prices

hi all going to calangute soon with 2 weeks with my wife.

how much spending money should we take to livbe like kings and do lots of trips

prices

Hi,

My father in law has been going for the past 11 years and he says its impossible to spend your money there. We are going 6th of april with them and there three of us and we are taking about £1500 for the two weeks but hoping to bring some back hope this helps you.

Marie.

prices

Hi, last year we took just over a grand and spent £840 for the two of us B %26amp; B in a fortnight. This included loads and I mean loads of shopping, taxis to and from town day and night, lunch, dinner and enough alcohol to sink a battle ship and a couple of trips.

Meerkat

when you say %26#39;loads of shopping%26#39;, don%26#39;t you mean a suitcase full of sandals? LOL

On our last visit (Feb 08) for 3 weeks, we didn%26#39;t do any trips but we ate out every lunch %26amp; dinner and I bought: Olay Anti wrinkle cream x 3, designer high heel sandals , Himalaya foot cream x 9, Mulberry handbag, Prada handbag, opal %26amp; diamond ring, diamond ring, Pashmina x 6.

We took £1600 %26amp; brought £600 back.

Prettypollycat - well a gal can%26#39;t have too many shoes now can she?! I didn%26#39;t even mention the four %26#39;designer%26#39; handbags and five watches before either :)

Meerkat

do you ever buy sandals from Bombay Bazaar in Panjim?

I have small feet (UK 2, 35 EU) and their size 5 seems to fit me OK.

I%26#39;ve bought some really lovely diamonte ones from there, although last time I was a bit more restrained than usual. Only one pair? I can%26#39;t believe it!

We%26#39;re really missing our visits to Candolim this season.

Dear PrettyPollyCat I am going to Panji thic coming Monday to see a dentist. Is the BombayBazaar easy to find, or will I be easier to use a taxi my dentist is quite central? Cheers.

Lisa

Bombay Bazaar is (I think) on 18th June Road, which is one of the biggest.

It%26#39;s a large shop that you%26#39;d find hard to miss.

Shoes are upstairs.

They have some costume jewellery downstairs that I usually look at too.

The shop assistants can be a bit hassling.

Years ago in there, I had 3 assistants all bringing me sandals to try on.

I%26#39;d chosen one pair, then found another pair I liked so they were taking the first pair away until I said %26#39;No! I want those too!';.

I think the concept that people would buy more than one pair was quite strange for them but they%26#39;re probably used to it now (especially if Meerkat%26#39;s been in. LOL).

so you and yer man like ah small refreshment meerkat next year we will have ah battle of britain competition and i think the couple from the north will win handsdown so bottoms up cheers jon n eileen

wont need that much unless u by our drinks all week

Hi there... we are just back and we spent £700 in a 2 week stay, we did not scrimp on anything, this includes shopping, Taxis,Trips, Hotel charges (safe) eat and drunk like Kings and went to some of the more expensive restaurents as well.

Cheers

Martin

Visa by post - How long does it take?(B'ham Office)

Could anyone tell me how long to expect to wait for my Visa? The passport application and payment I did online, and then sent it to the Birmingham office - Now the website says that it will take at least 10 working days - and I leave 27th March!I%26#39;m getting a little anxious - Or if anyone has a phone number for chasing up passports next week if it hasn%26#39;t come - that would be great. Many thanks.

Visa by post - How long does it take?(B'ham Office)

i applied in January and got it within a week. I understand that this time of year gets busier. They seem terribly bureaucratic to me and chasing probably wont help much. I would have faith that it will be here in plenty of time. Good luck!

Visa by post - How long does it take?(B'ham Office)

many thanks for replying - I%26#39;ll keep my fingers crossed

Keep an eye on this thread:-

tripadvisor.in/ShowTopic-g311295-i10148-k262鈥?/a>

Regards

Paul

Happy Children%26#39;s Home - Helper

hi

i did my visa on line then booked the appointment and was there in 2 days after which i was asked to go back 5 days later to collect

you can track on line when you have the name of the person whose passport it is ( last name only ) then their D O B and their passport number

thats all you need to put in to the companys web site and you can track how long its gonna be

molly

Thanks everyone who wrote to me - passport with Visa turned up last Thursday - not sent to the address I requested (and paid for) it to be, but, Hey, at least it%26#39;s arrived safely. I just find it incredibly frustrating that it now is so much more complicated to get an Indian visa, takes much more time, and is more expensive than it used to be...

glad u r sorted Kitti. Enjoy!

Beware of ';SREE HANUMAN TRAVELS, Gandhi Nagar, Bangalore';

Beware of package tour operators in Bangalore. They offer tour packages to Banglaore, Mysore, Ooty, Kodai etc and guarantee you good car with a driver and good 3 star hotels. However you receive none..The packages are grossly overpriced and their profit margins are 40%, which is a real rip off. The cars are in bad shape and the drivers drive really rash on the roads and constantly ask for money under every pretext. They guarantee you 3 star hotels and you receive a ';NO STAR HOTEL';..Really sorry state of affairs. One example of such a tour operator is:

';SREE HANUMAN TRAVELS'; in ';Gandhi Nagar';, which is run by a guy called Mr. Anjappa. He says he is affliated to the ';Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation'; (KSTDC) government agency, when in reality he is not.

Sorry to say that even the KSTDC is not empowered to reprimand such tour operators and your only recourse is to suck it up or go to the authorities. It is better to go to Cochin and take packages from there instead of Bangalore.

Beware of ';SREE HANUMAN TRAVELS, Gandhi Nagar, Bangalore';

You may write to KSTDC checking the website info from the search engine, that is a better way to complain.

Beware of ';SREE HANUMAN TRAVELS, Gandhi Nagar, Bangalore';

Already done that SreeRamdas...the KSTDC only attracts tourists for their $$ but does not help to protect them from such scams.

Sree Hanuman Travels Rip-Off:

Recently i booked a 2 day tour package to kodaikanal by paying 6500rs but the service offered by those people is worst. They promise star hotel accomodation but they gave us in a budget hotel. I paid for 2 days stay in the hotel but they asked us to vacate the room the next day morning 10am for sight-seeing as we have to leave that day night. Even i told them about my early check out and they promised me to pay the refund while retuning to bangalore but after i consulted the office the guy in the phone told that he never told that refund will be received. No honest. They sent us in a ordinary government bus returning to bangalore which stopped at BMTC and we have to afford the auto charges back to hotel. Overall, Sree Hanuman Travels and Raja Travels together joined hands to ruin people. Beware of such travel packages. The worst service i have even seen.

Mac Tailors Nizmar

Could anyboby let me know Macs web address or email.I would be very grateful for this so that I can pre order my sons trouses and shirts as hes over 2meters tall.Thank you.

Mac Tailors Nizmar

Hi Fozie

Macs email is

mac_tailors@yahoo.com

Phone numbers..

0091 832 228 2731 (shop)

0091 98 221 25756 (mob)

Regards

T%26amp;J

Mac Tailors Nizmar

Hi Badgerlad,

Thanks for the info. Will be there a week on Friday - can%26#39;t wait.

Fozie2

Your welcome Fozie

Off in 6 hours....

woo-hoo

eye look

Goodbye all....

Well I%26#39;m off tomorrow.....

Yipeeeeeee!!

Thankyou to everyone who has offered advice, answered questions or just generally entertained on here over the past few months. I feel well prepared for a fab holiday, thanks to you all.

Looking forward to THE bash next week and to meeting up with Badgerlad,Meerkat %26amp; Charity...and their better halfs...

Not looking forward to posting my report..(cause that means I will be back home...sob!)

Bye.....

Susieque.x

Goodbye all....

Susie, take very good care of yourself and have a lovely holiday.

Sheila

Goodbye all....

Have a great trip :-))

Have a gudun sue ime sure your in good company with B-M and C.

David

Hi Susie, Hope you have a wonderful time. Enjoy!!

Leigh

Happy Holiday, Suze

Thankyou all..

Have a great time. Maybe bump into you!!

Take care

Iain

Have a brilliant holiday susie and enjoy the party.

Enjoy Susie,

I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll have a fantastic time!

It really will be quiet on here for the next couple of weeks now! lol

Have a safe journey and enjoy the BASH :-))

Linda

See you soon Suze

Have a safe flight and great hol.

TOM353 Thursday April 2nd Manchester

Any other TA members on this flight?

Booked it ages and ages ago, can%26#39;t quite believe that its just next week now!!

TOM353 Thursday April 2nd Manchester

We are also on that flight. Booked over a year ago. Just hope there are no delays in Gatwick.

Not long now!!!!!

