family get together – Page 13

Mapping Candolim

12th September 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged beach side getaways, dining, discovering Goa, family get together, family holidays, Goa Trip with Friends, Goan getaways, Goan Holiday, long weekend getaways, Party destination, partying, shopping, Things to do in candolim, Trip with friends, weekend tripsLeave a comment

An easy-to-digest guide perfect for first-time visitors.

Candolim is undoubtedly one of the world’s best confluence of rave and respite. This town is well-known for its breathtaking coastline as well as its raucous parties. The swanky nightclubs, vibrant streets, and aromatic beach shacks add colour and depth to the Candolim experience, especially for travelers. Read on to know more on how to enhance your escapade in this vibrant cosmopolitan town.

Where to Eat

Calamari is undoubtedly the hottest table in town. Discover Goa’s much-hyped-about seafood scene here with a lovely view of the beach and a laid-back vibe.
‘Bomra’s’ is a patchwork of Burmese cuisine and Indian, Chinese and Thai influences.
Moreover, adding to the global food trail in Candolim is ‘Tuscany Garden’. This place serves classic Italian cuisine paired with imported wines and cocktails.
Café Chocolatti, helmed by the in-house chocolatier, serves home-made food in a lush garden setting. (Psssst…. the crepes and chocolate truffles served here are absolutely divine)

Where to shop

Indian Arts Exposition: They curate an innovative collection of exquisite jewelry; think diamonds, bracelets, precious stones etc.
The Leather Shop: A sustainable lifestyle brand that makes everything from leather including slippers, clutches, wallets and more.
Private Collection Boutique: This art-gallery-cum-home-store sells a myriad of designer clothes, bags as well as furniture. For those seeking spiritual guidance, Ramona – the holistic healer warps you into a vortex of beauty, calm and creativity.
Sheek Emporium: This boutique is what wool and linen dreams are made out of. Their impressive collection of cashmere stoles, pashminas, and embroidered kaftans will make you drool. Shapes are sleek and colours range from pastel to pop.

Where to party

Club LPK

Situated on the banks of River Nerul, this peninsular nightclub is amongst the most coveted party destinations in Goa. The extremely lit pre-historic layout is dotted with mud sculptures, eccentric décor and a large collection of limited-edition whiskey and signature cocktails.

SinQ

Dressed in sleek modern furnishes that effortlessly complement the surroundings, SinQ exudes an ultra-sophisticated vibe that enamours its visitors with its vastness. With state-of-the-art sound-system and a fine selection of wines, champagnes, and cocktails, this chic club is one of the best party places in Goa to let your spirits run young, wild and free.

Club Cubana

A nightclub with a difference! Club Cubana is known for its swanky décor, canopied lounges as well as glamorous ambiance. This multi-tiered club has a bar on every level and, not to mention, a tempting Jacuzzi to cool off those agitated brows. It is the perfect place to kick back your hair and shake a leg.

Cohiba

Cohiba can easily be recognized as one of Goa’s most distinguished gastro-pubs. A place frequented by the who’s who of India, this luxe club draws you towards its opulent setting. In addition, the expansive menu is replete with some eclectic cocktails and fantastic food.

Where to Stay

Synonymous with the term ‘designer pad’ is SaffronStays Saanuki. This art-deco themed apartment is conveniently located in the most happening town of Goa. It exudes a decidedly Zen vibe in sharp contrast to the frenetic scene below. The frames adorning the walls in the dining space sing an ode to a bygone cinematic era while the comfortable settees in lounge area invite all to embrace them. The big splash, however, is the shared community pool just outside this 3-bedroom design-hub. The serene beaches, curio shops, and various F&B offerings will be reason enough to book yourself into this chic home-stay.

For bookings contact: book@saffronstays.com | (+91) 8424 040 040

Holidaying Among The Blooms!

5th September 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged family get together, family holidays, Holiday, homestay, Homestays in India, saffronstays, south indian holidays, Weekend getaways, weekend tripsLeave a comment

Neelakurinji, flowers, blooms, nilgiri, mountains, hill stations

“Once in 12 years, the Gods descend from the skies onto the Earth to witness the wonder of their creations. And as a gesture of gratitude, everywhere they step, the ground drapes itself with a trail of purple flowers – Neelakurinji. Their petals a delicate work of art and their hues a medicine for the soul.”

