7 Epic Getaways to Reconnect with Your Tribe This Friendship Day

7 Epic Getaways to Reconnect with Your Tribe This Friendship Day

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 18, 2025

Remember Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara or even Dil Chahta Hai? There’s just something about travelling with your closest friends that hits differently. Whether it's long conversations that stretch into the night or silent moments shared over a sunrise, these trips remind us why we stay in each other’s lives despite the noise of everyday life. This Friendship Day, here’s your cue to finally plan that long-overdue trip with your tribe.

1. Nairobi & Maasai Mara, Kenya

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Wild mornings, long drives, and campfire nights
Few experiences bond people like the stillness of a lion sighting or watching the sun rise from a hot-air balloon over the Mara. Kenya’s iconic safaris offer just that—and more. Travel in August to catch the Great Migration in full force, and don't miss Nairobi’s Africa Food Show if your gang loves culinary adventures. Add a surreal breakfast with giraffes at Giraffe Manor to your bucket list.
Plan it for: The Big Five, game drives, Maasai tribe stories, and starry skies
Stay at: A tented safari camp in the Mara

2. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

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Where adventure meets stunning evenings
This lesser-known Emirate brings together beaches, deserts, and mountains in one epic package. Zipline across Jebel Jais, hike to Camp 1770, or chill on Flamingo Beach. You can camp under the stars, cuddle camels, or explore ancient pearling villages—all in one weekend.
Plan it for: High-adrenaline mornings, lazy afternoons, and Arabian sunsets
Stay at: Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Longbeach Campground

3. Koh Samui, Thailand

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Island days, spa nights, and full moon stories
For a quieter, soulful beach holiday with your gang, Koh Samui delivers. In August, the Gulf side is calm, the beaches are postcard-perfect, and the pace is just right. Opt for group spa experiences, island-hopping, or a quick trip to Koh Phangan for fire shows under the full moon.
Plan it for: Spa days, beach barbecues, and full-moon evenings
Stay at: Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui

4. Kalkudah, East Coast, Sri Lanka

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Where sunrise surfing meets quiet nights by the water
Kalkudah is all about that slow island rhythm. Wake up to surf-ready waves, spend the afternoon exploring sandbars and lagoons, and wind down with grilled seafood and cool Lion beers. It’s still off the tourist radar, which makes it perfect for authentic moments.
Plan it for: Surfing, snorkelling, seafood nights, and slow travel
Stay at: Kalkudah Beach House by Teardrop Hotels

5. Mahé or La Digue, Seychelles

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Creole picnics, bike rides, and barefoot luxury
Whether you’re into cycling between beaches or kayaking over coral reefs, Seychelles in August is idyllic. Choose Mahé for adventures or La Digue for unplugged bliss. Add reggae bars, Creole meals, and impromptu beach dances for full core-memory impact.
Plan it for: Clear skies, chilled vibes, and unforgettable ocean adventures
Stay at:

  • Boutique: L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa

  • Budget: La Digue Island Lodge or Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort

  • Self-catering: Available across all 3 main islands

6. Tokyo, Japan

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For friends who don’t need a plan, just a starting point
Start your day above Tokyo at the Skytree, then scatter across the city—matcha soft serves, secondhand vinyl in Shimokitazawa, ramen in Shinjuku, and neon-lit nights in Golden Gai. You’ll all find your way back with stories to trade over skewers.
Plan it for: Urban wandering, ramen runs, and unforgettable city views
Stay at: Trunk Hotel, Shibuya

7. Tel Aviv & The Dead Sea, Israel

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A city that moves fast, but always has room for a long night out
Tel Aviv is where your tribe can enjoy beach days, rooftop nights, and street food with soul. Add in a road trip to the Dead Sea to float, laugh, and grab selfies covered in mineral-rich mud. It’s the mix of culture, connection, and celebration you didn’t know you needed.
Plan it for: Floating in the Dead Sea, rooftop bars, and people-watching at its finest
Stay at: A boutique hotel near Gordon Beach or Neve Tzedek

You don’t need a perfect itinerary to bring your friends together—just the intent to make it happen. Pick a place, book the trip, and trust the conversations, belly laughs, and those quiet shared moments to take care of the rest.


SpiceJet Announces Special Diwali Flights to Ayodhya from Key Indian Cities

SpiceJet Announces Special Diwali Flights to Ayodhya from Key Indian Cities

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 7, 2025

SpiceJet has announced the launch of daily non-stop flights connecting Ayodhya with Delhi, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad starting October 8, 2025. The initiative coincides with the Diwali festive season, making travel to the Shri Ram Temple easier for devotees and tourists while reinforcing SpiceJet’s commitment to affordable and accessible travel.

