Valentine’s Day Hideout

Vythiri Resort, Wayanad, Kerala

Clean and pristine, enchanting and hypnotizing, nestled among the mountains of Western Ghats, Wayanad forms the greenest part of God’s Own Country – Kerala. This land is filled with history and culture that mesmerizes the discerning traveler.

A1journeys lets you get into a romantic mood well in time for Valentine’s Day 2012. We take you to Vythiri Resort, an exquisite eco friendly jungle getaway in the heart of Wayand. Spread across either bank of a mountain spring that runs through the 150 acre property, the Vythiri Resort is a delightful jungle getaway and a naturalist’s treasure trove.

Wrapped in the cool embrace of a rainforest, stone lined pathways and canopy of majestic trees lead to brick coloured cottages built in the style native to the region. Built of brick with wooden rafters on the roof, furnished in cane, wood and fabrics of discreet elegance, the cottages are equipped with all modern amenities.

Being a perfect hideout for young couples of all ages, guests at the Vythiri Resort choose to just relax in the cottages to the sound of birds, go for a jungle walk with the resident naturalist, swim in fresh water pool or opt for treatments at the in house Ayurvedic Spa in the traditional Kerala style.

Your Special Valentine’s Day Package at the Vythiri Resort includes accommodation for a couple for 2 nights and 3 days. The package includes:

  • Welcome drink on arrival
  • Simple decoration and fruit basket in the room on arrival day
  • All meals: Bed tea/coffee, 2 Breakfast, 2 Lunch & 2 Dinner
  • Half Day sightseeing toPookotLakeand View Point (by Non AC Jeep. Entry and boating charges extra)
  • One session of candle light dinner with chef’s special dish, Honeymoon cake and a glass of Wine
  • Guided trekking inside the resort to the natural waterfalls, streams, natural pool etc
  • Bonfire in the evening (subject to climatic conditions)
  • ADAM and EVE MASSAGE at VYTHIRI SPA for a couple (One session only)
  • Complementary usage of Steam Room & plunge pool (15 minutes) on Day 2 at Vythiri Spa
  • There are no additional rates and taxes
  • Check in 1pm & Check out 11am

Accommodation Options:

Planters Retreat + 1 Night Tree House: Rs 25,500/-

Serenity Cottage + 1 Night Tree House: Rs 26,500/-

Vythiri Heaven + 1 Night Tree House: Rs 30,000/-

Your Package is valid until 31st March 2012

For reservations, please contact Mr Lijo Jose at +91 98950 75555 or Ms Sumi Sibi at +91 99958 03861 (email marketing@lezeldor.com). Do mention ‘a1journeys valentine’s day package’ at the time or reservation.

A chic retreat in Goa

Casa Colvale, Goa

If the word ‘Goa’ brings on visuals of palm-fringed beaches for you, get ready to redefine the vision. Perched on top of a cliff, Casa Colvale, a very stylish boutique estate property located on the unspoilt backwaters of the River Chapora in north Goa overlooks incredible views of lush tropical landscapes, idyllic islands, quiet backwaters and stuff that lazy dreams are really made of.

Guests can be as lazy or as active as they like during their stay at Casa Colvale.  Many arrive with the intention of doing a whole lot but end up doing very little – such is the pace of life at this little Goan gem that we have unearthened for you.  You can laze by one of the two beautiful swimming pools or take a yoga class on the riverside deck followed by a pampering massage.  There is some great fishing to be done here as well as bird watching and if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a crocodile or two.  For those foodies who want to learn some Goan kitchen secrets, cooking courses can easily be arranged.

Casa Colvale’s twelve luxurious bedrooms are all individually styled in a subtle fusion of contemporary and antique south-east Asian designs. Natural materials,handmade fabrics and linens that billow in the soft breeze are complimented by original works of art specially commissioned by renowned Goan artists.

An integral part of the property is a speed boat – mainly for guests who would like to go to the beaches like Vagator or Morjem swiftly, but can also facilitate a ‘James Bond – style’ arrival for those so inclined. Once you are picked at the airport, you could be dropped off at the mouth of the Chapora River in Siolim from where you arrive in a boat, with a glass of champagne in hand, at the hotel’s private jetty. If you decide to take a road trip yourself, you can have a relaxed check-in under an umbrella set in the lawn of the reception with a welcome drink while the formalities are being completed.

