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Hindustan Times
25-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Where to holiday this summer? Dubai vs Bangkok
Planning a long weekend holiday? Both Bangkok and Dubai are great options - short flights, great shopping, delicious food and even cheap accommodation. Bangkok is visa-free, so you can decide now, book the ticket, fill the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and fly out. Dubai also has Visa on Arrival facility if you have a valid visa for the UK, the US, Canada, Australia (visa should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival), otherwise an E-Visa takes about 2-3 days to process. In Dubai, alcohol is served only in licensed establishments; in Bangkok, it is available everywhere. The Thai Baht is cheaper than the UAE Dirham. Dubai can be very hot in summer, Bangkok is always humid and rain in always unpredictable. Would you choose Bangkok or Dubai for a quick holiday? Check the essentials and decide which city suits your holiday needs better. Visa: Thailand is visa-free country for Indian nationals. Visa on Arrival facility; you can also apply for an E-Visa. With a Tourist visa you can stay for a maximum of 60 days. Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all visitors, regardless of their visa status, and needs to be applied online three days before the date of travel. Flights: There are several direct flight options from various Indian cities. Delhi-Bangkok return Economy flights cost around ₹18,000. Kolkata-Bangkok flights starts at around ₹15,000. Currency: Thai Baht (THB). 1 THB = 2.62 INR What to see/do: Lumphini Park. Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market (with 15,000 stalls, it's among the largest outdoor markets in the world), What Pho (houses the country's largest reclining Buddha, a 150-foot long sculpture), The Grand Palace. Shop in Chinatown. The Jim Thompson House. IconSiam (houses 7,000 brands, more than 100 restaurants). Benchakitti Park. Talat Noi Street Art. Wat Arun, an iconic Buddhist Temple. Pak Khlong Talat (24-hour flower market). What/where to eat: Soi Nana (Bangkok's best bar-hopping street). Manohra Dinner River Cruise. Street food at Rattanakosin (Old Town). Must eat Pad Thai, Thailand's 'national dish'. Fine dining at Gaggan Anand, Suhring, and Sorn. Mango & sticky rice at Ban Khun Mae and Eathai. Vegetarians/vegans head to Veganerie, Bonita Bonita Cafe & Social Club, and Sarvana Bhawan. Try Thai coffee. Must do: A day-trip to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand. Where to stay: Siam and Pratunam are in the heart of the city centre and very close to biggest shopping centres, including MBK, Siam Paragon, Platinium, Central World and Palladium. Museums, parks, shops and markets are in the Sukhumvit district and the Skytrain is very easily accessible. Silom area is lined with various bars, nightclubs, restaurants; if you like the buzz of the city, stay in Khao San Road (metro or Skytrain not available in this area, you'll have to take a bus, taxi or Tuktuk). Chinatown has affordable accommodation while the historic Rattanakosin area is for those interested in Buddhist temples. Tips: Bangkok's pavements can be dangerous. Watch out for uneven streets and sidewalks. Street food can be very spicy; if you are chilli-intolerant, ask before ordering. Smoking marijuana in public is not legal. Covered shoulders and knees is the general requirement to enter temples. Use the BTS and MRT as much as possible for transport. Be careful while crossing streets. Do not get into a taxi/tuktuk without meters. Do not speak against the monarchy or Buddhism. Do not wear dresses/tees with Buddha prints. If you have a Buddha tattoo, cover it. Do not step on Thai currency, it is illegal. Visa: Single entry visa is valid for 60 days from the date of issue and 14 or 30 days from the date of entry (depending on the type of visa applied for). The multiple entry 5-year tourist visa enables tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship and remain in the country for 90 days on each visit, and can be extended for further 90 days. For 5-year multiple entry visa, a bank balance of US$ 4,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies during the last six months is mandatory. Flights: There are several direct flight options from various Indian cities. Delhi-Dubai return Economy flights cost around ₹25,000. Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). 