Aromatic spice plantations, exotic tea plantations, coffee plantations and cardamom fields are what South India is known for. Its fantastically narrow valleys, numerous rivers, cascading waterfalls and trickling rivulets will leave you feeling nothing short of rejuvenated. The sensory delight shall get heightened this year as the rugged scenery gets transformed by a mass of heady purplish-blue petals.

The Nilgiris (Blue Hills) spread across the borders of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. These ravishing terrains relish their identity from the sea of purplish blue flowers called Neelakurinji that used to once grow abundantly in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu.

Named after the Kunthi River, These flowers occur abundantly along its banks. Their nectar is very tasty and has medicinal values. In addition to this, the ethereal spectacle occurs only once in 12 years and the locals consider it to be auspicious.

It last bloomed in the year 2006 and this year again, the Nilgiri landscapes have come alive. Throughout the season (July 2018 to October 2018 ) local guides navigate tracks and enlighten visitors as they walk through the flower-lined mountain trails and rustic houses.

Flummoxed by where you’re gonna stay? Fret not. We bring you, the top luxurious villas from where you can enjoy spectacular views of this natural phenomenon.

SaffronStays Milton Abbott, Ooty

Inspired by the glorious manors of a colonial era, SaffronStays Milton Abbott is a sophisticated and luxurious retreat that reflects the magical merging of inspiration and architecture. The surroundings are replete with lakes, and hills (now slathered in hues of purple and blue).

SaffronStays Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal

This 6-bedroom 1930’s built Thanjavur-styled stone cottage home has been named after the Neelakurinji flowers itself. Wreathed in hedges and vines, SaffronStays Kurinji Estate looks like something straight out of a fairytale.

SaffronStays Mocha Chalet, Chikmagalur

When the cities become too much for you, escape to SaffronStays Mocha Chalet, a coffee estate bungalow located in the verdant hills of Chikmagalur. This spacious 2-bedroom bungalow combines the grace and grandeur of the bygone era with contemporary comforts and warm service.

SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow, Coorg

At the height of its sumptuousness, SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow used to be the jewel of the land in the late 19th century. The house comes complete with a dining room, and 5 spacious bedrooms, all boasting wonderful views of rolling purple hills.

#SISTER-CATIONS: The Perfect Time Is NOW!

4th September 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged family get together, family holidays, girl getaways, girl trips, Holiday, homestay, Homestays in India, Indian hospitality, SaffronStays Homestays, sister trips, sistercations, south india, Weekend getaways, weekend tripsLeave a comment

sistercations, vacations, family vacations, girl getaway tips

Your sister is your genetically gifted travel buddy. From her favourite playlist to her quirky morning habits, you think you might know her well. But when you get the chance to travel with her, you realize differently. It’s the familiarity of having a travel buddy you’ve known all your life, yet it’s also like getting to know a friend better.

As a child, you were forced to spend all your time in the company of your sister(s) – be it at home, at school or even on vacations. It feels like just yesterday you were yelling at her for invading your closet and stealing your favourite sweater. But as you grow older and each one goes their own way, you find yourself longing to spend more time together. Here are some fun ways to strengthen that sisterhood bond and catch up to the old times.

Shop until you drop

Plan an entire vacation around one of your favourite activities: shopping! Ooty is famous for its prime places to snag some stylish accessories, including Commercial street, Charring crossroad, and Pykara road. And when you’re not showing off your haggling skills, catch some shut-eye at SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate or wander aimlessly in its scenic environs.

Girls, games, and gossip!

Remember when y’all use to play together as kids? Return to your youth with a fun-filled fling at TT, carrom, volleyball as well as several board games at SaffronStays Kurinji Estate. Offbeat treks and nature trails can also be arranged. If you’re looking for a low-key way to have fun, then talks around the cosy indoor fireplace are the best for meaningful conversations with her.

Toast to sisterhood.