TOM353 Thursday April 2nd Manchester

us too

we r going for 3 weeks

hope its still as good as we rememeber as we havent been for 9 years

we fell out of love with it but decided to go back for old times sake and see it again

where is everyone staying ??

Staying at the Marinha Dourada in Arpora. Second time for us as we went last Easter.

Not sure about the stop-over in Gatwick as I hate the landing bit!

we are at silver sands candolim

i always liked the look of the marinha dourada

gatwick a pain isnt it when we booked we didnt know or might have considered sat night flight

how was your weather last year

know we are end of season is it very sticky n humid

We are at the Ronil in Baga.We were there last year at Easter and just missed the huge storm . The road was flooded for a couple of days.It was hot and humid so we chilled and took things at a slow pace with lots of drinks stops. We stay ed at the Nizmar four years but they went AI and we didnt want that otherwise we wouldnt have changed but find the Ronil very good and the food great.Looking to try a different time of year next year but the prices are way up, also considering Marinha Dourada but not sure about always needing taxis would love to hear what you think. Lets hope we all get to Goa in time for breakfast.10 more sleeps!!!!!

We landed on Good Friday last year just in time for three days of rain with sunny spells! Not a great start but we soon forgot about it when the blue skies were there all day!

It was really hot and humid but as we spent most of our time on the beaches, there was always a nice breeze present.

As far as taxis go at the MD, yeh it was a cost attached but that was more than made up for by the peace and location. It is truly beautiful! There is a free bus between the hotel and Baga from 9am to 6pm

Hotels in Navsari

Can anyone recommend a hotel in Navsari ? Please can you provide phone numbers if you can of the hotels.

Many thanks

Rash

Hotels in Navsari

Dear Mr.Rashomon,

At Navsari following Two Hotels will provide good Customer Satisfaction,

Hotel Arunoday(Nr. Railway Station) Tel No: 245175; 255605.

Hotel Supreme (Nr.Grid) Tel.No.236429;237888.

Hotels in Navsari

Are these the best hotels in Navsari? Searching the internet there doesn%26#39;t seem to be any ones that are good - any ideas in terms of rating 2 star / 3 star? Phone / fax numbers would be appreciated.

Many Thanks,

Jay

Hi,

I will do the same and I found more hotels in Navsari

on internet,saved the addresses,but my Pc was damaged.

When I find the site I will mail you.

Gabi

I would suggest you stay in Surat and go to Navsari to attend your business ( unless you Absolutely want to stay in navsari).

Surat is around 30 Kms away and the road is quite scenic. You get a good choice of hotels in surat.

You can commute by a hired car / trains / bus

Hi Kasturi,

a good idea,30 km is not far away and I like scenic

roads.

Gabi

Hay friend there is newly hotel have started in Navsari its Hotel Royal Regency.

it is a nice and luxurious hotel in town

for more details you can log on: www.regencynavsari.com

Pushkar or not?

Hi,

My girlfriend and i are travelling by car with driver through Rajistan. We are travelling from Jaipur to Jodpur. We plan to break the trip up with a stop in Puskar but are unsure as to whether to stay the night there or not?

Is Pushkar worth spending a night? If so any hotel recomendations?

Thanks Nic

Best place for family

We are coming for next Christmas to Kerala area. We are family of 2 adults and 2 teens. We have been before in Varkala and liked it a lot. We don%26#39;t want to go to Kovalam because it is so crowded. Can anybody suggest any new place? We would like to sea and hotel with pool. We have stayed in Hindustan Beach resort, but it has got a lot of critism in tripadvisor. Can anyone suggest any other hotel with pool and AC in Varkala? We would like to stay in one suite or big room (I don%26#39;t want to put my children in different room)or is there any 2 bedroom apartments?

possible to see tigers in a day from delhi

hi

ill be staying in delhi for two days. one day ill be spending going to see the taj mahal, the other day i really would like to spend seeing some tigers

is there anyway i can go and see some tigers on a day tour if im based in delhi?

many thanks for your help

eye look

pls. don't stay at Naldehra Chalets waste your money

i along with my friend stayed at naldehra chalet this weekend i.e 13 n 14th dec 2008.the stay was pathetic.even for a dvd player they charge the guest extra n everything the guests asks for the hotel staff says';sir ye chargeable hai';(its chargeable).we asked for a dvd player n before saying yes they said ';sir chargeable hai n rs150/night';.the quetion is not the money its the mentality.the person who is paying rs18000 for 2 nights wudnt care for rs150 but that sounds reduculous.we wanted to use the steam room.even for that they charge rs 600.for bonfire rs 600.i mean everything.i gave them a suggestion that make the pakage for 20000 but dont just keep on asking for money like a beggar.well the cruz is i would never ever recomend anyone to stay in this hotel.guyz pls dnt waste your money.there r better options available around.

pls. don't stay at Naldehra Chalets waste your money

Sorry to hear you didn%26#39;t like it. I stayed at Chalets Naldhera and really enjoyed it. They had good food, and it was really a very pretty place. I have photos here:

鈥logspot.com/2008/鈥oliday-in-shivaliks.html

pls. don't stay at Naldehra Chalets waste your money

Rohit, i completely agree with you. Chalet is pathetic, it is a sheer waste of money. It is class less, tasteless, loos are dingy and horrible, rooms are most uncomfortable!!!!!

i guess the owner can visit thwe span resort manali and take some sugesstion from there as to how a luxury boutique hill resort shld be!!!!

i would nvr recommend the chalet.

hi

we have almost decided to spent 2 nts during our honeymoon at the chalets. can you recommend any other nice place around? thanks!

Out of curiosity, where is it located, in relation to the Naldehra Golf Club?

hi,

in shimla you may stay at the radisson, or if you can go a little up onyour budget i strongly recommend Oberoi WildFlower Hall- Mashobra.

gjo, naldhera chalets it%26#39;s right there, at the golf club.

Deepa

Is the Chalet the HPTDC cottages right next to the NGC Club House? We parked our cab a little furthur down at the lower end HPTDC hotel and had breakfast, since the NGC parking area was a bit tricky for a car to get to.

Chalets Naldhera is 300 metres up from the golf course.

looking to book for next xmas new year....looking expensive

Hi All....

looking to book ( just for 2 weeks ) next christmas and new year. l am finding extortionate prices. Just wondered if anyone else had booked yet and how much u have paid ? Cheers Sereta p. s only stay in Candolim near beach road

looking to book for next xmas new year....looking expensive

Not booked yet for Xmas, I agree it is expensive this year going to leave it for a while yet

looking to book for next xmas new year....looking expensive

Booked flight about 6 weeks ago. Saw a great deal on Travelrepublic - my discounted bank travel agency service bettered it (and throws in lounge voucher at the outbound airport). Paying less than £480 flight only on 19 December from LGW, only 15K baggage allowance. Could have paid an extra £50 for additional 5k allowance %26amp; inflight meals. Will buy quality picnic at M %26amp; S Simply Food (just before you go through security) - sushi, salad %26amp; big fruit salad for outbound flight, cheaper and better than inflight option. WIll get less fancy picnic on the way back.

Last year%26#39;s Xmas flight booked in August cost just short of a grand. There were a few flight only deals around on Jewel in the Crown%26#39;s website about mid-November, but not as cheap as this Xmas%26#39;s early booking bargain.

Will think about accommodation in about October or November - the Thomas Cook website is quite good for scraping up a bargain for accommodation only. Will also attempt a bit of haggling when there at Easter.

Also, if you see accommodation on Jewel in the Crown or Thomas Cook etc , don%26#39;t be shy about emailing that accommodation directly to see if they%26#39;ll match or better the price on a direct booking (remember that the website will be paying less to the hotelier so you may be doing a favour by going direct!)

We booked flight only with Southall Travel about a month ago. 10th Dec to 3rd Jan with Kingfisher (via Mumbai)for £435 return each. I%26#39;ve been in touch with a few hotels in Candolim and they%26#39;re looking for anything between £20-£40 a night for a double room with air-con but I%26#39;m going to hang on till nearer the time and try to haggle before booking!

The cheapest package I could find for the same 3 weeks was something ridiculous like £1400 each in a 2* B%26amp;B!

Thanks for that.....

Think l will hang on for a while. Christmas 2009 had 3 weeks ( including Xmas day but NOT new years day ) £800 each. Cheapest package l have found is £1300 each for 2 weeks departing 20th December ! Oh what to do ! !

Hi Londonraffles1

l have just checked out travelrepublic. flying with Thomas Cook 19th December £1802 and that doesnt include inflight meals. Sereta

Well, Sereta, didn%26#39;t I get myself a right bargain?! Especially as I paid so much more for last year%26#39;s flight.

