Travel

Workations Are Here to Stay!

Work-from-home has become the new norm. This paradigm shift in work structure has created a new concept of workations that poise themselves to be the perfect solution for the experience-seeking digital nomad. Offbeat Tracks that curates personalized travel experiences for their clients’ transports you to a few select workation homes that their guests have been staying at and having the time of their lives. Take a look!

What are Workations?

Workation is a new concept of a vacation that combines business with leisure. With people working from home during this pandemic, this concept has become a much-needed escape and great opportunity to take work on a holiday.

Lagom Stay, Himachal Pradesh

Our first stop is at the tranquil and scenic town of Manali. The Lagom Stay is located in the south of Manali, away from the crowd, in an ancient, small and beautiful village called Jagat Sukh. Situated amidst lush green surroundings, Lagom Stay is a beautiful chalet with three rooms and a well-maintained garden. All rooms have scenic views of the valley and apple orchards. Common areas include a well-stocked kitchen along with a spacious dining and living area providing a perfect home away from home experience.

What is unique about this stay is the host Gandharv who puts in a lot of effort in order to make the workation truly memorable for the guests. You can also indulge in experiences like old town heritage walks, mountain biking, overnight treks and a lot more! Watch your first snowfall while at Lagom stay or make friends for a lifetime; this is an experience you will never forget.

How to get there: Lagom stay is located in Jagatsukh village, which is a 15-minute drive from Manali.

Via Air: Bhuntar airport in Kullu is the closest airport from where Lagom stay is an hours drive
Via Road: Another option is to fly to Chandigarh airport and drive uphill to Manali which is about an 8 hour drive

Tariff: Room rates start from Rs 1,500 a night for a basic room and go up to Rs 4,500 a night for the premium duplex cottage. PS: prices vary depending on season and duration of stay.

Foxtail Eco Retreat, Maharashtra

For those who like to work in the wilderness, close to the jungle, this work-from-wilderness property is just for you! The owner of the property, Uday Krishna is a wildlife photographer and a well-known conservationist, heading the VATA Foundation. He makes sure that the property follows green practices and blends in the ecosystem and serves local cuisine to guests.

Located in Maharashtra, the Foxtail Eco Retreat at Tipeshwar is a small eco retreat consisting of 5 luxurious tents set in the backdrop of a dry deciduous jungle. Guests looking for an experience rich workation close to nature would love this property. Spend time working in luxury tents or by a natural lagoon as you watch the sunset. For wildlife and nature enthusiasts, this property is the perfect getaway. The tiger sanctuary close by has a family of tigers that provide for ample tiger spotting. Bird watchers get to see a lot of birds that have made this property their natural habitat.

How to get there: Tipeshwar is well connected via road. It is 400 kms from Hyderabad.

Nearest airport: Hyderabad from where the resort is a 5 hours drive

Tariff: A deluxe Swiss tent with all meals for a couple will cost Rs 10,000 per night

The Hidden Oasis, Maharashtra

The Hidden Oasis is another slice of heaven that is just a few hours drive away from Pune. With 16 acres of wilderness right next to a lake, this property is nature’s gift to mankind! Just an hour’s drive from Pune, it is an ideal destination to rejuvenate and be one with Mother Nature. It is a perfect solo or family overnight stay destination with a beautiful lake touch eco-farm.

At The Hidden Oasis, time slows down and every moment can be savoured, making it the perfect antidote to the ever-busy urban life. It is equipped with lovely cottages and a waterfront facing machan. Apart from working, you can learn organic farming or go trekking around the lush countryside. There are morning meditation sessions that guests can take part in for holistic wellness. Food served here is organic and vegan! This place is a detox for the mind, body and soul!

How to Get there: The property is located in Saswad which is an hours drive from Pune.

Via Air: Nearest airport is Pune.

Tariff: There are multiple packages. Day trips from 9am to 6pm including breakfast, lunch, tea and all activities are priced at Rs 600 per head. Overnight stay packages start from Rs 2,000 per night on twin sharing basis with all meals and the premium machan is priced at Rs 5,000 on twin sharing basis with all meals.

Palathra Heritage, Kerala

Palathra Heritage offers unique Kerala style architecture in four handpicked rooms. The property offers wellness as well as long stay workation packages. Facilities include a restaurant, Ayurvedic massages, room service etc. Offbeat experiences include local village tours, lake and canal fishing, daytime house boating, sunrise and sunset at beach (which is less than 2 kms) and cycling.

How to get there: Palathra is in Marari, Alapuzha and Kerala.

Via Air/Rail/Road: Kochi is the closest city and a 2 hrs drive from Palathra

Tariffs: Varies between Rs 5,000- 10,000 per couple bed and breakfast depending on the season and type of room.

