel brands from Dreams to Palace Resorts to Barcelo opening new properties and renovating existing ones. Here’s the skinny on the most exciting changes afoot in DR development.

For families, all-inclusive hotels are the way to go. Until recently, the all-inclusive offerings in the DR couldn’t match up to the Riviera Maya or Jamaica. That's all changing in a big way. Exhibit A: In the winter of 2010 the Barcelo Bávaro Beach Resort opened. One of the frontrunners in Dominican Republic development, this self-contained all-inclusive paradise encompasses several properties, all neighboring each other on a 1.2-mile stretch of prime beachfront property. Recent renovations poured tens of millions of dollars into the various hotels, updating everything, transforming some of the older buildings, and rolling out new brands to appeal to a changing demographic. The newest is Barcelo Bávaro Palace Deluxe, billed as the ultimate family destination in the DR for various reasons, including a centralized entertainment complex with a theater, and a designated “Family Suites” area with its very own water park.

Thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerica Reef, Cozumel holds excellent standing among divers and swimmers. It offers an appealing range of underwater activities like SCUBA dives, snorkel adventures, and then a whole bunch of activities that fall somewhere in between.

If you haven’t spent any time in a beach resort with fairly calm water, then you probably haven’t heard of any of the following activities, because they’re specifically geared toward casual tourists who want to see underwater life without committing to the SCUBA certification process. There’s helmet diving, offered by Sea Trek in two island locations—it basically outfits participants with an oxygen-fed helmet-and-torso ensemble that allows them to walk around on the ocean floor like astronauts in flippers. Then there’s power snorkeling, which is a very different experience than regular snorkeling: A motorized scooter propels people through the water at hurried speeds, so the fun is as much about steering as sightseeing. The closest alternative to real diving is snuba, where the tank is left on the surface, and the person is connected by an extended air hose. You can go to depths of nearly 20 feet this way—not nearly as deep as in a real SCUBA dive, but much deeper than witha snorkel.

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

Riviera Maya with Kids

Though the Riviera Maya deserves its reputation as a Spring Break destination and, more recently, a luxury enclave perfect for honeymooners, it’s also one heck of a great family vacation spot. With amazing attractions that are also educational, exhilarating adventures that’ll have little ones giggling non-stop, and a host of affordable all-inclusives that will keep them fed and wonderfully taken care of while you get some well-deserved time in the sun, the Mayan Riviera is one of the few places that lives up to its “something for everyone” promise.

While the pyramids at Chichen Itza are jaw-dropping, they also get tremendously crowded in high season, and the heat of mid-day is difficult for anyone to take in large doses—parents and children alike. If you feel like your children are old enough to appreciate an archaeological tour, book one early in the day, perhaps as part of one of the immensely popular packages that include an afternoon swim at a cenote (freshwater sinkhole).

Three attractions which could easily take up an entire day are the theme parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha, and a boat ride over to Isla Mujeres. Xcaret is a cultural and eco-theme park spanning the jungle and the coast, with sights ranging from Monkey Island to Paradise River to a living history Mayan village. Xel-Ha is a magnificent water park, instead of slides being the main activity, it’s an interactive “natural aquarium” where guests can use Sea Trek underwater helmets to move about with 90 different marine species. Isla de Mujeres was sacred to the Mayans, but these days it’s known for great snorkeling, its new Underwater Museum, its sea turtle sanctuary and its inexpensive beach restaurants. At all three places, the ultimate splurge kiddie activity is a dolphin swim.

Some Caribbean destinations may have struggled over the past few years, but nothing can keep the Dominican Republic down. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The past three years have seen hotel brands from Dreams to Palace Resorts to Barcelo opening new properties and renovating existing ones. Here’s the skinny on the most exciting changes afoot in DR development.

For families, all-inclusive hotels are the way to go. Until recently, the all-inclusive offerings in the DR couldn’t match up to the Riviera Maya or Jamaica. That's all changing in a big way. Exhibit A: In the winter of 2010 the Barcelo Bávaro Beach Resort opened. One of the frontrunners in Dominican Republic development, this self-contained all-inclusive paradise encompasses several properties, all neighboring each other on a 1.2-mile stretch of prime beachfront property. Recent renovations poured tens of millions of dollars into the various hotels, updating everything, transforming some of the older buildings, and rolling out new brands to appeal to a changing demographic. The newest is Barcelo Bávaro Palace Deluxe, billed as the ultimate family destination in the DR for various reasons, including a centralized entertainment complex with a theater, and a designated “Family Suites” area with its very own water park.

Thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerica Reef, Cozumel holds excellent standing among divers and swimmers. It offers an appealing range of underwater activities like SCUBA dives, snorkel adventures, and then a whole bunch of activities that fall somewhere in between.

If you haven’t spent any time in a beach resort with fairly calm water, then you probably haven’t heard of any of the following activities, because they’re specifically geared toward casual tourists who want to see underwater life without committing to the SCUBA certification process. There’s helmet diving, offered by Sea Trek in two island locations—it basically outfits participants with an oxygen-fed helmet-and-torso ensemble that allows them to walk around on the ocean floor like astronauts in flippers. Then there’s power snorkeling, which is a very different experience than regular snorkeling: A motorized scooter propels people through the water at hurried speeds, so the fun is as much about steering as sightseeing. The closest alternative to real diving is snuba, where the tank is left on the surface, and the person is connected by an extended air hose. You can go to depths of nearly 20 feet this way—not nearly as deep as in a real SCUBA dive, but much deeper than witha snorkel.