Keep looking - the tour operators alter their prices all the time - have that credit card ready to go straight in for the kill when you see a better price.

Look at Southall Travel%26#39;s website - they have 2 weeks flight only from London Heathrow on Jet Airways on 19 Dec for £729 each (we have booked with Suthall on Kingfisher at Easter - got flights for £450 each about 6 weeks ago).

I booked my holiday through Thomson%26#39;s, Jewel in the Crown.Going 19th December - 3rd January,B%26amp;B,in Anjuna, insurance included for £4606 from Manchester.

1 adult 3 kids (16,10,8yrs)no discount for kids. Specifically wanted to go to Anjuna. First time going to Goa, so don%26#39;t know if i have been done with this package deal...plz let me know if i have!!!

I have learnt so much about Goa through this site i wanna go NOW!!!!

Hi Christmas period has and always will be an expensive time. Have you ever thought about %26#39;doing it yourself%26#39;? Some people think that this can work out more expensive but bear this in mind - many of the hotels in India charge PER ROOM and not per person. All brochures charge per person so you end up paying up to twice, and sometimes more, as much as if you walked into the hotel and booked there and then.

I found this out on my 1st every visit to India which was the only time I did a packaged deal. If I had %26#39;done it myself%26#39; I could have saved over £100.

My return flight this time, with Emirates, cost me £316 return. I always start checking the flight prices 6 months in advance and set myself a %26#39;cut off point%26#39; (the lowes I will risk it getting before it COULD increase) and then book.

Regards

Paul

Happy Children%26#39;s Home - Helper

You can choose one more option for cheaper flight tickets, you should book your flight London –Mumbai -London and then Mumbai -Goa –Mumbai, I am sure your both tickets will be less then 530£, and in between you can visit Mumbai also.

For hotel price you should wait for few months and try to buy package to India based tour operator because India based tour operator is always cheaper compare then UK based tour operator.

'OLD timer' just packing to go....

Off back into paradise tomorrow....;-)

Just got my suitcase down and putting my extensive wardrobe into it......couple of t shirts, shorts couple pairs of jeans...and me flip flops.....all done..

Now the moosis can use up the rest of the 50 odd kg that are left....

For those that fly today and over the next few days have a safe flight....

Look forward to %26#39;chatting%26#39; with you all on our return....

Thanks for all the advice you%26#39;ve given me when its been asked for....

Sorry to all the people i%26#39;ve wound up (unintentionally of course ;-)).

A the famous visa queen says....WOO-HOO..

Bye...........

'OLD timer' just packing to go....

have a lovely time badger wish it was me,have a few kingfishers for me.

'OLD timer' just packing to go....

Cheers Chelseadingle.....i%26#39;ll have a few for you but it%26#39;ll be Kings im afraid.....

Badgerlad

Have a fantastic time, we%26#39;ll have a couple of drinkie poos on you BIG birthday! :-))

Look forward to hearing all about it!

Just think, not too long until you join the rest of them on that beach, just thinking of it makes me feel relaxed :-))

Take care

Linda

Have a fab holiday, Badgerlad - I%26#39;m sure you will.

We%26#39;ve really missed not going to Goa this season, I%26#39;ve been really jealous reading about everyones impending departures and their trip reports when they get back.

have a great trip, look forward to hearing all about it :-)

Thanks for all your good wishes.....

Case all packed......

Not long now.......

Hi have a great time i have got post holiday depression,been back 2 weeks .

Have a great time Badgerlad.Have a couple of Kings for me. Oh yes -HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!. Enjoy x

Badge, Really hope you and your family have a lovely time, Happy birthday to you and mummy. Give our regards to the ladies, and tell them we are missing them already.

Safe journey, look forward to the reports on your return.

Have a lovely holiday.

hotels in agra

How long does it take to get by road from Delhi to Agra, and how safe/ expensive is a one night stay ay a reasonable hotel for a family of 4 in Agra?

UK

hotels in agra

it takes 4 hours to 5 hours from delhi to agra it very much depends at what time you start from delhi as early morning there are few cars on the road so time is less.

there are different categories of hotel in agra . range starts from 500 rupees app. and than different star category hotels. first decide what level of comfort you want .

deepak guide

Where to stay for one night in Kochi?

We will be spending one night in Kochi after a trip to the Lakshadweeps before our longhaul flight home. We would like something comfortable, the Brunton Boatyard or Taj Malabar have been mentioned, any recommendations? We would like somewhere that will allow us to walk to the main tourist sites in Kochi and a nice view of the fishing nets would be good.

Thanks

Tony

Where to stay for one night in Kochi?

not stayed there yet but got a good deal at Brunton for April. Reviews say its well located overlooking the fishing nets. Apparently the best rooms are on the second floor as far away from the boat terminal as possible

Where to stay for one night in Kochi?

Go for Brunton Boatyard-ask for room at swimming pool end. It is away from possible early morning noise at ferry terminal.

Don%26#39;t let this comment put you off-great hotel,just insider advice.

You could try the Malabar House Hotel in Fort Kochi. Our Friends just got Married there and There was nothing the staff would not do to help them out.

You will be with in walking area of the Chinese fishing nets and the Main shopping streets and jewish Quarters.

I was looking in to going to the Ladshadweeps too but unfortunately the timing was not right this time around.. Please tell me what you though of the islands after your trip..

The Old Harbour Hotel is right by the fishing nets and ideal for old Kochi. It only has a small number of rooms though so may be difficult to book. You should be able to get a tuk-tuk driver to provide a hald day tour covering the Dutch Palace, Laundry, Spice Factory, Ginger warehouse, Hindu Temple, Jain Temple.

Hiring Driver from Agra

Myself and my girlfriend are travelling to India in a few weeks. We think hiring a driver may provide us with more flexibility while there. Ideally would look to hire a driver from Agra and travel over 7-8 days to Jaisalmer. Does anyonme have any ideas how much this may cost and also any recomendations on who to contact? Does this seem like a sensible idea? Any feedback welcome.

Hiring Driver from Agra

Driving itineraries are quite popular in Rajasthan. One typical sequence would be Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer.

Hiring Driver from Agra

Yes ! Agra is fully geared up for tourists and you%26#39;ll find excellent tour operators there, however, bargain hard, you will be dealing with seasoned people.

Agra-Fatehpur Sikri-Bharatpur-Jaipur-Jodhpur-Jaisalmer is a classic itinerary.

From Bahartpur you may take a detour to to Deeg, a city with a very beautiful palace masive walls.

While going to Jaipur from Agra, do visit Abhaneri, you will come across an ancient stepwell.

If you like you may visit exorcism temple (very popular with Indians) on the way.

Happy Journey !

Hi, I am unable to understand weather you need a taxi or you are coming here with your own vehicle and just need a driver to help you go around .

deepak

Hi, thanks for the replies. We are looking to hire a car and driver in Agra for the 7 days we will travel onwards to Jaisalmer.

Hi, there are lot of tour operator in Agra, so you can contact any one of them for hiring a car with driver, please have a look on this thread you can will get many contact about car with driver by many TA experts tripadvisor.com/鈥?6472117 Have a nice trip to Taj

Hi drnic1976

When you are in Agra you can contact travel desk of your hotel you are staying in and here i give contact details of one of the tour operator in Agra with app. 90 cars of different categories. Hope you will get the reply .

deepak

Contact Name Sunil C.Gupta

Contact Phone No. + 91- 0562- 2331118, 2330230, 2330245

Contact Fax No. + 91- 0562- 2330206, 2331219

Contact Email. travelbureau@vsnl.com

URL http://www.travelbureauagra.com/

eye look

excursions in south goa- arrosim beach

Can anyone advise me of the type of excursions available in south goa- we are staying at the Heritage Village club on arrosim beach and are looking to venture out locally. We do not intend to book with our tour operator Thomas Cook as from previous experience they are more expensive but are unsure having never visited goa before. If anyone has information / prices / websites on excursions we would be most grateful.

excursions in south goa- arrosim beach

The Hotel do trips, as do the local taxi%26#39;s.

The price list for the taxi%26#39;s are on a board by the

rank (just outside the front gate) and on the

notice board near reception in the hotel. If you

get a decent taxi driver, you can re-book him

for the rest of your outings. Speak to Sophia

(Guest relations)at the hotel about the trips they

do. We%26#39;ve just got back. It%26#39;s nice and hot.

There are various trips, but it depends on what

you like. History,Nature,Sightseeing etc. Enjoy.