The new services will be introduced in a phased manner to ensure seamless connectivity and reliable operations. SpiceJet also revealed that flights from Mumbai to Ayodhya are under consideration to meet the growing travel demand during the festive and winter seasons.

Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer, SpiceJet, said, “There could be no better occasion than Diwali to visit Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram. We are delighted to make travel to the holy city easier and more convenient for devotees and tourists alike. Our new daily flights from key metros will ensure smooth and affordable access to Ayodhya during Diwali, allowing passengers to celebrate the festival in its most divine setting.”

The special Diwali flight services are expected to cater to increased passenger traffic, offering greater flexibility for travellers from major Indian cities. This network expansion strengthens SpiceJet’s domestic reach while supporting religious and seasonal tourism.

SpiceJet, an IATA-IOSA certified airline, operates a fleet of Boeing 737s and Q-400s and continues to be among India’s largest regional carriers under the UDAN scheme. The airline remains focused on expanding its network to meet cultural and regional travel needs across the country.


Qantas to Resume Non-Stop Delhi–Melbourne Flights Ahead of India–Australia T20

Qantas to Resume Non-Stop Delhi–Melbourne Flights Ahead of India–Australia T20

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 7, 2025

Qantas, Australia’s largest airline and national carrier, has announced the return of its non-stop flights between Delhi and Melbourne, set to begin on 27 October 2025. Operating three times a week until 28 March 2026, the service re-establishes a key route in the airline’s India–Australia network ahead of the busy travel and cricket season.

The reinstated connection offers Indian travellers direct access to Melbourne, one of Australia’s most popular cities known for its cultural diversity, culinary appeal, and proximity to iconic attractions such as the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley, and Phillip Island.

The timing of the relaunch coincides with major cricket fixtures, including the India–Australia T20 match scheduled for 31 October at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The first Qantas flight on this route will land in Melbourne on 28 October, giving fans convenient access to the event and the city’s vibrant summer sporting calendar, which also features the Ashes and Big Bash League tournaments.

Cam Wallace, CEO of Qantas International, said, “We’re delighted to bring back our non-stop connection between Delhi and Melbourne, just in time for the busy travel season. Flying direct significantly reduces travel time to Australia, and these new flights are perfectly suited for Indian fans attending cricket events in Melbourne, including the T20 series in late October, the Ashes and Big Bash League later in the year.”

He added, “To help support our growing presence in India, we have opened new offices in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru to service our Indian customers, and promote our non-stop flights to Sydney and Melbourne.”

The flights will be operated by Airbus A330-200 aircraft, featuring 26 lie-flat Business Class suites and 204 Economy seats. Across three weekly return services, Qantas will offer over 1,300 seats per week between Delhi and Melbourne, adding more than 30,000 seats during the peak travel season.


Sri Lanka Launches Three-City Roadshow Across Southern India

Sri Lanka Launches Three-City Roadshow Across Southern India

By Hariharan U

Published on October 4, 2025

Sri Lanka Tourism is intensifying its efforts to attract Indian travellers with a three-city roadshow series across Southern India. Scheduled for Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai on October 6, 8, and 10, 2025 respectively, the initiative will highlight Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism offerings and strengthen ties with the Indian travel industry.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), the roadshows will feature B2B sessions and networking evenings designed to showcase Sri Lanka as a year-round destination for all types of travellers. The events will introduce Indian travel agents and industry professionals to Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, its vibrant attractions, and growing opportunities for leisure and MICE travel.

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“This initiative underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening its position as a preferred destination for Indian travellers, offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and world-class hospitality,” said the delegation led by Mr. Vijitha Herath, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, and Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, Deputy Minister of Tourism.

The delegation includes over 40 stakeholders from across Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, including destination management companies, hotels, resorts, tour operators, and service providers. Each city’s event will host over 200 participants, comprising Indian travel agents, industry leaders, and media representatives.

Adding a vibrant touch to the experience, a Sri Lankan cultural dance troupe will perform at each venue, offering guests a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage and traditions.

About SLTPB & SLCB

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau is the government agency responsible for marketing and promoting Sri Lanka as a travel destination. Working closely with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, SLCB, and other stakeholders, SLTPB aims to position Sri Lanka as South Asia’s leading tourist destination.

The Sri Lanka Convention Bureau focuses on promoting MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel to Sri Lanka. With world-class venues and improved accessibility, SLCB facilitates event planning for international corporations, associations, and incentive houses. India remains a key market for the bureau’s promotional activities.

Both organisations operate under the Ministry of Foreign Employment, Foreign Affairs & Tourism of Sri Lanka, combining efforts to promote the country’s leisure and business tourism offerings.

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