Tag: wherefamiliesbond

8 Charming Spots To Enjoy The Ultimate Hillside Cafe Experience

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Holidays in the mountains are just out of the ordinary. Chilly winds, snowy mountains and mesmerizing valleys have a singular beauty of their own. But these chilly winds are much better appreciated with a hot cup of tea. The hilly landscapes feel all the more beautiful while relishing zesty momos. Steaming soupy noodles make you truly enjoy the local views. Here are ten hill station cafes in North India that should be on your bucket list!

1. ChirpingTales Cafe and Restaurant, Mukteshwar

SaffronStays El Sueno, Mukteshwar

Local produce, homegrown vegetables, and self-baked bread make up the delicacies at this enchanting eatery. Imagine soaking in views of snow-capped mountains while a cup of hot chocolate warms you up. While SaffronStays El Sueno is a perfectly dreamy staycation destination in itself, head to this nearby restaurant for some of the best desserts of your life!

2. Seegreen Cafe, Mussoorie

SaffronStays Maison Calme, Mussoorie

Set apart from the bustle of the main city, this quaint cafe gives you a view of the quiet beauty of the hills. A short drive from SaffronStays Maison Calme, this hidden gem has a serene outdoor seating area that overlooks a sea of trees, an ideal vantage point from where you can relish their warm meals made from locally sourced ingredients. A special mention to their hand-tossed pizza and ginger lemon tea!

3. Chhaya Cafe, Dehradun

SaffronStays Amaani, Dehradun

Whether you want to unwind with a book amidst the hills or spend a memorable evening with friends, this cafe is the place for you. The astounding views of the valley seen from the bay windows and the terrace make the delicious meals even more satisfying. Watch the city’s lights  come alive as it gets dark at this hill station cafe, and then head to SaffronStays Amaani for a good night’s rest. 

4. Cafe Jungle Valley, Tirthan Valley

SaffronStays Tragopan, Tirthan Valley

For those who love going to places off the beaten track, head to this quirky eatery in the lesser-known parts of Himachal Pradesh. You can enjoy local and standard cuisines, sitting on mattresses under the soft light from rattan lampshades. You can take a long, scenic drive from SaffronStays Tragopan to get here, by which time your heart will be full and your stomach will be rumbling. 

5. Roots, Cafe, Kullu

SaffronStays Snowdrop, Kullu

Staying at warm, homely cabins in the mountains like SaffronStays Snowdrop can be a holiday by itself. But if you do feel like heading out, then take a short drive to Roots, Cafe. At this bistro, you’ll be met by a breath-taking view of Kullu valley and the meandering Beas river. Seat yourself among blue furnishings and bright cushions, as you enjoy their signature trout delicacy right under a gorgeous winter sky!

6. Café de Piccolo, Dehradun

SaffronStays Ghughuti Ku Baasa, Dehradun

A cute and vibrantly decorated restaurant, Café de Piccolo is the perfect spot for a family dinner. As dusk falls, this dollhouse-like cafe lights up in a show of warmth and welcome. After settling in at a villa like SaffronStays Ghughuti Ku Baasa, you can set off for your first night in the hills with a scrumptious Italian meal at this cafe. Don’t miss out on their Nutella and banana crepe for dessert!

7. First Gear Cafe, Dehradun

SaffronStays Elysian, Dehradun

Named after the fact that cars must go up the steep slope in first gear to reach this cafe, this hilltop eatery comes with a spellbinding view. This bird’s eye perspective creates one of those few magical holiday moments, made infinitely better by steaming bowls of Maggi and lip-smacking momos. The long but beautiful drive from SaffronStays Elysian is totally worth it!

8. The Lazy Dog, Manali

The Amlyn, Manali

The vine covered entrance of this hill station cafe looks like a portal to another world. And with its treasure trove of good food, live music and friendly locals, this cafe and bar truly is a traveller’s paradise. The adjacent murmuring river makes for a stunning outdoor view that you’ll want to keep coming back to. If so, choose SaffronStays The Amlyn, which is just a few minutes away! 

A mix of popular tourist spots and offbeat dining rooms, each of these cafes has a charm of its own. After all, holidays in North India are incomplete without a visit to cosy hill station cafes. So, put these in your itinerary and get packing!

Looking for villas in North India? Click here. 