1 AED = 23.16 INR What to see/do: Standing 828metre high,Burj Khalifais the tallest building in the world, go to the observationdeck at levels 124 and 125 for an incredible view of the city. Take time out for the Dubai Fountain, one of theworld's largest choreographed fountaindisplays (check timings). Traditionalabraboatride at Dubai Creek. Walk around, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Shop at Dubai Mall. Go skydiving with Skydive Dubai. Walk the clear glass bridge walkway at Dubai Frame. Kite Beachis the perfect place for watersports lovers. City Walkoffers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options. Spend an afternoon at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. Museum of the Future. Where to eat Emirati food: Aseelah (Radisson Blu Hotel), Logma (Dubai Mall), Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) in Al Fahidi neighbourhood), Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe (do not miss their shorbat adas,a delicious and delicately-spiced lentil soup), Siraj (Souk Al Bahar), Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant (do not miss their Beid wa tomat (local-style scrambled eggs), dango (spiced chickpeas) and balaleet (sweetened vermicelli with egg)). Must do: A day trip to Hatta, a mountain town. Where to stay: Hotels in Downtown Dubai at the foot of Burj Khalifa are expensive; if you want to see traditional Dubai, stay in Deira and Bur Dubai, two neighbourhoods separated by Dubai Creek. If like the sea, choose Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim districts; JBR and Dubai Marina house almost all major international hotel chains (of the two, JBR is comparatively more expensive); Trade Centre district is a convenient option while Al Barsha is ideal for low-budget travellers. Tips: Public display of affection (PDA) is frowned upon. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted. It is illegal for unmarried couples to cohabit, even in hotel rooms. Alcohol is served in licensed establishments only and is prohibited in public areas. It is customary to offer a little extra payment in restaurants, but tipping certainly isn't compulsory. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women. Use or possession of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited. Check tax tags attached to the back of your sales receipts. For tax refunds, validate these tags when you leave Dubai.
News18
15-05-2025
- News18
Cancelled Tour Amid Boycott Call? Check Alternatives To Turkey & Azerbaijan Both In India & Abroad
Last Updated: Here are some of the domestic as well as international alternatives to Turkey and Azerbaijan amid boycott calls for both the countries for backing Pakistan. With the rising tensions between India and Pakistan, countries like Turkey and Azerbaijan have found themselves caught in the crossfire. The reason? Both nations have extended their support to Pakistan despite India presenting repeated evidence of its role in harbouring terror groups responsible for attacks on innocent civilians – the most recent being the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. This unwavering support hasn't gone unnoticed. Indian citizens have responded by calling for a complete boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan, including travel to these countries. Known for their rich culture, history, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering food, Turkey and Azerbaijan have often featured on travel bucket lists. But if you're rethinking your plans, you won't be missing out. There are several alternatives that not only match but surpass what these countries offer. From destinations within India to gems abroad, we've put together a list that might just inspire your next great escape. Alternatives Abroad Georgia Georgia is a fantastic destination with a rich history, a happening culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Its capital, Tbilisi, is like the best of both worlds as it is filled with old-world charm and modern attractions like cobblestone streets and fun cultural spots. The food here is a treat, especially dishes like khachapuri and khinkali. Besides Tbilisi, you can explore the coastal city of Batumi or hike through the stunning Caucasus Mountains. Greece Greece should definitely be on your travel list this year. The country has it all when it comes to stunning beaches, ancient history, delicious food, and fun experiences. You can explore the old streets of Athens, relax in the island vibes of Mykonos, or try tasty dishes like moussaka and dolmades. If you love adventure, go hiking, canyoning, rock climbing, or sailing. Vietnam Vietnam has always been a magnet for travellers looking for unforgettable adventures. From quiet beaches to coral reef diving, the country offers something for everyone. Sea lovers can relax at Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, An Bang, or My Khe Beach, while adventure seekers can trek up Fansipan, the highest peak known as the 'Roof of Indochina." If you're a history buff, don't miss sites like Hue, Hoi An, and Con Dao Island. Vietnam is also home to museums that tell stories from its rich past. Thailand Thailand is all about variety. You will find royal palaces and peaceful temples one moment, then colourful night markets and wild beach parties the next. And the food? It is honestly too good to miss. Pad Thai, coconut ice cream, mango sticky rice — the street food here is a treat. For shopping, head to the Chatuchak Weekend Market where you can find everything