Getaway With Grandparents: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Growing up in the company of grandparents is a silent blessing. The kind of nurturing a child gets around grandparents is two-fold, as it passes on the foundation of a family even to the parents. But in nuclear family set-ups, this secure bond of love and care keeps thinning. So on occasional reunions, there are always moments that take a trip down memory lane. But how about taking an actual getaway with grandparents and reliving the good old days while thinking of their comfort?

As much as you long for a break from your laptop screens, your grandparents too would love a change of scenery, especially if they live separately. In the last year, elderly people have received bombarding of instructions to not step out and stay safe. They too have had their bouts of panic in days gone by, fearing for their own well-being as well as others. A getaway to a quiet, peaceful place, be it for a weekend, would be a great way to unload all of this stress and replace it with happy memories. 

Painting the Childhood Sceneries

SaffronStays Zen, Igatpuri
SaffronStays Zen, Igatpuri

Remember the typical paintings we made in our childhood of sunrise over mountains with flowing streams, a hut on one side, and a grassy patch on the other. Yes, the one that you proudly tucked and showed your grandparents? SaffronStays Zen in Igatpuri is a 2-bedroom red-brick earthy villa that gives you a similar picture in reality. This perched up property overlooks green lawns with a view of Kadwa lake, greener pastures and mountains in the distance — the same scenery from paper almost coming to life. This earthy vacation home is so welcoming to nature, that tall trees pierce through the ceilings. Relaxing chairs in the verandah could be your grandparents’ favourite spot to soak in the beautiful natural landscape.

Giving Back the Unconditional Love With Pampering

SaffronStays Lattitude by The Lake, Kamshet
SaffronStays Lattitude by The Lake, Kamshet

Grandparents have a demeanor of unconditional love. As we grow up and lead our lives, we learn to look back and realise its value. Now, try to give back, at least, a little of it and enjoy the immense satisfaction it brings. One of the ways to have this emotional connection is to take time out together, pamper and make them feel special. Choose a place that resonates warmth and comfort, especially with respect to elder family members. SaffronStays Lattitude by the Lake in Kamshet is one such place to be. Right across the Andre Lake, it is a picturesque setting to spend some quality time with family. There are lush lawns and plenty of sit-out areas to enjoy the cool evening breeze and share the warmth of heartfelt conversations. The brick stone construction is very welcoming with its rustic feel and thus sparks a homely comfort, especially for the elderly. Pamper them with the best of meals, as our on-site cook can also cater to your grandparents’ demands of their favourite food.

Storytelling Sit Out Sessions

SaffronStays Casa Manga, Karjat

My fondest memories of my grandparents are storytelling sessions at bedtime. When on a getaway, you can bond over these childhood tales and go back in time. We are sure your grandparents will have a lot more other interesting thoughts to share, if you share the curiosity to listen. It could start conversations about their childhood and that’s just the vibe to get started, isn’t it? A getaway with grandparents at SaffronStays Casa Manga in Karjat, is a place where you can have your storytelling sessions by the bonfire, or cheer up the gaming spirit by playing carrom in the gazebo. This 4-bedroom villa just about 2 hours away from Mumbai is perfect for a weekend trip. It has a pool too, so be rest assured about your own rejuvenation.

Build Human Connections

SaffronStays Ekaant in Vikramgad
SaffronStays Ekaant, Vikramgad

The whole idea of taking a getaway with grandparents is to build the connections that could’ve felt strained in the last few months. The daily grind of work routine offers little time to check up on yourself, forget others. Pick a place, which has a little network for the devices, but more for everyone to re-energize on their relations.

SaffronStays Ekaant in Vikramgad spells out what you need – solitude, with family by your side. This 3-bedroom villa is located in lush greenery surroundings, so solace checks-in with you as soon as you enter here. There is enough space outside for the kids to lounge or play around, so the elderly can sit in the verandah and listen to the crackle of the kids heartily laughing. It’s the kind of disturbance they won’t mind. Or hold your grandparents’ hands and take a walk in the complex, building that very human connection we longed for. Don’t forget to check on their smiles.

