Five Tips For First Time Traveler To India

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 3, 2019

Are you planning for your next tour or Agra? Agra, the abode of love, is not only a historical place but also it is proud to have the 7th wonder of the world. Most of the people who have visited this place will tell you that it leaves you with the most memorable moments in life.   Visiting the place is not confined to see the Taj Mahal because there are lots more to experience. You just have to plan for your time well so that you can get the most from your Agra visit. If you are not careful, you may not even see 50% of what the region has to offer because it has too much.    The city has its own aura which is significantly outstanding. Agra holds its heritage intensely and its one of the things you will enjoy while interacting with the locals. The architecture and culture of the place had spectated and narrates tales of long driven history.   Time has made a significant mark which made the place exceptional for people who love tourism, archaeology, food etc. This article will share with you some of the must-visit places while touring Agra. You will discover that going to this destination is one of the best decisions that you can make in life.   Places to Visit in Agra:  As mentioned above, Agra is not the place to visit Taj Mahal alone. There are a lot of other attractions to visit and things to do. It is definitely not a one night stop place. You have to give yourself a few days if you want to get the best that the region has to offer to the visitors.   It is a whole individual tourist destination with a high degree of exploration. Coordinating with the local tour operators in Agra will help you to enjoy the city’s true spirit. The most important thing is to get the best experience while touring Agra.   It will be a good way to get the most value for your time and money. You don’t want to undertake a trip that will be a waste of your money and other valuable resources. Here are some of the top places and things to do in Agra;   1. Taj Mahal The monument that stands for true love is surely Taj. It is one of the most-visited places in Agra because of its natural beauty. Taj Mahal was built in 1653 by Shah Jahan. He constructed it in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. The building houses the tomb of not only her but also the emperor himself.   The structure is constructed using white marbles, gems, crystals and many more. These are some of the most valuable construction materials in the world. The mausoleum is surrounded by huge, well paved, maintained and eye-pleasing garden. It is a destination that is quite pleasing to the eyes.   River Yamuna flowing beside it definitely add the toppings of a memorandum of everlasting romance. You will get to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere that comes as a result of the presence of the river. It is a site that is truly pleasing to the eyes.   UNESCO has credited it as World Heritage Site in 1983. It shows you the true value that the Taj Mahal has to offer to the visitors. You cannot expect such accreditation for a destination that is not worth it.    The masterpiece truly is the jewel of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India’s rich history. You should not forget to include this on your tour list if you want to get the best that the region has to offer to the visitors.   2. Agra Fort Agra Fort is another UNESCO credited World Heritage Site. If you come across anyone who has visited Agra, he will tell you that it is one of the must-visit places. Agra was the capital city of Mughal India till 1638.   The fort was the residence of the then emperors. It is a good place if you want to get a glimpse of the history of Agra. Stepping into this building will give you some of the best experiences that you can get from a tour.   The fort had gained its glory due to renovation through the reigns of Akbar and Shah Jahan. The fort is more likely described as the walled city. The red sandstone fort has interesting aspects all make Agra Fort a pleasant site to visit.   There are lots of fascinating rooms, pearl mosque, gem mosque, peacock throne, bathing bowl, a room of mirrors etc. All these are some of the beautiful sceneries you will get to view while visiting Fort Agra. Don’t deny yourself a chance of getting to this place while on your Agra tour.   3. Fatehpur Sikri  The city tells the tale of Akbar’s architectural finesse. This town, predominantly made of red sandstone, was once the capital of Emperor Akbar.   For tourists, the place has forts and mahals that can make you feel amazed. Due to the scarcity of water, the city was abandoned.   