Desa Potato Head: Where Creativity Meets Sustainability in the Heart of Bali

Desa Potato Head: Where Creativity Meets Sustainability in the Heart of Bali

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 15, 2024

Imagine a place where vibrant creativity meets tropical bliss, where every detail is crafted to elevate your experience while embracing sustainability.

In the heart of Seminyak's creative village, just steps from the sand, Desa Potato Head is more than just a boutique hotel. Here, an ever-evolving vignette reveals modern rooms that sit aside art installations, a buzzy beach club, sound stages and studios, a library and unique concept stores. It's a holistic scene that draws globetrotting creatives, hedonists and sun-kissed locals alike.

Welcome to Desa Potato Head Resort, beach club and creative playground. Inspired by Bali we built a Desa: a creative village that embodies the world we want to live, create, and dream in.

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Spaces That Transform Moments into Memories

Whether you're working, socializing, or celebrating, these versatile venues are crafted to offer unforgettable experiences.

Studio Eksotika

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A multifunctional space offering a co-working centre with a curated selection of architecture, design, art, food and wellness reads. On special occasions, watch the interior transform into a hub for sharing ideas, audiophile sessions, and even late-night dance sessions.

Beach Front Pool Deck

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Overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean, the Beachfront Pool Deck exudes classic tropical charm. With ample space for socialising, from the inviting long bar to cosy table setups and relaxing daybeds, it's the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Sunset Park

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An elevated expanse overlooking the ocean on the third floor of Potato Head Studios. Sunset Park has a bar area perfect for large groups seeking a private socialising space.

Klymax

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The newest addition to Potato Head, is a multi-functional venue that offers a diverse program of sonic experiences, including a listening bar, cinema screenings, morning raves, conferences, and mindful sessions. The highlight is the Klymax Discotheque, open every Friday and Saturday, showcasing international and resident DJs with house, disco, and techno dance nights.      
 
Special Features

Comfort, Style & Sustainability in Every Detail

imageEclectic accommodation set: The wide array of studio and suite types offers couples, families, large groups, or friends gathering together with plentiful options to choose from. The beachfront living spaces are a quiet haven offering seclusion to wind down or party in your private accommodation.

imageUltimate Event Destination: The Oceanside Village boasts a diverse selection of venues and event spaces ideal for private rental, catering to a variety of gatherings—from weddings and birthdays to corporate meetings. With a blend of distinctive indoor and outdoor options such as the Amphitheatre, Nightclub, Beach Club, Library, and several outdoor venues, guests can bask in the enchanting sunset while enjoying their event.

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Commitment to sustainability: A firm belief in sustainability is ingrained in the hotel's DNA with a focus on planet-positive practices like a strict no single-use plastic policy, its own water filtration system, composting organic waste, recycling, zero waste policy and more. In its journey towards zero-waste, the hotel has reduced the amount of garbage going to landfills by 90% as compared to when it first opened, twelve years ago.

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The Beach Club: As a guest, you have free access to an array of amenities: two infinity pools, locally-accented eats & drinks and a sun-drenched soundtrack fuelled by our favourite DJs & musicians from across the globe.Variety of art installations including the famous 5000 Lost Soles. A large-scale installation constructed from over 5,000 plastic flip-flop sandals salvaged from the beaches of Bali with a powerful message: "Everything we throw away comes back to us—via the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil we grow."

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Library - The extensive in-house library features over 500 hand-picked titles covering a wide range of subjects, including music, art, fashion, architecture, well-being, philosophy and local Balinese culture.

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In-room cocktail bar - In all Suites and the Oceanfront Studio and Residence Studio only, a built-in ice well, custom cocktail tools, house-infused spirits, natural syrups, aromatic bitters, fresh fruit, and a recipe book from award-winning mixologist Dre Masso.


Top Domestic Destinations to Experience the Magic of Winter Across India and the Subcontinent

Top Domestic Destinations to Experience the Magic of Winter Across India and the Subcontinent

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 29, 2025

As winter sets in, India transforms into a breathtaking canvas of contrasts, from snow-draped peaks and golden desert dunes to tropical shores and serene temples. Whether you’re chasing sunshine or savoring the winter chill, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel present a curated selection of destinations that capture the beauty and essence of the season.

