Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Bruges, Belgium

Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Bruges, Belgium

By Author

Published on November 8, 2023

Tucked away in the heart of Belgium, the charming city of Bruges, often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” beckons travelers with its picturesque canals, historic charm, and delectable treats. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and for good reason. Bruges has something to offer everyone, from history and culture lovers to foodies and shoppers.

The history of Bruges dates back to the Roman era, but it truly flourished during the Middle Ages when it became a bustling trading port. Its well-preserved medieval architecture and network of canals are living testaments to its rich past. It was a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful confederation of merchants that dominated trade in northern Europe. At its zenith in the 14th century, Bruges was a prominent center for trade and culture in Northern Europe.

Today, Bruges is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. The city's medieval center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are many things to see and do in Bruges. 

Bruges' Canals: Start your journey by exploring Bruges from the water. The canal tours provide a unique perspective of the city's medieval architecture, passing under picturesque bridges and past historic buildings.

The Belfry of Bruges: This 83-meter tall medieval bell tower offers panoramic views of the city. Climb its 366 steps for a breathtaking vista of the enchanting surroundings. 

Bruges' Markt: This central square is lined with colorful, step-gabled buildings and is home to iconic buildings including the Belfry, the Town Hall, and the Cloth Hall, and hosts a vibrant market. It's an ideal place to savor a coffee or Belgian waffle while people-watching. 

The Groeningemuseum: This museum houses a collection of Flemish art from the 14th to the 18th centuries. As you wander through the museum's halls, you'll find yourself captivated by the stunning details, vivid colors, and profound stories embedded in the paintings. It's a visual and emotional journey that connects you with the artists who poured their heart and soul into these magnificent creations.

The Beguinage of Bruges: Beguines were women who dedicated their lives to serving the community without taking formal religious vows. What makes the Beguinage truly charming is its simplicity and the sense of quietude that envelops visitors. It's a place to escape the bustling city, find a moment of introspection, and appreciate the dedication of the women who lived here centuries ago.

Bruges' enchantment goes beyond its historic architecture and picturesque loc. It's a city that encourages leisurely strolls along cobblestone streets, with surprises waiting around every corner. The delicate lacework and artisanal shops add to the city's allure, making it an excellent place to pick up souvenirs. You'll find friendly locals who are proud to share the secrets and stories of their beloved city, adding a personal touch to your visit. This is a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.

Image Source: Visit Bruges


IHCL Launches Two SeleQtions Resorts in Lakshadweep, Expanding its Island Getaway Portfolio

IHCL Launches Two SeleQtions Resorts in Lakshadweep, Expanding its Island Getaway Portfolio

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 11, 2025

In a move that brings India’s island charm to global attention, the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has opened two new resorts under its SeleQtions brand in Lakshadweep. Nestled within the untouched beauty of the archipelago, the 60-room Bangaram Island Resort and the glamping-style Coral Pearl are designed to offer a unique and sustainable retreat for travellers.

The Coral Pearl resort features 50 luxury tents set against the serene backdrop of Lakshadweep’s white sandy beaches. Meanwhile, Bangaram Island Resort focuses on eco-conscious hospitality, inviting guests to connect with nature while enjoying comfort and luxury.

Visitors to the islands can dive into adventure with activities like scuba diving, kayaking, snorkelling, and guided nature trails, each curated to explore the region’s rich marine biodiversity.

Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of IHCL, shared his thoughts on the launch:

“In keeping with IHCL’s legacy of pioneering destinations in India, the two resorts on Bangaram island put Lakshadweep on the global tourism map. Reflective of our ethos of responsible tourism, the eco-resorts set in the pristine white beaches offer distinctive experiences rooted in the local essence.”

With this launch, IHCL continues its journey of opening up new travel experiences rooted in India’s diverse landscapes. The addition of these Lakshadweep resorts extends their island offering and adds a fresh option for travellers seeking exclusivity and tranquillity.

IHCL currently operates a portfolio of 400 hotels globally, including 151 in the pipeline, spread across four continents, 14 countries, and over 150 destinations.

In recent developments, the group also announced a Taj-branded hotel in Naina Tikker, Himachal Pradesh, with 120 rooms and stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. Additionally, it has signed a new Gateway hotel in Pune, Maharashtra, further strengthening its footprint in India.