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10 Brand New SaffronStays Villas to Explore India

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Do you love exploring the world through the luxury and exclusiveness of private villas? If so, we’ve got some exciting news for you. Here are 10 brand new SaffronStays villas packed with unique experiences. Visit places you have never seen before, indulge in new activities and enjoy getting familiar with yet another gorgeous part of India. 

1. SaffronStays Meadowbrook, Karnala

The widespread lawn, the trees and surrounding hills create a cocoon of peace and quiet at this holiday home in Karnala. Choose this pool villa if you’re a fan of exquisite views, like a train quietly chugging across the mountains that stand across a flowing river. Opt for a friendly game of snooker, gossip sessions over a barbecue or a thrilling jungle trek to complete the holiday experience. 

No. of guests: 8-12

Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays Meadowbrook!

2. SaffronStays Juniper, Lonavala

Apart from coming with scenic views of Lonavala, this deluxe private villa for rent has everything you and your family need on a holiday. From a lush green lawn where you and your furry friends can play to an in-house gym for fitness freaks and even a kiddie pool for the little ones! The private elevator, cushy interiors, and skilled servers at the villa will make your stay as smooth as possible!

No. of guests: 10-15

Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays Juniper!

3. SaffronStays Happy Fields, Pune

A quick drive from Pune city will get you to this paradise-like escape, a luxury villa surrounded by farms as far as the eye can see. Stunning sunsets aside, this farmhouse offers peaceful hours on a swing with a cup of chai, a delicious farm-to-table experience, joyful memories of interacting with cows, hens, and goats, as well as a glass ceiling in the attic for stargazing. Tempting, isn’t it!

No. of guests: 6-9

Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays Happy Fields!

4. SaffronStays The Amlyn, Manali

Need a break from the city? Head up to the freezing mountains in North India to get as far away from noisy streets and smoggy air as possible. The sleek wooden interiors create a cosy cabin-like vibe while tasteful furnishings keep you as comfortable as a luxury hotel. It even has a hot tub pool for the ultimate relaxation. Whether you’re looking for adventure or unwinding, this villa has it all!

No. of guests: 6-18

Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays The Amlyn!

5. SaffronStays El Sueno, Mukteshwar

At this lovely Uttarakhand holiday destination, you can see the beauty of nature come alive right in front of your eyes. Cycle through the verdant wilderness or walk through the farm, let bird calls become your music, and bright skies feast your eyes. As the sun sets, head back to the quaint wood and stone cottage to make more memories with your loved ones, maybe even by a bonfire!

No. of guests: 4-6

Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays El Sueno!

6. SaffronStays Elysian, Dehradun

This modern bungalow in Dehradun is ideal for staycations, supplied with high internet speeds to keep track of emails and a fireplace for curling up with a book on chilly nights. Hand-picked decor and artefacts furnish this private villa for rent, creating a positive vibe you won’t feel like leaving. On sunny days, you can step out on the lawn for a lovely picnic lunch. To top it all, this villa is also pet friendly, so you don’t need to be away from your favourite furry friend! 

No. of guests: 4-8

Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays Elysian!

7. Casa Del Palms, Alibaug

With sprawling outdoor lounge areas, elegant interiors, a pool and poolside bar, as well as finger-licking delicacies for every meal, SaffronStays Casa Del Palms is a complete holiday package. This mini-resort-like homestay is where your family can play sports and board games, chat over drinks, dance on the lawn, unwind in the pool, and fill up those phones with tons and tons of photos! We can promise you’ll be smiling in each and every one of those. 

No. of guests: 8-12

Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays Casa Del Palms!

8. SaffronStays Coorg Toddy Farms, Coorg

Step away from screens and skyscrapers and indulge in a rustic lifestyle at this private villa for rent in Karnataka. With a holiday on this beautiful coffee estate, you can feel the grass beneath your feet, gaze at the lake’s serene waters and let go of all your worries. The heritage home’s traditional red tiles and antique-style furniture will be a refreshing break from your usual surroundings. 

No. of guests: 6-10
Book your dream vacation at SaffronStays Coorg Toddy Farms!

You have visited our existing homes. Loved them! Enjoyed our services. Now, it’s your time to rejoice in our new homes. SaffronStays is now expanding and bringing you new homes across India. So, what are you waiting for? Book your favourite villa for your preferred date before somebody else does!

