Latest news with #SDNandakumar
Time of India
03-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
#WorldBicycleDay: Slow & immersive: Plan a pedal-powered adventure
Whether you're cruising past vineyard-draped valleys in Europe or navigating spice-scented streets in India, cycling opens up a deeper connection with a place. Driven by sustainable tourism and the desire for unique travel experiences, cycling tourism is growing in demand. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Here's how you can curate one for yourself. 'SLOW, IMMERSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE' Cycling holidays offer a unique and immersive way to experience a destination. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, of a travel company says, 'We've seen a growing interest in cycling-based travel from both individuals and small groups seeking more active and eco-conscious itineraries.' Adds SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, of a travel company, 'Our data indicates that the average age of our customers has dropped by approx. 10 years, and the growth of this younger segment is not restricted to metros but emerges from tier 2-3 cities.' Top international destinations: AMSTERDAM: With over 500 km of dedicated cycle lanes, seamless bike rental systems, and canalside paths, Amsterdam offers a dreamlike urban cycling experience. KYOTO: Kyoto's flat terrain, respectful traffic, and compact layout make it a joy to explore by bicycle. Ride past bamboo groves in Arashiyama, ancient shrines in Gion, and riverside paths during the cherry blossom season. LOIRE VALLEY: The 'Loire à Vélo' route spans 900 km of gentle terrain along the Loire River, passing through fairy-tale castles, vineyards, and sleepy French villages. OTHER POPULAR TRAILS: Denmark's scenic landscapes, Belgium's historic towns, Switzerland's mountain circuits, and Austria's alpine trails. 'Spain's Camino de Santiago, South Korea's scenic riverside paths, and Singapore's urban cycling trails are gaining momentum among Indian cyclists looking for adventure abroad,' adds Rajeev Kale. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Top Indian destinations : Coorg's coffee plantations Munnar's rolling tea gardens Leh-Ladakh's dramatic mountain passes Goa's coastal routes Puducherry's beach and nature trails Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh Kaas Plateau in Maharashtra Mechuka Valley in Arunachal Pradesh Velhe-Panshet near Pune Majuli Island in Assam Valparai's hilly trails in Tamil Nadu Wayanad in Kerala Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh Tips to plan it right: Choose the right bike: For rugged terrains like Ladakh, opt for a sturdy mountain bike. For urban smoother trails or city rides, hybrids or touring bikes offer comfort and efficiency . Plan your route with some buffer time: Don't underestimate the distance or overestimate your stamina. Leave room for detours, downtime, and weather surprises. Pack smart, light: Focus on essentials — weather-appropriate clothing, a basic repair kit, hydration gear, and a reliable power bank . Adhere to local laws and etiquette: Knowing and following local cycling rules is non-negotiable. Understand hand signals, helmet requirements, and lane usage specific to each region. Look for accommodations that welcome cyclists: Look for bike-friendly stays with secure parking, washing areas, and flexible meal timings to match your riding schedule – Inputs by Hari Ganapathy, co-founder of an online travel company
News18
29-04-2025
- News18
This Mother's Day, Gift Memories: Experiential Travel Takes Center Stage
Last Updated: In an age when the greatest luxury is quality time, Mother's Day travel represents a powerful new language of gratitude: one that blends relaxation. In an era where meaning outweighs material, the way we celebrate special occasions like Mother's Day is undergoing a thoughtful transformation. Indian consumers are increasingly moving beyond traditional gifts to embrace experiences—especially travel—as the ultimate expression of love, gratitude, and togetherness. 'Indian consumers are increasingly choosing to celebrate special occasions like Mother's Day through experiences rather than traditional gifts," says Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. 'Travel offers the perfect solution—to express appreciation for mothers while offering the dual benefit of rejuvenation and quality me-time." The shift is clear: families are seeking not just destinations, but soulful experiences that allow them to reconnect and recharge. Tranquil, wellness-focused domestic getaways are topping wishlists this year, with the serene backwaters of Kerala, the peaceful retreats of Kumarakom, the lush landscapes of Wayanad, and the coastal calm of South Goa and Pondicherry seeing strong demand. For those yearning for cooler climates, the misty hills of Himachal, Uttarakhand, Munnar, and Coonoor offer a refreshing escape. This evolving mindset around gifting is also reflected in broader industry trends. 'The approach to gifting on occasions such as Mother's Day is undergoing a transformation, with a strong preference emerging for meaningful, experience-led celebrations," shares SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel. 'Travel is increasingly being viewed as a thoughtful and contemporary gift that fosters wellness and togetherness." He notes a rising interest in curated stays that add deeper layers to the travel experience—think plantation bungalows in Coorg, heritage villas in Darjeeling, and nature-focused resorts that offer immersive, sensory connections with the environment. The focus is on slow, soulful travel rather than the traditional tick-box sightseeing tours. Meanwhile, Nandakumar observes that destinations like Bali, known for its wellness retreats, the Maldives with its exclusive island resorts, and Abu Dhabi's harmonious blend of luxury and culture, are highly sought after for those looking to elevate their celebrations with a touch of global elegance. More than just vacations, these journeys are becoming heartfelt gifts—a way to express love beyond words, to bond over new experiences, and to create memories that last a lifetime. In an age when the greatest luxury is quality time, Mother's Day travel represents a powerful new language of gratitude: one that blends relaxation, discovery, and the simple joy of being together. First Published: April 29, 2025, 07:57 IST