Like fine wine, sisterhood only gets better with time! Sip a sangria under the gazebo by the pool at SaffronStays Venmani in Mahabalipuram.

Is adventure is in your blood? We have a range of activities from Kayaking, Jet Skiing, Snorkelling, Sailing and Fishing on the just-steps-away Pearl beach, you may never want to leave.

Should you venture out though, the nearby 7th century monuments of the temple city of Mahabalipuram are fit for perusing.

The long, long drive.

Long, winding drives are the perfect opportunity to put your feet up and catch up and that’s exactly what SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow, Coorg has to offer. Besides the road tripping, there’s plenty to do here, so let’s get you started with a few ideas: Embark on nature trails within the neighbouring woodlands and enjoy cool evenings under the shelter of Coorgi greens with your favourite drink and tasty meals. Bathe with the elephants at the Dubare Elephant Camp or experience a live apiculture demonstration. There’s no dearth to the plethora of activities at this place so just grab your sister and jump in the car for an experience of a lifetime.

Chow down by the riverside

Snuggled on the banks of the mighty Suvarna river in Udupi, SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam is a true retreat from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Feast on piping hot seafood in the open-air dining space and stay up late talking under the stars. Hop onto your private motorboat and explore the glorious backwaters of Karnataka, forgotten Udupi temples and geological wonders of St. Mary’s Island.

So pack your bags, laugh together and feel like little children again!

You Say Vacation, We Say Beach Please!

27th June 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Alibaug, family get together, family holidays, homestay, homestays near Mumbai, long weekend getaways, monsoon getaways, Things to do in Coastal Maharashtra, Villas in Alibaug, weekend tripsLeave a comment

Everybody loves beaches. What if you can spend a weekend or two in your very own beach villa? SaffronStays presents to you a list of beach front villas in the heart of Konkan area. Sip on coconut water, have long walks along the beaches and take your taste buds for a spin ravishing the local cuisine.

SaffronStays Little Paradise, Murud

With two cozy cottages and a secluded private beach, SaffronStays Little Paradise is truly a paradise. It is the proud winner of SaffronStays Select Awards for the Most Memorable With a Beach View category. Located in Agardanda (10 Kms from Murud), this beach villa is a tranquil space for city dwellers to relax. Moreover, the two cottages in the home are constructed in a minimalist style using logs, giving it the beach cabin feel. Guests can savour delicious home cooked Maharashtrian meals. The view is the best during Monsoons and the newly set up porch swing only adds to its charm.

Check out the home here: SaffronStays Little Paradise, Murud

INR 7375 for 2 guests.
To book your stay: https://bit.ly/2MhqyKp
Send a mail to book@saffronstays.com or call on (+91) 8424 040 040.

SaafronStays Salt Rim, Korlai

SaffronStays Salt Rim, Korlai boasts of a stunning view of the Arabian Sea. Perched atop a virtually private beach with no inhabitation for half a kilometer on either side results in it being the perfect getaway. The soft sounds of waves crashing against the rocks keep you constant company. With its Goan and Portuguese architectural style, this 2 bedroom villa has a certain charm to it. Guests can have a picnic out on the lawn. In addition to it they can also take a moonlit walk on the pristine sands next to the beach villa.

Check out the home here: SaffronStays Salt Rim, Korlai

INR 17,582 for 4 guests.
To book your stay: https://bit.ly/2N44T9d
Send a mail to book@saffronstays.com or call on (+91) 8424 040 040.

SaffronStays Chirebandi, Velneshwar

Located in Velneshwar, the starting point of the Konkan belt, SaffronStays Chirebandi is your getaway retreat. Surrounded by coconut trees, this beachfront villa is your dream house. the special feature of the house is that it is made of ‘Chira’, a locally sourced stones that maintains the temperature inside the house. The beach is a step away from the home and guests can go roaming the area. This home is your ultimate beach destination.

Check out the home here: SaffronStays Chirebandi, Velneshwar

INR 21,240 for 6 guests.
To book your stay: https://bit.ly/2JVfFjO
Send a mail to book@saffronstays.com or call on (+91) 8424 040 040.