We hope you realise that as much as the elderly need this getaway, you need it too. Just spending time together, catching up, fighting over ‘cheating’ on the board game, or listening to stories, we really do seek the peace that comes from these simple things. It is about spending time with our grandparents and having conversations that make you feel complete with gratitude for having them in your life.

World Tourism Day 2019: Explore with SaffronStays

What are your fondest vacay memories with your family? It could be so many things, right? Visiting your grandparents during summer vacations, going on a road trip to an unheard place or going to a nearby hill station. The beauty of travelling, however, remains the same. It’s all about coming across people and culture that are not the same as yours.

The definition of travel and tourism has changed over the years. The industry is not only limited to traveling for pleasure but also includes the business of attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists.

September being the Tourism Month, the United Nations’ (UN) celebrates World Tourism Day on September 27 every year. This day aims to increase the social, cultural, political and economic tourism awareness among the international community

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. This year, the UNWTO chose India as the host country to celebrate World Tourism Day and its theme is ‘Tourism and Jobs: A Better Future For All’. In the last few years, offbeat vacationing has taken a front seat. So, newer business modules, job opportunities and different style of vacationing have become common.

With its focus on renting out private vacation homes, SaffronStays is one such leader in this category. With 130+ private and hassle-free stays around India, it caters to the 5 A’s of tourism. Let’s take a look…


1. Accommodation:

From 2 to 20, there’s something for everyone at a he SaffronStays home. Much like the aim of World Tourism Day, we want our guests to explore and grow through means of travel. If you want a home for couples, we have SaffronStays Un Bel Di, SaffronStays Beyond and others. For larger groups, SaffronStays Raanwaara and Aranya Vilaas, SaffronStays Dhyana, Nithyam and Ekaant are also suitable. If your pet is your extended family, there are several pet-friendly villas too, SaffronStays Villa 270° being a case in point.


2. Accessibility: 

So talking about the aim of world tourism day, SaffronStays started off with a few villas in the home state, Maharashtra- SaffronStays Parsi Manor, SaffronStays 9 Palms, SaffronStays Little Paradise and a few more to now expanding to the hills with SaffronStays Tridiva, SaffronStays Amayaah Tara and Palash plus a few more and the backwaters of our country with SaffronStays Kurinji Estate, SaffronStays Southern Seascapes and others. We want to cater to the needs and requirements of all our guests in India. Being a part of the digital world, we are trying to get to a fully digitalised system. One can book a home via our website or through the different Online Travel Agents.

3. Activities:

While on a vacation, most of us want to relax and rejuvenate. And so we have villas with enough and more amenities. SaffronStays Casa Manga and SaffronStays Alohomora for instance are just right for your next pool vacay. If you are looking at beach homes near Mumbai, there’s SaffronStays Salt Rim and SaffronStays Chirebandi. If the hills and valleys are calling you, head to SaffronStays Hillside Chalet and SaffronStays Verandah by the Valley In addition to the scenic views and the many-things-to-do, our homes have indoor games, too. Not just this, there are several out-of-the-box activities, too. For instance, did you know that At SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow, the owner himself organises baking master classes? Or that you could get a beekeeping demonstration there? Sounds fun, no? Several villas also offer treks and trails within their premises.


4. Amenities:

Talking about Amenities, SaffronStays includes a variety of them that’s in line with the motto of World Tourism Day. Not only do we have elderly friendly homes with elevators – SaffronStays Constellations Aquila, Orion and Cassiopeia – but also homes that have fireplaces: SaffronStays Jagheri Bagh and SaffronStays Kaapi Cottage besides others. If you love what you cook, you can cook for yourself in a few self-catered villas namely SaffronStays Ivory Cottagesand Saffronstays Calvin and Hobbes. But of course, one of our specialties is home-cooked food. Relish authentic meals at SaffronStays Parnakuti, SaffronStays Vedanta and others. Each home is unique with its own characteristics. And we are open to exploring and adding to our set of amenities. Do you have any suggestions to share with us this World Tourism Day?