Head this way to do so.

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Finding Trust: Can someone look after your Home the way that you do? 

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Everyone has trouble with outsourcing. We never feel that anyone can do a job the way we do it. While it may be true for some things, it is also true that we can’t do everything ourselves. And some tasks are best left to professionals, no matter how close you are to them. 

The last point definitely applies tohome’s maintenance and upkeep,  especially if you do not use it regularly as with a holiday home. But many Home Owners are quite apprehensive of handing over their baby to anyone else and even procrastinate renting out fabulous properties out of this fear. 

Having dealt with thousands of Home Owners and vendors, the team at SaffronStays has put together a checklist for you to determine the worthy partner. We know how important this decision for you is and we are here to make it easier for you. 

Let’s get into it.

https://www.saffronstays.com/
SaffronStays Kenwoods, Palghar

How to find trust and choose the right partner? 

If and when you entrust your precious property to someone, the relationship has to be of equal partners. But the question is always how to choose the right partner? While there are always ups and downs, as in any relationship, we share a framework that helps our team immensely. 

  • Expertise and portfolio

When we talk about choosing the right partner, the team you choose to trust has to be right for you in all aspects. And this means that their expertise matches the qualities you are looking for. For example, if you need a partner to handle your beach home,  it is ideal that the partner you choose has expertise in similar homes in the same locality or closer to it. That way, you can trust them to know what’s best for the home. 

Do not just go by what they say; spend a little time getting to know them. Look at their portfolio and try to find homes they  have with similar requirements to yours. Trust takes time to build but is not impossible. 

SaffronStays SanvinaFarm, Karjat
  • Reviews 

You know what they have to say for themselves, but what is the market telling? Social proof is one of the best reasons to choose a partner, so it is best if you dig into customer reviews, Home Owner reviews, and even vendor reviews. You must take a look at anything and everything that can tell you what kind of organization or team they run. 

While most firms feature their best reviews on their website, explore Google reviews, social media hashtags on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to understand what the public is saying about them. You can also look at their rating on third-party websites to know their unfiltered opinion. 

If you can talk to any of the Home Owners, that would be great! You can understand the process and start building a trusting relationship. 

SaffronStays Estella, Alibaug
  • Services offered 

Even if the firm you are looking to work with has expertise in similar homes, considerwhat they are willing to offer in terms of service. Can they handle end-to-end marketing and listing? Will they also guarantee maintenance and upkeep as part of their contract? Do they have any technology solutions to help you monitor the home and its status? 

Services like these can help you differentiate between the different players in the market and hand over your home to someone with no worries.Trust comes easily when expectations and reality align (at least 90%). 

SaffronStays The Amlyn, Manali
  • Contingency clauses 

There will always be apprehensions in any new relationship. So much so that it becomes essential to include contingency clauses in the contract to build trust within the parties. 

Talk to the partner and understand the details about a refund, cancellation, termination of contracts, damages, late payment penalties from both parties, and so on. You can breathe easily and enter a deal with an informed mind when you have all the information at hand. 

At SaffronStays, we understand the connection every Home Owner has with their property. In all senses, it is their baby, and it can be quite hard to hand over the reins. SaffronStays prides itself on being one of the premium luxury rental operators, and we are here because we give the homes the love and care you would. 

So,take the leap and connect with us at partner@saffronstays.com to begin a new and fulfilling relationship today!

Save Money on these 7 Luxurious Budget-Friendly Villas

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Going on luxury holidays does not necessarily mean you have break the bank. You read that right! You can enjoy your margaritas on loungers by the pool or enjoy a delicious barbecue without leaving a dent in your wallet.

Here are seven budget-friendly luxury villas that offer all the comforts of a five-star hotel, with no extravagant bills. 

1. SaffronStays Minerva, Alibaug

Ideal For: Elegant parties and black tie events with small groups of people. 

As you enter this manor-like private villa in Alibaug, you will be greeted with smooth chequered tiles, a sleek spiral staircase and a terrace with a stunning view of the surrounding hills. Soak in the sea breeze that wafts through this mansion’s airy rooms, all through the day. Take a jump in the pool to ward off the heat or enjoy a quaint picnic on the lawn, the expansive space around the villa is all yours. As dusk falls, head indoors where tasteful furnishings and European paintings on the wall draw up a perfect space for elegant dinners. Glam up, take photos and settle in for a night of revelry!