Uttarakhand – Alpine Adventures & Sacred Serenity

Uttarakhand in winter is a mesmerizing blend of snow-laced landscapes and spiritual calm. Auli, India’s premier ski destination, turns into a white wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or simply soaking in panoramic Himalayan views. Nearby, Joshimath offers gateways to mountain treks and tranquil retreats. For spiritual seekers, Rishikesh and Haridwar provide peaceful escapes with yoga sessions by the Ganges and evening aartis glowing under the winter sky. Whether you seek adventure or inner peace, Uttarakhand promises a soul-stirring winter experience.

Rajasthan – Royal Retreats and Desert Magic

Winter is the perfect season to revel in Rajasthan’s royal grandeur. The desert sun softens into a golden hue, ideal for exploring Jaipur’s forts, Jodhpur’s blue lanes, and Udaipur’s shimmering lakes. Camel safaris in Jaisalmer’s dunes become magical at twilight, while heritage stays and folk performances revive the charm of a bygone era. For culture enthusiasts, the Jaipur Literature Festival and the Jaisalmer Desert Festival add a festive sparkle to the season.

Kerala – God’s Own Country, in Its Coolest Mood

Kerala’s backwaters and beaches radiate serenity during winter. As the monsoon mist clears, it unveils lush greenery and crisp, pleasant weather, perfect for houseboat cruises in Alleppey or tea garden strolls in Munnar. Ayurvedic wellness retreats, spice plantation tours, and tranquil beaches like Kovalam and Varkala make Kerala a rejuvenating escape. Wildlife lovers can enjoy boat safaris in the Periyar Sanctuary surrounded by pristine hills and clear skies.

Andaman Islands – Tropical Warmth and Azure Waters

While much of the mainland cools, the Andamans welcome travelers with sunlit shores, gentle sea breezes, and azure waters. Ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and leisurely beach strolls, these islands offer the perfect blend of adventure and calm. Havelock’s Radhanagar Beach, often listed among Asia’s best, shines brightest in winter. Beyond the beaches, Port Blair’s historic Cellular Jail and glass-bottom boat rides reveal the islands’ fascinating depth and diversity.

Sri Lanka – The Island Escape

Just a short flight away, Sri Lanka offers an inviting tropical escape for Indian travelers. From the misty tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya to the sunny shores of Bentota, the island weaves together nature, history, and culture. Winter brings clear skies ideal for whale watching in Mirissa and exploring Sigiriya’s ancient rock fortress. Boutique retreats amid plantations and coastal resorts offering holistic wellness complete the island’s seasonal allure.

North East India – Winter’s Untouched Wonderland

For those seeking pristine beauty and peaceful solitude, North East India is a winter paradise. Explore Meghalaya’s living root bridges, Sikkim’s snow-kissed monasteries, and Arunachal’s hidden valleys. The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland adds vibrant rhythm to the season, celebrating tribal art, dance, and cuisine. From glacial treks to warm homestays, this region promises an authentic and soulful experience away from the crowds.

Spiritual Journeys – Finding Calm in the Cold

Winter also beckons seekers on spiritual journeys across India’s sacred landscape. From the ghats of Varanasi and the yoga ashrams of Rishikesh to the ancient sanctuaries of Bodh Gaya and Tirupati, each destination offers moments of reflection and renewal. Early morning rituals, yoga by the Ganges, and temple aartis bathed in soft winter light create a serene balance between devotion and discovery.

As the chill sets in, these destinations across India and the subcontinent invite travelers to rediscover the joy of the season, whether through snow, sand, or silence.


China Eastern Airlines Resumes Direct Shanghai–Delhi Flights from 9 November 2025

China Eastern Airlines Resumes Direct Shanghai–Delhi Flights from 9 November 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 27, 2025

China Eastern Airlines will restart its direct flights between Shanghai and Delhi from 9 November 2025, operating three times a week on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The service restores a key air link between India and China, strengthening connectivity for business, trade, and tourism.

The Delhi–Shanghai flight (MU564) will depart Indira Gandhi International Airport at 7:55 PM, arriving in Shanghai at 4:10 AM the following day. The return flight, Shanghai–Delhi (MU563), will leave Shanghai Pudong International Airport at 12:50 PM, reaching Delhi at 5:45 PM local time. Tickets for the route are now available across all booking platforms.

