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!

5 Pure Vegetarian Weekend Stays around Mumbai!

We feel for all the non-vegetarians cribbing and feeling outraged about the #MeatBan in Mumbai during Paryushan. However, for our vegetarian friends who often feel inconvenienced and uncomfortable eating at places that also serve non-veg (“What if the same utensils are used?”); here’s some relief. No, we aren’t referring to the #MeatBan. 

For our vegetarian friends and their families, we bring few quick weekend breaks that serve only VEG meals.  Some of them can even prepare Jain meals. Here you needn’t worry if the utensils are used for non-veg preparations. So go ahead and book NOW!

# 01. Igatpuri

Experience the bygone era where the house was lit by natural daylight, large windows with ample of air ventilation and green landscape. With a spectacular look of Darna river in close proximity, you can enjoy the warm sit-out that overlooks the huge lawn and savour your veggie taste buds with delicious local food. Maharashtrian food with a blend of north and south dominates the local cuisine in Igatpuri. Akki roti (rice flour bhakri) is a must try!

Photo Credits: www.thakkara.com
Photo Credits: http://www.thakkara.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

# 02. Ganpatipule, Malgund Beach

Visit the 400 year old Ganesh temple and the serene Malgund beach, both just a hug and nuzzle away from your stay at Ganpatipule. You can also drive along the beautiful coastal stretch of Ratnagiri and visit Thibaw Palace and Ratnadurg Fort. On your return to the bungalow, relax and retreat with mouth watering vegetarian food. The local cuisine is ruled by Konkani food which can bowl over your non-vegan craving anyday! The luscious kokam curry, Ambapoli (Pancake made of dried mangoes), Sabudana Khichdi, and Phanaspoli (Pancake made of dried jackfruit) are few famous dishes. This region is known for jackfruit and the special delicacy which is Modak with a filling of jaggery and coconut.

Photo Credits: foodmantras.blogspot.com
Photo Credits: foodmantras.blogspot.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

# 03. Khandala

The Bungalow is a cozy living paradise in the dense foggy mountains of Lonavla-Khandala. This is the right spot to unwind and relax! Enjoy the lovely view of mountains or visit there by yourself. Tiger point, Kune waterfalls and Lion point are in close proximity from this bungalow. Khandala doesn’t really have a standard or unique cuisine but it definitely welcomes to those interested in enjoying simple vegan food. You will find varied options from North-Indian to Gujarati to Chinese cuisines here. The staple food is our very famous Vada Pav with a sprinkle of spicy red chutney.

Vada Pav
Photo Credits: http://www.whatshot.in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

# 04. Lonavala

While the brisk of air heralds the end of fall season and it is time to extend a warm welcome to the breeze and sunset at the Tiger point, Lonavala. A popular destination that this is, you will find end number of options for food, especially dhaba’s. But you must try hot masala chai with cheese and corn pakoda’s, onion rings, and fudges if you have a sweet tooth! 

Photo Credits: www.medimanage.com
Photo Credits: http://www.medimanage.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

# 05. Palghar

If you are wanting to stress out from your daily routine, this rustic cottage house in Palghar is an ideal place for you to rejuvenate yourself and regain the balance of your chakras through Yoga, detox, and consuming naturally grown clean vegetables for food. The place is eco-friendly in every possible way and serves only VEGAN food! Palghar does not offer much options when it comes to food joints. Thus, making it perfect to enjoy the organic local food served by the tribal community.

Photo Credits: www.blueplanetgreenliving.com
Photo Credits: http://www.blueplanetgreenliving.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

A reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want 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!

 

 

 

 

 

11 places in India to enjoy your bowl of Maggi!

Reluctant as ever, my Grandpa refrained to eat noodles, until one day, we were both home alone, rest of the family was busy attending a family function, and how he hated outside food! So, to avoid going to bed with an empty stomach, he gave in to the pop culture and asked me to share my bowl of Maggi with him. Surprisingly, one spoon after the other, slurp..slurp..and slurp! He finished his first ever bowl of Maggi! This yellow colored packet had some magic I tell you, even my Grandpa couldn’t resist the 2 minutes miracle! Yes #WeMissYouToo Maggi, hoping for a comeback, or else you will only be heard of in our memories and be seen in our Maggi Selfie’s to our future generation. Below are the places across India where you can have unique encounters with Maggi.

#01 Matheran

Glide over the mesmerizing beauty of Matheran, while you hear the clippety cloc-cloc of horses. This is one among the very few pedestrian hill stations in India! Enjoy the view of forest from the top and munch on your Maggi meals.

