As always, since so much has changed in the past few years thanks to lockdowns and health issues, we decided to write a condensed Seychelles travel guide for 2021 that will be constantly updated as per the latest directives. You can of course avail our services to ensure a truly stress-free, guilt-free getaway amongst the golden sands and turquoise waters!  

About Seychelles 

These islands have an extremely vast and varied history. It was largely uninhabited (as far as we can tell) until the 15th century when several Arab and Eurasian traders visited the island. The earliest documented visit was in 1503 by a certain Spanish explorer known as Vasco Da Gama! Rather, a ship under his command known as The Ascension. These islands soon became an essential trading point between Asia and Africa. It was the French that officially took control of the islands in the 18th century. In fact, Seychelles gets its name from Jean Moreau De Sechelles, the then Finance Minister of France. Eventually, the British then took over the island operations and the islands were officially surrendered by France following the War Of The Coalitions. The nation finally became independent 2 centuries later in 1976 and Seychelles became a republic, and during this time became a hub for tourism with the opening of the international airport. 

COVID info 

While a trip to Seychelles is now certainly possible thanks to the travel bubble between India and Seychelles, there are certain regulations to be followed by travellers before arrival, upon arrival and during their stay in Seychelles. This Seychelles travel guide for 2021 also has some updated information about travelling in the travel bubble from India to Seychelles. 

1. It is preferable for all visitors to be vaccinated (at least two doses) before entering Seychelles and also procure a vaccination certificate.
2. All visitors are required to obtain a negative RT-PCR certificate regardless of their vaccinations.
3. You’ll also be required to obtain a Health Travel Authorisation (HTA) Certificate through the online portal here: https://seychelles.govtas.com/

Along with these, you of course also have to maintain social distancing and ideally visit places that are not too crowded which is, of course, an easy task considering how isolated and pristine these islands are! And if you let us choose a destination retreat for you, there’s every assurance that your trip will be a completely private, safe, and luxurious one. 

How to get there

Visa info: Indians luckily can avail a visa on arrival when visiting Seychelles, so you do not have to worry about immigration when planning your Seychelles trip in 2021. The visa lasts for 30 days. You will need to show your onward and return tickets at the counter along with your booking details which we will assist with.

Flights To Seychelles:  Most major cities have flights to Seychelles from India. There are two major airports in Seychelles, one in Mahe and one in Praslin. We recommend entry in Mahe as it makes getting around a bit easier since Mahe is a major city.

Areas of Seychelles

The islands here of course are the most coveted locations of Seychelles. 

You have Mahe, the capital. Mahe is home to more than just pristine beaches; visit here for a slice of Seychelles history. Visit the city of Victoria if you want to relax for a day or two exploring the markets and the local culture! 

Then there’s Praslin, the second biggest island. Home to the largest coconut in the world (and many other such unique oddities), hop on a private boat and visit Praslin and its tropical rainforests and isolated beaches. 

La Digue is the smallest of Seychelle’s populated islands. It has some of the most pristine waters of all the locations owing to its small population. You must not miss the Anse Source D’Argent beach here! 

Grande Soeur and Petite Soeur (Big sister and little sister) islands are home to an isolated ecosystem and are home to annual turtle nesting sites!  

What To Do:

Breezy water and sandy escapes may be one of the highlights of Seychelles but there’s so much more to explore among these comfy atolls! Here’s a list of what to do in your Seychelles travel guide for 2021. 

• Feed the famed Giant Tortoises of Aldabra:
  

The Aldabra Atoll is the world’s second-largest coral reef. It’s also home to the Aldabra Giant Tortoises, a miracle of evolution and a protected species here. You can visit Aldabra and interact with the tortoises, seeing as how this is one of the last places to meet these gentle, giant reptiles!

• Go Scuba diving among the pristine coral reefs

With such a pristine collection of beaches and coral reefs, you can’t take a dive into these salubrious waters. Learn how to scuba dive with a PADI-certified instructor while staying there.

• Visit the cities of Victoria and Praslin and learn all about the history of Seychelles! Hidden away in alleyways and gullies, you’ll find evidence of French, Portuguese, African, and British influences

The post Paradise In The Indian Ocean: Seychelles Travel Guide For 2021 appeared first on Star Vacations.

