How to Prepare for a Monsoon Trip: Packing Tips and Travel Safety

How to Prepare for a Monsoon Trip: Packing Tips and Travel Safety

Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 2, 2024

By Sandeep Arora, Director, Brightsun Travel

The monsoon season in India ushers in a refreshing change; the scorching summer sun surrenders to gentle showers, transforming the landscape into a lush paradise. While the rain brings much-needed respite, it can also pose some packing challenges for travelers. But fear not! With a little preparation, your monsoon adventure can be comfortable, hassle-free, and incredibly rewarding.

Packing for the Downpours:

The key to packing for the monsoon is breathability. Opt for clothes made from quick-drying, lightweight materials like cotton blends or synthetics. These fabrics will keep you cool during the day and dry quickly after you dash through sudden showers. Monsoon weather can be unpredictable, so embrace the art of layering. Pack light t-shirts for hot days, long-sleeved shirts for cooler evenings, and a trusty waterproof jacket for downpours.

Don't forget about your footwear! Ditch the sandals in favor of closed-toe shoes with good grip. Rubber soles will be your best friend when navigating wet streets. Consider packing affordable chappals (Indian sandals) or wellington boots (gumboots) – both readily available in India and perfect for splashing through puddles.

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Travel Essentials for Monsoons:

Staying hydrated is crucial during any trip, and especially so during the monsoon. Stick to bottled water or purified water, especially from reputable vendors. To minimize plastic waste and be eco-friendly, carry a reusable water bottle. Power outages are more common during monsoons, so a portable charger can be a lifesaver. Keep your phone charged and stay connected with loved ones back home.

Pack some multitasking marvels! A scarf can act as a head cover during heavy rain or a light blanket on chilly evenings. A quick-drying microfiber towel is another great multitasker – perfect for drying off after unexpected downpours. Don't forget the first-aid essentials! Pack medications for common ailments like upset stomachs, headaches, and minor cuts. The monsoon also brings out the mosquitoes, so pack a good insect repellent to keep them at bay.

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Travel Safety During Monsoons:

Staying informed is key to safety during the monsoon. Regularly check the weather forecast and adjust your plans if needed. Popular weather apps in India include AccuWeather and WeatherBug. Flooded streets and slippery surfaces are a reality during monsoons. Walk cautiously, especially near drains and uneven surfaces. Your sturdy shoes with good grip will come in handy here to avoid slips and falls. The monsoon can sometimes bring heavy storms and floods. Respect the power of nature and avoid venturing out during these times. If you're staying near rivers or mountains, be aware of potential flash floods and heed local advisories.

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Monsoon Magic in India: Top Destinations

The monsoon isn't just about the rain; it's about the transformation of India's landscapes. While some might see rain as a deterrent, it actually unveils a different kind of beauty. Here are a few captivating destinations that come alive during the monsoon season: The Western Ghats, including Munnar, Coorg, and Mahabaleshwar, boast lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and misty hills. Pack your raincoat and explore these breathtaking landscapes!

Kerala Backwaters offer a magical experience during the monsoon. Imagine cruising through the backwaters on a houseboat surrounded by vibrant green landscapes. The monsoon washes everything clean, creating a truly serene and unforgettable experience. The coastal destinations of Goa and Gokarna transform into tranquil paradises during the monsoon. Enjoy the beauty of the beaches minus the crowds, perfect for those seeking a quieter and more serene travel experience.

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Embrace the Monsoon Adventure!

With a little preparation, a monsoon trip to India can be an unforgettable adventure. Pack smart, stay safe, and get ready to experience the magic of India, washed clean and rejuvenated by the rains. Embrace the pitter-patter of raindrops on your window pane, the refreshing scent of petrichor in the air, and the breathtaking beauty of a monsoon-kissed India.


Bakul Pednekar on Building a Workplace Where People Feel Heard, Valued & Empowered

Bakul Pednekar on Building a Workplace Where People Feel Heard, Valued & Empowered

Bakul Pednekar

Published on July 1, 2025

Bakul Pednekar, the Director of People and Culture at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, is on a mission to create more than just an excellent place to work, he’s building a workplace where people feel truly heard, valued, and empowered. With over two decades in hospitality, Bakul brings global perspective and local sensitivity to shaping people strategies that go beyond roles and hierarchies.

Under his leadership, Four Seasons isn’t merely positioning itself as a luxury brand but as a people-first organisation where careers are nurtured with intent and care. From tackling pressing industry challenges like talent shortages and rising attrition, to developing skillsets tailored for an increasingly luxury-focused market, Bakul is aligning long-term growth with evolving industry needs.

