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.


Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

Chef Altamsh Patel

Published on October 1, 2025

In an exclusive feature with October edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, Chef Altamsh Patel, Director of Culinary at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, shared insights that reveal not only his passion for gastronomy but also the philosophy that drives his success. His journey is a testament to how unexpected paths often lead to extraordinary destinations.

When asked about his defining moment, Chef Altamsh reflected on his early life where his parents wished for him to become a doctor. Yet, destiny had other plans. Drawn into hotel management and eventually the kitchen of the Taj, he discovered a true sense of belonging. “What began as honoring my parents soon grew into a lifelong love, reminding me that sometimes the unplanned path becomes the one we cherish most,” he shared.

Speaking about innovation and tradition, he noted, “At Hilton Mumbai International Airport, balancing innovation with tradition means sharing a part of our heart with every guest.” To him, food is storytelling, an art that surprises guests while honoring culture.

Chef Altamsh also underlined how food creates cherished memories. Whether in restaurants, banquets, or in-room dining, he and his team strive to ensure every plate carries love, passion, and culture, making each meal unforgettable.

On sustainability, his commitment is firm. From locally sourced ingredients to Hilton’s Travel with Purpose mission, practices like waste-to-fertilizer initiatives, cage-free eggs, and glass bottles redefine responsible luxury dining.

As a mentor, Chef Altamsh believes in nurturing creativity, humility, and resilience among young chefs, ensuring excellence remains a collective effort. Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about India’s micro-cuisines and Peruvian influences, combining authenticity with multi-sensory experiences to shape the future of luxury dining.

It was truly an inspiring and enriching conversation with Chef Altamsh Patel. For the complete feature, explore the Hospitalitynews October Magazine, available on our website (E-Magazine) and as a physical copy.


Redefining Hospitality Education: An Exclusive Conversation with Dr. Suborno Bose

Redefining Hospitality Education: An Exclusive Conversation with Dr. Suborno Bose

Dr Suborno Bose

Published on October 1, 2025

In a world where hospitality is constantly reshaped by technology and global collaboration, few voices carry as much authority and vision as Dr. Suborno Bose, the Founder-Chairman and Chief Mentor of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) and Indismart Group Worldwide. Over the last 25 years, he has established Asia’s largest chain of premier hotel schools with campuses across the globe, while spearheading innovations that redefine the very essence of hospitality education.

In an exclusive feature for Hospitality News, Dr. Bose takes us through a riveting journey of ideas and insights. He reveals how AI-powered platforms like NamAIste – IIHM HospitalityGPT, the world’s first AI model for the service sector, are reshaping the way students learn, blending technology with empathy to create leaders who are both digitally fluent and emotionally intelligent.

Adding to this, he speaks passionately about the Global Knowledge Sharing Declaration on AI in Hospitality, which began with 50 countries and now includes over 60 nations. This initiative, driven by IIHM, has created a collaborative framework for integrating AI literacy, ethical practices, and equal access to education worldwide.

As the conversation deepens, Dr. Bose introduces us to his philosophy of “High Tech, Higher Touch,” a principle that balances cutting-edge digital tools with the timeless warmth of human connection. He emphasizes that while AI can anticipate preferences and streamline service, true hospitality lies in the smiles, gestures, and conversations that make every experience memorable.

From the International Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) to initiatives like the Food Soldier programme, Dr. Bose continues to nurture global talent while embedding sustainability, cultural respect, and innovation at the core of hospitality. His long-term vision is clear: to position India as a hub for compassionate, intelligent, and inclusive hospitality leadership.

This inspiring exchange with Dr. Bose is more than an interview, it is a window into the future of hospitality, where technology and empathy walk hand in hand.

For the complete interview and exclusive insights, dive into the Hospitalitynews Magazine October Edition- available now on our website and in print. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative dialogue shaping the future of hospitality.


Vivek Shukla Redefines Loyalty Through Purpose-Driven Hospitality

Vivek Shukla Redefines Loyalty Through Purpose-Driven Hospitality

Vivek Shukla

Published on September 1, 2025

In today’s world of hospitality, where loyalty programs are often defined by free nights, discounts, and upgrades, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group has chosen a different path, one that blends guest rewards with social good. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Vivek Shukla, CEO of the Group, offered rare insights into how luxury and purpose can converge to create a new standard for the industry.

With more than 35 years in luxury hospitality and two decades shaping The LaLiT’s vision, Shukla is widely known for his people-first approach and strategic foresight. His leadership during the pandemic, marked by initiatives that supported frontline workers and vulnerable communities, underscored his conviction that hospitality is about much more than service, it is about responsibility.

This ethos is at the heart of the Group’s new loyalty program. Unlike traditional models, this initiative empowers guests to transform everyday indulgences into acts of giving. Partnering with Points for Good, The LaLiT allows loyalty members to channel their points towards diverse causes ranging from child education and sustainability to LGBTQIA+ empowerment. Shukla describes it as a shift “from transactional exchanges to purposeful, meaningful connections”.

The innovation lies in embedding impact seamlessly into daily guest interactions. Shukla believes that over time, members will begin to associate loyalty not only with luxury but also with generosity and social change. “When routine stays or meals become part of something greater, it fosters a culture of care and giving back”, he says.

Perhaps most compelling is the vision behind it: small contributions from thousands of guests, collectively sparking a wave of impact across India. By aligning hospitality with social responsibility, The LaLiT is rewriting the future of loyalty, one that is not just about repeat business but about emotional connection and shared purpose.

Our conversation with Vivek Shukla was both inspiring and thought-provoking, challenging the industry to see loyalty in a whole new light. For the complete interview and exclusive insights, dive into the Hospitalitynews Magazine September Edition- available now on our website and in print. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative dialogue shaping the future of hospitality.