So what are you waiting for? Come unwind at some of the finest beach houses and keep your worries behind. Each home has a unique story waiting to be discovered. Come explore: www.saffronstays.com

Top Monsoon Spots To Unwind At With Your Loved Ones!

7th June 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged family get together, family holidays, family vacation, farm house near Mumbai, farmstay, Getawayas near Pune, homestay, homestays near Pune, Indian hospitality, Matheran, Monsoon getaway, monsoon getaways, Monsoon getaways near Mumbai, Villas in Ooty, villas in Panvel, villas near Mumbai, Villas near Pune, Weekend Getaway, weekend getaway near MumbaiLeave a comment

Monsoons are round the corner. Enjoy a cup of hot tea lounging atop a hill station. Take a stroll among trees in a light drizzle, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful weather. SaffronStays presents you some monsoon getaway options; in and around Maharashtra.

SaffronStays Fragrant Sun, Mulshi

Perched on a hillside, this earthy home provides a view of the expansive Mulshi lake. This 5-bedroom home is made out of all natural materials. One can take a dip in the lake. Savour the lip-smacking food and unwind in the serenity, the surroundings provide.

SaffronStays River Rock, Panvel

This home boasts of an outdoor Jacuzzi and an amazing view of a bubbling river. And the best part? Its practically 2 hours away from Mumbai! This 2.5 bedroom house is an amalgamation of modern and traditional architecture. Furnished with all modern amenities, this villa gives a homely vibe to the guests.

SaffronStays Verandah By the Valley, Panchgani

Perched on a cliff edge, this home looks over the expanse of the valley in Panchgani. Watch the sun dip low in the horizon. Smell the petrichor and a splash of light drizzle on your face. One can go strawberry or gooseberry picking. Guests can also see beautiful view of the Nagewadi Dam waters from the open deck built at the house.

SaffronStays Calamondinn Bunglow, Coorg

The ambience of a colonial cottage, SaffronStays Calamondinn Bunglow, Ooty is a 6000 square feet heritage bungalow set amidst a coffee plantation. Sit back and relax with a book. Take a walk among the plantations, or just spend time with your loved one. As this home borders the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, guests have a lot of flora and fauna to explore around the home.

SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate, Ooty

Located in one of the very well known destinations for a monsoon getaway, SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate transports guests to another world with its heritage charm. This home has 4 gorgeous suites where guests experience the regal charm of the colonial era. Sit around a bonfire and savour this monsoon weather with your family and friends.

So what are you waiting for? Come, explore these beautiful villas and enjoy monsoon rains to the fullest!

SaffronStaysXEzy Mov: Travel With Dignity

21st July 2017Posted in Responsible tourismTagged accessible, Alibaug, champions with disability, crutches, Darjeeling homestays, dignity, empowerment, enabled, Ezy Mov, family, family get together, fracture, Holiday, Home, homestay, incusive, Maharashtra, mobility, old age travel, paralyses, physical disability, restricted mobility, saffronstays, senior citizen, senior citizen accessibly, travel, vavaction, Weekend Getaways from Mumbai, wheelchair, wheelchair friendly, women empowermentLeave a comment

Picture this: Lush tress all around, rivers brimming with water, birds flitting around against a dramatic sky and the pitter-patter of raindrops against your car’s window. Reminiscent of a road trip with your family, is it not? With the monsoons, a sense of wanderlust is imminent. The urge to travel to exotic locales, try mouth-watering cuisines and cherish every moment spent together with your family, even if it’s just over one weekend, can be overwhelming. Yet, instead of acting upon those urges and heading out for a getaway, we delay the plan for another time. And the main reason, more often than not, is a senior family member who, due to mobility constraints does not wish to burden himself/ herself, or the family members during that long journey.

To break these very shackles, Ezy Mov, India’s premier wheelchair accessible cab company was conceived. Founded by Rrajesh Patil, Romeo Ravva, and Bennet D’Cunha in 2015, Ezy Mov had only one objective in mind: To ensure a dignified mode of transport for all those with limited mobility through a technically advanced fleet of cabs fitted with world class equipment like hydraulic lifts and wheelchair restraint systems driven by a team of professional and courteous drivers. Much like Ezy Mov, other platforms like Enable Travel and ENAT ensure a comfortable and honourable travel experience for individuals with access hindrances.