from clothes and antiques to books and ceramic. Alternatives In India Known as the 'City of Nawabs," Lucknow is famous for its Mughal and British Raj architecture and rich culture. The city is home to stunning monuments like the Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and the Residency. Lucknow is also known for its cultural richness, like classical music, Kathak dance, and poetry. When it comes to food, the city offers delicious Awadhi dishes such as kebabs, biryani,s and sweets. Hyderabad, Telangana This city is like a treasure chest filled with gems. While Turkey and Azerbaijan are known for their historical and cultural sites, Hyderabad holds its own with stunning landmarks like Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Mecca Masjid. As you explore these iconic spots, don't forget to indulge in the city's mouth-watering dishes like Hyderabadi biryani, kebabs, and mirchi ka salan. Udaipur, Rajasthan Udaipur is a city that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Known as the 'City of Lakes," it has stunning lakes, grand palaces, and rich culture. The City Palace is a must-see because of its standout intricate design that has a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. A boat ride on Lake Pichola offers views of the majestic palaces, especially during sunset. And of course, you can't leave without trying Udaipur's famous Dal Baati Churma along with other tasty dishes like Laal Maas and Gatte ki Sabji. Puducherry Puducherry is a beautiful place that is known for both French and Indian influences. It is often called the 'French Riviera of the East" because of its colonial architecture and unique culture. Apart from this, Puducherry is famous for its beautiful handicrafts like leather, woodcraft, pottery, and metalwork. If you are a beach lover, then there are some stunning beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, and even enjoy water sports. Hampi, Karnataka Hampi is famous for its ancient ruins, especially those from the Vijayanagara Empire. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful temples, palaces, and the famous Virupaksha Temple. Hampi is also home to the Vijaya Utsava, a unique festival filled with lights, colours, and music. During this festival, artists and musicians come together to showcase their talents. tags : turkey Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: May 15, 2025, 11:14 IST News lifestyle Cancelled Tour Amid Boycott Call? Check Alternatives To Turkey & Azerbaijan Both In India & Abroad
NDTV
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Style Capitals: World's Top 8 Cities For Street Style Fashion
Forget the high-end boutiques and fancy flagships. If you really want to tap into a city's fashion pulse, the streets are where the magic happens. Whether it's vintage denim in Tokyo, bold prints in Lagos, or one-off accessories in Buenos Aires, street style shopping gives you an unfiltered taste of local fashion — raw, edgy, and often a lot more fun than browsing department stores. These aren't your average shopping experiences; they're fast-paced, full of personality, and often the best place to score style finds that actually feel original. Here are nine cities where the pavements double as runways, and street stalls serve up trendsetting treasures. Here Are 8 Cities With The Best Street Style Fashion: 1. Taiwan Neighbourhood To Hit: Ximending, Taipei Taiwan's street style is an under-the-radar gem, and Taipei's Ximending district is its beating heart. Often dubbed the "Harajuku of Taipei", this pedestrian zone is packed with pop-up shops, vintage boutiques, and racks of indie streetwear labels. Look out for oversized tees, quirky accessories, and locally made pieces that blend East Asian aesthetics with a touch of punk and hip-hop edge. It's youthful, loud, and impossible to ignore. 2. Tokyo, Japan Neighbourhood To Hit: Harajuku Few places on earth do street fashion like Tokyo. Harajuku has been the epicentre of bold, youth-led style for decades, mixing kawaii culture with punk, high fashion, and everything in between. Walk Takeshita Street and you'll find stalls selling customised Converse, handmade jewellery, and statement jackets you won't find anywhere else. For more curated thrift, head to Shimokitazawa — a vintage goldmine. 3. Bangkok, Thailand Neighbourhood To Hit: Chatuchak Weekend Market Bangkok brings a vibrant mix of colour, comfort, and creativity to the street style scene. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is a shopping maze of over 15,000 stalls — including loads selling original clothing by Thai designers. Look for airy linen sets, tie-dye co-ords, and the kind of affordable fashion you'll live in all summer. 4. New York City, USA New York City. Photo: Unsplash Neighbourhood To Hit: SoHo New York's street style has global influence — equal parts effortless and experimental. While SoHo is known for boutiques, it's also a hotspot for sample sales and pop-up stalls selling one-off designer pieces and vintage Levi's. Williamsburg in Brooklyn also buzzes with second-hand stores and weekend street vendors. 