5. Attractions:

Vacation homes must have an inbuilt vibe as well as a sense of aesthetics. We have homes with unique characteristics like the traditional Maharashtrian style decor at Saffronstays Bungalow 2259 and Goan architecture at SaffronStays Casa Eventor. Not to forget the traditional South Indian home, SaffronStays Coconut Grove or Spanish-style built of SaffronStays La Casa Maestro. We also strive to unearth homes that are surrounded by nature. These include activities like apple picking in the north India at SaffronStays Thanedhar Estate, visiting coffee plantations in the south at SaffronStays Kaapi Cottage or SaffronStays Nandanvan Estate or the treks and trails in Maharashtra around SaffronStays Avabodha and others.
With a sense of exploring more to witness the 5 A’s this World Tourism Day, let’s head for a quick weekend getaway already?


Visit our website https://www.saffronstays.com/ to know more. Call  ( +91) 22 6811 0811 for reservation and inquiries. You can also write to us at book@saffronstays.com.

Top Romantic Getaways For This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is drawing closer. Are you still scrambling to come up with a kick-ass romantic plan to blow your partner’s mind away? Fret not SaffronStays brings to you these ultra-romantic getaways to make your day even special.

Away from the intrusive eyes, these getaways will be your romantic haven to cherish your bond. Stroll along the moonlit shore or enjoy a candlelit dinner or lounge in the pool or sit on the swing with your fingers entwined and watch the world come to a stop!

Let’s take a look at these gorgeous villas where you can pamper your loved one beyond ecstasy!



SaffronStays Un Bel Di, Alibaug

SaffronStays Un Bel Di, an invitation-only home, is available to those who wish to celebrate special occasions. And what better than to celebrate your love here! Indulge in the privacy of this villa where the unintrusive caretakers will leave no stone unturned to guarantee a beautiful time. A lovers’ paradise, you can set up a candlelit dinner at the poolside or lounge in the infinity pool with the breathtaking mountains as the backdrop or just snuggle in the hammock!




SaffronStays Verandah by the Valley, Panchgani

Situated on the edge of the Panchgani valley, SaffronStays Verandah by the Valley will simply steal your breath away. Catch the gorgeous sunrise and sunset with your valentine from the spacious deck. Feel the warm glow of the first rays of the sun with the panoramic view of the valley, holding the hand of your loved one as you savour this intimate moment. Or sit on the rooftop and get mesmerised by the beautiful night sky, with the bright twinkling stars gracing your romantic interlude.



SaffronStays Little Paradise, Murud

A beachfront wooden cabin, SaffronStays Little Paradise is a cosy little home, perfect for a romantic getaway. Go for a romantic stroll on the private secluded beach. Or sit out on the porch as the soothing sound of the waves and fresh air make a great romantic set-up. Or sit on the white swing holding your valentine’s hand as the wind musses up your hair and you share a secret smile. Or opt for the thrilling water sports at the Murud beach!



SaffronStays Sierra

By invitation only, home, SaffronStays Sierra is a romantic wooden chalet in the secret valley. Treat your loved one to a magical time in this man-made city. Set up a romantic date at the restaurant or watch the resplendent sunrise from the deck. Indulge in every whim and fancy here! Bask in the serenity and cherish the intimate moments with your loved one, as the outer world ceases to exist.



SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam, Udupi

Whisk away your better half to SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam to enjoy those treasured intimate moments. This home nestled amidst the coconut groves on a private river island will guarantee a relaxed and splendid time away from the prying eyes. Sit out on the gazebo which offers dazzling views or hop into the motorboat for a tour of the beautiful backwaters. This private paradise with its radiant setting will definitely help you conjure up unforgettable memories with your special someone!



SaffronStays L’Attitude, Kamshet

SaffronStays L’Attitude, a lakefront home, is built with reclaimed wood, brick and stone. This rustic yet luxe homestay is perfect for some one-on-one time with your valentine. Enjoy the stunning views from the deck while you gorge on delicious treats prepared by the courteous elves! Vibe in the raw beauty with your sweetheart as the nature envelops you in its warm embrace.

What are you waiting for? Stop thinking and start booking now!