Goa In May

i am looking to go to Goa in may but have read its borderline/close to the monsoon season, what is the weather like around this time? also are alot of huts/places still open? it will be middle of may staying for 2 weeks..

hoping to just rock up and get accomodation there and then, is this poss at this time? would love to go to abit of the north, south and then down to kerala.

any advice would be great!

thanks

Goa In May

May will be hot and very humid and the closer to June you get the more rain showers you will get. A lot of the shacks will have closed. The sea will be very rough making it far to unsafe for swimming.

I noticed more was open in May down in Palolem, South Goa then the North.

Goa In May

thanks berkshire, last year went to thailand around the same time and altho very hot and humid it was still sunny and manageable, is goa on par with this or more extreme..?

if i go end of the year is september too soon? not sure when the peak season starts, but basically i would like to go just before it gets too busy and enjoy the peace but with the bars,shacks etc open and sunshine all day to enjoy!

I was in Goa from November 2007 through to September 2008 so tbh the heat was never unbearable to me as I had become accustomed to it, I didn%26#39;t even have a/c although my landlord offered to fit a unit!

Most days in May were sunny and it was only the last few days that the showers started to roll in but you can%26#39;t tell when it%26#39;ll happen. I%26#39;ve heard that Goa isn%26#39;t as bad as Thailand at this time of year though!

September things are very quiet and a lot more sun as it is the time the monsoon becomes just showers. I found it to be one of the best. It was peaceful, the sun come out between showers bringing out all the colours and you can see some cracking closing thunderstorms! So you will get sunshine but there%26#39;s no telling when %26amp; of course everything is very green and lush.

October/November are quiet months before it gets too busy and the weather will be more reliable than the preceeding 4 months!

What is it you want to do in Goa? Explore the churches and temples? Chill out on the beaches? Party all day %26amp; night? all of them or some of them?

berkshire1987

I didn%26#39;t read the last part of your post. So in that case I%26#39;d say around October/November or April.

October is the hottest month in Goa, evenings as well.

am off there on the 8th may from lhr

When does the ';season'; actually end?

Hi All

Please excuse my ignorance here, but can you please advise me when the holiday season actually ends in Goa?

I have booked for a week (before my visa runs out) on 20th April, I know it will be quiet, and fairly warm, but will things still be open?

Many thanks

Tony

When does the ';season'; actually end?

hi tony you should be ok as season ends at the end of april,not long to go before you,ll be relaxing in sunny goa enjoy

When does the ';season'; actually end?

I am so jealous, I wish I were going to Goa this season, but unfortunately I am going to have to wait until the start of the next.

We went in November, and due to the low costs currently, it was a bit of a no brainer to squeeze another week in before our 6 month visas ran out!!

Can%26#39;t wait

Tony

Well done Tony

You should have no problems most places stay open until the last charter flight has left unless trade is really bad but even then some places wait to see if the local trade is going to be any good.

Have a good one

looking for welsh terry

Hi terry its paul, husband of the very white jackie,(scots couple) we met you at the oceanic shack again this year.

Can you tell me where you stayed as we want to book up for next year.

Or if anyone else knows of anywhere in baga area thats nice, looking for 2 bedroomed apartment ideally.

Flights to Shimla

Cannot get details of flights/airline that fly from Delhi to Shimla airport.

We are planning to travel in May.

Agents/Hotels say they can arrange flights/transfers but I would like to see details of timings/aircraft etc before booking.

Can someone out there help please?

Booking a guide and driver

I will be staying at the Hans Plaza at 15 Barakhamba Road in New Delhi for several days the end of this month.

Should I book a car, driver and guide thru the hotel or should I do this with the tourist bureau on Janpath in Delhi?

If I book thru the hotel should I do this before arriving in New Delhi?

thanks

Booking a guide and driver

If you decide to do it from your hotel and then you can do it any time.

Thre are very good city %26amp; outstation packages offered by www.megacabs.com in N Delhi.

Cars are mid size Sedans, have AC and GPS and the rrates are Rs. 15 per KMs (different rates for packages).

There are several taxi opeartors in Connaught Place and you may get a good deal from them also.

However, for Guides you%26#39;ll have to approach the Tourist Office at Janpath.

Booking a guide and driver

Hi there,

I will recommend Centre tour and Travels located in Connaught place, Much reliable travel agent with excellent english speaking drivers, We have used their service few months ago.

Anna

Ups I forget the address:

Centre tour and travels (MR NAZ)

N 9/1 Middle circle connaught place

New Delhi

tel: 23723226

41523450

it is not so importent to book before coming to new delhi you can also book when you arrive well i was stay in delhi and i know this driver he is very good speaking english like brithish and he is also guide some place you should contect also him one time

his name is ABDUL SATTAR DANGOLA

his number is 0091-9891272758

email:dangolas2000@yahoo.co.in

thanks

saima

Hi, I visited delhi and stayed at the Hans Plaza late february early March.

I spent so long trying to book a driver as there are so many rogues out there, I finally went for

Dara Singh

Email: darasinghin@yahoo.com

Mobile: +91.98.18.60.97.83 or +91.98.29.46.18.85

Web: http://www.realrajasthantours.com

he was amazing, an absolute gentleman 100% reliable, never late once and also very reasonable.

I will be writing a full report but I would certainly recomend him and would be happy for you to message me through tripadvisor.

Dara%26#39;s written English isn%26#39;t gresat but his spoken is.

He really made our trip to incredible india!

Delhi based Namaste India Tours has good reviews on this foorum. they can help you arrange driver/car and guide.

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g297665-i4566-k151…

cheers

guidedesert

try http://www.godelhi.net

they haave good sightseeing tours of delhi

We used www.carrentaldelhi.com They were excellent. Bobby answered all our emails promptly and gave lots of useful information. Rajender, our driver picked us up from Delhi airport and was with us for 6 days, going on to Jaipur and Agra. He was polite and spoke very good English, a safe driver and the car was always clean. One point worth mentioning was that we didn%26#39;t pay anything up front.

eye look

choice between hotel peterhoff and hotel holiday home

planning to travel with wife and kids to shimla. can anyone details the pros and cons of these 2 hptdc resorts - hotel peterhoff and hotel holiday home

Good places to eat in Arpora

Hi

Will be staying in Arpora for a week May end. Any suggestions of placing to eat? Emphasis should be on good food, ambience is secondary.

Thank you in advance for all suggestions.

Good places to eat in Arpora

you can easily found ones you will be there ,

Good places to eat in Arpora

Hello Primamd

These restaurants / shacks have all been recommended on Tripadvisor before. Hope this helps.

Allspice - Arpora

Aubergine - Arpora

Starlight – Arpora

Saffron Court – Arpora

Nick’s Place –Arpora

Honey Bar – Arpora

most of the places mentioned are very good in arpora - aubergine is the new one (down by the football pitch) and the tandoori chicken tikka there is fantastic! Allspice is the most established and you may have to wait for a table there as its very popular - worth the wait tho.

In my opinion, All Spice was the worst meal we had in the whole fortnight. Maybe we just caught them on a bad night but all four of us who had different meals, didn%26#39;t rate it at all. We went there because of the recommendations on here originally.

Can definately recommend Aubergine too.

Beautifully clean, friendly efficiant staff, and great food.

Was a lovely atmosphere there too, the place was just the right size and almost full with diners.

I was there last year and had a fantastic seafood platter starter, then a red snapper in garlic butter that was really nice.

Also got to meet a young footballer who used to work there but now plays professionally for Goa, he was absolutely charming, and still pops to the Aubergine to see his mates and grab some food.

Sorry i cant remember his name but he was a local hero as you can imagine!

Was a great night had there.

Many thanks to all of you for your responses and suggestions.

Looking forward to trying them all out!

Thanks again...

we went to honey bar whist in arpora and must say it was the worst meal we had all the time in Goa. service was terrible just thrown on the table food cold and part cooked the peppered steak that one of the party ordered was a piece of wafer thin meat with brown hp or daddies on the top dont waste a night or the money and go back to the all spice you pass it on the way to get to the honey bar

We stay in Arpora and whislt I agree with some of the above, I would also suggest you venture into Calangute. One place well worth visiting is East Meets West. The food and setting is fantastic.

Hi HalifaxHuggy. Sorry to hear that you had a bad experience in Honey%26#39;s. We ate there several times in Feb 09 and had no probs. The service was good and the food was (IMHO) very good. We only ate curry dishes there, maybe they are not so good at steaks etc.

I must agree on all spice we ate there twice and found it lovely. also auberge was really nice. I would recommed east meets west in baga though its really nice.

hard to get a visa from uk: fact or fiction?

hi

i went to the travel agents yesterday, long story short they went into some detail about how laborious and troublesome it is to get a visa from the uk

that i have to supply references etc.