A plethora of retreats in all of the various hill stations of North India await you when you do reach, and below we’ve written about our favorite luxury destinations that you simply must stay at when planning your getaway. Each property has its own charm, specialties, and advantages and so we hope this guide helps you plan better. Of course, if you don’t feel like doing the planning for your next great holiday, do reach out to us for assistance!

Stok Palace

Location: Ladakh 

What You Must Do Here: Explore Ladakh’s monasteries and visit the Buddhist temple at Stok 

Stok Palace Heritage Hotel is one of Ladakh’s finest retreats for those who wish for something offbeat and inspired. Swathed in a world of heritage and luxury, Stok Palace was originally built in 1820 as a retreat for the Namgyal Dynasty of Tibet. Today of course it caters to travelers from all around the world seeking quintessential Ladakh. The rooms are designed to pay homage to their original purpose, a place of reflection and comfort. While luxurious, they are not equipped with distractions such as TVs or intercoms. A fundamental step that we agree with when immersing oneself in such a unique location among the many hill stations of North India. 

Sukoon Houseboat By ABChapri:

Location: Dal Lake, Kashmir  

What You Must Do Here: Visit the floating markets, explore Srinagar 

Inspired by the Sufi word for happiness and contentment, Sukoon is an idyllic escape located on the banks of one of Kashmir’s most iconic locations, Dal Lake. The entire houseboat runs on a sustainable model: It is built to ensure no waste is deposited into the waters and plastics are banned onboard. The most luxurious rooms onboard the ship makes you realize the meaning of the word Sukoon; every aspect of your experience is designed to spoil you and your loved ones. Feast on authentic Kashmiri cuisine and laze on a shikara as it takes you on a cruise giving you stunning views of life by the lake! 

The Khyber Resort And Spa

Location: Gulmarg, Kashmir

What You Must Do: Skiing (if weather permits) and wellness packages

Snow in summer sounds like a surreal experience that may not even be true. But in Gulmarg, the skiing capital of India, snow may last till March depending on the weather! The Khyber Resort is one of the only luxurious escapes in the entire region and a must-visit in our experiences. Designed in the old school style of ski lodges, The Khyber is an example of true opulence in the hills. The resort is only a short distance away from the skiing slopes of Gulmarg and the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world’s highest ski lifts. Each room at the Khyber offers stunning views of the slopes below and for those that seek even more exclusivity, 2 private cottages hidden amidst lush vegetation offer you an absolutely private escape. Khyber also offers an exclusive wellness experience; the Khyber Spa designed by L’Occitane. Treatments from both Eastern and Western philosophies rejuvenate senses and mind!

Rakkh Resort 

Location: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 

What You Must Do: Go trekking, explore true Himachal, visit the monasteries of Dharamshala 

Rakkh Resort is a truly authentic sustainable resort in Palampur, a sleepy little town near Dharamshala, the current Tibetan capital of spirituality. Rakkh resort offers you unmatched pahadi hospitality and cuisine and an active holiday in one of the most quaint hill stations of North India! With a wide array of hiking trails that pass through pine forests alongside streams and villages, Rakkh is the perfect destination for those who like the outdoors. Rakkh resort in Himachal Pradesh is also in close proximity to Dharamshala and the multitude of monasteries commissioned by the Dalai Lama.

Oberoi Cecil 

Location:  Shimla 

What You Must Do: Do nothing here! 

The Cecil in Shimla is one of the summer capital’s most prestigious heritage retreats. The spacious living coupled with a multitude of experiences for everyone in the family makes this the perfect summer escape. You’ll be hosted by your own personal butler throughout the duration of your stay, as you dine well on Pahadi, Indian and continental cuisine. For a moment of peace with your loved one, we can also arrange for you experiences like private dining in the mellow woods that surround The Cecil! Of course, for the adventurous, heritage walks through Shimla are also on offer. 

Ananda In The Hills 

Location: Garhwal, Uttarakhand 

What You Must Do: Experience wellness like never before here!

For those that seek a sense of wellness and an escape from stress, life, and the material, a visit to Ananda In The Himalayas is a must. As the name suggests, happiness is the eternal goal at Ananda and every experience is curated to give you the ultimate satisfaction. Nestled in one of the most iconic regions of the lower Himalayas, Garhwal, Ananda’s wellness programs, spa therapy sessions, and healing experiences might just be what you need this holiday season. 

The post Luxury Resorts Among Hill Stations Of North India appeared first on Star Vacations.