A Trip Down The Sibling Memory Lane!

It is that time of the year again when the protective brotherly feeling and caring sisterly love oozes out of every corner of the country.

Beautiful rakhis are tied, loads of gifts are showered and old vows of protection and love are taken again. But it’s not just the fanciful nature of Raksha Bandhan that makes it so special.

It’s the little things that we do every day leading to this occasion gives it the importance that it bears. Let’s shed some light on some of the most precious memories we have at least once shared with our siblings.


Source: kidville.com

World War 3

Every sibling bond has had their share of fights. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose.  And if you’re the elder one then you’re bound to overpower the younger one that only leads to either bribing your sibling so they stop crying or you face the wrath of your parents.

Source: Huff Post

Enjoying Your Sibling’s Plight 

Talking about parent’s wrath, we all have faced it every once in awhile. Sometimes with our sibling and sometimes alone. But it has always been a treat to witness that you aren’t the one who is receiving the verbal spanking. But sometimes our sibling love blooms from the bottom of our hearts and we are at our sibling’s aid.


Source: Daily Mail

Stealing The Other’s Loot

Never understanding how and when does your sibling becomes aware of your secret snack stash and chocolates. No hiding place is safe from the other, and no matter how frequently you change it, they are bound to find it and steal it. And every single time you are left wondering who tipped them off.


Source: ic.c4assets.com

The Gate Crasher

When the parents leave for their night off and leave you in charge, you know, it is time to Party! But there is one teeny tiny thing that threatens your plans. Your younger sibling. But you still party by giving strict instructions to your sibling of not venturing out of his room. But, that is not possible. The kabab mein haddi will gate crash your party and may sometimes even spill the beans to your parents, leaving you to be grounded for life.


Source: mystatus360.com

I’m The Favourite. No, I’m The Favourite…

‘Whom does the parents love the most?’ Many sibling wars have taken place over this question. The elder ones are bound to feel that the younger ones are favourites and younger ones feel that the elder ones are the favourite. But we will never know the truth.

These are some of the countless other things that we tend to share with our siblings. Let this Raksha Bandhan be the day you cherish them again.

Saffron Stays wishes you Happy Raksha Bandhan.

10 Types Of Friends That Guarantee A Kick-Ass Trip

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!

Get drenched! Top 8 getaways to enjoy the rains around Mumbai & Pune

Monsoon getaways

The monsoon’s finally set in, providing some much needed relief from the scorching heat. It’s time for those grey evenings, staring out of your window watching the rains lash down, with a cup of hot coffee by your side. Or, steaming hot kaanda bhajji and cutting chai with friends. Rainbows, colourful umbrellas, full body raincoats, paper boats in puddles, drives on the sea-link, foam sprays on Marine drive; Oh, we have all been waiting for this. Here, let me give you a great idea to upgrade your monsoon experience. Come, visit our beautiful homestays, get drenched in the rains, enjoy delicious hot cuisine and make the most of the rainy season.

 

#1. Best kept secret of Aamby Valley

This magnificent palatial home in Aamby Valley, Lonavala is nothing short of a 5-star hotel. With the living room opening out into a lush garden, you are bound to be breathless at the view of the valley from here. Imagine watching the rains lash down at the valley, while you sit in the comfort of the living room sipping hot chai. *longingly looks at suitcases*

You can also avail of outdoor activities like zorbing, zip-lining and paintball. Trust me, you do not want to give paintball a miss. As for food, your taste buds are in for a treat as there are 3-4 multicuisine restaurants here. Be sure not to miss out on Mabruk, the Lebanese restaurants. For a getaway with family and friends, its an offer you simply can’t refuse.

ambi valley
The magnificent villa at Aamby Valley

amby valley villa

 

Click here to know more and book.

 

#2. Little Paradise on a Beach front, Murud

Located about 10 kms from Murud, in Agardanda, this beachvilla will take your breath away. Here, the only sound that disturbs the peace is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores, barely 50 meters away. The property has no neighbours, so the stretch of 200-300 meters of beach is almost private.  It has 2 units, wooden structures, both with a porch from where one can keep staring at the rains. You will find yourself fixed on the porch the whole day long with a book for company.