Is this true? is it that difficult? or was she trying to scare me into booking my hotel through them and then pay them to sort out my visa?

many thanks if you can help :)

hard to get a visa from uk: fact or fiction?

Its not difficult at all and it is now ran by an outsourced agency, no references needed, just visit this website

http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk/

Happy travels

hard to get a visa from uk: fact or fiction?

Meerkat is the visa expert on the Goa forum, check out her thread here, its very comprehensive. Send for them in plenty of time just in case they are returned for a silly reason. Scroll down a couple of posts for her detailed report.

tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g297604-i9241-k2鈥?/p>

Towels at the Silver Sands

Hi,

Does anyone know if we need to take our own towels for the beach ? We are staying at the Silver Sands.

Towels at the Silver Sands

You will be provided towels at all decent Shacks on the Candolim Beach. Some shacks may charge extra for it but most will give them free of cost as long as you eat and drink there.

Towels at the Silver Sands

Hi Bernard...

If the hotel doesn%26#39;t provide beach towels...you can buy some over there...approx rps 200....

regards

T%26amp;J

They don%26#39;t provide beach towels,we usually buy some there then leave them for someone when we go, left them for the girl who did my nails last time

Many thanks for your help.

Hi bernard44...

Good choice Silver Sands.....location , location, location ! !

No as others have said towels can be bought very cheaply in Goa in lovely bright vibrant colours........have a nice time. Sereta.

How many days?

Don%26#39;t bother counting you calendar, work it out here.

http://www.timeanddate.com/date/duration.html

T%26amp;J

How many days?

Well, I now know that%26#39;s it%26#39;s 60 but I have saved that to my favourites to save me the hassle of working it out in minutes and getting it wrong again lol. Where do you find these things?

How many days?

Just ask google the right questions.

For this one i put in..

How many days till 23 march and someone had a link on the second website down.

T%26amp;J

Meerkat, don%26#39;t be hard on yourself. It was me being a peanut that confused you.

Badgerlad, I have also saved this to favourites and will prob be calling it up daily. Many thanks.

26 days for us or was it 25 Aaaaaaawwwww where%26#39;s that link badgerlad posted................

Thanks Badgerlad

Get gadget, just got to check the flight time for my hours and minutes now..

Boo

Great link, I can now work out how long between each of my holidays :-)

Charity, no it was the other day when I got my minutes and hours confused, meant to say however many hours and stupidly typed minutes - doh!

Boo, it%26#39;s an 8pm flight from Gatwick on the 21st :)

Badgerlad, here is your link lol:

http://www.timeanddate.com/date/duration.html

Gemma, you have 29,376,000 seconds or 489,600 minutes or 8160 hours or 48 weeks roughly until Goa. What a great tool!

Hi 23 sleeps yipee.

48 weeks - ages off yet Meerkat! Only 6 sleeps until Barbados though and Goa will be that little bit closer when I get back :-)

Next Year Prices

We usually book our January trip to Goa around this time, as its just 2 weeks we usually find a package works out cheapest. Been looking at prices and they are up 25% to what we paid this year. That puts 2 star B %26amp; B in Goa on a par or more expensive than 4 and 5 star all inclusive in other countries (and of course there is no hassle or such a high cost anywhere in the world getting a visa as there is for India). We are not in a rush to book by any means but unless prices take a huge drop we wont be going back next year. We have a holiday booked in Egypt this September, 5 star all inclusive cheaper than anything Thomas Cook are showing me for Goa next January (thats with TC also).

Next Year Prices

Hi, we booked for next feb 3 weeks ago,,,spent ages on the net getting prices from loads of travel agents for the same hotel and dates we wanted. printed off the lowest and went into first choice, asked them to price the hol,, they wanted £2264 , i then produced the lower quote and they sold me the same hol for £1500.. thats roughly the same price we paid this year.

Red

Next Year Prices

Hi dragonfli....

Yep the prices are high....heavan nos why ! It was so much quieter this year........what are they playing at ?

Keep looking...keep looking...They will come down in price. Cheers. Sereta

Hi Dragonfli, We arrived back 10th March re~booked for next feb, found the prices gone up a fair bit, thought they would have gone down with everything that is happening. We managed to get a decent price costing £1374.00 for three weeks going with Manos flying with Thomas Cook. The OH wanted to book early as he wanted the same hotel we stayed in this feb as this was his first taste of Goa and he loved it.

BellaBoo62

eye look

Virgin flights London to Mumbai cancelled / suspended

Have just read and been informed by Virgin that my flights from London to Mumbai in August 09 have been cancelled. The last ones are in May.

They didn%26#39;t contact me until I read in the Sunday papers and contacted them !

Virgin flights London to Mumbai cancelled / suspended

skds, Thanx for this. Did they or the newspapers cite a reason?

Virgin flights London to Mumbai cancelled / suspended

Oh really? I didn%26#39;t know. How unprofessional is that; not informing passengers!

I wonder if it%26#39;s competition or reduced demand in the monsoons for trips to Bombay.

I suspect that it may be reduced load factors because of the slowdown-Jet discontinued their flights from Bangalore to Brussels as well as Delhi to SFO citing low load factors. A friend in the aviation industry tells me that each flight, apart from two aircraft, also requires about 5 or more sets of crew, so it is quite capital intensive, and needs sustained load factors to earn profits.

An update : The Virgin flights have been suspended , which in my case means cancelled from May 09 until the route becomes more economically viable...I take that to mean when other airlines go bust and there are more passengers available and the prices can rise.

I have been re booked, initially without notice, to Delhi about 800 miles away.

I called them and to be fair to Virgin they are offering the following options:

A full refund

Free internal flights from Delhi to Mumbai and return

An alternative flight to Mumbai using a choice of carriers Kingfisher, Air India, Jet or their arch rivals British Airways.

I have flown BA many times before. Does anyone have recomendations or otherwise on the other carriers Kingfisher, Air India or Jet ?

Oooh, take Jet! take Jet!

- Deepa

You can%26#39;t go wrong with Kingfisher or Jet Airways. Impeccable service, both carriers.

Air India ? I%26#39;d prefer to walk it.

Deepa, you are still envious of the PYT%26#39;s wearing red skirts on Kingfisher airlines !!

Yes, I can vouch for Jet Airways. An excellent airline! Just hope Spicejet are half as good :%26gt;(!

I previously travelled on Virgin to Mumbai and did not enjoy the flight. The seat was lot smaller not enough leg room. The service was not the same as if you were travelling to the USA on Virgin. So this cancellation is a blessing.

You cannot go wrong with Jet Airways or Kingfisher. I would not re book onto Air India as from London they always over book.

I have flown several times from London to Mumbai on Jetairways and the service and food has been great.

Kingfisher have recently introduced the London to Mumbai route and a friend has travelled with them and highly recommends them as well.

Hope this helps.

Am I the only one who prefers BA to Jet on the London-Mumbai sector? Even tho I am a die-hard Jet fan in India?

And Brave1, the trousered Jet staff can any day handle midlife crisis stricken customers better than the scarlet skirted YTs, P or not . Meeeeow!

webcams?

Does anyone know of any good webcams for Goa? I love to look at them to get me in the mood before we go!

webcams?

try u tube there%26#39;s quite a lot of films on this site, only 4 days to go.

webcams?

Don%26#39;t know of any webcams but there are some good clips on you tube.... including Pedro from Baga beach :o)

been looking myself without luck :-(

Best beach shacks in Candolim

Just sat at home on ANOTHER SNOW day and thought I%26#39;d start my list of best restaurants and beach shacks in preparation for our trip in April. (Dreaming of the sun and excellent food). Have done the restaurant one - which is far too long for a fortnights stay, but at least have list of ones to avoid aswell, saves us wasting any of our precious evenings. Now onto the beach shacks and haven%26#39;t been able to find as much on the forum for this so here we go... any recommendations. I know Claudina%26#39;s has come up a few times as being good with clean toilets. Also heard this place does an eat all you can evenings on thursdays with fireworks and entertainment, but not sure if this is still going on with teh security clamp downs... any ideas? Thanks all.x

Best beach shacks in Candolim

We used Arabian Shack when we were there, best ladies toilets on the beach I would say!! Shacks along from there do the BBQ/firework nights but I cant remember the names - think one was Bobby%26#39;s and those themed nights were on when we were there two weeks ago....

Best beach shacks in Candolim

http://www.bobbysshack.com/

Here`s Bobby`s, used to be great untill they started charging for the sun beds.