No. of guests: 8-12

Cost per night weekend: INR 6500 to 8000 per room + tax

Cost per night weekday: INR 6500 per room + tax

Book your dates now: SaffronStays Minerva

2. SaffronStays Casa Manga, Karjat

Ideal For: Casual family get-togethers to bring you closer to nature. 

Take a step away from screens at this budget-friendly luxury villa near Mumbai that sits in the heart of a mango orchard. Among the leafy greens, you can enjoy moments with your family that are difficult to find in the city — from sipping chai in a gazebo, laughter spilling out across the pool, to chatting around a crackling bonfire, roasting marshmallows under a night sky. With a sparkling pool, an abundance of board games and a chef whose masala bhindi is to die for, this villa should be your next destination for making memories.

No. of guests: 8-12

Cost per night weekend: INR 6000 to 7500 per room + tax

Cost per night weekday: INR 4800 per room + tax

Book your dates now: SaffronStays Casa Manga

SaffronStays Nature's Bounty in Nashik

3. SaffronStays Nature’s Bounty, Nashik

Ideal For: Corporate offsites, yoga retreats and picnics with the extended family. 

Welcome to three acres of lush lawns, organic farms and serene hills at a  distance. Get ready to be charmed from the first minute of your stay at this farmhouse-esque private villa in Nashik. The wicker chairs and wooden rafters create a distinct pastoral feel that will soothe your soul. Drink in the beauty of the countryside as you pick guavas from trees and munch on them, trek to the nearby Ramshej Fort and hang out with ducks, rabbits and hens by the pond. This dreamy Nashik getaway allows you to disconnect fully. 

No. of guests: 8-15

Cost per night weekend: INR 5500 to 5714 per room + tax

Cost per night weekday: INR 4000 per room + tax

Book your dates now: SaffronStays Nature’s Bounty

4. SaffronStays Barney, Lonavala

Ideal For: Groups of friends or coworkers looking for a cosy venue with a pool. 

Sometimes all you need is a home away from home, and this lavish Lonavala residence fits the bill. With four cushy bedrooms to laze around in, a splendid pool for the ultimate party, and caretakers to look after your every need, SaffronStays Barney offers the ideal escape. Cool Lonavala winds and a view of the Western Ghats will level up your holiday experience. You, your guests and even your pets will find happy memories and Insta-worthy pictures at this villa’s deluxe property without shelling out a lot of money. 

No. of guests: 8-10

Cost per night weekend: INR 5400 to 6750 per room + tax

Cost per night weekday: INR 4388 per room + tax

Book your dates now: SaffronStays Barney

5. SaffronStays Riverdale, Lavasa

Ideal For: Large groups of people who love scenic views and pool parties. 

Want a lakeside holiday that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket? Try our budget-friendly luxury villa that sits on the banks of Varasgaon Dam. This holiday home near Mumbai and Pune has a sweeping view of rolling hills that you will fall in love with, and pool overlooking the dam. The home is located 10 minutes away from Lavasa city. The interiors of this villa are artistically decorated with beautiful local paintings from Indonesia. Food lovers can gorge on authentic Maharashtrian feast cooked by the in-house chef.

No. of guests: 10-12

Cost per night weekend: INR 5490 to 7425 per room + tax

Cost per night weekday: INR 4800 per room + tax

Book your dates now: SaffronStays Riverdale

6. SaffronStays Juniper, Lonavala

Ideal For: Large get togethers, corporate events and parties that require elegant venues. 

SaffronStays Juniper is a sprawling villa with tasteful furnishings that is perfect for large gatherings. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly luxury villa to charm your hosts, this stylish house is just what you need as it features classy tiles, vibrant wallpapers and quirky decor pieces that give each room a unique feel. Don’t miss out on the balcony and its amazing views of the city — it’s a great spot for a group selfie!

No. of guests: 6-24

Cost per night weekend: INR 6800 to 8500 per room + tax

Cost per night weekday: INR 5525 per room + tax

Book your dates now: SaffronStays Juniper

7. SaffronStays Roselle, Malavli

Ideal For: Intimate getaways with friends and family in a quiet but serene location. 