Rates for Deluxe Room Per Night: Rs 7,000 (from Dec 1st to Dec 26th) and Rs 9,000 per night (from Jan 4th to March 15th 2012)

Rates for Favourite Room Per Night: Rs 9,000 (from Dec 1st to Dec 26th) and Rs 11,000 per night (from Jan 4th to March 15th 2012)

All rates above are subject to 15.5% tax.

For Reservations, please contact Mr Lenny or Mr Narayan at reservation@casaboutiquehotels.com and mention “Casa Colvale with a1journeys.com” at the time of booking.

Tradition steeped in history at Hampi

Vijayshree Heritage Village, Hampi

With the winter vacations fast approaching we present you a holiday steeped in history – Hampi and the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, a vast open museum of history, architecture and religion. Located on the famed Goa-Bangalore tourist circuit, Hampi is a world Heritage site with a history that dates back to the Ramayan era.  Spread over an area more than 25 square kms, the ruins are packed with giant temples, palaces, market streets, aquatic structures, fortifications and an abundance of other ancient monuments. Some of the notable ones are – Achyutaraya Temple/Tiruvengalanatha Temple, Archaeological Museum at Kamalapura, Badava Linga, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha, Vittala temple, Zenana enclosure, Madhavan Palace with more than 1,000,000 pillars, Lotus temple and many others.
We bring to you history with a dose of tranquility and luxury through the Vijayshree Heritage village comprising of 43 cottages nestled amid 60,000 planted trees, which puts you in touch with the saatvik Indian lifestyle, with no cigarettes, liquor and a pure vegetarian diet. What’s more, you also get to explore the theme Heritage village next door, where rural India comes alive every day. A truly one-of-its-kind property set up in twenty acres of hill-fenced expanse, Vijayshree Heritage village is the new interpretation of superior Indian hospitality.

The holiday getaway for 2 adults for 2 nights and 3 days costs Rs 21,600/- (Ex-Hubli airport) or Rs 17,200/- (Ex-Hospet) all inclusive and includes –
•             Accommodation in the ‘Heritage Villa with breakfast and dinner included
•              Check in at noon with lunch, Check out by noon with breakfast
•              Traditional welcome and a refreshing welcome drink on arrival (non alcoholic)
•              2 days sightseeing of Hampi and nearest historical places in an A/C car
•              10 % discount on Spa and on laundry
•              Free entry in theme village with cultural activities, horse, camel and bullock-cart riding etc.
•              Free use of various facilities like the swimming pool and the games room
•              Free Accommodation & meals for children below 5 years
•              Additional cost for children 5-11yrs – Rs 2000/- per child for 2 nights
•              Additional cost for children above 11yrs – Rs 3,500/- per head for 2 nights

This offer is valid through the holiday season and into next year till Jan 31st, 2012. For the nights of Christmas and New-Year’s eve there is an additional surcharge of Rs1000/- per adult and Rs600/- per child for the festivities organized.

We offer an additional 5% discount for all bookings done before Nov 20th, 2011.

For bookings you may contact Ravindra Singh Shekhawat, at +91-9900099400 or email at sales@vijayshreeresort.com.

Please mention package name ‘HISTORYHAMPI through a1journeys.com’.

The extended Pathaka Festival

The Sheraton Udaipur Palace, Udaipur

We, at a1journeys, are in love with Udaipur and so would you be after hearing this news – our friends at Sheraton Udaipur Palace give you an extended chance to celebrate the festivities that you missed out this Diwali. Yes!! The Pathaka Festival at The Sheraton Udaipur Palace extended for you till December 21, 2011 and we are loving it!

Driving up the hotel, the buildings’ grandeur does not fail to awe. Once inside, the warm reception of the entire staff remains with our guests for as long as they stay. The rooms at this palace hotel are very well appointed with all amenities that reflect the “Sheraton Class”. And to top it all, there are the breathtaking lake views!!

Your package at the Sheraton Udaipur Palace includes Double Occupancy for 2 nights and 3 days between 1st November 2011 and 21st December 2011 at an exclusive price of Rs 18,888 only.