Places of worship in Ladakh –

Buddhism is the most followed religion and the numerous monasteries stand testimony to this fact. The rugged terrain did nothing to stop the monks and nomads from traveling to this incredibly beautiful landscape and built their dwellings that have stood the test of time. Among the world-renowned religious places to visit in Ladakh are Hemis Monastery, Karma Dupgyud, Matho Monastery, Rangdum Gompa, Lamayuru Monastery, Phyang Gompa, and the Likir Monastery.

Exploring and Shopping in Ladakh – 

Once you have had your fill of spirituality, allow the local bazaars of Ladakh to pull you in. The sheer range of artifacts and skills that the locals have will leave you completely mesmerized. Explore Ladakh as you drift from one stall to another, talking to the owners and taking in the beauty of the myriad creations of the people of this land. If you are looking for a keepsake, perhaps we could interest you in a traditional Ladakhi pashmina shawl or dress. Hand-woven caps, sweaters, gloves, and carpets are also a big rage, with stunning colors and with remarkably intricate designs all clamoring for attention. Silver and turquoise jewelry, Thangka paintings, prayer wheels, and Buddhist masks are all excellent reminders to mark your time spent here in the great land of Ladakh.

The cuisine of Ladakh –

Ladakh’s cuisine, while greatly influenced by the Tibetan culture, still has a voice and taste of its own. You must absolutely taste the gorgeous Thukpa, a delicious noodle-soup made using boiled vegetables, chunks of chicken, pork, and meat. People here are friendly and when they invite you for a cup of tea, don’t refuse but also don’t expect a typical cup of steaming tea. Ladakh is famous for its butter tea which is a pink-colored, fragranced liquid made from tea leaves, butter, salt, and water. Quite unexpected, right? Momos might be popular in the rest of India today but they originated here in Ladakh, and you must sample them. Simple daily fare, these are made from flour and water and come stuffed with minced meat, vegetables, or cottage cheese.

Nature –

Wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to Ladakh as bees are attracted to the scent of honey. The land is home to many exotic and beautiful species of flora and fauna. Adventure enthusiasts can trek and motorcycle along the steep slopes and hilly roads to catch a glimpse of the wildlife of the land. Adrenaline junkies can explore corners of the hitherto unexplored land that calls out to thrill-seekers and amateur explorers. Whether it’s trekking, mountaineering, white water rafting, motorbiking, jeep safaris, camping, or sports like archery and polo, Ladakh is an adventure that has been brought to life. Our Ladakh Holiday Package has many customizable adventure plans for that adventure junkie within you to seek out and explore the very corners and hidden gems of Ladakh.

Festivals of Ladakh –

Ladakh is known as the land of festivals that includes traditional dancing, singing, and an explosion of colorful masks. Buddhism has a say here and the visitor can see the strong influence that the religion brings into the many fairs and festivals that are celebrated by its people and the culture and tradition of Ladakh. Most Ladakhi festivals take place in winters, and the land is replete with various expressions of dance, singing, and dramas. The most famous festivals out of these festivals include the Losar festival, Hemis Tsechu festival, Sindhu Ladakh festival, and Darshan festival. If you wish to see Ladakh enjoying itself in its splendor and complete abandonment, then planning a trip in winter is a great way to understand its rich and unique culture and tradition. Our Ladakh Holiday Package has a complimentary festival experience and visits if you plan to visit the great land of Ladakh in the winters.

The Location Of Ladakh – Where the massive rivers and roads meet the mountains –

Ladakh is a diverse and hilly mountainous region in India that covers the land from the Siachen Glacier in the majestic Karakoram Range to the main Great Himalayas further down to the south. The highest plateau in Jammu and Kashmir dates back nearly forty-five million years back when the Indian plate collided with the Eurasia plate to form these massive ranges. The Indus River flowing through the ranges forms a backdrop for most historical and current towns that make up the inhabited parts of this beautifully surreal region.

Best timings to visit Ladakh – 

There are those who swear by winters in Ladakh and then there are those who prefer the warm summer season. At the end of the day, it depends on your preferences as the region offers unprecedented beauty and thrilling experiences whenever you visit. While winters are harsh, the region brings to life adventures and exhilarating experiences that are one of a kind and a lifetime experience that one should never miss. Winter is also when there are fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the hills and valleys at your modest and calm pace..