Reclaiming Freedom

Having one’s independency and freedom snatched away is a difficult obstacle to overcome. By accepting accessible transport, travellers both young and old can head out to their favourite spots, stress-free. Be it permanent or temporary, respite from being someone’s responsibility is empowering in its own stance. Ezy Mov’s vehicles ensure that a patient or traveller reaches his/ her destination sans any external help.

Gratitude for the Teachings

We are always trying to honour the toils and troubles our parents went through to raise us. A vacation away from the noise and din is something any senior citizen would appreciate. A number of SaffronStays homes have been designed to ease access for those who may face ascent or descent complications. A holiday package, gifted to your dear ones would be the ideal form of gratitude, wouldn’t it? After all, we too promote inclusive holidays where the entire family bonds!

Here are some of the homes SaffronStays recommends for those with mobility restrictions:

SaffronStays L’attitude, Kamshet

When rest and relaxation is on your mind, SaffronStays L’attitude is the place to be at. Nestled in the hills of Kamshet, Maharashtra, this uber-luxurious home has been designed with comfort of accessibility as the highest priority. With no steps at the entrance of the home, open access to the balcony overlooking a gorgeous lake, and two bedrooms on the ground floor, L’attitude is a must visit. This monsoon, head over with your family and friends for an inclusive vacation, and enjoy the 108 lush trees around the property in all their grandeur.

Accessibility Quotient: 10/10

SaffronStays Little Paradise, Murud

Save the 2 steps to get into the home at SaffronStays Little Paradise, the beachfront cottages are a perfect getaway. With a manicured lawn, pathway to the beach, and a tranquil porch, everyone can now enjoy a stay by the sea.

Accessibility Quotient: 8/10

SaffronStays Bliss, Mulshi Road

With 2 bedrooms, a home theatre and a pool all on the ground floor, SaffronStays Bliss can be the place your family and friends head out to next. Close to Pune city, Bliss, Bhugaon proves for soothing weekday visits too. So close to the metros, accessible by all, and equipped with amenities. Need we say more?

Accessibility Quotient: 8/10

SaffronStays 9 Palms, Alibaug

How often have your parents’ Bridge-playing buddies made a plan to head out of the city for a vacation? Gift them that perfect holiday at SaffronStays 9 Palms, Alibaug and help them cherish unforgettable memories. Home-cooked meals, vast lawns and a pool to while away a lazy afternoon is what we all crave for, don’t we?

Accessibility Quotient: 7/10

Book your holiday now: www.saffronstays.com | book@saffronstays.com

Celebrate Yoga Day By Finding Inner Peace!

21st June 2017Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged beach holiday, exercise, family get together, family holidays, family stays, Holiday, international yoga day, relaxation, Roadtrip, Weekend Getaway, weekend getaway near Mumbai, Weekend getaways in Maharashtra, weekend trips, yoga retreatLeave a comment

When you think of Yoga, the images of your childhood comes flashing in front of your eyes. Sitting silently with eyes closed in the classroom while the yoga class was going on and in between, breathing in and breathing out, you peeked through your eyes and you made gestures to your friend. Trying to get the right position of the asana but losing the balance and falling down. Oh! Those were the happy days.

Yoga, now is not just limited to those sweet memories of childhood, but it is fast gaining momentum around the world. With such widespread recognition, 21st June is now celebrated as International Yoga Day. But why just celebrate it for one day? Saffron Stays recommends these five homes in Maharashtra, where can you leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and breathe in the calm and relaxing air any time of the year.

Saffron Stays Bliss, Mulshi Road

Bliss, a luxury villa which is perfect for a short getaway, with its serene beauty and top-notch service and amenities, guarantees a relaxed and wonderful trip.

With the sun shining through, a quick yoga session in the lawn of this luxury villa is a sure way of rejuvenating oneself.

Breathe in this mesmerizing view while you meditate and lose all the tension and worries behind.