Don’t know where to stay at Matheran? Click here!

#02 Murud

Murud, a city in Raigad region is fast becoming a favorite tourist destination because the only sound that disturbs the peace is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores, barely 50 meters away. Because of the land across, the sea here is quiet and tranquil. Wouldn’t it be amazing to spend some time in isolation with your favorite dish i.e., Maggi?

Don’t know where to stay in Murud? Click here!

#03 Lonavala

Let the gentle breeze at Lonavala sooth you, enjoy the warm maggi, a cup of hot chocolate and some corn bhajiya’s at Tiger point. Cuddle up with your friends, gossip about your school days, or take your kids for a drive and share your good old days with them!

Don’t know where to stay while in Lonavala? Click here!

#04 Munnar, Kerala

Kerala is blessed with a lot of beauty, water bodies, beaches, culture & art! So why not indulge into multiple elements and savor your taste buds with a bowl of Maggi which soothes your sense, mind, body & soul! Sip on the soupy noodles and let the waves wash away your stress.

Don’t know where to stay in Kerala? Click here!

#05 Kullu-Manali

After a long drive through the beautiful ghats, relax with your friends or family in the balcony and peep into the nature and come alive while you fight with your friends for the last spoon of Maggi in that bowl!

Don’t know where to stay in Manali? Click here!

#06 Coorg, Karnataka

The old structures and monuments in Karnataka come alive to tell you tales from the past, hear them out on your visit, and on your way back to home, living amid the jungle, let the monsoon showers hinder outside while you enjoy with your delicious bowl of Maggi!

Don’t know where to stay at Gulmarg? Click here!

#07 Srinagar

Remember your Mom waking you up by bribing you a bowl of hot Maggi? Imagine you are on a holiday and you get a home cooked delicious Maggi with added flavors from the hills, nothing like it, right?

Don’t know where to stay at Srinagar? Click here!

#08 Lahaul & Spiti

Out of nowhere amid the magnificent Spiti Valley, when you finally take a sigh & want to fill in your stomach, a two minute Maggi would be a saviour, isn’t it? Settle yourselves under a tent, glance at the mountains right in front of you & let the breeze bring you a homely feeling!

Don’t know where to stay at Lahaul & Spiti? Click here!

#09 Pangong Tso Lake

The deep blue lake reflects the sky and the mountains around. With a falling temperature, this is the perfect location to be your share buddy for a bowl of Maggi! The clouds are just handful away, thin air, silence, you and your Maggi!

Don’t know where to stay in Pangong Lake? Click here!

#10 Sikkim

Do you like trekking in the Himalayan range? Often come back to the base camp with memories from the hills? Ever cooked your own food at the base camp? A two minute break would be such a relief from the long hour cooking procedure! Enjoy the hot Maggi dish with your trek mates and bring back home #MeriMaggi stories.

Don’t know where to stay in Sikkim? Click here!

#11 Marchula, Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, an originating point of significant Indian rivers, also known as a land of spirituality, offers breath taking views of mountains to the visitors. This region has multiple options and Marchula, is one among the many! It is a small yet beautiful and famous tourist place. Spend some time observing the running water from the banks of Ramganga and sip on your Maggi soup!

Don’t know where to stay while in Marchula? Click here!

P.S. Cover Photo Credits: http://www.hourdose.com

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

A reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want 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!

Weekend getaways from Mumbai- part 3

By Aatreya Bhat

Tired of the sweltering heat and the daily dust and grime of the city? Desperately look forward to the weekend to let off some steam? Yes, we hear you.

A few weeks ago, we recommended some of our offbeat homestays around Mumbai, and encouraged by the great response we received, we, at SaffronStays have compiled the third edition of the “Weekend Getaways from Mumbai” [For the previous editions, click on Weekend getaways from Mumbai part 1 and Weekend getaways from Mumbai part 2].

 

#1. Luxury farmhouse in Karjat.

Spread across a verdant expanse of 10 acres, this is an ideal retreat from the busy metropolitan life. There is a basketball court, open lawns to play football, indoor games and a swimming pool surrounded by raw mango trees. The farmhouse has 3 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and opens on three sides, making it cool and breezy. A little away from the house is a shaded trellis where you can feast on a barbecue dinner under the sky and make memories! Exercise your tensed muscles the next morning cycling and riding a dirt bike along the farmland.