This pool bungalow wraps guests in a warm and homely vibe, offering the privacy and freedom to be oneself that one doesn’t often find elsewhere. Your days will feel easy and your nights endless as you float in the pool all day or indulge in exciting board games with the fam. All hints of stress will disappear with the first bite of every meal —  an authentic, homemade Maharashtrian delicacy. Outside, soft grassy lawns and a plethora of bright flowers will make a refreshing change from office walls and phone screens. 

No. of guests: 6-10

Cost per night weekend: INR 5400 to 6750 per room + tax

Cost per night weekday: INR 4388 per room + tax

Book your dates now: SaffronStays Roselle

It’s time for you to choose relaxation and comfort without worrying about the purse strings. These budget-friendly luxury villas are waiting for you — doors wide open, plush beds made, and swimming pools ready to be jumped in. So get booking now!

Looking for more pool villas? Head this way. 

Liked this blog?

Join SaffronStays Club Infinitum — Sign up to earn 750 Reward Points and redeem on your next SaffronStays holiday.

Don’t worry, we won’t spam you… we’ll only give you exclusive first access to our new launches!

Click HERE to know more about SaffronStays Club Infinitum.

The Art Of Maintaining Heritage Homes And Estates

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SaffronStays Parsi Manor is a 100-year-old Parsi heritage bungalow in Matheran

Being able to visit and enjoy the beauty of a heritage home is in itself a huge privilege. But if you own one as part of your family legacy, a huge responsibility gets added to your shoulders along with privilege. Everyone enjoys visiting such unique homes, but only those who own these homes passed on from generation to generation are aware of the pain of maintaining these ancestral homes and the love it takes to do so. 

Besides preserving culture, heritage, legacy, and yesteryear architecture, preserving heritage homes also mean investing in something special. Not just in terms of sentimental value but economically as well. Heritage tourism is a billion-dollar industry, and many heritage homes see the value by opening their doors for a select few to experience this charm.

But when you do so, you must ensure that renting out your heritage home and the estate does not harm your treasure. 

And that is where upkeep and maintenance step in. 

While it appears to be a complicated process on the surface, it is possible to make this happen with a systematic approach. 

How to maintain heritage homes and estates? 

Before we get into the various approaches, you need to maintain your heritage home; it is vital to understand that this cannot be a one-size-fits-all solution map. Every heritage home and estate is unique and deserves a tailored solution. Engage an architect and a heritage specialist before adopting any process. 

SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate, Ooty
SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate is a quintessential late-19th century British colonial estate in Ooty

1. Constant Inspection 

We can only conceive of maintaining a heritage home and estate when we know its regular condition and the challenge areas. So, your maintenance process must include a regular inspection schedule to note the condition of various structural and non-structural elements. Inspecting the premise regularly also means that you can handle routine maintenance issues even before they become a menace. This helps preserve the integrity of the structure. 

Work with a professional team and go through a checklist to ensure you do not miss any gaps. 

Some issues to focus on while inspecting a heritage home and estate for maintenance are : 

  • Ventilation: Check if the vents are working, the windows are in working condition, and the ducts are not in a broken state.
  • Water discharges: Check for pipe leakages, blocked gutters, and clogged drains and inspect the sewerage discharge system for current municipal code compliance.
  • Vegetation: The grounds, lawns, and even indoor plants must be in pristine condition in a heritage home. Keep regular checks for fallen trees, leaking sprinkler systems, and insect issues. 

2.Declutter 

Heritage homes accumulate a lot of possessions over the years. The usual process is to stow them away in an attic or an unused section of the basement. But, this is not what the experts recommend. 

Dark rooms or corners are a strict no-no in a well-maintained heritage home. So, it is time to embark on a decluttering journey. Anything that can be a fire hazard does not contribute to the heritage significance, and is not usable, must go. 

Decluttering is an integral part of ensuring your attics, basements, and rooms are well-ventilated and ready to use. 

3.Protect and preserve from the elements 

Heritage homes and estates were designed for a different era. So, the protections they have in place may not reflect the environment they are exposed to now. It becomes the caretaker’s responsibility to put a plan in place to protect the estate from these elements. 