Saffron Stays Maya, Khadakwasla

Perched on the hilltop, Maya, with its spectacular views of the valley offers a peaceful getaway where you can experience nirvana.

With such a mind-bogglingly beautiful view of the surroundings, you are sure to forget all the moh-maya of the world!

As you the feel the rays of the sun on your face and unparalleled view of the valley, the yoga session will leave you stress-free.

Saffron Stays L’attitude, Kamshet

With earthy decor and stunning lakefront views and calm surroundings, L’attitude, in Kamshet will make you yearn to stay there forever.

Have a yoga session out in the veranda where the gorgeous views will keep you company and the earthy decor will soothe your senses.

Or, have an indoor session where the stunning view still keeps you company.

Saffron Stays 9 Palms, Alibaug

A striking villa in Alibaug, 9 Palms, with its pretty gardens and luxurious indoors, promises a laid-back stay.

Draw up the curtains and cut yourself off from the world and you meditate to find your inner peace. Ohm… Ohm.. Ohm..

Bathe in the warmth of the sun and breathe in the greenery while you unwind and de-stress.

Saffron Stays Salt Rim, Korlai

A private beach and breathtaking views of the Arabian sea, Salt Rim, the beautiful cottage with comfy interiors is the house of your dreams.

As the waves crash against the rocks, you can breathe in the sea air while you enjoy your yoga retreat.

As the sound of the waves calm you, and the smell of the sea soothes your nerves, this is an ideal place when you need to escape the fast paced city-life.

When your brain goes into overdrive and you just need a breather, Yoga is the answer! Wishing you all a Happy International Yoga Day!

Happy Father’s Day: Celebrating The Superman In Your Life!

18th June 2017Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged alcohol party, beer, bike rides, car ride, drinking, driving, family, family get together, family holidays, family stays, father, father's day, games, gift, Indian family, party, playing, Road trip, road trip with best friends, Weekend Getaway, weekend tripsLeave a comment

Remembering those sweet memories and with a wide-eyed kid’s perception, the man of the house appeared as a big strapping man off to conquer the world. In a way, he was conquering the world, for YOU; to make you the happiest and luckiest child in the world. Dad. Papa. Daddy. Baba. Pops. He was there, every step of the way, right from your first crawl to your first doddering steps to you running at full speed.

It is often said, that a child needs the mother the most. But what is equally true, is that a child wants his father the most. He is the tallest guy with his head held high when you are graduating, when you earn your first salary and when you are building a family of your own. A man of few words, his actions speak ten times louder than words.

So today, on Father’s Day, let’s take a trip down the memory lane to reminisce about those sweet memories of our childhood, where the bond between the father and the child only grew stronger with time.

Protecting You From the Monsters

Watching over you, always
Source: Pinterest

Every night, without fail, before you went to sleep, he checked your room for monsters and ghosts. He made sure that there was no one hiding under your bed or hiding in the cupboard waiting to startle you in the middle of the night. Your father was the all-powerful monster-hunter ready to wield his imaginary weapon to shield you from from the imaginary monsters and ghosts. Hail, Daddy!

The First Sixer

Having the time of your life
Source: Pinterest

Now that you are grown up, you can wield the bat like a pro but it was your father who taught you how to hold it properly. It was he, who threw the ball countless times so you could at least manage to touch the ball with your plastic bat. It was with that plastic bat, that you him for a four! And then a six! With his bottomless patience and love for you, was how he taught you to play and enjoy.

The first bicycle ride

Learning to fly
Source: Huffington Post

When you graduated from a bicycle with training wheels to one without them, it was your father’s firm and patient hands guiding you to stay upright. Even when you requested him to not to leave the handle, he let you go so that you could learn do it independently. But he was right there next to you when you fell off the bicycle, encouraging you to get back on. And boy! did you fly like the wind.

Teaching You to Drive

Ready. Set. Drive
Source: The Spruce

One of the big accomplishments, is to drive a car. And he was the teacher who taught you the brake from the accelerator. He was the one to make you understand the purpose of different gears. Even when you were afraid of banging the car, it was his faith in you that helped you learn and manage the drive of your life. And you earning your driver’s license was all the vindication he needed.