Undoubtedly, summer is when tourism in Ladakh is most exciting as the city is buzzing with more activity and the crowds are large. The district explodes with the colors and warmth of the people, both the tourists and the locals are bustling with energy. You have more access to every corner and the beauty of the place is simply breathtaking and re-energizing.

Winter is from the middle of October to March when the temperatures drop to sub-zero, and most hotels and sightseeing places are closed. In the summer season or the peak tourist season, the season begins in April and goes on till July. You can also visit from the middle of September to the middle of October when the true beauty of Ladakh can be experienced in its truest form.

How to get to Ladakh –

By Road – Ladakh is at a distance of 434 kilometers from Srinagar and 494 kilometers from the town of Manali, and it is quite convenient to hire a cab or a jeep from either of the two cities. You can also book a seat and travel on the JKSRTC bus. If you are feeling adventurous, you can bike to Leh from Srinagar, Manali, or from Chandigarh itself. Winters might not be a good idea for this as the highways are shut due to heavy snowfalls and there are possibilities of landslides. If you do have to take the road, May to September is the ideal time to travel.

By Rail – You can take a train up to Jammu Tawi which lies at a distance of 700 kilometers from Ladakh from most of the major stations in India, such as Delhi, Kolkata or Mumbai. From there you can hire a cab or once again, board a JKSRTC bus to travel further on.

By Air – Leh is the nearest airport and has good connectivity to Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar, Chandigarh, and many other major major metro cities in India. From Leh, you can book yourself a cab to any of the places that you are interested in visiting or travel to your desired destination via a JKSRTC Bus.

The History of Ladakh – Has been a coveted land since time immemorial –

The walls of caves in Ladakh tell stories from Neolithic times when man first made an appearance on planet earth. When we shift to many years later and the people here find a mention in India’s ancient scriptures, the Puranas. Such is the history of this ancient land.

Ladakh enjoys very close proximity to Tibet and has always been predominantly Buddhist, later giving way to Islam after repeated Islamic invasion. Its physical proximity notwithstanding, it has held its distinct geographies and cultivated cultures and traditions that belong to this region alone and has its own unique identity. Despite the many rulers and invaders, this part of the country has always held its sovereignty and established itself as an independent kingdom and an independent culture.

Post-independence of Colonial India, with China and Pakistan both breathing heavily down the Indian subcontinent, the region today sees a heavy Indian army presence to keep a check on stand-offs and skirmishes along the border.

The post A Guide to Ladakh Holidays 2022 appeared first on Star Vacations.

The eleventh most populous country in the world is Japan and it is also one of the most densely populated and urbanized ones as well.

The best places to be once you set foot in Japan in 2021 – 

Tokyo – Tokyo would be the most happening city in Japan in the summer of 2021 as it is hosting the postponed 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympic Games. There are three core concepts for the Tokyo Olympic Games which are also known as the games’ vision. They are ‘Striving for your personal best’, ‘Accepting one another’ and ‘Passing on the legacy for the future’. The country’s capital Tokyo is the best place to be as you can enjoy the legacy of the summer Olympic sports and the diverse cultures of the athletes. Tokyo is the world’s most populous metropolis and a variety of incredible yet unique options for shopping, entertainment, and exploration.

Yokohama – Yokohama is a beautiful city that lies south of Tokyo, on the scenic western coast of Tokyo Bay. It is known for being Japan’s first port city that officially opened to foreign trade in 1859. It’s not a stretch to say that international influences have shaped Yokohama’s character, from the city’s signature brick architectural structure to the famous Yokohama Chinatown city that was formed by Chinese immigrants who settled in the nineteenth century. People who visit Yokohama can take in a scenic harbor view via waterbus or atop the iconic Ferris wheel, as well as enjoy various museums and multiple shopping opportunities.

Kyoto – Kyoto was the official capital city of Japan for over a thousand years and it remains one of the topmost destinations to experience traditional Japanese culture. The city has around two thousand temples and shrines including the Golden Pavilion. Ryoanji in Kyoto known for its Zen rock garden and Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is known as the shrine with a tunnel of five thousand vermilion torii gates. One of the most talked-about areas of Kyoto is undoubtedly the Geisha district. While Geiko and Maiko are known for being elusive if you are lucky enough you may find one of these kimono adorned ladies taking a stroll here! People who love art and history would definitely not want to miss the Kyoto National Museum, which houses over 230 designated National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.