  • Maintain electrical and electronic appliances to avoid fire hazards. Ensure that the internal wiring and fittings are as per the recommendation of governing body’s latest code. 
  • Apply a fresh coat of waterproof paint on the external facade to protect the walls from moss growth and leakages. 
  • Heritage homes usually have long chimneys and architectural overhangs. They may be designed for the climatic conditions of those times, so adding protective structures (within the permissible limit) may help protect them from cyclones and heavy winds. 
  • If the estate has a vast vegetation cover, it is essential to clear fallen trees to avoid forest fires in places with hot summers. 

4.Bring modern life in 

Maintaining heritage homes and estates may be about preserving them, but we also need to ensure that they are liveable and don’t fall into disrepair due to not being used. It becomes an act of balance to achieve a happy marriage of the old and the new. 

  • You can start by upgrading the kitchen and the bathrooms as these areas see a lot of usage and foot traffic. Upgrading the appliances and the plumbing can go a long way in bringing modern life. 
  • Install modern entertainment appliances such as TV, Wi-Fi, telephones, etc. 
  • Upgrade the heating and cooling facilities to match the current climatic conditions and modern technology.
Dating back to the 1890’s, SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow is a heritage home in Coorg has everything that makes it an eco-friendly home

Before you set out to do any of this, consult the local governing body to understand what is permissible and an architect to help you match the theme of your heritage home.

If you have a well-maintained heritage home that you want to get more out of, have you considered luxury rentals for an elite few? It can help you keep the home active, while also sharing your heritage with the world. 

Wondering how to get the process in motion? Reach out to us at partner@saffronstays.com, and we will take it forward. 

Perfect 10/10 Must Watch Hollywood Movies For Your Sunday Family Jam

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After yet another happening week, it’s time to unwind and recharge but in #SaffronStaysSunday style. And what better way to do it than with an entertaining movie marathon with the fam! Laugh out loud to the comical scenes and bond over the heartfelt ones. 

Gather your family and pop that corn, here are our top 10 Hollywood movie recommendations that will make this Sunday a memorable one! Watch one or watch all, we leave that to you!

1. Honey, I Shrunk The Kids

What’s in a name? Well, everything! Centred around a quirky inventor whose entire life revolves around his imperfect shrinking machine, his family’s concern is certainly justified. Like we know, too much of anything can be hazardous right? But in this case, also hilarious. His children along with the neighbour’s kid accidentally get shrunk and what follows is a whirlwind of an adventure that you just shouldn’t miss.

Watch it here.

2. The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind

There is no greater power than knowledge. A heartwarming story based on real-life events of a young boy in a distant African village whose only passion in life is learning how to build or fix things. Watching his family suffer in poverty, barring all obstacles and fighting all odds, he uses his knowledge and skill to find his solution.

Watch it here.

3. Marley And Me

“A dog doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor, educated or illiterate, clever or dull. Give him your heart and he will give you his”. 

A middle-class family adopt a cute furry friend to gauge their readiness of having children. Like every family, they too have their ups and downs. If you are a pet lover (and even if not), we highly recommend this movie for a family watch.

Watch it here.

4. Maleficent

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned!

Young love is based only on feelings but the obstacles are yet to come. Between a man with an unending hunger for power and a powerful fairy who will protect her realm at all costs, Maleficent is full of twists and turns right up until the end. Does love triumph or evil? Watch this movie to find out!

Watch it here.

5. Sound Of Music

Based on an actual incident, this musical lore will forever be a classic. What initially starts as a broken bond between a father and his children, goes on to become the love story of a family. What bridges this gap you ask? Of course, the most powerful sound in the world- music! Togetherness, kindness and love can get you through everything, even war.

Watch it here.

6. Mrs. Doubtfire

With a rather simple yet sweet plot, this movie will take you on a journey of a ‘Family’. Starring the lovable Robin Williams, the story revolves around a man reeling from the aftermaths of his divorce, determined to succeed as a father. His hysterical transformation determined to achieve that goal of spending time with his loved ones will truly warm your heart.

Watch it here.

7. Jumanji

While everyone may not believe in magic-it is a treat to watch it happen. When you add a magical board game to this mix, it cooks up to be one rollercoaster of a movie! 2 siblings who stumble upon a jungle-themed magical board game, unwittingly release a man who has been trapped in there for 26 years. Follow this group on their adventure of finishing the game once and for all.

Watch it here.

