Jodhpur's Crown Jewel: Umaid Bhawan Palace's Enduring Magic

Jodhpur's Crown Jewel: Umaid Bhawan Palace's Enduring Magic

By Author

Published on January 8, 2024

Picture a golden fortress rising from the desert sands, a majestic blend of Rajput grandeur and Art Deco elegance. This is Umaid Bhawan Palace, a Jodhpur jewel that has captivated royalty, celebrities, and travelers alike – including pop sensation Dua Lipa who recently graced its hallowed halls.

Dua Lipa's recent stay at Umaid Bhawan wasn't just a celebrity sighting, it was a testament to the palace's enduring allure. The singer had taken to her Instagram with a few pictures from her stay, including her waking up in a room with a stunning backdrop of hand drawn paintings of Radha Krishna with intricate designing details. 

Imagine waking up in a spacious suite fit for a queen, bathed in the warm glow of the desert sun. Picture exploring the palace grounds on horseback, the wind whipping through your hair as you marvel at the panoramic views. Or, savor a candlelit dinner in the majestic Durbar Hall, where crystal chandeliers and gilded mirrors reflect the dancing flames.

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Beyond the imposing gates, a world of opulent luxury unfolds. Soaring arches adorned with intricate carvings, courtyards bathed in sunlight, and lush gardens whispering secrets of a bygone era – every corner of Umaid Bhawan tells a story. As you ascend the grand staircase, a chandelier shimmering like a constellation above, you can almost hear the echoes of Maharajas and Maharaniis who once called this opulent abode their home.

But Umaid Bhawan's magic extends beyond its celebrity appeal. It's a living museum, showcasing Jodhpur's rich heritage through its architecture, art, and artifacts. Wander through the Maharaja's Gallery, where portraits of regal ancestors gaze down from gilded frames. Explore the Marwar Gallery, a treasure trove of textiles, jewels, and weapons that whisper tales of Rajput valor. Or, lose yourself in the museum's archives, filled with handwritten manuscripts and photographs that bring history to life.

Beyond the grandeur, Umaid Bhawan offers a haven for the soul. Unwind in the Jiva Spa, where ancient Indian therapies soothe your body and mind. Take a dip in the infinity pool, overlooking the sprawling desert landscape as the sun dips below the horizon. Or, simply curl up with a good book in a secluded corner of the gardens, letting the serenity of the place wash over you.

Umaid Bhawan Palace is more than just a luxurious hotel; it's an experience. It's a chance to step back in time, to feel the weight of history on your shoulders, and to bask in the opulence of a bygone era. It's a place where Dua Lipa found a slice of Indian royalty, and where you too can discover your own inner Maharani or Maharaja.

Pack your bags, dust off your most regal hat, and book your stay at Umaid Bhawan Palace. Let the deserts whisper their secrets, let the palace unfold its stories, and let yourself be swept away by the magic of Jodhpur's crown jewel.


Eight Continents and Wandr Collaborate to Elevate Luxury at the City of Music Resort

Eight Continents and Wandr Collaborate to Elevate Luxury at the City of Music Resort

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 25, 2024

In an innovative partnership, Wandr’s music-themed township and luxury hospitality brand Eight Continents have joined forces to enhance the City of Music resort in Khopoli, India. This unique township, situated along the picturesque Amba River, aims to combine the essence of music with luxurious living.

Spanning 22 acres, the City of Music boasts 150 lavish villas and 300 resort suites. Each accommodation is designed to create a musical retreat, offering guests a serene and immersive experience. Among the resort's many highlights are Asia’s largest guitar-shaped pool, beautifully landscaped gardens, a state-of-the-art gym, a mini theater, and a musical landscape garden. Additionally, the resort features private pool villas, jacuzzi ensuites, and riverside gazebos for an exclusive and tranquil stay.

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The vibrant music culture is a hallmark of the City of Music. Live music events and activities such as box cricket add to the lively atmosphere. The resort will soon introduce Windchime, a musical café designed to attract music enthusiasts. Endorsements from musical legends like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Shaan, and Sunidhi Chauhan further highlight the resort’s commitment to celebrating music.

The collaboration with Eight Continents signifies a new chapter for the City of Music. Eight Continents will oversee the global management, sales, and marketing of the property, ensuring it meets their high standards. This partnership is set to elevate the City of Music to new heights, drawing guests from around the world and offering them an exceptional luxury experience.