The First Beer

The first validation you got that you were an adult was when your father gave you your first alcoholic drink. With that first drop of booze you felt extremely proud at being treated like an adult. Helping you to become the person that you are today, he was ready to let you spread your wings.

On this Father’s Day, why don’t you take the time out of your busy schedule and look back at those happy memories with your father and do something special for him?

So, do you have any memories with your father that you would like to share?

The feature image was sourced from Just a little simpleton.

10 Types Of Friends That Guarantee A Kick-Ass Trip

15th June 2017Posted in Weekend getawaysTagged adventure holiday, alcohol party, beach holiday, booze, drinking, family get together, friends, getaways, Goa Homestays, Holiday homes in Goa, homestays near Mumbai, khandala, Lonavala, long weekend getaways, Mumbai getaways, party, road trip with best friends, Weekend Getaway, weekend holiday, weekend tripsLeave a comment

Every now and then, we pack our bags and head off for an adventure with our friends. No friend in the group is similar and with everyone so different, there are bound to be fireworks along the way. The fuss and the excitement created by each of these species promises us nothing short of a trunkful of unforgettable memories.

So, let’s take a look at the different types of friends that may exist in your group.

The Checklist

Getting ready for the trip
Source – The Legacy Project

This perpetual planner who makes meticulous contingency plans that rival the Sergeant’s plans for a military coup. The lists will have lists which will drive the other friends crazy with it. But let’s face it, it’s that saviour’s planning that will make the vacation a bit sane and will fix anything that goes wrong.

The Madcap

Adventure is in the blood
Source – travel.jumia.com

This friend with his ‘dekh lenge yaar’ attitude is the one who will forget to fill the petrol tank of the car to maximum on the road trip. It is this friend who’ll think of it as an adventure when you lose your way and get lost either in the midst of a desert or a jungle. Looking for a rainbow at the end of a storm, the pal’s optimism and carelessness will get on the troupe’s nerves. But those antics will ensure an unforgettable journey.

The Dopey

Ready. Steady. Sleep.
Source – disney.wikia.com

You are envious of this friend’s ability to sleep anytime and anywhere. There might be a hard rock metal concert going on but will still be able to stretch out on the ground and pass out in seconds. But this lazy bum is going to irritate you with the habit of getting up at noon and being tired by doing even the tiniest of the things and wanting long naps.

The Juicehead

With a bottomless pit for alcohol and the motto in life, Daaru toh banti hai, this friend will be having a variety of booze bottles in different sizes at all times and will find the trip a waste if at least one bottle is not downed each day.

The Umpire

Living each moment
Source – igotravel.co.za

The most sensible friend in the whole group, who is constantly trying to broker peace. The one who is constantly trying to mediate and coming up with compromises to satisfy everyone. This referee makes the trip a success by seeing to it that all the characters of the group don’t end up killing each other.

The Workaholic

Ready to rule the world
Source – hungryshark.ru

This slave to the work will be constantly on the phone and checking the mails. This lost comrade will be counting down the hours to get back to the office’s distasteful coffee. The one who is always cribbing about not getting enough days off from work but once on the trip, will be raring to go back.

The Lovey-Dovey

This couple is busy turning the group trip into their honeymoon rendezvous. While they are indulging in their PDA, the group will give them either a wide berth or rag them, depending on the friends and the mood.

The Diva

Head out of the city for your next kitty party! — The absolute Diva taking the center stage anywhere, everywhere

That snooty friend who is finding faults at every step of the way and will be expected to treated as royalty. From the linen of the bed to the water in the bathroom, from the food to the decor of the hotel, this friend will criticise till the tongue falls off. The Diva is the one who always wants to be the centre of attention.

The Luna Lovegood

The Luna Lovegood of the group is the one who actually believes in nargles and will be waging a war against the wrackspurts. The weirdo who is in another part of the universe, will spout out a philosophical comment and then go back to dreaming.

