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.


IndiGo Launches Direct Flights Between Delhi and Manchester

IndiGo Launches Direct Flights Between Delhi and Manchester

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, has launched direct flights between Delhi and Manchester, starting 15th November 2025. This follows the airline’s successful first long-haul route connecting Mumbai to Manchester earlier this year.

The new 5x weekly service is operated on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. The plane offers a two-class cabin with 56 IndiGoStretch seats and 282 Economy Class seats, ensuring comfort for long-haul travellers.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), one of India’s top global gateways, now hosts IndiGo’s long-haul operations from the capital. On the UK side, Manchester Airport serves as a key hub, providing easy connections to Northern English cities including Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle.

By linking Delhi and Manchester, IndiGo aims to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between India and the UK, making international travel faster and more convenient.

Flight Schedule (Effective 15 November 2025)

Delhi to Manchester

  • Flight No.: 6E 0033

  • Days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday

  • Departure: 04:05 (local time)

  • Arrival: 09:30 (local time)

Manchester to Delhi

  • Flight No.: 6E 0034

  • Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

  • Departure: 11:15 (local time)

  • Arrival: 02:10 (+1, next day)

Note: All timings are in local time zones; +1 indicates arrival the next day.

About IndiGo
IndiGo is India’s preferred carrier and one of the fastest-growing airlines globally. Focused on affordability, punctuality, and hassle-free travel, the airline operates 2,300+ daily flights across 90+ domestic and 40+ international destinations. With a fleet of over 400 aircraft, IndiGo inducted 58 aircraft in 2024 and served 118 million passengers in FY25. It was also named ‘Best Airline in India and South Asia’ by Skytrax at the 2025 World Airline Awards.

For more details, visit www.goindigo.in or download the IndiGo mobile app.


Cox & Kings Unveils ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ as Indians Choose Offbeat Winter Destinations

Cox & Kings Unveils ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ as Indians Choose Offbeat Winter Destinations

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

As Europe settles into its most scenic season, Indian travellers are increasingly looking beyond the usual winter hotspots. This year, Central and Eastern Europe have become strong favourites, leading Cox & Kings to introduce its new ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ collection. The series focuses on handpicked journeys through quieter, cultural, and lesser-explored regions, offering an intimate view of Europe away from the typical tourist trails.

Booking patterns show a clear trend: places like Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary, and Bulgaria are seeing higher demand among Indian travellers. These destinations offer a mix of heritage, calm winter beauty, and good value. From snow-covered old towns to peaceful mountains and festive markets without long queues, the region appeals to travellers seeking a more soulful winter holiday.

The new itineraries, ‘Eastern Wonders: A Winter Tale’, ‘Essence of Europe: Winter Journey’, and ‘Passionate Europe: A Winter Tale’, have been curated to highlight the slower and more immersive side of Europe. While winter does bring affordability with airfares and stays dropping up to 40% across Europe between November and March, Cox & Kings says the real focus is on meaningful experiences rather than seasonal discounts.

"There's a kind of quiet grandeur to Europe in winter especially in the regions that aren't yet overrun by tourism," says Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings. "Our Winter Tales itineraries bring that to life for travellers who want to go beyond the obvious and experience Europe as it truly feels to locals."

The Winter Tales series is open to a wide range of travellers: families looking for festive breaks, honeymooners, solo travellers joining group departures, senior explorers, and all-women groups under Cox & Kings’ Group Inclusive Tours (GIT) format. There is also flexibility for travellers who prefer independent travel, as the itineraries can be customised. Bookings for these journeys remain open until mid-March 2026.

About Cox & Kings
Cox & Kings is the world’s first and one of the most iconic travel houses, with a legacy of over 260 years. Established in 1758, it has been a pioneer in global travel across leisure, business, and specialised segments. Known for its deep expertise and curated experiences, the brand continues to guide generations of travellers with a blend of tradition, innovation, and customer-first hospitality.


Andaman Tourism to Host ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15

Andaman Tourism to Host ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15

By MAnu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 16, 2025

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands government is set to host an ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15, aiming to promote eco-adventure tourism and encourage local youth participation. Organised by the Tourism Department with support from the Environment and Forests Department and MY Bharat, the event highlights the islands’ natural beauty and historical legacy.

A tourism department official stated that the festival seeks to inspire youth to take up eco-guiding and adventure guiding as viable paths for self-employment, aligning with the administration’s vision of sustainable tourism development. Participation will be limited to 50 individuals, including local youth, trekking enthusiasts, tour operators, and tourists. The first 50 registered participants will be selected for the trek, and all will receive participation certificates from the Tourism Department.

Mount Manipur, formerly known as Mount Harriet, is the third-highest peak in the Andaman archipelago and one of its most scenic and historically significant trekking routes. The site carries deep historical importance, following the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, Maharaja Kulachandra Singh and 22 freedom fighters were exiled to the Andaman Islands.

To honour their bravery, Union Home Minister Amit Shah renamed Mount Harriet as Mount Manipur during his 2021 visit to the islands. In recognition of this history, the Tourism Department chose the location as the venue for the Island Trekking Festival, merging adventure with remembrance.

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