Despite lack of water, the city holds its rich architecture and heritage that is ought to be applauded.  4. Tomb Of Itimad-Ud-Daulah  The mausoleum is a definite place to visit. The tomb is the exclusive piece of Mughal architecture but it holds a significant difference. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best inclusions while on your tour to Agra. You cannot tell history well when you have this site excluded from your travel list.   It is much different from the period of Humayun’s and Akbar’s Mughal architectural type. Built by Noor Jahan, wife of Jahangir, the structure is very similar to Taj Mahal and is often referred to as Baby Taj. It carries a lot of value when you are on an Agra tour.   River Yamuna flows near the mausoleum adding more natural beauty to it.  Though most of the inlay works are damaged due to environmental factors, Fatehpur Sikri is famous for the marble lattice screen. Therefore, it is good to include it on your tour list if you want to get the best experience from Agra.   5. City Shopping  Agra will never disappoint you by simply showing you places.  It has some of the most amazing tourist attraction sites that have so much to do. You can spend an entire day hopping to various shops in the city streets.   From food, clothing, footwears, jewelleries, bags to carpets and what not the city holds for its guests. Tourists get mesmerised by seeing the fine products available at such minimal rates. It means that you will have so much to take back home as long as you carry some cash.   For people who loves food, Agra will provide you the richest cuisines made by excellent quality spices and other ingredients. The city shopping gives you a great opportunity to carry some amazing gifts to your loved ones. Make sure you have a shopping budget lest you get the disappointments of having nothing to carry back home.   6. Tips For Taj Mahal Visit  Trip in India is pretty incomplete without visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal. It must contain in your itinerary. It is one of the places that you must visit while heading to India.   This international wonder structure is spectated by millions of visitors every year. Here are some tips that you must keep in mind to make the most of your trip.  Get some brief idea regarding the place by reading a lot about the destination. It will give you a rough idea regarding what to see and explore in Taj Mahal. It is not good to visit Taj Mahal without prior knowledge about what the region has to offer.   The place opens at 6AM for the visitors. Enter through the east gate to watch and feel the purity of true love when the sun rays kisses the marble stones of the mausoleum. There is so much that is pleasing to the eyes in this destination.   There are different entry gates. The nationals shall pay Rs. 20 per person and foreigners shall pay Rs. 750 per person. However, Taj Mahal will give you the value for your money.   Make sure your tummy is full during your visit to the place. Nobody is allowed to bring snacks or food inside the campus.  The place is no doubt always beautiful at any season. But, for your convenience, it is better to choose winters as Agra gets hotter in summers. It will give you a conducive environment of touring the region.   West side of Taj Mahal can create interesting photo frames. Be patient to take some really great snaps as Taj is always crowded with visitors. Plan enough time to visit this area so that you are not in a hurry to leave.   Lastly, you must go for a full moon night tour in Taj Mahal. It was constructed with pristine translucent marbles. When you are inside Taj you can actually see the shimmer of the moonlight due to the marbles. It is one of the best experiences on your Agra tour.   Agra is one of a kind place. Visiting and exploring it will definitely make a lifetime experience. Plan a memorable tour of the place for an enchanting life moment. We wish you have a happening tour to not only Agra but Taj Mahal too.   To get the best from your Agra tour, get a reputable tour and travel agency to take you through the trip. You will not miss even a single opportunity from what you travel has to offer.  Read Also: 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations in India The Best Tips to Travel Around the World

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 10, 2021

