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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
Wild mornings, long drives, and campfire nightsFew 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 skiesStay at: A tented safari camp in the Mara
2. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Where adventure meets stunning eveningsThis 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 sunsetsStay at: Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Longbeach Campground
3. Koh Samui, Thailand
Island days, spa nights, and full moon storiesFor 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 eveningsStay at: Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui
4. Kalkudah, East Coast, Sri Lanka
Where sunrise surfing meets quiet nights by the waterKalkudah 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 travelStay at: Kalkudah Beach House by Teardrop Hotels
5. Mahé or La Digue, Seychelles
Creole picnics, bike rides, and barefoot luxuryWhether 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 adventuresStay 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
For friends who don’t need a plan, just a starting pointStart 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 viewsStay at: Trunk Hotel, Shibuya
7. Tel Aviv & The Dead Sea, Israel
A city that moves fast, but always has room for a long night outTel 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 finestStay 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.
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By Hariharan U
Published on August 27, 2025
SpiceJet has taken a pioneering step towards digital innovation and eco-friendly travel by becoming the first airline in India to roll out paperless boarding at Shillong Airport. Passengers checking in at the airport counter will now receive their boarding passes directly on WhatsApp, eliminating the need for printed copies.
This new feature aims to make the check-in process faster, greener, and more seamless. By reducing reliance on paper, the initiative also aligns with SpiceJet’s commitment to sustainability.
Despite the availability of web check-in and Digi Yatra, Indian airports still printed more than 9 million boarding passes in June 2025, resulting in nearly 6 tonnes of carbon emissions. SpiceJet’s move directly addresses this avoidable footprint, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious aviation practices.
The paperless boarding feature is powered by SpiceJet’s indigenously developed Web Departure Control System (WEBDCS)- a browser-based platform that enables airport staff to issue:
Digital boarding passes via WhatsApp or email
Baggage tags via SMS
This system works on tablets as well as standard airport computers, ensuring smooth operations while enhancing efficiency.
Speaking on the milestone, GP Gupta, Chief Strategy Officer, SpiceJet, said, “At SpiceJet, we are constantly working to enhance the travel experience for our passengers while embracing sustainability. The introduction of paperless boarding at Shillong Airport is a significant step in that direction. We look forward to expanding this convenience-driven initiative across more airports in the near future”.
SpiceJet has confirmed plans to extend the WhatsApp-based paperless boarding experience to other domestic airports in the coming months, furthering its position as a leader in sustainable and passenger-centric air travel.
About SpiceJet:
SpiceJet is India’s favourite airline, making flying affordable for millions of Indians. An IATA-IOSA certified carrier, it operates a fleet of Boeing 737s and Q-400s and is among the country’s largest regional players, operating multiple daily flights under UDAN – the Regional Connectivity Scheme. A majority of its fleet features SpiceMax, India’s most spacious economy-class seating.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on August 25, 2025
Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, has added Kozhikode (Calicut) to its network as its 30th destination and 24th domestic city in just under three years of operations. Starting 1 October 2025, the airline will operate daily direct flights between Mumbai and Kozhikode, strengthening connectivity between India’s financial capital and Kerala’s Malabar coast.
The new addition builds on Akasa Air’s existing services to Kochi and further expands its footprint in Kerala. Kozhikode, known for its cultural heritage, coastal charm, and active trade, is a hub for both leisure and business travellers. The daily service is expected to boost tourism and trade opportunities between Kerala and metropolitan centres.
Praveen Iyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air, said: “We are delighted to add Kozhikode as the 30th destination on our network, marking a milestone in Akasa Air’s growth story, and expanding our connectivity in Kerala. The city’s unique cultural character and thriving economy, combined with Kerala’s renewed emphasis on tourism and infrastructure, make it an instrumental addition to our network. Our daily Mumbai–Kozhikode service will not only enhance connectivity between India’s commercial capital and the Malabar coast but also act as a catalyst for trade, tourism, and economic opportunities.”
Within just 37 months of commencing operations, Akasa Air has grown to 30 destinations, making it the fastest-growing airline in Indian civil aviation history. Its strategy is centred on affordable and reliable connectivity while steadily expanding its reach.
The airline continues to enhance customer experience with modern aircraft offering extra legroom, USB charging ports, and Café Akasa’s festive and healthy menus. Akasa has also introduced industry-first innovations such as QuietFlights, SkyScore by Akasa, SkyLights, and a pet travel policy, along with products like Akasa GetEarly and Akasa Holidays, reflecting its focus on passenger comfort and convenience.
Published on August 17, 2025
Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong comeback, with more than 4 lakh devotees visiting the holy Amarnath shrine this season, a clear sign of the region’s renewed appeal after challenging years.
Speaking at the FAITH Conclave 2025, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted that J&K offers two distinct travel experiences: pilgrimage tourism in Jammu and leisure tourism in Kashmir. He stressed that both require sustained investment and innovation to ensure visitors not only arrive once but return for more.
“My success will not be measured by how many tourists come for the first time, but by how many choose to come back. For that, the quality of their experience is key,” Abdullah said.
To address crowding at popular spots and open fresh opportunities, the J&K Government, in partnership with the Government of India, has launched SPREAD, a ₹5,600-crore transformative project supported by multilateral funding, with hopeful participation from the World Bank. The initiative will develop nine purpose-built, sustainable tourism destinations across Jammu and Kashmir, backed by improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and modern amenities.
Adventure tourism is also on the agenda, with Gulmarg set for upgraded winter sports facilities in collaboration with private partners, aiming to meet global skiing and adventure standards. Trekking routes will reopen following comprehensive security reviews to ensure visitor safety.
The plan extends beyond leisure and adventure to untapped segments like pilgrimage and border tourism in Jammu—going beyond the famous Mata Vaishnodevi shrine to include vibrant experiences such as the Suchetgarh border tourism circuit.
Praising the region’s timeless charm, Abdullah remarked,“Kashmir was heaven on earth long before Kerala was God’s own country. The road ahead is now filled with light, and with the support of industry partners and associations like FAITH, we will continue to grow stronger.”
From the world’s tallest arched railway bridge to snow-covered ski slopes, rich spiritual heritage, and pristine landscapes, Jammu & Kashmir is positioning itself as a year-round destination. The government’s approach blends infrastructure development with sustainable practices, keeping hope, optimism, and faith at the heart of its tourism vision.
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