This route is strategically important as one of the primary air corridors between India and China. Its reinstatement highlights growing confidence in travel demand and marks the full restoration of China Eastern Airlines’ network in India.

InterGlobe Air Transport (IGAT) continues as the airline’s exclusive General Sales Agent in India, a partnership since 2002. IGAT provides end-to-end sales, marketing, ticketing, and operational support, leveraging its deep understanding of the Indian travel market.

For the resumed service, China Eastern Airlines will deploy the Airbus A330-200, known for its long-range efficiency and superior passenger comfort. The aircraft features an advanced in-flight Wi-Fi system, allowing travellers to stay connected throughout their journey. Through Shanghai Pudong hub, passengers can access seamless onward connections across China and to global destinations in North America, Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

The reinstated Shanghai–Delhi route is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges between India and China, while further strengthening China Eastern’s presence in South Asia.


Top 7 Short-Haul Winter Getaways for Indian Travellers

Top 7 Short-Haul Winter Getaways for Indian Travellers

By Hariharan U

Published on October 25, 2025

As winter sets in, it’s the perfect time for Indian travellers to take a quick break that mixes culture, adventure, and comfort, all within a few hours’ flight. Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have rounded up seven amazing short-haul destinations that promise sunshine, experiences, and memories to match every travel style.

Vietnam – Culture Meets Calm
Vietnam beautifully blends history with modern energy. From the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An, there’s always something to explore. Winter brings pleasant weather, ideal for wandering through Hanoi’s old quarters or cruising the stunning limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay. Foodies will love the local flavours—bowls of steaming pho and crisp spring rolls—while beach lovers can unwind at Da Nang or Phu Quoc.

Singapore – Small City, Big Experiences
Singapore may be compact, but it’s packed with world-class experiences. Whether you’re admiring the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, shopping along Orchard Road, or sampling hawker food, there’s no shortage of fun. Take a Vespa ride through Chinatown for a quirky twist, or spend the day on Sentosa Island enjoying attractions like Universal Studios and the S.E.A. Aquarium. With its tropical weather and cosmopolitan buzz, Singapore is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

UAE – Glamour in the Desert
The UAE is where luxury meets adventure. Dubai’s sparkling skyline and thrilling desert safaris never fail to impress, while Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi showcase elegance and heritage. Winter’s cooler climate makes it ideal for dune bashing, outdoor dining, or simply soaking in desert sunsets—a short yet unforgettable getaway.

Bali, Indonesia – The Island That Heals
Bali continues to be a favourite among Indian travellers for good reason. Winter days here are warm and sunny—perfect for exploring Ubud’s rice terraces, lounging by Seminyak’s beaches, or treating yourself to a spa retreat. Rich in art, rituals, and scenic beauty, Bali offers both peace and adventure in one magical island escape.

Cambodia – Ancient Wonders Await
For those who love history, Cambodia offers a fascinating window into the past. The legendary Angkor Wat complex looks especially beautiful in the crisp winter weather. Between temple visits, you can stroll through Siem Reap’s cafés and night markets or take a boat ride through floating villages. The mix of heritage, warmth, and simplicity makes Cambodia a meaningful winter destination.

Thailand – A Classic Favourite
Thailand’s timeless charm lies in its diversity, buzzing Bangkok, scenic Krabi, and dreamy Phuket all offer something special. Winter brings the best weather for exploring temples, island-hopping, or indulging in the country’s unbeatable street food. Whether you want excitement or relaxation, Thailand’s infectious energy never disappoints.

Oman – The Arabian Surprise
Just a short flight away, Oman enchants travellers with its rugged landscapes and peaceful vibe. Think golden deserts, turquoise seas, and historic forts. In Muscat, traditional souks and seaside promenades capture the essence of Arabia. Winter is the perfect season to hike the mountains, explore sand dunes, or simply take in Oman’s natural beauty.

From beaches to deserts, each of these destinations offers something unique, proof that the best winter holidays don’t need long flights or long breaks. With Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, your next unforgettable winter escape is just around the corner.

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