The tourism scenario in India is getting better. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has published the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) for 2024. It has achieved the 39th spot among 119 countries, advancing 15 spots from 2021.  India is a land that has diverse cultures and traditions and is home to several races. The region is a paradise to travelers because it abounds with green hills, lakes, snow-peaked mountains, lagoons, backwaters, and palm-fringed beaches, not leaving behind the palaces and forts, among other historical monuments. There is absolutely no shortage of luxury hotels in India, be it ultra-chic or classy or heritage properties. Guests are pampered with the finest of hospitality at these lavish establishments.  You can find these properties in abundance in central and chief urban cities and metropolitan areas, cultural hubs, and other IT centers and industrial regions of the country. Here is the list of ten top hotels in India. Top 10 Hotels in India: Luxury hotels in India have the best modern-world amenities and a touch of Indian tradition. Further, many heritage properties are transformed into luxury hotels and resorts, and they tell tales of the past. Here, we are to be your entourage in finding the most luxurious experiences in Indian hotels. 1. The Imperial The magnificent hotel has been there since 1931.it is home and housing to the valuable, priceless, and treasured collection of artwork and art collection. The hotel also houses a swimming pool, meeting facilities, a fitness center, banquet, and award-winning restaurants.it has 229 guest rooms that are well furnished, spacious, decorated, and comfortable with spectacular, panoramic, great views, vistas, and breath-taking monuments. It is just a few steps from the new Delphi famous shopping center and major attractions. Thus, it ranked among the best and top hotels in India. “While in India, one must visit the Taj Mahal and stay at The Imperial.”  The Spice Route restaurant and the Patiala Peg bar are at the heart of the gastronomic delight offered by The Imperial. Moreover, staying at this luxurious hotel will make you agree with what Elite Traveler says. “The Imperial remains a majestic building fulfilling its preordained purpose as Delhi’s preeminent luxury hotel.” 2. Taj Lake Palace It is among the top luxurious, renowned, and deluxe hotels that serve up a fantastic experience with that magic touch of Indian hospitality and tradition. It is located in the middle of Lake Pichola and contains first-class and first-rate amenities and facilities with readily available services to offer. More so, it has other features such as dining, boutique, business center, and hub, a pool, swimming pool, conference houses among others. Its eighty-one guest rooms are well decorated and furnished, stylishly classy, and chic with the old world classic styles and designs that make them comfier. With all these features it offers the best perfect, excellent, great break and noteworthy experience. Glitz And Glamor At Taj Lake Palace The Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur has always been associated with the world of movies and glamor. It was the shooting destination for the 1983 James Bond Movie Octopussy. Also, the Bollywood cult movie Mera Saaya was filmed at this destination. Further, the Taj Lake Palace has been the venue for many celebrity weddings. Recently, in September 2023, Raghav Chadha and Parineeti Chopra took the hospitality of the Taj Lake Palace for their wedding. Other celebrity couples to tie the knot at the Taj Lake Palace are Raveena Tandon and Anil Thadani (2004), Lee Elton and Arunoday Singh (2016) and Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmini Sahay (2017).  3. Ananda Resort The resort is mainly highly praised for its 24,000 sq. Ft. sanatorium which offers an all-embracing set menu of over 79 body and splendor dealings combining traditional Ayurveda therapies with present-day Horse opera bath practices. Also, at the backdrop of the resort is the Peaceful river that meanders the lush and graceful Sal forests, these create a scenery so tranquil and therapeutic. It lies in the foothills of the Himalayas close to the calming cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh 4. Wild Flower Hall, Shimla https://www.instagram.com/p/C_k2blHNIP0/ It was the former residence of Lord Kitchener before being converted into a grand deluxe resort.it is also huddled comfortably in the foothills of the Himalayan range. The hotel offers many facilities such as a variety of sports for adventure lovers, holistic treatments in spas based on Ayurveda, western traditions, and oriental. Also, it has original artwork to recreate the splendor of the bygone era, wooden paneling, and folkloric furnishings. The eye-catching scenery makes this hotel most treasured. 