Osaka – Osaka is one of the largest cities in Japan and the largest city in the Kansai region and it is really known for its colorful and lively character. It has a very distinct dialect and exceptionally unique cuisine that is extremely popular throughout Japan. Osaka is a great place to experience the urban atmosphere in Japan in its most unique form, with entertainment for both kids and adults alike. One of the world’s largest public aquariums is located in Osaka and Universal Studios Japan is also located in Osaka. A trip to Osaka can never be complete without a visit to the entertainment district of Dotonbori, which has its iconic neon signboards, amusement facilities, and numerous restaurants that are over there. Osaka also has locations to enjoy traditional Japanese culture and history, such as Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and even Bunraku puppet shows.

Things to do in Japan – 

Things to do in Tokyo – 

Watch a Sumo Wrestling Match – Kokugikan, which is Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year. The sumo wrestling that we see today dates back to the seventeenth century, though its origins date back even further than that. Even to this day, it’s still one of the most popular and well-known traditions in the country. If you’re in town at the right time, this is a must-watch. Tickets sell out quickly so you must definitely book early. To learn more about the sport, visit one of the sumo stables called “heya”. There you’ll get to see where the wrestlers train and live. The visits must be arranged well in advance. Ticket prices vary but expect to pay around 2200 JYN for a sumo wrestling match but it is an experience that you will relish.

Gaze at Mount Fuji from Hakone – Hakone is an extremely beautiful place to gaze in the eye of Mount Fuji. Located just over an hour away from Tokyo, Hakone is one of the best places to get away from the city, relax for a few days, and look at the Fuji-san, one of Japan’s three holy mountains. There are countless guest houses in the area, many with their own private onsen (hot springs). It’s a great romantic getaway spot if you’re traveling as a couple. For a unique view of the region, grab a seat on the Hakone Ropeway whose tickets are priced at 400 JPY.

See the Hachiko Statue – The Hachiko Statue is a complete life-sized statue of a dog from 1925. When the dog’s owner died, Hachiko still went to the train station to wait for him to return from work, each and every day, just as every loyal creature should do. And he did so for over ten years. The dog is a national hero in Japan and his story is well known as it highlights characteristics of loyalty and devotion, which the Japanese value very highly. The incredible statue stands in front of the Shibuya Station.

Shop at Akihabara Electric Town – This is the Tsukiji Market of the electronics world of Tokyo. You can find pretty much anything you’ve ever imagined, as well as all the things you’ve never even dreamed of over here. Many up-and-coming electronic devices and gadgets are tested here and then brought to life. The area has a very futuristic feel to it, with tons of bright lights and huge billboards around. It looks like something out of a sci-fi movie like Blade Runner. There are also lots of local artists selling their music out here too if you like indie music.

Wander Roppongi Hills – There are various buildings to see, all of which have been designed by leading architects of Japan, as well as various public art displays. A visit here is free — all you have to do is catch a ride up the hill. You’ll find Mori Tower here, one of the tallest buildings in the city, as well as the Tokyo City View, which offers one of the best views in the city. Admission to the viewpoint will cost you 1800 JPY.

Drink in Golden Gai – This little alleyway of back-street bars is a lively place to drink at night in the wondrous city of Tokyo. There isn’t much going on during the day here, but come sundown, these zigzagging hallways and closet-sized beer rooms are filled with interesting people, cheap drinks, and interesting music. It has a bit of a red-light district feel to it as it lacks the polish of the rest of the city. But it is not to be missed.

Hop onto A Suijo Bus – For centuries, Tokyo has been centralized around its rivers and the river canals. One of the traditional ways to get around has always been via the water-bus. This is a fun alternative to the subway and offers a different perspective of the bustling city. There are even beautiful floating restaurants, known as the legendary yakata-bune as well as lunch and dinner cruises that you can book. You can expect to pay at least 6000 JPY for a cruise with a meal, whereas the regular ferry costs as low as 600 JPY.

Visit the Great Buddha – Make a day trip to the small city of Kamakura to see a thirteen metre bronze statue of Buddha. This statue was built in the year 1252, the statue was initially constructed within a temple, but the temple was washed away on several occasions by storms so the statue now sits in the open air. You can even go inside the statue as well, quite remarkably. However, there’s nothing to really see inside but it’s neat to be able to step inside a centuries-old work of artworks and inscriptions. The journey to Kamakura takes around an hour from Tokyo and is free with a Japan Rail Pass. Admission to see the Buddha is 200 JPY.