8. We Bought A Zoo

A movie that teaches us to value family, accept circumstances and appreciate the people who love us- “We bought a zoo” is a family watch to lift up your spirits on a Sunday after a stressful week. Centred on the story of a father and his kids who are starting afresh by purchasing a house & the zoo next to it, this earnest and down-to-earth movie teaches you that 20 seconds of insane courage is all it takes to transform.

Watch it here.

9. Pursuit Of Happyness

Adapted from the memoir of Christopher Gardner, this is a true story of marriage, struggles and fatherhood. Preaching the motto, “Don’t let anybody ever tell you that you can’t do something”, follow a single father on his journey of rags to riches while taking care of his little 5-year old son.

Watch it here.

10. Interstellar

It’s the year 2067. Humans are struggling, dust storms threaten humanity and the earth is nearly uninhabitable. Amidst this, a group of astronauts set out on a mission to find a home in space. Travelling through a wormhole near Saturn, this sci-fi will take you on an unimaginable adventure that goes beyond all the “what-if’s” you could ever think of.

Watch it here.

At times, life can get monotonous and admittedly we all could do with a small escape from reality. We hope these movies can be that escape for you and your family.

If you are looking for more activities to enjoy at home, then here are some fun ideas;

You can catch up on some Bingeworthy Bollywood Movies, Childhood Games For Your Sunday Family Bonding or Instagram Reels To Try With Your Family At Home to have a good time!

10 Beloved Childhood Games For Your Sunday Family Bonding

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Doom scrolling on the phone, catching unending reruns of OTT shows and playing online games keeping you and the fam perpetually preoccupied in your own world? With all of us in the same boat and stuck at home, wouldn’t it be nice to do something exciting, fun and spend more time together the #SaffronStaysSunday’s way?

If you’re a 90’s kid, you’ll recall all the excitement, screaming and frolic that filled the home playing hide’n’seek with cousins, board games with dad and unending antakshari singing tunelessly (….yeah no one noticed then) to all kinds of Hindi and English songs. It gave us tons of time to spend other, and soooo many amazing memories we hold onto even now.

So while you’re stuck at home this Sunday, here are a few beloved childhood games you may have forgotten…..ones that were so addictive, exciting and nostalgic, that you may just want to relive and recreate them all over again with your little ones.

1. SCRABBLE

The word game which must still be lying somewhere in our parent’s home. Dig up that box, dust off the titles, pick your 7 letters and show off that gyan. We bet you the kids may just win this one!

2. JENGA

Build the tall tower, stack all the blocks and then watch it all precariously balance while the steadiest (non sweaty) hand removes them one by one. One of the easiest games that only the calm ones win.

3. CHESS

Taught when we were little to play it smartly, strategy and planning came together to give us some early wise lessons to apply for life. Best time to show the kids is when they are little no?

4. SNAKES & LADDERS

No matter how much you try, what side the dice rolls, all those sixes and climbing up, a big bad snake always lay in wait to gobble us up. Falling and picking ourselves up on the board, such a rollercoaster this game was!

5. NAME/ PLACE/ ANIMAL/ THING

Needing nothing more than a paper and pencil (and some juice & snacks on the side) all we had to do was scratch our brains for words that began with specific alphabets and put together unique ones at that!

6. MONOPOLY

Money and notes and buying all those homes & hotels, all with paper money. Didn’t having so much make you gloat and feel super rich if just for a while?

7. LUDO

Round and round this game went, between players 2 or 4. All of us running around the small ludo board to get our color to the center first. A fun game, that everyone played (some with a little cheating) as well!

8. UNO

Those colorful cards which would be the first to pop up during picnics and outings, card nights and cousins stayovers, lose all of them and UNO….you had fun & won!

9. DUMB CHARADES

No action, no talk but use all the signs and actions you could to get everyone guessing the right word. Remember the old hindi movie names we’d pick for this?

10. ANTAKSHARI

“Baithe baithe kya karein, karna hain kuch kaam. Shuru karein antakshari lekar prabhu ka naam”. Need we say more??

Whether you have only one favorite among these games or a bunch of them you absolutely love, tell us the one that you’ll play with your kids & get your Sunday game going!

Want to see more ideas on keeping yourself occupied on Sundays? Then check out these 7 wonderful #InstaReels to create with the family!