Away We Go

The Tamara, Kabbinakad, Coorg
A complex of luxury cottages and suites, the Tamara is situated deep within the misty climes of Coorg. Surrounded as it is by aromatic coffee plantations, it is no surprise that the fragrance permeates the air. The plush rooms are all accompanied by private open decks – all the better to view the breathtaking Western Ghats and rainforests. The whole atmosphere is convivial to romance and wellbeing, making it ideal for a honeymoon escape. Relax further in the spa, where hot stone therapy and Swedish massage techniques are used to great effect.
USP: Au Natural
Commune with nature as you take long treks and plantation walks, and experience a spot of calm bird-watching. Carry a bit of the experience back home with you with photography and painting workshops.

The Vivanta by Taj, Surajkund, NCR
It’s all about the steps. Stylish steps. Relaxing steps. Steps that lead you to history, art and culture. Perched among the ancient Aravallis, Vivanta by Taj – Surajkund, NCR, celebrates the many steps of chic and modern living. Designed around the concept of a baoli, the ancient stepwell, it offers an urban oasis of leisure. Combining chic décor with a warm welcome, superbly designed rooms and generously proportioned suites offer vibrant views. Soak in the sun at the central courtyard, which is alive with the gushing of a synchronised water fountain.
Paranda, the speciality restaurant, features an abundance of the robust fare of Punjab. Oasis, the all-day dining venue caters to your whims, and Easy, the lounge bar, offers heady cocktails and lounge music. The sprawling Jiva Grande Spa provides a timeless wellness concept that spans 18500 square feet and two floors. Signature spaces include the stunning step-well entrance, the nail hall, and dedicated steam and sauna facilities with ice fountains. Relax at the art lounge or dip and dine at the outdoor infinity pool. Explore the city with Tallis Trails, narrated by expert storytellers who open new vistas even to seasoned Delhi-dwellers.
USP: tying the knot
The Vivanta by Taj – Surajkund is a wedding destination interwoven with renewal experiences, Jiva bridal makeovers and alternative dining experiences. Carry the experience further by indulging in a night at the nuptial suite, curated by the eclectic designer Little Shilpa. From having a colourful mehendi and sangeet, to a beautiful mandap and pheras, the Taj executes it down to the most minute detail, making all your dreams come true.

Della Resorts, Lonavala
Set in verdant Lonavala, Della has fast become a favourite for Mumbaikars, being fully booked almost every weekend since its launch. Go glamping in the stylish Camp Della where air-conditioned tents come with rain showers and a Jacuzzi, and private patios. ‘Settle’ for conventional glamour at the Della Luxury Resort where spacious rooms are kitted out with chromatherapy Jacuzzis and walk-in closets. The Presidential Suite comes with custom crockery and cutlery, is equipped with a private bar, and is attended by a dedicated butler.
USP: Adventure Luxe
Adventure sports have always implied a bit of roughing it out, but Della makes that a distant memory. As part of Della Adventure, the country’s largest extreme adventure park, the resort is a cocoon of luxury to sink into at the end of a day of zorbing or bungee jumping.

Indana Palace Hotel, Jodhpur
The newest palace hotel in Jodhpur is just that – brand, spanking new. Pamper yourself in the lap of colonial-inspired luxury. The claw-footed bathtub in the Presidential Suite calls your name, even as you travel back to the old boys’ clubs of the Raj at the I Bar. Lush rooms and suites are sweetened with views of the picturesque city or with lawn and balcony spaces to lounge in. On a fine day, expect the lovely courtyard to spawn a lavish buffet and folk entertainers. If none of this helps you achieve bliss, the menu at the Sva Spa and Salon offers up many ways in which to end the day perfectly.
USP: Marwar Splendour
Conceptualised to showcase Marwar architecture, the property is a regal cocktail of Rajasthani elements from the 16th century. Intricate columns and arches, jaali work and an awe-inducing dome all jostle to catch your eye, even as the calming courtyard and landscaping entice you to escape reality.

Dusit Devarana, New Delhi
An über luxury urban resort, the Dusit Devarana is the first in its genre in India. Set amidst eight acres of luscious greens and water bodies, with regally columned verandahs, understated yet elegant interiors, spacious guest rooms equipped with state of the art technology, attentive yet unobtrusive service, the Dusit Devarana is an ideal abode for the corporate elite as well as the discerning leisure traveller. The food and beverage philosophy is in line with the grandeur of the architecture and design – all three dining venues are distinct in their identity, true to their taste and deliver service from the heart. Kiyan is known for its farm fresh produce, authenticity in taste and a picture perfect plate. Iah Bar & Lounge endorses young fare, offering trendy mixology options, boutique brewery beers and New Age wines. The ambience, music and service reflect the fashionable yet no fuss attitude of today. Kai, the signature restaurant needs no introduction. Its contemporary take on Chinese cuisine is matched only by the opulence of its outdoor marquee setting. The Dusit Devarana, in the midst of thousands of trees, offers a truly transcendental leisure experience with a fine blend of modern technology.
USP: The Thai Spa
The Devarana Spa, though owing its lineage to the age old traditions of Thailand, offers spa cuisines from across the world. Proffering authentic treatments, rendered by internationally trained expert hands, the spa is a haven not just to treat one’s body and mind, but to help one calm the soul.

JW Marriott, New Delhi, Aerocity
The latest addition to the Delhi scene is abuzz with activity, and we can’t even hear the airport nearby through the reinforced glass. The locals have embraced it as the wedding venue du jour and the reception areas are treated to a constant ebb and flow of vibrant hues. The JW Lounge is at the hub of it all, with a hypnotising installation that snakes around, high above the inviting seating, as you wait to sip on the Benares, a potent house cocktail. The Oval Bar is a few steps away, waiting for when you’re in the mood to indulge in some of the most exclusive libations the world has to offer. K3 plays host to Cantonese, Tuscan and Indian flavours, with distinctively styled seating areas and three separate kitchens which are always on full display, and a dessert counter that is the stuff of dentists’ dreams. Treat your taste buds to contemporary Japanese flavour at Akira Back, where the chef’s eponymous sake is available to sip. Long-term residents will enjoy dining in the executive lounge, where a chef is on call to prepare meals that will ease any homesickness. All this food is justified after a session at the fitness centre, where the pool beckons invitingly. Soothe aching muscles with a visit to the superbly serene Quan Spa where the signature massage therapy reduces one to tears of happiness. Drift away in the lush womb of a signature Marriott bed, for the best sleep you’ve had in ages.
USP: Heart of Light
Strolling around the expansive JW Marriott should come with a warning – you’ll find yourself mesmerised by the crystal. The Oval Bar’s chandelier catches the merest glints of light and refracts it seductively. The fixture in the private dining area of Akira Back is as much a feast for the eyes as the food is.The ballroom too is fitted with chandeliers so lavish that it requires very little in the way of garnish for spectacular weddings.