5. Paris, France Neighbourhood To Hit: Le Marais The French may be famous for understated elegance, but Paris's street fashion isn't as conservative as you think. Le Marais is full of young designers and vintage outlets that make up the street shopping scene here. Think retro leather jackets, 90s denim, and perfectly oversized blazers. Rue de Bretagne has a few hidden gems you'll want to brag about. 6. Lagos, Nigeria Neighbourhood To Hit: Balogun Market Bold prints, fearless layering, and colour with a capital C — Lagos street style is impossible to ignore. Balogun Market is where local designers often source their fabrics, and where you can find custom-made looks for a fraction of what you'd pay in a boutique. It's a buzzing, chaotic, and utterly stylish shopping experience. 7. Buenos Aires, Argentina Neighbourhood To Hit: San Telmo In Buenos Aires, style leans boho with a South American twist. San Telmo is a haven for vintage fans, particularly during the Sunday market. Expect stalls selling hand-painted denim, leather belts, old band tees, and one-of-a-kind accessories made by local artisans. The fashion here feels personal, not polished — and that's its charm. 8. Seoul, South Korea Neighbourhood To Hit: Hongdae Korean fashion scene is fast-moving, experimental, and wildly influential. Street shopping in Seoul's Hongdae feels like diving into the heart of K-fashion — with plenty of crop tops, wide-leg trousers, and statement layering. You'll also find beauty stalls everywhere, so you can leave with both a new outfit and a glass-skin glow.
Emirates Woman
29-01-2025
- Emirates Woman
7 properties to book in Bangkok for the upcoming long weeken
There's something irresistible about the city that keeps bringing us back to it. Having visited almost 6 times last year, this Thai capital lures every type of traveller from around the world with its high-rise hotels, lush parks and hidden gems that emulates an element of newness every time we visit. From boasting rooftop infinity pools to delectable Michelin-starred menus, Bangkok is only a six-hour trip from Dubai, and with four direct flights per day from Dubai International Airport, it's a must-visit destination to visit, especially during long weekends. As a sprawling megacity, finding the right property to stay at can enhance your experience. With its unfathomable charm, we're sure to go back and explore all the hidden gems that the city has to offer. Shopping and Markets One of the world's largest outdoor markets Chatuchak Weekend Market offers everything from clothing to antiques. Asiatique The Riverfront is a night market with a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment along the river. Additionally, modern shopping malls offering a variety of international and local brands. Dining and Nightlife Places like Sky Bar at Lebua or Vertigo and Moon Bar offer panoramic views of the city. Tourists can explore local street food at areas like Yaowarat (Chinatown) or Sukhumvit Soi 38. Finally, enjoy a meal on the Chao Phraya River while taking in the illuminated city skyline. Cultural Experiences Learn how to cook traditional Thai dishes with hands-on classes. All the fitness lovers can watch a live Muay Thai match at famous arenas like Rajadamnern Stadium. For a more traditional journey, experience cultural performances at venues like the Thailand Cultural Centre. Outdoor Activities Lumphini Park is green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a relaxing stroll or paddle boating. While boat tours on Chao Phraya River explores the city from the water with various boat tours. Take a day trip to Ayutthaya where you can explore the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, just a short drive from Bangkok. Museums and Galleries Bangkok National Museum offers an in-depth look at Thai history and art. The Jim Thompson House is a museum dedicated to the American businessman who helped revive the Thai silk industry. Finally, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC): A contemporary arts center showcasing local and international art. Additionally, Thailand has now introduced a visa waiver for Indian tourists granting a 30-day visa-free stay for leisure purposes to individuals holding Indian passports or travel documents, making it an easy destination to visit especially for families. So, depending on the kind of experience you're looking to have, here we've listed some of the best hotels to stay in Bangkok. Waldorf Astoria, Bangkok Located in the heart of the city, this expansive property is only a few minutes walking distance from the centre. Centrally controlled by an iPad, everything can be easily adjusted with a push of a button. guests can enjoy abundant light through floor-to-ceiling windows, a fully stocked minibar, a marble spa bathroom with a soaking tub and twin vanities for a comfortable experience. The 25-meter heated pool comes with a fantastic