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Our India travel specialists are truly passionate about India and its surrounding regions.

They have travelled thoroughly in India and Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan; and have the insider knowledge about unmissable sights and the best places to stay.

Vasu

My penchant for travel goes all the way back to my childhood when I journeyed across India with my father, an Indian army officer. However, it wasn’t until I set off on a biking trip in north India with a few college friends that I fell head-over-heels for travel. After obtaining a degree in Economics, I started as a tour manager for European trekking/climbing expeditions to the Himalaya. I originally climbed mountains to get the adrenaline rush, but what caught me by surprise was how much I loved meeting the people in these remote areas. This inspired me later in my career and I decided to move to the UK to pursue an MSc in Responsible Tourism and since then have settled here. 

I am a trained mountaineer and have spent many years exploring the Himalaya in India, Nepal & Bhutan. Apart from having extensively travelled in India, I have rafted down most of the rivers in the subcontinent and driven my motorbike to the remote corners in India including the world’s highest road in Ladakh. I also take immense pleasure in meeting the people of the lands I visit and appreciating the customs & traditions they hold. I love the puppets of Rajasthan, food in Kerala, trekking in Nepal, mask dances of Bhutan and the ‘curd & treacle’ in Sri Lanka.

I have years of experience as an Indian Subcontinent specialist designing luxury tailor-made holidays and I won’t be satisfied until my clients are excited about the holiday. Apart from the usual sights I absolutely love to plan behind-the-scenes experiences in the narrow streets of Delhi or Varanasi, have conversations with local experts to learn secrets of traditional cooking methods, meetings with artists or musicians in the rural villages, and special private dinners in stunning settings.

My insider tip

Being open minded on a holiday and trying a few things that one normally wouldn’t do can make the holiday memorable. So surprise yourself by wandering off the usual travel guides. In India, I suggest exploring some of the narrow lanes and hidden streets of big cities by a Tuk-Tuk. These tiny vehicles weave in and out of traffic with much ease and let one get under the skin of the place. Witness sights not often seen by tourists and be part of an immersive experience.

My favourite experience

There are so many to choose from, but I’d pick a safari in Ranthambore with one of the most experienced naturalists. With an impeccable knowledge of the park, he helped me spot the rare and shy leopard (as well as two tigers and a cub), which is my favourite cat! This is in addition to about 70 species of birds we spotted on an afternoon safari. I have been to most of the national parks in the subcontinent and stayed in many lodges but this experience clearly stands out and is etched in my memory forever.

My favourite place

India is one of the most magical destinations and has enough to entice a first-time traveller whilst also keeping repeat visitors engaged in its culture, landscape, history festivals, cuisines, people and much more. It’s difficult to not fall in love with the genuineness and warm smiles of the people and the intriguing village life in every part of the country.

My favourite hotel

Shahpura Bagh, in the heartland of rural Rajasthan, comprises two restored bungalows in 45 acres of gardens with a gorgeous pool and is an ideal stop to unwind after a whirlwind tour of the Golden Triangle in north India. This heritage property is the private residence of the rulers of Shahpura who personally look after the guests. Days are spent taking leisurely walks around the estate and their private lake, visiting the nearby villages, enjoying private meals in stunning locations and bird watching during winter months. The food is the highlight and I can’t say enough about my dinner which consisted of some recipes passed down from one generation to the next one before finally appearing on my table! Shahpura Bagh is not a hotel but a destination and experience in itself.

Lily 

I have always loved discovering new places and, having studied history at university, love getting into a destination’s background and culture, learning as much as I possibly can. I previously studied in Arizona, which provided a great base for discovering the American Southwest as well as other parts of the country. The weekend trips between studying made me an expert at cramming it all in. I have also worked in a number of hotels, which helped foster my fascination with the tourism industry as a whole. Some of my favourite places I have been able to travel to are Cuba, Hawaii, Norway, Canada, and Sri Lanka. 

My favourite experience 

Driving through the Transylvanian mountains in the back of an old Land Rover. I had never really thought of visiting Romania, but the opportunity came to take part in volunteer work there and off I went. Luckily, we were able to travel around the country and do some sightseeing, and I’m so glad we did. I was blown away by how beautiful it was. One particular day, we drove through the mountains in the sunshine on our way to Sighişoara, and the views were spectacular and very unexpected. We finished the day canoeing on the Red Lake amongst the amazing scenery.  

My favourite place 

I was lucky enough to grow up visiting family in Sri Lanka, and I think it is the perfect travel destination. There is always so much to see and do there, and I love seeing more and more of what the island has to offer. It is great for all types of people and all types of holiday, whether you want to relax on a beautiful tropical beach or go on a wildlife safari. It also has such a rich history, and the food is amazing.  

My favourite hotel 

For a relaxing beachy stay, I love the Jetwing Beach Negombo. It has a great combination of feeling very calming and spa-like, whilst also being on the beach with plenty to do, and each room benefits from a sea view. There is a selection of swimming pools to choose from, as well as restaurants. You can dine outside on the beach under the stars whilst trying an amazing selection of local food. There are also things to see in the surrounding area in Negombo if you get bored of the beach, such as the famous fish market.  

Jessica

Since I was young, I had the fortunate opportunity to go on numerous wonderful holidays igniting my fervour for all things related to travel. It became evident to me that I desired to intertwine my passion with my professional path, making the travel industry an ideal choice. I have cultivated an extensive catalogue of destinations that I yearn to explore, and I find myself consistently expanding this list as my wanderlust grows stronger.

My favourite experience

I love animals and so always jump at any given opportunity to see them in their natural habitats. On holiday in Sri Lanka, I went on safari in Udawalawe National Park and was blessed to see a family of elephants, with baby in tow. The national park was so peaceful and served as a reminder of all the beauty the world has to offer.

My favourite place

India will always have a special place in my heart, having been the first country I travelled to outside of Europe. Upon leaving Delhi airport I was captivated by the buzz, all senses stimulated as I joined the transfer to my hotel. Five minutes into the journey, I was mesmerised and experienced a pinch-me moment; I was finally in the midst of the place I had desired to visit for so long. It was in that very moment I realised what a tiny place I occupied in the world as I had a glimpse into the worlds of so many. India is the place to go to feel alive.

My favourite hotel

The Taj Lake Palace hotel is located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, and referred to as the ‘Floating Palace’ due to its magnificent location on Lake Pichola. Its rich history, stunning architecture and unparalleled views make it a truly enchanting destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of Rajasthan.

My insider tip

When packing for your trip to India, it would be advisable to include a pair of shoes that can be slipped on and off with ease. This is for your own convenience, as when entering places of worship your shoes may need to be removed. It’s best to avoid laces on the days you plan to visit temples.