Hi just come back from candolim having spent 4wks there.. we go to a shack called Bayview (Was Baywatch) they are fantastic.. good food..clean toilets..and make you feel welcomed... but unlike last year all shacks seem to be charging all new people for there sun beds (we didn%26#39;t pay for ours)because we%26#39;ve been going there for 4 yrs now.. bayview charge 50rps for 2 beds.. claudina%26#39;s charge 100rps for 2 beds and have done for a lot of years because we went there before we went to Bayview.. Daganhamkal is still there.. when she gets back i%26#39;m sure she will post a lot more tips.. enjoy your holiday.

We%26#39;ve always used Sam%26#39;s Paradise on Candolim beach, it%26#39;s situated at the top end going towards Calangute, the food is very good and is usually a lot quieter than the shacks at the bottom of beach road, we have tried other shacks but always end up back at Sam%26#39;s we were there in December and the sunbeds were free (never been charged for them anyway at Sam%26#39;s) most of the shacks were offering free sunbeds whilst we were there. Don%26#39;t know what the situation is with the shacks on an evening, it was very low key in December as there was a lot of security about and nothing seemed to be happening on the beach after about 10pm although the Sunburn Festival did go ahead, but then again it did%26#39;nt go on late.

DebyC

Thanks for the info guys. Just like to get a list together, of ones to make sure we try in first few days and then see what we like the best. I guess you just look to see where is busy, but it all just helps with excitement! lol - enjoying recommendations so we don%26#39;t miss any real gems though.x

We used Bono`s last year, simply for the toilets they were clean all tiled, there was also a shower.

His food was GOOD, but he did charge for the beds, maybe this year he may remember us, and be kind.

Hi sista_su,

Why not ask which shacks to AVOID and the reasons as most people have their favourite shack that suits their particular tastes.

hi sista su frank zappas is the one for us,the food is lovely, the staff are great especially the ones that look after us on the sun beds they are called ramessh %26amp; prakash two great lads.

Good thinking Bruahy! Will do now!!! CHeers

Hi SS, I think the amount of punters using the shacks speak for themselves. If a shack is popular and full and the one next door is half empty.....

My son is in Goa at the moment and he (and us) love Pete%26#39;s shacks on the beach behind the football pitch. The other day all the beds were taken at Pete%26#39;s so they had to settle for the shack next door which had empty beds and seats. Suffice to say they were not too happy with food or service there. He visited Calamari shack today and said it is lovely there, as is the hotel behind it! (There is a new larger pool there too, but there is building work going on next door which is a shame). We also liked Wagamama shack, who%26#39;s owner Luis is lovely, but not sure if it is there this year. Monica%26#39;s shack is nice too. We first went there 10 years ago when we stayed at the Whispering Palms Hotel, this is not far along from the Calamari.

Midnight Delhi airport transit

Hi my flight arrives in New Delhi around midnight and I%26#39;m flying out again on another international flight seven hours later.

My problem is I can%26#39;t check my bags through so have to go through immigration, pick them up and re-check in.

Given how slow immigration can be (I have transit visa) and how long in advance I need to be back (and Delhi traffic!) I think I don%26#39;t really have enough time to make it to a hotel, but wondering how far before a flight check-in opens.

And before it opens is there anywhere to sit (or even better, some kind of lounge) in departures area? I%26#39;m a woman travelling alone so just want to make sure I won%26#39;t have to wait outside the building in the small hours of morning.

Many thanks for any advice

Midnight Delhi airport transit

PS I realise there is a Clipper lounge but seems you have to get through immigration to reach it, and I can%26#39;t do that until checked in (happy to be corrected if I%26#39;ve got this wrong!)

Midnight Delhi airport transit

I was at the IGI just two days back to pick up my brother and found that much has changed over the last one year. First immigration and bag collection took all of 45 minutes. Second you don%26#39;t have to wait outside the building with small kiosks for company anymore! Bring yourself a book and lounge about in the cafes (Coffee Day, Flavours) - these are in the Arrivals just before you wheel out from the exit doors. I actually spent a perfectly entertaining hour just people watching - yawning hotel drivers, boisterous extended families with garlands, (clearly overwhelmed) first timers to India, and experienced ones at the pre-paid booth rattling off Paharganj addresses. Also overheard a (disappointed?) Lonely Planet possessor - ';Where are the touts?';!!!!

If you tire yourself of this scene get out of the Arrivals and ask to be directed to the Departure lounge which is on the next level. Right opposite to this is a food court - its called %26#39;Food Talk%26#39; I think. I can%26#39;t say what the food is like but the Walnut Marble cake was outstanding. Ok so this doesn%26#39;t sound a lot, but as you know the airport is undergoing renovation and construction of newer terminals, so these places are a temporary arrangement.

You are taking an International flight both INTO and OUT of Delhi right?

Yes, both international flights. Good to know there%26#39;s walnut cake :) Many thanks!

This is the official site of the Delhi airport:

http://www.newdelhiairport.in/

Their FAQ section for passengers has some useful info, please take a look:

http://www.newdelhiairport.in/faq.asp

- Deepa

Ladakh Trip

Hi all..

I want to have trip of Ladakh, could any one suggest what is the best time for it? And how to go there from Delhi?

Thanks

Ladakh Trip

Jullay,

The best time to visit Ladakh is June and July. From Delhi you to take flight or you can come by road also.

for more information check this link: http://visitladakh.com/about-howtoreach.html

Thanks and Regards

Rohit

Ladakh Trip

Thanks...I want to make a trip in some where september, will there be snow that time? I am interested in adventure sports like White water rafting, trekking and mountaineering, will it be possible that time?

Thanks..

hotels MG Road and East Fort area

Hello,

Can anyone advise of some budget to mid range hotels in the MG Road/East Fort area?

Thanks

hotels MG Road and East Fort area

I was there in December and stayed at the Abad Atrium in Ernakaulum...not sure if thats too far along MG road for you.

hotels MG Road and East Fort area

srry my mistake wrong cityaltogether!!

Hi There,

If you are looking at a price range between Rs 1000and 2000, there are couple of hotels which can give you a double room at that range. You can try Hotel geeth(statue), Arya Nivas(near thampanoor railway and bus station) In thampanoor area there are numerous lodges where in you can find decent a/c rooms in budget category. A stroll through the are will work.

eye look

distance pride hotel in chennai to agarwal eye hospital

i will be staying at the pride hotel in chennai for two weeks... does anyone know the distance from agarwal eye hospital to the hotel and what would be the best mode of transportation back and forth between the two places....

thanks in advance guys

distance pride hotel in chennai to agarwal eye hospital

Hi,

I hope you are visiting the headquarters of

Dr.Agarwalls Eye hospital, which is located at 19, Cathedral Road, Chennai - 600 086, Tamil Nadu

Tel: +91 44 2811 2811

Please be doubly sure for there are smaller branches at T Nagar, Anna Nagar etc.

Pride hotel is at Kilpauk: No. 216, EVR Periyar Salai, Kilpauk, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600010鈥?- 044 43989898鈥?

If i were to assume that you will be visting the main hospital (Cathedral Road at the above address) then the distance between them could be anywhere around 8 to 10 KMS. Autorickshwas or Call Taxi%26#39;s would be the best form of transport. Watch out - the Nungambakkam high road can get really crowded during peak hours and traffic snarls are common.

If you are undergoing treatment at the hospital, i would suggest you find a place to stay, closer to the hospital. Commuting between them can be tiring after your treatment.

Rajan

distance pride hotel in chennai to agarwal eye hospital

Check out an earlier discussion on a similar query in this forum a few months ago . . . maybe of help.

tripadvisor.in/ShowTopic-g304556-i6778-k2341鈥?/a>

Rajan

thanx rajan... im actually going with my girlfriend... she is an eye surgeon and will be working at the cathedral facility for two weeks...

OH, OK, that takes care of your acco need. You will only need to figure out your transport. Try to avoid peak hour traffic (9:00 AM to 10:30 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM) and you should be OK.

As i said earlier, Auto%26#39;s (the three wheeled public transport unique to India and Thailand) or Call Taxi%26#39;s should be good for your commute.

Rajan

Ladies Dresses- Shopping

I would like to buy a formal ball gown (long to the floor)- Where is the best place to find such a thing in Mumbai?

Ladies Dresses- Shopping

You may tryout Kimaya. It%26#39;s near Sea Princess Hotel on Juhu-Tara Road, Santacruz (West) Ph: 022 26605575

It has collections by India%26#39;s leading Fashion designers.

Ladies Dresses- Shopping

One of my friends is a fashion designer and she does gowns too. She%26#39;s in Juhu. If you%26#39;re intersted please PM me %26amp; I%26#39;ll give you her contact details.