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Avinash Abhichandani, Director and CEO of Wandr, expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying, “We are ecstatic to join forces with Eight Continents to introduce the City of Music to a global audience. This partnership underscores our dedication to providing a unique fusion of music and luxury. With Eight Continents' hospitality expertise, we are confident that the City of Music will emerge as a premier destination for music enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike." He further added, "Our vision is to establish this venue as Maharashtra's largest destination wedding hotspot, conveniently located near Mumbai and Pune.”

Richa Adhia, Managing Director of Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts, added, “At Eight Continents, we are always looking for opportunities to create extraordinary experiences for our guests. The City of Music is a perfect fit for our brand, combining the beauty of nature with the universal language of music. We are excited to bring our signature standards of luxury and service to this remarkable property, ensuring that every guest enjoys an unforgettable stay.” 

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The City of Music also prioritizes safety, with a gated community and CCTV monitoring providing peace of mind for residents and guests. 


Enchanting Escapes: Let Your Romance Unfold at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO

Enchanting Escapes: Let Your Romance Unfold at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 11, 2024

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO stands as a beacon of luxury and tranquility in the serene embrace of the South Malé Atoll, Maldives. This exquisite private island, part of the prestigious THE OZEN COLLECTION, offers an idyllic escape, immersing guests in a world of indulgence and breathtaking beauty.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves against your overwater villa, the sun casting a golden glow over the turquoise lagoon. With remarkable beachfront and overwater villas designed for privacy and comfort, guests can claim their slice of paradise. The Earth Villas feature open-air bathrooms and outdoor bathtubs with direct beach access. For an elevated experience, the Wind Villas offer panoramic views and overwater hammocks.

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The OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s tailored holiday plan, INDULGENCETM, ensures all bar and dining expenses, plus some excursions, are covered in a single fixed price. Guests can enjoy gourmet cuisine, premium champagnes, wines, and spirits, and exclusive dining experiences. Signature restaurants cater to every palate, including M6m underwater restaurant and LONU with reimagined traditional Maldivian recipes.

The island offers a wealth of activities, from snorkelling and exploring vibrant coral reefs to rejuvenating treatments at the ELE | NA Elements of Nature spa. The water sports centre provides kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and diving options. Each moment is designed to create lasting memories, from sunset cruises to private beach dinners under moonlit waves.

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OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is a sanctuary for relaxation and enchantment. With stunning natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service, it promises an unparalleled getaway. Whether celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or reconnecting with your partner, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO offers the perfect setting for love to flourish. Embrace the magic of the Maldives and create memories that will last a lifetime on this enchanting private island in the breathtaking Indian Ocean.

Book your stay at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and let your romance unfold in the heart of the Maldives.


Stotrak Hotels Launches “Sangam by Stotrak” in Mussoorie

Stotrak Hotels Launches “Sangam by Stotrak” in Mussoorie

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 11, 2024

Stotrak Hotels, known for their experiential properties in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, has announced the opening of its newest hotel, Sangam by Stotrak, in the heart of Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. This marks the chain’s fourth hotel in Mussoorie and its twelfth overall.

Sangam by Stotrak is strategically located near Jhula Ghar on the iconic Mall Road, offering guests stunning valley views from their rooms. This new hotel aims to provide travelers with both comfort and convenience, making it an ideal destination in one of India's most beloved hill stations.

Yogita N Goyal, Co-Founder of Stotrak Hotels, expressed her excitement about the launch, saying, “With “Sangam by Stotrak” we now offer an inventory of over 85 rooms in this Queen of Hill station. All our Hotels here provide guests with the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and accessibility, ensuring a memorable stay in Mussoorie.”

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The hotel features 10 beautifully appointed valley view rooms, each equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Its central location provides easy access to key attractions such as the historic CJM Hampton Court School, the ropeway to Gunn Hill Point, the local Tibetan market, and the Martyrs Memorial. Guests can also enjoy a multi-cuisine dining experience with panoramic valley views at the all-day cafe, Cafe de Curliees.

Manish Goyal, Founder of Stotrak Hotels, added, “With Sangam by Stotrak, not only are we expanding our footprint in Mussoorie we are also enhancing our portfolio of properties that offer exceptional and diverse experiences to our guests. This hotel is a testament to our dedication to creating unforgettable memories for our visitors.”

Stotrak Hotels’ portfolio includes prestigious properties such as Sukoon – A Wellness Resort in Dakpathar, Spice Hotel in Selaqui in Dehradun, Kenilworth in Mussoorie, Nangal Resort in the heart of Shekhawati, and The Earth Resort & Spa at Ranthambore.

For more information, please visit stotrakhospitality.com.

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