December 24, 2020

#NewNormal, #Pandemic, #Travel, #Workation

From Rishikesh to Rameswaram: Spiritual Retreats for Gen Z

Many Gen Zs are turning inward in a world buzzing with digital noise, seeking solace and meaning beyond screens. India’s spiritual retreats offer a unique blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary practices, providing the perfect escape for young souls yearning for connection, mindfulness, and adventure. From the serene banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh to the sacred shores of Rameswaram, Dhanush Kumar embarks on a transformative journey that resonates with the modern seeker. 1. Rishikesh- Yoga Capital of the world Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh is renowned for its yoga and meditation centres. Ashrams like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda offer immersive programs that blend ancient practices with modern needs. These retreats provide Gen Zs with tools to manage stress, enhance mindfulness, and foster deeper connection with themselves. Don’t miss: 2. Dharmshala-Tibetan Spirituality Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama and offers a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Indian spirituality. Retreats here focus on meditation, compassion, and mindfulness, providing young travellers with a serene environment to explore inner peace amidst the majestic Himalayas. Don’t miss: 3. Varanasi- The Spiritual Heartbeat of India As one of the oldest living cities, Varanasi offers a profound spiritual experience. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti, exploring ancient temples, and participating in meditation sessions along the Ghats allow Gen Z travellers to immersive themselves in India’s rich spiritual heritage. Don’t miss: 4. Rameswaram- Sacred Shores and Soulful Reflections Located at the southern tip of India, Rameswaram is a significant pilgrimage site. The town’s tranquil beaches and historic temples provide a peaceful setting for introspection and spiritual growth, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves. Don’t miss: 5. Kanha Shanti Vanam- Modern Spiritual Oasis Situated near Hyderabad, Kanha Shanti Vanam is the headquarters of the Heartfulness Institute. This retreat

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UDAIPUR AND ALL THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT

India’s diverse landscape offers stunning destinations year-round, with Udaipur standing out as a winter gem. Known as the “City of Lakes,” it captivates visitors with its breath-taking lakes, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM on a journey through Udaipur’s must-visit spots, famous lakes, and top hotels to make the most of your trip. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur attracts travellers with its serene landscapes, royal architecture, and vibrant markets. Its temples, forts, and museums add to its historical charm, while stunning lakes like Pichola and Fateh Sagar enhance its beauty, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture. THINGS TO DO THINGS TO REMEMBER THINGS TO DO- It is a beautiful garden that is in the northern part of the city and has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants. This garden was laid for a group of 48 maidens by Maharana Sangram Singh for royal ladies who accompanied the queen after marriage to Udaipur. THINGS TO DO- THINGS TO DO- Artificial freshwater lake located in Udaipur, which was created in the 14th century. It spans approximately 4 square kilometres and is surrounded by picturesque hills, temples, palaces, and Ghats. The lake is famous for its serene beauty and its reflection of the historic City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Lake Palace, which appears to float on its waters. THINGS TO DO- This is one of the best hotels located on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the 16th century, it was initially conceived as a retreat for Maharana Jagat Singh I. The palace features exquisite marble and sandstone architecture, with beautiful courtyards, gardens, and intricate carvings. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of royal grandeur. THINGS TO

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God’s Own Country Awaits: The Best Places to Visit in Kerala This Season

Edged by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, Kerala is rightly called God’s Own Country. January and February are the best months to visit, offering pleasant weather and an escape from the state’s extreme heat and monsoon rains. From serene backwaters to lush hills, Kerala is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM in discovering its breath taking landscapes, and you might just add Kerala to your travel bucket list. Kerala’s diverse attractions span from cultural landmarks to pristine natural beauty. This journey through the state begins in Ernakulam, centrally located, and extends south to Poovar Island, offering a seamless travel route. Each destination has been chosen for its accessibility, ensuring a convenient and enriching experience for every traveller. THINGS TO DO- (1-2 Days) 2) Alappuzha – The smallest district of Kerala, Alappuzha, known as “The Venice of the East,” is a perfect New Year getaway with its scenic network of canals, lagoons, and lakes. While there’s plenty to explore, creating a priority list will help you make the most of your experience. THINGS TO DO – (1 -2 days) Experience the splendid sight of the glowing sun passing through the calm waters of the Ashtamudi Lake which is the prominent attraction of the town. Asthamudi town signifies a total eight islands which jointly contribute to be a significant part of the wetland ecosystem in the area. The town is best for escaping the city rush during the vacations and experiencing the biodiversity featuring mangroves and avian species. THINGS TO DO – (1 DAY) Kovalam beach (95 kms from Ashtamudi towards south) If you love beaches and want to enjoy the sand and the sea, Varkala and Kovalam beaches are your spots! THINGS TO DO- (1 DAY) Located in Thiruvananthapuram

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Why Finland is the Happiest and Smartest Country

Finland consistently ranks as one of the happiest and most intelligent countries in the world. It has been crowned the world’s happiest country in the United Nations’ World Happiness Report for several years in a row. Additionally, Finland is known for its outstanding education system, high literacy rates, and innovative thinking. The country’s unique combination of social policies, education system, work-life balance, and connection to nature contributes to its exceptional well-being and intellectual prowess. Hashtag Magazine explores the key factors that make Finland both the happiest and smartest country in the world. 1. The Finnish Education System: A Model of Excellence Finland’s education system is regarded as one of the best in the world. Unlike many countries that emphasize standardized testing and long school hours, Finland takes a different approach. Finnish students enjoy a relaxed and student-centric learning environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. A. Minimal Homework and No Standardized Tests One of the most striking aspects of Finnish education is the lack of standardized tests. Instead of relying on high-pressure exams, teachers assess students through continuous evaluation. This approach allows children to focus on deep learning rather than memorization. Additionally, Finnish students receive minimal homework, allowing them to have a better balance between academics and personal life. B. Highly Trained Teachers Teachers in Finland are respected professionals, much like doctors or lawyers. Becoming a teacher requires a master’s degree, and only the top graduates are selected for teaching positions. The rigorous training ensures that teachers are well-equipped to handle diverse learning needs and create an engaging classroom environment. C. Equal Opportunities for All Education in Finland is free, from preschool to university, ensuring equal access to learning regardless of socio-economic background. Schools do not compete with one another, and there are no rankings. Instead, the focus is