Sue -

Mumbai is not the right place to buy a formal ball gown. There is a small clutch of designers who are very expensive; and you won%26#39;t find the kind of variety and price ranges that you%26#39;d get in say, Singapore or London or Sydney.

If you do wish to buy in Mumbai, South Mumbai is a better bet than Juhu.

Ensemble is a good store to try; they are on Shahid Bhagat Singh Marg and have multiple designers. Courtyard in Colaba has several designers showcasing their work. There is a shop inside the Taj hotel in Colaba which also has some formal gowns.

There is a set of boutiques at Kemps Corner where you can spend a pleasant afternoon; the Kimaya here is a better than the one in Juhu (this one is bigger I think, spread over 2 levels). There is also Melange at Altamount Road, and a whole bunch of other places whose names I can%26#39;t remember but they are all sandwiched under the Kemps Corner flyover, on the road that goes upwards.

- Deepa

There are a number of very good tailors who will be able to custom make you a dress. I have previously had an outfit made at Praminik which was perfect design.

Try Santa Cruz area for local tailors or the well know shops - eg seasons or friendship.

Deepa,

Perhaps Amara was one of the names that eluded you? Ensemble has an outlet at August Kranti Marg too, near Shalimar Hotel at Kemps Corner.

SUE,

I have had western formal ensembles tailored for my daughter by Pinky : +91-9323160878. She has a studio in Colaba. Lovely tailoring, but I knew exactly what I wanted and provided the material and design.

She is supposed to be a designer and seems to have some designs of her own too but I have not tested her designing skills.

How is the saree hunt going? Ratanshi Kheraj has opened a store in South Mumbai on Gamdevi Lane near Kemps Corner, in case you are making a trip to Kemps Corner

DG,

Did you mean Pramanik in Dadar or some other place? I must check them out then, since I have requirements coming up.

India has world class talent in every sphere and clothing is one of them.

Some Top Class Designers from Mumbai are:

1. Abu Jani %26amp; Sandeep Khosla 022-26731862

2. Anna Singh 022-26487378

3. Hemant Trivedi 022-23856565

4. Rocky S 022-26609090

You can get a world class ball gown from any of them.

Many Thanks to all - I will venture out and try to find and if I can%26#39;t find then I will get something made.

Thanks again

Regards,

Sue

Hi Sue

If you have a design in mind, please take it along a picture to any tailor in Mumbai and they will be able to make a perfect copy for you.

The tailors in mumbai are very quick in able to turn around a dress.

I do have a design in mind I might take it to a local tailor and get it made.

Thanks

Shopping recommendation

I will be staying in Delhi in April at the The Lalit and was wondering which places are close by for shopping.

I would like to buy Indian outfit (Sari and Punjabi dresses) as well as Western/Eastern fusion clothes and shoes and handbags.

I will only have half an afternoon for shopping. Could you recommend any good places to go and also let me know if the shops are open late in the evening.

Thank you.

Shopping recommendation

DG the closest market to The Lalit is the Connaught Place (1.5 kms). Some saree shops that I can recommend right away are Greenways, Kalpana, Nalli and Banaras Silk house. Tons of shops for western/ fusion wear to start naming here - just go around the Inner Circle of CP and you should find something to your liking. Shops are open till about 8 pm.

However if you have a cab at your disposal (or just dial-a-radio cab to drop you) I would highly recommend that you visit South Extension (Part 1 and 2 on either side of the road) instead. This is about 9-10 kms from your hotel, and because you would be navigating the route in the afternoon you are likely to take about 35-45 minutes to get here.

South Extension has a larger variety of sarees and Punjabi salwar kurtas (Nalli, Ram Chnadra Krishna Chand, CTC, Perfection House, Ushnak Mal, Meena Bazaar), and trust me the shoe shops would drive you to visual fatique! There are small boutiquy shops where you could nose around for fusion wear. The big Indian retail chains like Globus and Ebony, and international brands (Mango/Lacoste/Puma) should round up the entire shopping experience for you.

And when energy levels are paling out head to %26#39;Bengali Sweets%26#39; for some Sweet Lassi and sumptous Aloo tikkis and Matar kulchas!

PS - Lots of interesting jewellery tucked away between all those clothes and shoe shops!

Shopping recommendation

One place close to Lalit, CP is Karol Bagh...It has a number of shops on jmal Khan Road which specialise in Sarees, Punjabi Suits and Western Dresses.

This is not as classy as NDSE....But pricey...almost same....

KY Karol Bagh is nearly 6 kms from The Lalit, and while there is some great shopping to be experienced in terms of Indian wear, well-fitted western or fusion wear can be dodgy.

Thank you for your recommendations.

You should check which day of the week you are in Delhi.

If you have only half day then I would say South Ex market which dilli billi has described quite well. It is closed on Mondays, though. Connaught Place is closed on Sundays.

Yes Dillibilli, You are right...I gave KB as just one more option......

Visit Udaipur--The Venice of the East

Hi,

A very serene and romantic Indian city, Udaipur has been shaped by commercial tourism in recent years, although does still manage to retain much of its earlier charm, away from its main tourist epicentre. The appearance of Udaipur really does depend on how heavy the monsoon rains were, since these fill up its beautiful Lake Pichola.

For more information on udaipur,just log on to

www.apnaudaipur.com

Udaipur

For more information on udaipur visit

www.apnaudaipur.com

Taran taran (15 kms from Amritsar)

Hi,

I would like to know if anyone is interested to visit our lovely ancestral town on Taran Taran(15 kms from Amritsar, India) in your guide. This town has in its centre a half golden temple made out of marble and covered in gold at the top. The pond area or parikarma is bigger than the golden temple and it looks especially magestic on a full moon or no moon night.

We still own our ancestral house built over three stories by my late grandfather. I spent my summer vacations in that house with all my cousins playing tennis, table tennis, scrabble, reading, telematch etc. and eating grapes...it currently has three rooms to offer for homestay/ PG.

My uncle who lives on the property runs his own bakery business.

if anyone is interested in visiting, please reply to this thread

Thanks!

Taran taran (15 kms from Amritsar)

Rabinder, would it be possible to visit the house on Thursday if Friday this week? We are in Amritsar for Diwali and want to make some day trips. We are 8 people so it would be great if it is possible to have a lunch at the house and view the grounds. Please give me a call on 987 206 7592 or reply to this post. Nigel

Taran taran (15 kms from Amritsar)

Hello Rabinder,

I have been looking for something like your ancestral home for a very long time and am glad i checked this website.

Please advise how i can get there from Amritsar and any other details you maight want to give.

Thanks

hi rabinder,

how much i have to pay for a month.. i am planing to visit taran taran.

thanks

Aman

eye look

Pls suggest hotel for transit stay

Hello ,

We will reaching Chennai from Bangkok around midnight and leaving by train at 5 PM next day. Can you pls suggest a hotel for stay? Is Maris still serviceable?

I am afraid we have been pampered silly by Thai hospitality :-)

Thanks

Prasanna

Pls suggest hotel for transit stay

Hi

I presume you are flying Thai airways, which reaches into Chennai just past midnight. Give it another hour for immigration, customs and baggage claim and you are nearing 1:30. Add another 20 to 30 minutes for your transport to the city and you are talking about less than 3 hours to catch a train. Do you really think you need a hotel for under 3 hours ?

My suggestion would be to (1) Check any of the retiring rooms at the airport itself for a couple of hours to freshen up or (2) Hit one of the 24 hour coffee shops at one of the star hotel - grab a bite, freshen up and get going to the station.

regards

Rajan

Pls suggest hotel for transit stay

Oops, i think i got the 5 AM and 5 PM mixed up.

Hotel Maris (044-28110541) Hotel Rajpark (044-42257777), Hotel New Woodlands (044 28113111), Quality Inn Sabari (044-28343030) Hotel DC Manor all of these are within 30 minutes drive to the airport.

Rajan

Thanks Rajan. I went through your earlier posts too. I will give Maris a try ...stayed there for a couple of days 10 years ago! I only hope they have clean linen :-)

Hi Prasanna

They did go through a rennovation sometime during 2007 or early 08 and though i haven%26#39;t been there in a while, i am told they are always full, especially since the famous Eye (Agarwalls) hospital opened up almost next door.

I am sure they must have improved, especially with the linen :-) Do post ur feedback after you have stayed there, which may be useful for others . . .

Have a safe trip

Rajan

for a conference in Dadar

I am looking for a good hotel for a week while I attend a conference in Dadar. I don%26#39;t see too many in that area. What would be the travel time and ease of travel between Bandra (where there seems to be more choice) and Dadar? Thankyou in advance, Kate

for a conference in Dadar

Dadar has two sides, East and West. Where is your conference?