The Hermit

Building dream castles
Source – Rockpage.me

This lone wolf of the group is the one who is busy creating a utopia. Although with the group, this lost soul is still alone with the headphones on or is busy getting lost in the book. To talk to your buddy you’ll be constantly pulling the headphones or snatching away the ever so interesting book and shouting at the top of your voice to get your buddy’s attention.

So, do you recognise any one of your homie? Tag that eccentric friend!

Life Hacks: 10 Secrets for Surviving Family Holidays!

24th May 2016Posted in SaffronStays Diaries, Travel InformationTagged family get together, family holidays, long vacations, multi-generational familyLeave a comment

It’s not a wild spring break with your college buddies, but family vacations can be a lot of fun. Not only do you get the chance to go somewhere great for free, but it’s a time to catch up with family. Let’s face it, between work, activities, pets and all of the other responsibilities we have, we’re all overextended. At times that makes a room for unwanted friction in a family. Taking a vacation can give everyone a chance to relax and re-bond. If your only fear about a family vacation is how you’d survive the generation gap, here’s how to appreciate the time with your good old family!

1. Get involved in the planning process

All this while you have been holidaying with your friends and your family probably still thinks that you’re that ‘kid’ they went on a vacation when you were really a kid! Be responsible, take initiative in hunting for destinations and booking. The more interest you’ll take in planning your holiday, the better you’ll be involved while on the trip.

2. Choose a trip for all ages

Your Grandpa may want to visit a pilgrim place, your younger brother might be wanting to be a little adventerous, your parents secretly want to visit a beach destination, and you, well you are just feeling so out of place. But remember, no place is for everybody, but every place will have something for everyone. And when it is about traveling with family, pick destinations or places where you give each other enough room to relax and unwind.

3. Leave plenty of time to get where you need to be

It’s not just you or your sibling who loves to arrive late, but even your father or any relative may be habitual to arriving late and you do not want to miss your flight or bus while on a vacation right?! So plan well in advance and give them a buffer time of 20 minutes prior to the meeting time. Though you’ll end up gathering a lilttle early but at least that will save the last minute chaos and arguements.

4. Make some time for your own kind of fun

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Everyone will have fun on a holiday when everyone is having fun in their own kind of way. Like your find of fun could be reading a book overlooking a valley view, or playing volleyball with your dog at the beach. Make sure you and everyone else on the trip does what they love.

5. Mix it up!

Divided you conquer and getting the family unglued might actually improve things for everyone (maybe even them included). This isn’t about avoiding anybody in the family but it’s about making the most of the time everyone has together on this vacation. This will help them to see it’s perfectly natural that there will be occasions when you split up into pairs, smaller groups or even as individuals, depending on the activities chosen.

6. Embrace being an adult

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This doesn’t just mean being able to grab a drink with your cousin. Have deeper conversations with your family members, no matter what generation they belong to. You likely have many more things in common with your relatives now that you’ve both experienced more similar life events—like becoming a parent or developing your career. Just talk and engage with them.

7. When asked about love life, have fun with it!

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Yeah! That’s the hack to deal with this one question you find the most annoying or irritating. Just round up a funny story from one of your holidays as a teen and tell them how mad you were for that girl or guy but unfortunately you broke up because love is not meant for you and so never question me about my love life. Lol

8. Make peace with technology; Selfie is an exception though!

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It’s always acceptable to break that no-technology rule for a quick family selfie, no? Ensure you bring back thousands of pictures and happy memories to look back on when you are too busy to get in touch with your family because of work, education or otherwise.

9. Let your parents/elders just be

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Just breathe. Everytime you go out with your friends they just let you be, regardless you being a crack pot! You’re parents and relatives do not travel as often as you. And this vacation is just the time where they can unwind and be their real self with you and everyone else. So do not get mad at them and shut them up because you’re embarassed. They never put you down every time you cried over a candy in your childhood.

10. Go ahead and unwind

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Perhaps the most important tip for a family vacation is to go ahead and take a vacation! These places will definitely tempt you to have a change of scenery and call it a vacation.

Travel can play a great role in connectedness with your close ones. So whether you’re going on a trip with your immediate family or heading to a big family reunion, you can use the above information to make the experience better for yourself and others.

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About the Author: Keenjal Patel, a reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she wants to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!