Have Dinner With Ninjas – For a unique dining experience, head to Ninja Akasaka. It’s a ninja-themed restaurant designed like an Edo-era building from medieval Japan that would definitely blow your mind away! The wait staff are clothed in stereotypical all-black “ninja” garb and trained in all sorts of tricks, simple illusions and will entertain you. You’ll order your meal off of old scrolls while being entertained by the skillful tricks of your server. It’s super fun and unlike any other restaurant that people usually visit in Japan.

Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum – Built in the year 1933, this small museum used to be the official residence of the Prince and Princess Asaka of Japan. The prince had come back to Japan after studying from Paris and wanted to bring the art deco style to Japan, which explains the building’s style and decorations. In the year 1983, the residence became a museum and is now home to a rotating series of modern art exhibitions. Admission is 200 JPY.

Things to do in Yokohama – 

Explore Japan’s biggest Chinatown – Visit Yokohama’s vibrant Chinatown and prepare to be mesmerized by the sights and smells of nikuman, also known as meat buns, geppei, also known as mooncakes, and other varieties of steamed deliciousness lining the streets. Never come here with an empty stomach cause it won’t be long until you step in line to try it all yourself.

Elevate your view at the Landmark Tower Sky Garden – Step into the elevator in the second-floor lobby of Landmark Tower and forty super fast seconds later you’ll be able to see the beautiful bay area from nearly three hundred meters up and with a three sixty-degree view.

Travel back to the year 1958 at Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum – Shin-Yokohama’s Raumen Museum is a collection of rare ramen shops in which visitors can partake in as many bowls of regional ramen as their stomach can withstand. The ‘museum’ part comes in the form of the blast-from-the-past recreation of the 1958 Japanese neighborhood where the shops are located.

Land on history at the Redbrick warehouse – Experience and feel the incredible sight of  Yokohama’s old and new atmosphere at Akarenga Soko or the Red Brick Warehouse. The two brick-clad buildings were constructed in 1911 and 1913 and are located very near the spot where Commodore Perry’s Black Ships arrived in 1859. Step inside, though, and you’ll discover a whole new world of designer stores and stylish restaurants to keep you busy all day long.

Climb aboard the Nippon Maru Sailing Ship – Built to train cadets, this full-sized vessel is nearly as long as a soccer field. A rich hundred and fifty-year-old maritime history lesson awaits within, as you can see the rooms that cadets, cooks, and the room that the captain lived in. Delve deeper into Yokohama’s seafaring story through interactive exhibits at the maritime museum next door to you.

How to get around in Japan’s Cities – 

Bus – Buses are widely available almost everywhere in Japan, though you can usually get by without them as the subway and train system in the city is comprehensive. If you do need to take the bus, fares are around two hundred and ten Japanese Yen for adults and a hundred and ten Japanese Yen for kids. Toei is the main bus company providing service in Tokyo. You can get a single-day bus pass for Toei lines for five hundred Japanese Yen . You can get them from the bus driver. Buses usually run from six in the morning to ten at night. If you plan on using the buses often, you can get discounted fares by using a prepaid Pasmo card or Suica card in Tokyo, which would lower the fare to two hundred and six Japanese Yen and save you fumbling for your change every time you ride. 

Subway/Train – The metro and train system in Tokyo is one of the most iconic and well known in the world. It ferries almost nine million riders around the city each and every day and is known for being on time. The metro system is made up of thirteen different lines with tickets starting at one hundred and seventy Japanese Yen (one hundred and sixty-five Japanese Yen with a Pasmo or Suica prepaid card). You can get a twenty-four-hour pre-paid hour pass for eight hundred Japanese Yen, a forty-eight-hour pass for one thousand two hundred Japanese Yen, and a seventy-two-hour pass for one thousand five hundred Japanese Yen. It works on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Lines in Japan. The metro lines in the other major metropolitan cities such as Yokohama and Osaka have similar rates. Trains are available from five in the morning to twelve in the night and there are women-only cars for added security and safety as well. Things get busy at rush hour so try to avoid it if you can. It’s from 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm on weekdays. There are also many JR trains in Japan, so if you have a Japan Rail Pass you can travel around Japan for free.

Taxi – Taxis in Japan aren’t cheap so avoid them if you can. Fares start at four hundred and seventy-five Japanese Yen and go up by four hundred and fifteen Japanese Yen per kilometer. Avoid them if you can!