He’s also made learning a cornerstone, with a dynamic mix of digital modules, classroom sessions, soft skills workshops, and mentoring that not only upskill teams but also instill confidence and curiosity. Initiatives like the lively “Four Teams” programme, where employees compete in everything from wellness activities to culinary contests have added a spirited, collaborative edge to engagement, strengthening bonds across departments.

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For Bakul, leadership is inseparable from culture. By embedding empathy into management training, encouraging open dialogue, and fostering psychological safety, he’s ensuring Four Seasons remains a place where people feel respected and inspired to grow.

As he puts it, “We position ourselves not just as a luxury brand, but as a people-first organisation where careers are nurtured with purpose.”

Want more?
Read our full interview with Bakul Pednekar in our website e-magazine to see how Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is creating a future-ready, values-led hospitality workforce and what that means for the industry at large.


Faisal Nafees on Elevating Lonavala: More Than a Stay, It’s a Soulful Journey

Faisal Nafees on Elevating Lonavala: More Than a Stay, It’s a Soulful Journey

Faisal Nafees

Published on July 1, 2025

Faisal Nafees, the General Manager of Radisson Resort & Spa, Lonavala, is on a mission to make luxury travel more meaningful. With over two decades in hospitality, Faisal combines global experience with a passion for creating authentic, people-first spaces. Under his leadership, this picturesque hill-station resort isn’t just offering stays, it’s crafting soulful getaways that linger in memory.

From the start, Faisal has focused on turning Radisson Lonavala into a true destination. He’s brought a global eye for operational excellence to this uniquely local setting, ensuring the resort stands out not only for its comfort but for experiences that connect guests with the very spirit of Lonavala.

For leisure travellers, there are immersive wellness retreats set against the tranquil Sahyadris and signature culinary journeys like the Khema Dinner: a regal feast under the stars inspired by Maratha traditions, brought to life with organic produce from the resort’s own gardens. Meanwhile, corporate guests enjoy thoughtfully curated MICE experiences that balance productivity with relaxation, proving that even business trips can be enriching.

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Sustainability is a cornerstone here. As a Hotel Sustainability Basics verified property, Radisson Lonavala blends eco-conscious architecture with a commitment to local sourcing, waste management, and reduced plastic use. The result is a stay that feels both indulgent and responsible, something today’s discerning guests increasingly seek.

Looking ahead, Faisal and his team are raising the bar even higher. Guests can look forward to new luxury villas for more private escapes, Lonavala’s first rooftop sky lounge promising panoramic views and vibrant dining, and wellness collaborations that transform weekends into holistic rejuvenations.

As Faisal puts it, “Ultimately, our aim is to make Radisson Lonavala more than a place to stay, it is a destination where every visit is meaningful, every detail is intentional, and every guest leaves with a sense of warmth, care, and authenticity.”

Want more? 

Read our full interview with Faisal Nafees in our website e-magazine to see how Radisson Lonavala is setting new standards for luxury in the hills.


Where Elegance Meets Experience: Pranav Rungta’s Nksha Journey

Where Elegance Meets Experience: Pranav Rungta’s Nksha Journey

Pranav Rungta

Published on June 30, 2025

Every great dining destination begins with a story and at Nksha, one of South Mumbai’s most celebrated fine-dining addresses, that story is steeped in the timeless elegance of Bombay’s golden era. In a Hospitality News July edition exclusive, we sit down with Pranav Rungta, Co-founder and Director of Nksha, and Vice President of NRAI Mumbai Chapter, who gives us a glimpse into how nostalgia, innovation, and heartfelt hospitality converge to create something unforgettable.

Pranav’s journey in hospitality began in 2007 with Garden of Eden in Pune, but it is through Nksha that his philosophy has truly found form. At its core, Nksha is a tribute not just to a city, but to the soul of Indian hospitality. From Art Deco-inspired interiors to reimagined North Indian classics, Pranav explains how the past and present harmoniously coexist to shape an experience that’s as aesthetically rich as it is emotionally resonant.

He walks us through Nksha’s defining moments, like the success of the thoughtfully curated High Tea menu, which emerged not just from trend-watching, but from keen observation of the city’s shifting rhythms and cultural needs. It's this commitment to relevance that defines Nksha’s innovation rooted in tradition, yet constantly evolving.

Design and cuisine, Pranav shares, are treated not as separate aspects, but as chapters of the same story. From vintage lighting to the crockery on the table, everything at Nksha is about crafting a narrative that guests feel part of one that unfolds with each bite and every glance around.

Beyond the restaurant, Pranav’s influence in the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) allows him to mentor emerging talent and contribute to a growing culture of culinary exploration across India.

As for what lies ahead? Pop-ups, potential expansion, and newer ways to surprise guests yet always with a clear intent to stay true to Nksha’s essence.

 It was a pleasure to explore the mind behind Nksha in this enriching conversation. Dive into the complete interview in the July edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, available on our website and in print.