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

New Offerings in the Dominican Republic

Some Caribbean destinations may have struggled over the past few years, but nothing can keep the Dominican Republic down. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The past three years have seen hotel brands from Dreams to Palace Resorts to Barcelo opening new properties and renovating existing ones. Here’s the skinny on the most exciting changes afoot in DR development.

For families, all-inclusive hotels are the way to go. Until recently, the all-inclusive offerings in the DR couldn’t match up to the Riviera Maya or Jamaica. That's all changing in a big way. Exhibit A: In the winter of 2010 the Barcelo Bávaro Beach Resort opened. One of the frontrunners in Dominican Republic development, this self-contained all-inclusive paradise encompasses several properties, all neighboring each other on a 1.2-mile stretch of prime beachfront property. Recent renovations poured tens of millions of dollars into the various hotels, updating everything, transforming some of the older buildings, and rolling out new brands to appeal to a changing demographic. The newest is Barcelo Bávaro Palace Deluxe, billed as the ultimate family destination in the DR for various reasons, including a centralized entertainment complex with a theater, and a designated “Family Suites” area with its very own water park.

Thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerica Reef, Cozumel holds excellent standing among divers and swimmers. It offers an appealing range of underwater activities like SCUBA dives, snorkel adventures, and then a whole bunch of activities that fall somewhere in between.

If you haven’t spent any time in a beach resort with fairly calm water, then you probably haven’t heard of any of the following activities, because they’re specifically geared toward casual tourists who want to see underwater life without committing to the SCUBA certification process. There’s helmet diving, offered by Sea Trek in two island locations—it basically outfits participants with an oxygen-fed helmet-and-torso ensemble that allows them to walk around on the ocean floor like astronauts in flippers. Then there’s power snorkeling, which is a very different experience than regular snorkeling: A motorized scooter propels people through the water at hurried speeds, so the fun is as much about steering as sightseeing. The closest alternative to real diving is snuba, where the tank is left on the surface, and the person is connected by an extended air hose. You can go to depths of nearly 20 feet this way—not nearly as deep as in a real SCUBA dive, but much deeper than witha snorkel.

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

Cozumel Under the Sea

Thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerica Reef, Cozumel holds excellent standing among divers and swimmers. It offers an appealing range of underwater activities like SCUBA dives, snorkel adventures, and then a whole bunch of activities that fall somewhere in between.

If you haven’t spent any time in a beach resort with fairly calm water, then you probably haven’t heard of any of the following activities, because they’re specifically geared toward casual tourists who want to see underwater life without committing to the SCUBA certification process. There’s helmet diving, offered by Sea Trek in two island locations—it basically outfits participants with an oxygen-fed helmet-and-torso ensemble that allows them to walk around on the ocean floor like astronauts in flippers. Then there’s power snorkeling, which is a very different experience than regular snorkeling: A motorized scooter propels people through the water at hurried speeds, so the fun is as much about steering as sightseeing. The closest alternative to real diving is snuba, where the tank is left on the surface, and the person is connected by an extended air hose. You can go to depths of nearly 20 feet this way—not nearly as deep as in a real SCUBA dive, but much deeper than witha snorkel.

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

India on the Maharajah’s Express

The first luxury rail in India to be able to cross state borders, Maharajah’s Express, departing out of Delhi, is a throwback to the glamour of the British Empire, with formal dinner dress and sumptuous surroundings. The deluxe cabins were announced to be the most spacious in their category when the train was unveiled to the public in early 2010. There are two dining cars, one serving a western meal, one a classic Indian. Both are multi-course. There’s also a bar carriage that’s perfect for post-dinner cocktailing, as well as the observation coach, which is clubbier, with gaming tables. The entire setup caters to the cruise passenger mentality, where guests can sightsee in several different destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, hopping on short flights, or messing with transit. From the moment the Maharajah’s Express representative meets guests in their hotel lobby and escorts them to a private boarding platform in Safardjung Railway Station, it’s an expertly orchestrated experience. Sometimes, there will even be a guest speaker on board to give evening lectures.

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

Day Trips from Delhi

Not surprisingly, people have often referred to Delhi as “chaotic”—how could it not be with 12 million people in the city and 22 million in the urban area? It’s also a very tech-forward, shopping mall-friendly city where natural features and historic attractions seem to struggle to stay alive. If you want to appreciate some of the individual charms of the region, you may want to day-trip to some of these more famous destinations.

Taj Mahal
This legendary monument is only one of many sights at Agra, which was the capital in the 1500s. The Red Fort is another, similarly as magnificent and with probably more history. The Taj Mahal, however, is world-renowned for its massive white-marbled grace and beautiful gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as determined in a 2007 worldwide poll.

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.

Four Romantic Playa del Carmen Hotels

Visiting Playa del Carmen with your sweetie pie? You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great hotels. But for ultimate sophistication, sexiness, and sense of place we recommend the following four properties.

Although the Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive, it feels as personalized and luxurious as an “a la carte” property. From the food to the lobby decor to the absolutely gorgeous spa (where, sadly, you do have to pay extra for treatments), this place is a romantic dream come true. Regularly scheduled cultural entertainment is several notches above the quality level you’d expect from an all-inclusive, and the dress code is resort elegant in the evening.