Bicycle – Japan is a relatively safe country to bike in as there are lots of bike lanes in all the cities and a ton of local cyclists who commute via bicycle. For a full-day rental, expect to pay between thousand to one thousand two hundred Japanese Yen. Hourly rentals can usually be found for two hundred to three hundred Japanese Yen as well if you just need a short-term rental.

So see you in Japan in the Spring of 2021, all ready to witness the incredible summer Olympic Games in Tokyo and have fun around in Japan in 2021

The post Visiting Japan in 2021 appeared first on Star Vacations.

Raas Jodhpur: Set amidst the vibrant Blue City, Raas Jodhpur is one of Jodhpur’s first boutique hotels based around an original 18th-century haveli. Echoes of Rajput architecture can be found throughout the building, in everything from its intricately carved stone panels to its antique shrines to the arches surviving from the stables. Indeed, entire original buildings are interspersed with the rose-red modern architecture. The Darikhana, also known as the ‘Chamber of Carpets’, was built towards the end of the 18th-century and served as the haveli’s guest-house. Holistic Rajput hospitality is at the center of RAAS. The property is host to a multicuisine experience offering Rajasthani and continental cuisine, along with private dining and cafe dining. Raas’ in-house spa lets you experience sustainable wellness and the innumerable things to do in Jodhpur make RAAS a perfect heritage destination in Jodhpur.

Mihir Garh is an exclusive nine suite boutique hotel where each room offers you more than 1700 sq. of pure luxury. The private terraces, courtyards, plunge pools, and Jacuzzi seem to whisper a single word: Indulge. Here, serenity and splendor come together to create an experience for you. While exotic drinks from your personal mini-bar become the manna for a sultry summer afternoon, the fireplace morphs into an intimate friend for wintry nights. You can pamper yourself with the variety of treatments available at Mihir Garh’s spa or rejuvenate at the poolside while watching the endless desert meditate with the horizon. The delectable cuisines to aim to please – from traditional to continental – to suit your palate.

Mihir Garh acts as an envoy of Rajasthan’s rich heritage and culture. The majestic fort seems to emerge from the desert and complements the rugged beauty of the land. The workmen (over a hundred of them) come from the region itself bringing in the local lilt. The soft, stylish furnishings have been bought from the Jodhpur region alone. The village women of Khandi and Haji have lovingly created the fireplaces using the age-old technique of cow dung and clay! From paintings to curtain holders, every little thing has been specially designed for Mihir Garh and handcrafted by local craftsmen.

Amet Haveli, Udaipur:  A centuries-old lakefront palace with an eye for excellence and heritage value. Amet Haveli was built during the 1700s by Maharana Jagat Singh Ji –2nd of Udaipur. The haveli is blessed with a long lineage of Ranas that nurture and preside over it, to this day! The hotel has 20 rooms each room is comfortably elegant, with attached bathrooms fitted with modern amenities. All restorations and alterations on the Mahal were carried out, bearing in mind the old architectural style of the building. The idea was to offer the weary traveler, the comforts of today with an ambiance of the past and the decor reflect the Rajput era.

Umaid Bhawan Palaces: One of the world’s largest private residences, Umaid Bhawan is a living testament to the lifestyle of the Rajputs. Built between 1928 and 1943, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a magnificent piece of Rajasthan’s heritage and a symbol of the new Jodhpur. Home of the erstwhile Jodhpur royal family and currently the world’s sixth-largest private residence, the palace has one thing in common with the iconic Taj Mahal at Agra—the palm court marble used in its construction. Perched on Chittar Hill, the highest point in Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace inspires with exotic views of the historical Blue City, vast sand dunes, and intimidating Mehrangarh Fort. The last of the great palaces of India, the property houses a family museum, as well as the resplendent Umaid Bhawan Palace. Set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens, with dancing peacocks and a subterranean Zodiac Pool, our 5-star hotel in Jodhpur offers 70 utterly breathtaking Art Deco-style rooms and suites. 

With all these heritage properties adding to the allure of Rajasthan, there’s no reason Rajasthan shouldn’t be on your bucket list for 2020 and 2021. All resorts follow mandated sanitation procedures and are safe enough to enjoy a luxurious Rajasthan vacation with your loved ones. Talk to us at Star Vacations to find out more about planning the perfect Rajasthan trip! 

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