5. The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur https://www.instagram.com/p/C_S1WGcyCjD/ The hotel transports you into the era of India's legendary Rajputs. The property is no less than a fortress with a beautiful grand structural design and luxurious holiday home, beautiful gardens, fountains, pools, and private verandah.it offers incredible seventy-one luxury rooms, private pools, and large four-poster beds and sunken marble baths, and private courtyards that provide a sense of harmony and peace. Other than lavish housing, the hotel also offers local activities such as elephant ride, exploration expeditions of forts, festivals, bazaars, and palaces to provide you the best preview of this famous rosy city. 6. Rambagh Palace a TAJ Hotel It is located in the cultural hub of Jaipur and has been playing host to sovereigns and the best.it is a classy build, and it’s splendidly traditional. The hotel's many first-class conveniences include a handful of fine restaurants, a business center, an outdoor and indoor pool, 90 guest rooms, and suites, all of which treat its patrons like royals, with good-looking cores and comfy amenities 7. The Oberoi Amarvilas https://www.instagram.com/p/C7JnCfHN-zl/?hl=en The first-class hotel is delightfully impressive and comfy with hints of old-style décor and 105 comfortable guest rooms and suites. The terrace gardens offer a mesmerizing view of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Together with a perfect mix of Moorish and Moghul architectural features, the hotel brings back the Mughal era feel. More so, this hotel offers meeting facilities, fine on-site dining, in a house, on location, gourmet dining, and epicurean food, fitness facilities, renowned, world-class, and first-rate spa. 8. Maurya Sheraton, New Delhi https://www.instagram.com/p/C7MO7QqrvXi/ The hotel is located at a very convenient distance from the Delhi International Airport as well as the city's principal shopping district giving it a head-on advantage. It has 440 rooms, including nearly 30 delightfully deliberate suites that are available in a bunch of categories. The hotel is particularly renowned for its unique catering services. The hotel is proficient at organizing a variety of events, from state dinners for world leaders to commercial gala dinners. 9. The Taj Mahal, Mumbai It is one of the top hotels in India due to its central location. It lies at the gateway of India’s financial hub and closes to the business districts. Also, the hotel has up to 565 rooms including 46 suites that are very decorated and attractive. The Taj Mahal hotel is sea facing and has one of Mumbai’s iconic landmarks that are a center of attraction. Some of the hotel's business services include fully networked computers, translation and interpretation services, and secretarial services. The Taj Mahal, Mumbai is an important destination for dark tourism in India today. In 2008, the hotel endured a terrorist attack from 26th to 29th November.  So, along with being a luxurious accommodation, The Taj Mahal, Mumbai, is also a reminder of the fight against terrorism and attacks on humanity. 10. Leela Kempinski, Goa It's a deluxe five-star property that lies in an area over 75 acres is known for its wonderful construction style. It is mainly best for those who desire to pamper their senses with lavish comfort. This hotel is blown up with lush landscaped gardens and glittering lagoons. A state of the art business center, and a rejuvenating spa to take care of all your business endeavors and indulge your nerves respectively.  Also, it has a total of 185 suites and rooms that are well furnished with different kinds of amenities.  That makes it the most discerning and favorite among visitors. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: Who is the richest hotel owner in India? A: Vikas Oberoi is one of the top among the 100 richest people in India, having a net worth of 2 billion, which makes him the richest hotelier in the world. He owns Westin Hotel in Mumbai and is about to open the first Ritz Carlton in Mumbai.  Q2: What are the greatest hotel in India? A: There are plenty of great hotels all over India such as  Umaid Bhavan Palace Jodhpur. The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai.  Ananda In The Himalayas.  Taj Lake Palace In Udaipur. Q3: Do hotels make good money? A: A hotel Owner makes 40,000 to 60,000 dollars per year. By calculating we have estimated that hotel owners can make upto 49,000 dollars to 74,000 dollars per year.  Conclusion All the hotels stated above are among the top hotels in India, and their rates vary from each other. However, being a wise Internet user, you will always be interested in knowing the best possible deals. This will allow you to get discounts and cashback. Read Also: The Easy Way To Travel In India Best Places For River Rafting In India 10 Best Places For Honeymoon In India 10 Travel Tips For Singles Who Want To Journey Solo This Valentine’s Day