view of the city including the golf course. Guests can enjoy pool service, fresh fruit, and refreshing cold towels and can even relax on a lounger, in a private cabana. The interior's Carrara marble, soaring ceilings, rich woods, and bronze accents bring cool comfort to the Thailand's bustling capital. With a blend of art nouveau and art deco design, guests can channel 1930s New York glamour. The Loft is a must visit as its undeniable aesthetic, this Prices for the rooms start at Dhs1,722. For more information visit Anantara Siam The property offers discerning travellers a luxurious retreat to enjoy life's finer pleasures and engage in soulful, original journeys. Guests can relish elegant simplicity and natural luxury, with traditional Thai architecture, hand painted silk ceilings, a grand lobby and glorious gardens creating a feeling of serene exclusivity in the midst of a bustling city. Feel enriched by experiences with Anantara's gurus, who impart their knowledge through genuine passion and expert flair, connecting you with the full breadth of unique resort experiences. Bangkok's best shopping and Lumpini Park is located 2 minutes away. To begin the vacation on an energetic note, guests can also start with an IV drip at VIVID by Verita Health and then go on to indulge at the hotel's luxurious restaurants which include Café Wolseley, Guilty and more. Prices start at Dhs508 per night. For more information visit The Peninsula, Bangkok The urban retreat resort perfectly mixes timeless elegance and sophistication with comfort and technology. Its distinctive wave-shaped design affords each of the 370 rooms and suites stunning views over the historic Chao Phraya River. The hotel's gracious Thai hospitality and well-known cuisine make every stay here a truly uplifting experience. Guests can select from a menu of indulgent massages and facials or request that one of The Spa's highly trained therapists create a bespoke treatment tailor-made to suit your specific needs for a truly wholesome and enlightening experience. Resplendent in lush greenery and flowers in the heart of the hotel, in time-honoured tradition, The Peninsula's renowned signature Afternoon Tea is served in The Lobby, accompanied by live music. Located in the centre, guests can avail of the complimentary boat by the riverside that takes them to and from the Siam Paragon shopping mall. Prices for the room start at Dhs1,289. For more information visit Banyan Tree This five-star, all-suite hotel in Bangkok's Sathorn/Silom district offers a sleek executive lounge for business travelers complemented by a sumptuous spa for vacationers. Featuring a spectacular rooftop bar with 360-degree views of Bangkok for everyone. With some of the largest rooms in Bangkok, guests can reside in this cityscape retreat with its clean and minimalist design that comes with spacious bathrooms with rainfall showers, deep soaking tubs, double vanities, and Japanese-style toilets. Overall, prices start at Dhs614 per night. For more information visit COMO Metropolitan Bangkok The sleek, minimalist design of Como creates a vibe more akin to a posh modern-art gallery than a typical hotel. 'The Met Bangkok' is a contemporary luxury hotel in Sathorn's Central Business District, minutes from the shopping, nightlife and must-see Bangkok sights. For city insiders, our penthouse suites, COMO Shambhala Urban Escape, and destination restaurant are lures in their own right. Prices for the room start from Dhs514. For more information visit Mandarin Oriental The driveway doubles as a garden, and you enter to a teak-and-marble atrium room with birdcage chandeliers and plush rugs. Located in Bang Rak, the hotel is ideal for shopping, transportation, and river activities like dinner cruises and longtail boat rides. For more than 147 years, travellers have followed the Chao Phraya River to stay at the legendary Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. A luxury five-star hotel in one of the world's most exciting cities. This iconic hotel has reopened the River Wing following the largest renovation in our 147-year history. This stunning transformation has further enhanced the accommodations and facilities in our iconic hotel, while maintaining our classic, Thai-influenced elegance and unique resort style. Prices start at Dhs1,671 per room, per night. For more information visit Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok For all the shopaholics, this property is located in the heart of the city with direct access to Siam Center, Siam Discovery and Siam Paragon. This tranquil sanctuary in the heart of Bangkok offering the ultimate European luxury experience with warm Thai touches. Known for its numerous restaurants and bars, guests can dine at Rotunda, 1897 Lounge, Sra Bua By Kiin Kiin, ALATi and more. For a midday break, the wellness sanctuary and spa. Prices for the rooms begin from Dhs907. For more information visit – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Instagram @waldorfastoriabangkok