Murud beachvilla
Stare into the sea for hours together with a book for company

Murud beachvilla
Wooden beachvilla on a private beach strip

Click here to know more and book.

 

#3. Forest bungalow in Lonavala

Nestled between trees and ensconced within nature with a view that overlooks the lake. Add rains to the scene. Nope, I’m not talking about a movie scene. This stone-structured 1980 home is the epitome of beauty and serenity. Decorated with the choicest of ancient Parsi furniture, you are assured of a regal experience. There is a housekeeper and a cook to look after your needs, so you can lie down and take in the peace and quiet.

villa in lonavla
A lovely living room with forest view

Click here to know more and book.

 

#4. Farmhouse in Karjat.

You can have a perfect family and friends getaway here. Built on an extensive farmland, this home is replete with amenities and luxuries. The living room opens on three sides, so it is always breezy and cool. However, make sure you close the windows during the rains! Challenge your friends to a basketball match, or play football in the backyard.

Football + Rains= Heaven.

The perfectly manicured lawns are great to lounge on and soak in the vacation experience. There is also a shaded trellis where you can relax and cook a delicious barbecue meal while the rain pours down. Who doesn’t love barbecue, right?

villa in karjat
A luxury villa for the monsoon at Karjat

Click here to know more and book.

 

#5. Lakeside villa in Kamshet

If you are longing for a soothing holiday, away from civilisation, we have just the place for you.Tucked away in the Sahyadri hills, touching a beautiful lake & surrounded by lush greenery: Oh, what I wouldn’t give to have this. Enjoy a swim with a breathtaking mountain sunset view or take a refreshing walk in the rains or just relax in the gazebo with a book to leaf through. Completes the whole picture, right?

Get your paintbrushes, sketchpencils and cameras as you are simply not allowed to leave this haven without capturing it in some way.

Go on, pack your bags!

A scenic bungalow in Kamshet

Villa next to lake , Kamshet
Massive living room for fun-filled activities with family and friends

Click here to know more and book

# 6. Farmstay next to river, Igatpuri

Come monsoon, and Igatpuri, barely 120 kms from Mumbai bursts into shades of green. making it one of the best locations during monsoon. This farm house is enjoys proximity to the Darna River. Once you are in the house there is a feeling of re living the bygone era where houses were well lit with natural lighting, large windows with ample air circulation.

Farmstay next to river , Igatpuri
Farmstay next to river , Igatpuri

Farmhouse Igatpuri
Darna river gushing in its full glory adjacent to the farm house

Click here to know more and book.

 

#7. Campsite in Kamshet

This campsite is specially for the adventurous and the nature lovers. Set against the Western Ghats and the perennial Andra lake, you are bound to be awed at the sheer magnificence of Mother Nature. Aquatic and terrestrial activities are available, and farm-based agro educational tours can be arranged for children. Sleep in a tent or under the stars have yourself a memorable trip. P.S: Don’t forget to keep clicking!

Beautiful cottages at the campsite in Kamshet

Click here to know more and book.

#8. Hilltop farmstay in Chiplun

If you want to stay away from civilisation and enjoy a quiet, serene vacation, then this homestay in Chiplun is just the place for you. Wake up to chirping birds, enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian breakfast and then go on a Jungle safari and a boat ride arranged by the host. In the evening, you can lie down on the terrace and be awed by the sheer magnificence of the open, star-studded night sky.

Hilltop farmstay in Chiplun

farmstay in Chiplun
Pool overlooking the valley, lush green in monsoon

Click here to know more and book

 

About SaffronStays:

SaffronStays.com brings you over 1200 homestays across India. Experience true Indian hospitality, the warmth of your local hosts and home-cooked authentic local food, in these homes.

About the Author:

Aatreya Bhat spends a major part of the day reading, writing and jamming. The rest of the day, he spends explaining his name to others. He loves reading political books and is a big fan of the caped crusader. Skydiving and experiencing a Manchester derby at the Trafford will always top his bucket list.