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 28, 2022

Nowadays, coffee has become one of the prominent necessities for people of India and abroad. If you are an Indian and love drinking coffee, this article can be a fun read. Here you can learn about the five best coffee shops in the country. Consider trying out a few of them in 2022. Nevertheless, for now, you can go through the history of coffee in India. Well, if you are a coffee lover, these facts would inspire you more to visit the top cafes and taste a cup. Have a read: Coffee In India: A Classic History The introduction of coffee in India dates back to the late seventeenth century. According to the lore, Baba Budan, a Mecca pilgrim from India, bought seven coffee beans from Yemen. However, it was a smuggle as taking coffee beans out of Yemen was forbidden. This Indian Sufi planted the seeds somewhere in the hills of Chikmagalur in Karnataka during the 1670s. So, that is how coffee farming started and developed in India. Even today, the best coffee found in the country is from the plateau hills of the Deccan. Top Five Coffee Shops Of India In this part of the article, you can go through the facts of the top five coffee shops in India. However, do not expect to have instant coffee in any of these. All these cafes serve coffee from the best-processed beans. Even real coffee takes much time to get ready. So, do not consider any of these cafes similar to the “local coffee shops near me” and have patience while placing the order. Remember that the top cafes do not serve instant coffee. Instead, they consider it as a part of the culture. Have a look: 1. Mocha Art Cafe Location: Kochi, Kerela Things to Try: French Press, Chocolaty Mochas The Mocha Art Cafe can top your search results as you look for coffee shops near me, from Kochi. It has a diverse menu and carries a little bit of that history, too. Amazingly, Baba Budan smuggled some coffee from the Mocha city of Yemen. So, many coffee shops have ‘Mocha’ common in their names. The best things to try at the Mocha Art Cafe in Kochi are French Press, Chocolaty Mochas, and Classic Espresso. Expect to get unique coffee recipes in Mocha Art Cafe under the types above. This cafe uses the classic brewing technique, and you can enjoy the marvelous smell of roasted coffee beans everywhere. So, next time you are in Kochi, do not forget to spend some time at the Mocha Art Cafe. Lastly, about the location, Mocha Art Cafe is located in a Jewish Quarter that can give you an old and classic feel. Tripadvisor Review: "Came here for lunch. Situated upstairs just along from the synagogue, in a bright covered courtyard. It was empty the day we were there but got busier. The area was quite hot (being enclosed) but the fans helped to create some air movement/cooling. It was good to have some “Western” food for a change - the pineapple pancake and the toasted cheese and tomato sandwich were both very good as were the lassis. Good place for lunch." -SDSydney693 2. G-Shot Coffee Roastery And Cafe Location: Assagao, Goa Things to Try: Vietnamese Coffee, Espressos If you are a dedicated coffee lover and visit Goa, do not forget to sip a cup at the G-Shot Coffee Roastery and Cafe. Expect to find the cafe easily as it has proximity to the Vagator and Anjuna. All you have to do is search for the coffee shops nearby from the aforesaid beaches. The best part about the G-Shot Coffee Roastery and Cafe is its menu. It is pretty outstanding that the makers here use only single-origin beans. Moreover, the menu contains coffee types like cold brews. Espressos and Vietnamese Coffee. Yet another best thing about the G-Shot Coffee Roastery and Cafe is that it provides the customers with a chance to rejuvenate listening to music and meditating. Really, this is unique among all coffee shops. Tripadvisor Review: "G Shot, you have my heart. The coffee served over there is excellent. The owners source their coffee directly from farmers all over India ensuring that they get excellent coffee beans and that the farmers get to enjoy the benefits too. We had their Mocha, Iced Latte and Macchiato. The mocha has a nice nutty flavor without being overtly sweet. We also bought a packet of their home-made granola which was again excellent. Will definitely recommend!" - Krittika M 3. Third Wave Coffee Roasters Location: Bangalore, Karnataka Things to Try: Latte, Espresso The Third Wave Coffee Roasters is another top-notch