Luxurious farmhouse in Karjat

Luxurious farmhouse in Karjat

Luxurious farmhouse in Karjat

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 into the open Ocean. 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. Escape to Lonavala

With two beautiful stretches of well-manicured lawns for your children and pets to play around, this villa in Lonavala is just like your own home. Very quiet and serene, you can sit back and unwind. The interiors are well-decorated and will remind you of antiquities. Guests may prepare their own food in the well-equipped kitchen, but the caretaker will be more than willing to cook food for you. Whats more, this is a pet friendly place. In the evening, sit down with your family on the lawn, play games, have fun and forget about everything else for a while.

Captivating escape in Lonavala

Captivating escape to lonavala
Big lawns = fun filled holidays for entire family. Kids can be kids, adults can be kids too

Click here to know more and book.

 

#4. Villa near Karla caves, Lonavala.

If you’re travelling as a group of friends or with two or more families, then this villa is perfect for bonding and having a jamboree. There is a large lawn in front of the house where you can play football or any other sport, or simply just sit down and chat. Upstairs, there is a proper gym where you can work out, after which those tensed muscles can be eased in the Jacuzzi hot tub. There is also a swimming pool where you can cavort with your friend and family!

DSC_5687

massive lawns with the bungalow
Cricket or football? or good old ‘saakhli’ or ‘lagori’? So many choices!!!

Click here to know more and book.

 

#5. Villa in Zirad, Alibaug.

This scenic, exotic villa in the quiet village of Zirad in Alibaug is nothing short of a dream home. With a beautiful, well-maintained swimming pool and plush interiors, you are guaranteed a 5-star vacation. Enjoy the evening in the company of your friends and family on the terrace lounging, star-gazing and munching on some scrumptious barbecue. Who doesn’t like barbecue, right?

Exotic villa in Zirad, Alibaug
Book here for a lavish weekend.. Go ahead, pamper yourself

Exotic villa in Zirad, Alibaug

Exotic villa in Zirad, Alibaug

Click here to know more and book.

 

#6. Bungalow near the pristine Awas beach

Just 10 minutes away from the Mandwa jetty, this pet-friendly, lovely stone villa is easily accessible. Tastefully decorated with antique furniture and with two outdoor sitting areas, you can breathe in the fresh, unpolluted air, read, eat and enjoy. In the afternoons, either simply laze around or cycle through the tranquil villages and the two nearby ponds and enjoy the peace and calm. The evenings are meant to go to the Awas beach, which is a nice 5-10 minute walk from the house. Play cricket, run around, get soaked and have fun till you get tired!

Bungalow near Awas beach
Beautiful stone architecture and tastefully done interiors

Bungalow near Awas beach

Click here to know more and book.

 

#7. Kihim beachside homestay

This homestay is close to the Kihim beach and is reminiscent of the peaceful, tension-free village lifestyle. The slow, lazy life in this area helps ease the pressure of the daily city life. The Kihim beach is extensive, clean and unclogged. You can go for early morning runs along  the sea. The adventurous can also hire cycles and go for local sight-seeing. Tents can also be hired of you want to sleep under the star-studded, open night sky.

Kihim beach side homestay
Enjoy peaceful evenings and fun filled days at this homestay

Kihim beachside homestay

Click here to know more and book.

 

#8. Family cottage in Lonavala

Constructed inside a gated colony with day-long security, this cosy family cottage is a simple, yet comfortable getaway from the city. Just off the highway, it is easy to locate too. A fully furnished home with a beautiful garden embellished with kaleidoscopic flowers, you are assured of finding peace here. The caretaker is jovial and friendly and will gladly take care of your needs and food. In the evening, you can sit in the verandah amidst greenery and forge fond memories with your family.

Family cottage in Lonavala
Quaint cottage is perfect for a small family

Family cottage in Lonavala

Click here to know more and book.

 

#9. Villa in Karjat next to river

This villa lies off the highway and is simple to locate. Ideal for a large group, you can soak in the river that flows next to the property, eat, read, walk around, party with your friends and have a jolly time in general.  There is an outdoor eating area, where you can enjoy dinner in the company of your close ones under the open, magnificent night sky. You can also indulge in sports in the open space around.

Karjat bungalow near Ulhas river
Go for a swim in the river next to this bungalow
Karjat Bungalow near river
Cool off in this river right next to the bungalow

Click here to know more and book.

 

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your friends, family and loved ones, re-fuel you cars and drive away! You deserve a break!

For more options on stays around Mumbai, click here 

Other blogs in this series: Weekend getaways from Mumbai – Series 1 and Weekend getaways from Mumbai – Series 2

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.