Air India CEO Reaffirms Safety, Targets Full Resumption of International Flights by October

Air India CEO Reaffirms Safety, Targets Full Resumption of International Flights by October

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 9, 2025

Air India’s Chief Executive Officer, Campbell Wilson, has reaffirmed the airline’s strong focus on safety while announcing a full return of international operations by October 1, 2025. This development follows a phased resumption of services that began on August 1, after the airline voluntarily initiated a “Safety Pause” in June in the wake of the AI171 incident.

In a communication shared with Maharaja Club members, Wilson highlighted the airline’s transparent approach and ongoing collaboration with regulatory bodies, particularly the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). He stated that comprehensive inspections were carried out across the Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 fleet, with no issues found. Further checks on the fuel control switch mechanisms of Boeing 737 and 787-8 aircraft also showed normal results.

“We continue to work closely with regulators, maintaining full transparency and ensuring that every action we take aligns with the highest standards of safety and care,” Wilson said.

The temporary pause, first announced on June 19, allowed Air India to intensify pre-flight inspections and manage disruptions caused by regional airspace closures. The downtime was used strategically to upgrade aircraft reliability and improve delay management processes.

Wilson emphasized that all Air India aircraft undergo multi-layered safety checks prior to departure, and each flight is monitored in real time by the Integrated Operations Control Centre. The airline’s engineering and crew teams are regularly trained at the Air India Training Academy, strictly following the latest international safety standards.

Air India also operates under a comprehensive Safety Management System aligned with both DGCA and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) norms. The airline is subject to annual audits by the DGCA and undergoes bi-annual IATA Operational Safety Audits conducted by external experts. According to Wilson, the DGCA recently assessed Air India's audit findings as “entirely normal” for an airline of its size.

Since its privatization, Air India has collaborated with aviation consultancy Oliver Wyman/CAVOK for a full safety assessment and has partnered with Boeing for an Operational Efficacy Program aimed at upgrading internal systems.

Acknowledging recent service disruptions, Wilson assured flyers that corrective steps are actively being implemented. He also mentioned that the ongoing fleet retrofit program remains on schedule to enhance the in-flight experience.

“So, whenever you choose to fly with Air India, know that your trust is valued and your journey safeguarded by our entire Air India family,” Wilson concluded.


Agoda Reveals Top Indian Cities That Keep Drawing Travelers Back in 2025

Agoda Reveals Top Indian Cities That Keep Drawing Travelers Back in 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 9, 2025

Some places are just too good to visit only once and Agoda’s 2025 Return Visitor Ranking proves it. According to the latest data from the travel platform, several Indian cities have consistently drawn travelers back within the first six months of the year, highlighting a clear trend: today’s travelers aren’t just exploring, they’re returning for more.

New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore lead the list of Indian cities attracting repeat visitors. As key urban hubs, these cities offer excellent connectivity, drawing professionals and leisure travelers alike. What begins as a work trip often extends into a personal getaway, with many exploring nearby destinations such as Agra, Coorg, or Pondicherry. These metro cities act as gateways to larger travel ecosystems, making them central to India’s growing trend of blended business-leisure travel.

One standout on the list is Kochi, which is rapidly emerging as a favorite among culturally inclined and slow-traveling tourists. Once known mainly as an entry point to Kerala’s scenic backwaters, Kochi now charms return visitors with its colonial architecture, vibrant art scene, and multicultural vibe. Signature events like the Kochi-Muziris Biennale and its walkable heritage neighborhoods have helped elevate the city into a destination in its own right.

Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, commented, “Travelers are increasingly seeking deeper, more meaningful engagements with destinations, often returning to places that offer both familiarity and continued discovery. The rising interest in cities like Kochi and Chennai reflects a clear shift toward destinations that combine strong local character with enhanced connectivity and infrastructure.”

Globally, Asian destinations like Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Bali, and Osaka topped Agoda’s return visitor list. Also featured in the top ten were Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Da Nang, Johor Bahru, and Hong Kong, each offering immersive experiences that entice travelers to come back again and again.

Whether you're revisiting an old favorite or discovering a new city, Agoda offers seamless planning with over 6 million holiday properties, 130,000+ flight routes, and 300,000+ activities, all in one place. Travelers can head to www.Agoda.com or download the mobile app to plan their next journey with ease.

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