cafe based in Bangalore. This is one of the best places to try coffee in India due to many reasons. Apart from its diversified menu, the Third Wave Coffee Roasters ensures that the beans are from individual farms. Moreover, you can get light-roasted coffee that brings out the best flavors. The Third Wave Coffee is a movement that aims to enhance the love for coffee among drinkers. Some roasters have turned the movement into a cafe, and you get coffee heaven when in Bangalore. Tripadvisor Review: "I have visited Third Wave Coffee at Margosa Road, MalleshwaramI have visted during day time morning 9:00 am to 12:00 non range.Both the times the crowd was less and i enjoyed the feel of less crowd.Its 25 seater capacity and ambiance is very good.It has small parking space for 2 wheeler and car.Staff was warm and cordial.Menu for Tea and coffee is sufficient for chit chat and gossip.Rest Room is there. Covid rules were followed.Wheel chair access is possible with the help of support as its in ground floor.Can chill out with Family and friends." - GangaShankar74 4. United Coffee House Location: Connaught Place, Delhi Things to Try: Instant Coffee, Latte, Espresso The fourth entry in the list of best coffee shops in India is the United Coffee House. It is located in Connaught Place and is a buzz among the coffee enthusiasts of Delhi. It is a 75-year-old organization and can still hold its craze after generations. The most unique thing about United Coffee House is its blend. It comes from the best beans from Colombia and India. Moreover, the experienced brewers in the UCH execute their work to give you the perfect taste. Tripadvisor Review: "For an exceptional dining venture, United Coffee House Rewind is the top recommendation. It’s the epitome of a place to share moments with friends and family. The vibes are incredibly positive, enhancing the overall mood. The staff’s attentiveness and warmth create a welcoming environment. And the food, coupled with their refreshing drinks, forms a delectable combination that’s hard to match." - Vidur S 5. Brahmin’s Coffee Bar Location: Bangalore, Karnataka Things to Try: Instant Black Coffee and Instant Milk Coffee The history of Brahmin’s Coffee Bar in Bangalore is no less than a fairy tale. As most Bangaloreans are coffee fanatics, this has always been their favorite coffee joint since the 1960s. This is the place where you can get the best quality instant coffee and some Espresso recipes. Moreover, the Brahmin’s Coffee Bar is also known for the baked cookies that they serve with the coffee. So, when you visit the ‘Garden City of India’ next time, do not forget to visit this place for a hot cup of coffee. Tripadvisor Review: "We come back to this place every time we visit Bengaluru finding time for it. Normally it is breakfast or afternoon snacks. There was even a time we used to take parcel home to eaten same day.They serve excellent mouth melting idlis and topped with their vadas. They continue to my favourites and a dish of 3 idlis and 2 vadas really made my day topped with strong coffee.Same traditional outlet. You stand and eat or sip coffee. No parking available so tend to be too far to park." - NayantSavani Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. What Are The Most Popular Coffee Shops? As people mostly search for new coffee shops for me, they know about the shops like Starbucks, Cafe Du Monde, and Cafe Coffee Day.  Q2. What Is Hot In Kolkata Cafe? Some of the prominent coffee shops in Kolkata are- the Kookie Jar Cafe, Blue Mug, Calcutta 64, etc. Q3.  What Is In A Coffee Shop? In the leading coffee shops, you get a lot of coffee recipes like Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte. You can also find ice-coffee, cold drinks, and baked products in a coffee shop.  Q4. What Is The Difference Between A Cafe And A Coffee Shop? Although both the terms have now turned unanimous, cafes and coffee shops have a slight difference. In cafes, you can get food and beverages, but coffee shops are more into serving only tea and coffee in India.  Final Take Away The coffee culture in India is quite old, and you can get one or the other cafe/coffee shop in every city. While most people in the country believe that the coffee came with Europeans, it was bought by a Sufi. If you love drinking coffee, try to consume the instant ones less. Instead, you can order the roasted beans. Well, these cafes can be the right places for you to visit if you desire to have excellent coffee. Read Also: The Speciality Of Barnaby’s Cafe – Reviews, Special Menu, And Price 90 Miles Cuban Cafe – Reviews, Special Menu, And Price Nordstrom Cafe – Reviews, Special Menu, And Price