In the east side of Dadar Hotel Midtown Pritam is a good choice.

http://www.pritamhotels.com/

Also in the east side of Dadar, if your budget permits, there is a five-star hotel very close by; the ITC Grand Central (a Sheraton hotel).

itcwelcomgroup.in/Hotels/itcgrandcentral.aspx

If your conference is in Dadar West the closest hotels are still those listed above, but the Four Seasons is also a good choice, about 15 mins.

Without knowing your budget it is hard to answer.

- Deepa

for a conference in Dadar

The travel time from Dadar to Bandra would be around 30-45 minutes.

Bandra would be a better place to stay in as there%26#39;s lots to do there in the evening.

If you are ok to commute 30-45 minutes, maybe you should stay in South Mumbai where all the sightseeing is. Actually in a taxi cab, VT to Dadar is 30 minutes on the central road. The whole stretch has so many flyovers that you avoid traffic jams quite well.

Some business visitors of ours from the US stayed at the Ramee Guestline at Dadar which they said was fine, they wanted the Pritam [as Deepa suggested] but it was full.

What would be your budget range?

Traffic is horrendous in Mumbai, so it does makes sense to stay as close as possible to your work venue.

In my opinion, Bandra is a much better location for eating out, shopping or night life than south Mumbai.

Bandra is not far from Dadar, distance wise, but in Mumbai everything is dependant on the traffic!

In peak hour, getting out of Bandra is a nightmare with work in progress on SV Rd and the Turner Rd junction always clogged up. Rush hour through the reclamation is also awful.

Thank you so very much for your reply. The conference is Dadar East. Some other people have also responded suggesting travel times of about half an hour between Dadar and Bandra, but then Bandra does sound lovely in the evenings, and Dadar perhaps less so?

Oh Dear. I%26#39;m not used to posting and I thought I was only replying to one person. Thank you ALL for your replies and immensely helpful insight into the traffic works and so on. I remain uncertain ... and that%26#39;s not so bad! Very best to you all.Kate

Between Bandra and South Mumbai, I%26#39;d say take South Mumbai. You%26#39;ll get a lot more out of Mumbai that way.

Bandra has watering holes and restaurants, yes, but so does South Mumbai. In addition, South Mumbai has the Heritage District, Marine Drive, Mani Bhavan, the Museum, and the Art District and so on and so forth.

Also South Mumbai has more hotels that cater to tourists. Bandra has fewer choices.

Since you haven%26#39;t posted your budget, I%26#39;m still at a loss to make sensible suggestions :)

Please stay off the rocks

Hi

There have been a noticeable number of tourists trying to climb on and around the rocks by the lighthouse.

Firstly this is a prohibited area as the lighthouse is run by the military.

Secondly the rocks are dangerous if you have an accident there you are in dire trouble as you will not get medical facilities or treatment on the scene, I have first hand experience of this after administering first aid to a tourist who fell in the rocks and broke her ankle and dislocated her shoulder.

Thirdly local fisherman have been known to hide dynamite in the rocks which they use for fishing, this stuff is highly unstable, it is thought that an explosion in the rocks on Monday was caused by this.

Fourthly you could encounter snakes, the same advice as for having an accident you will be in dire trouble for medical treatment until you get to hospital, there is no public ambulance service here which can be called on and I have first hand experience of the police ambulance which will be called to assist which only carries a stainless steel gurney.

All in all it is safer to keep of the rocks.

Regards

Ian

Please stay off the rocks

Hi

Whislt I understand the safety and agree with all the points above, I was led to believe that the area that was classed as Lighthouse property/military was the area of land within the walls and did not cover the land outside. If all the rock area is military property does that mean that the road that goes alongside the wall is also military property?

Paul

Please stay off the rocks

only a fool would climb thoses rocks ,shawley not.

Hello Omanley

A Lifeguard had to scramble over the rocks to remove two European tourists only this lunchtime.

Regards

Ian

WELL I AM GOING TO SIT BY THE ROCKS and warn people to stay off [when i get their next week]

Hi

Why spend your holiday doing something that the lifeguards, police, tourist police, should be doing?

Anyhow, enjoy your holiday - rocks or not....

Paul

Palace on Wheels -train

I have heard about a train ride called Palace On Wheels which makes a 8-day round-trip of Rajastan on the old maharaja style trains. Has anyone done this train journey? Is there enough time to see the actual sights in the cities visited or is it just mostly sitting on the train? Is the train comfortable to travel on and do you also sleep on the trains? Any info or shared experience about this train ride would be appreciated.

Palace on Wheels -train

I am replying to my own post. I found this train and its schedule on the internet. The route seems good but the train itself over-the-top kitchy and extremely expensive!!! The route is Delhi - Jaipur - Jaisalner - Jodhpur - Rathambore National Park - Chittorgarh - Udaipur - Bharatpur - Agra

I would like to make a round trip like this but leaving more time in some of the destinations and leaving out Chittorgarh and Bharatpur. Would it be possible to make it on regular train service? How are the sleep carriages on Indian trains? Or am I better of with a driver and staying at hotels on the way?

Goa v Thailand

Been going to Goa for the last six years.

So for a change, this Jan went off to Thailand three nights in Bangcock three weeks on the island of Koh Samui.I%26#39;m sorry to say no more Goa.It was cheaper just as friendly, beach great, weather great, nightlife great,food the best ever.As i have just read on the forum here that prices are going up, makes Thailand even more attractive

Sorry Baga

Charlie

Goa v Thailand

The accommodation in Thailand is so good, the infrastructure is there, the food, as you say, is the best ever. Thailand is much calmer and totally relaxing, but I do quite enjoy the chaos and surreal experiences of Goa (and Kerala). India at Xmas, Thailand in May seems to be my emerging pattern. If Thailand were cheaper at Xmas, it would win hands down however. Xmas in Thailand is seriously expensive, making Goa a relative bargain during that peak period. The taxi prices in Goa (other than the airport fixed price service) have spun out of control - could not believe the prices that people were paying over Xmas this year for short journeys, particularly when compared to taxi prices in the rest of India.

Goa v Thailand

We spent 1 week patta, 2 weeks koh samui, 1 week Bangkok,in january last year we stayed in ko lanta

BACK TO GOA ON THURSDAY

Aye, go on alanlancs, rub it in why don%26#39;t you lol

I%26#39;ve spent 2 hours trying to convince my OH to make the use of our visas before they run out - did I succeed - NO!

Ah well, there%26#39;s always xmas or next year (still haven%26#39;t really given up hope mind - ever the optimist lol)

Seriously though, he does want to go to Thailand, haven%26#39;t done much research yet but Krabi, Ko Samui and Pataya seem to be coming up as the favs - who knows where we will end up!

Happy hols everyone - got room for a smallish one in your suitcase? lol

Linda

We went to Bangkok and Ko Samui last February and although we enjoyed it I still prefer Goa. For a start it%26#39;s less flying time from the UK and you can fly direct from Manchester. Our holiday to Thailand cost half as much again as our fortnight at the Holiday Inn the previous year and we found prices of food and drink similar to Goa though taxis were more expensive. Also the weather is better in Goa in the winter. We stayed in Choeng Mon which was lovely though there was quite a lot of building work going on. Didn%26#39;t like Chaweng, found it very commercialised and quite smelly. Would consider going back to Thailand to visit another part of the country though the longer flight time puts me off. For next winter we%26#39;re going back to Goa.

What are the best deals for Thailand and who supplies them please? I would like to give it a try. December we paid 拢450 each for 2 weeks for nice hotel in Goa, First Choice. I can only seem to find stupid prices for Thailand.

Koh Samui puts Goa to shame,there is no comparison.

Has anyone ever landed in Koh Samui airport? How does it compare with Dabolim/Goa?

Are you having a laugh

Eurios,

I would seriously consider booking it all yourself rather than going through a TA.

Look at Dialaflight or Trailfinders for flights then look at various hotel websites such as:

www.asiarooms.com

www.sawadee.com

www.hotels2thailand.com

If you want to travel around internally look at

www.airasia.com

www.bangkokair.com

Gives you much more choice and freedom and can save you 拢拢拢拢

Sarah

xx

Hi yumyum09

Koh samui airport is the prettiest airport i have ever seen, you feel like its part of a beach resort, lovely little gardens and coconut hut shops.

We were there 3 years ago, but off to goa next sat (first time)hopefully we will enjoy although so far nowhere has come close to thailand......

neutrogena