Your package is inclusive of:
Double Accommodation in a superior room for 2 nights
Traditional Sheraton Welcome
Non Alcoholic welcome drink on arrival
Buffet Breakfast and Lunch/Dinner for 2 days.
Evening Chaat counter at an exclusive venue
25% Discount on F&B during stay period (not valid in In Room Dining)
20% Discount on select Spa treatments
10% Discount on tours and car rentals
10% Discount on laundry services
Maximum 2 children (upto 12 yrs) in existing bedding meals @ INR 350
Fireworks on select days

For reservations, please contact Mr. Shankey Sehgal at reservations.udaipur@sheraton.com and mention “The Pathaka Festival with a1journeys”.

The emerald jewel of Udaipur

Devra Udaipur, Rajasthan

Devra, which literally means “Where God resides” is a 5-acre property in Udaipur epitomized by tranquility and serenity. This boutique property is blessed with some breath taking views of Lake Palace Udaipur and the surrounding Aravalli hills.

Each of the 9 spacious rooms at Devra offer unparalleled views and are well appointed with all amenities. One of the most divine experiences of Devra is visiting the 800 year old temple that is situated at the height of the property. It is a very spiritual experience to see the local villagers come and worship here. The meals at Devra deserve a star rating with the very attentive staff serving hot rotis cooked on open fire. Most vegetables used in cooking are freshly produced in the farm adjoining the resort.

A special mention about the hosts, Major Durga Das and Jyoti– environmentalists to the core, this God fearing couple run an elegant as well as an extremely welcoming resort. They take extra care to make the guests feel at home and let them experience the real tastes, sounds and colors of Udaipur.

Your package at the Devra Udaipur includes 2 nights and 3 days accommodation for a couple with breakfast included. Your package also includes a complimentary session of Bird Watching and Village Walk organized by the hosts. All of the above is offered at a special rate of Rs 10,000/- only.

Your package is valid from November 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012

For reservations, please contact Major Durga Das at +91 99822 42236 or write to him on info@devraudaipur.in

A dream cruise in God’s own country

Imagine being lost in a faraway place surrounded by mirror-still lagoons, lush greenery, whispering solitude… Imagine being on a dreamy cruise with your loved one along calm and serene waters that never seem to end. Kalathil Lake Resort brings it all for you, right here in India.

A luxury backwater resort/hotel in north of Kumarakom, Kerala, South India surrounded by the famous Vembanadu lake on three fronts and a lagoon on the fourth front, Kalathil Lake Resort will take you away from the noise, pollution and the crazy crowds of the city by dipping into the lap of nature at the calm, tranquil and serene environment.

The villas at Kalathil Lake Resort are erected on pillars in water. Interspersed with meandering canals and paved walkways, the resort is a soothing experience with its sheltered Aquatic Spa, Fresh Water Pond, manicured lawns, and swaying coconut palms. The solitude provided by the resort is unmatched.
Your a1journeys package at Kalathil Lake Resort includes:

  • 3 nights/4 days stay
  • Special welcome drink on arrival (tender coconut water)
  • All meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 2 children below 5 years sharing with parents- complementary
  • An ayurvedic Massage & steam Bath at Kalathil Ayurveda Centre (one hour)
  • 1 hour cruise in the speed boat in the Vembanadu Backwaters
  • Half day sightseeing trip to Hill Palace Museum, Tripunithura or Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
  • Complementary use of in-house facilities like swimming pool, paddle boats, canoe boats, row boat, round boats, angling in lake, and other outdoor & indoor activities.

All this comes to you for:

  • Rs.19,125/- for accommodation in Lagoon front Deluxe Cottage
  • Rs.21,845/- for accommodation in Lake view Super Deluxe Cottage

Note:

  • Service Tax @ 5.15% is Applicable on all bookings
  • Payment Terms: 50 % at the time of booking, balance before check-in

For bookings please email Vincy/Sukumaran at reservations@kalathillakeresort.com or call +9199467 03007. Please mention package name “Kalathil Lake Resort with A1Journeys”

Misty Bhandardara in the winters (Flash sale till Oct 22nd)

Anandvan Resort, Bhandardara

With the winter fast approaching, we bring to you the brightest jewel on this side of the ghats…Anandvan at Bhandardara!! The cold and misty mornings amidst lush green Sahyadri hills are just begging to be explored by you in the winters. And Anandvan is the perfect hideaway in the hills which invites you to relish the warm comforts of your own lake facing cottage while providing panoramic & breathtaking view of either the hills or the seemingly endless Arthur Lake and the surrounding meadows.

Located near Igatpuri and a mere 170 kms from Mumbai, Bhandardara has many attractions including the majestic Wilson Dam on Pravara river which is the largest earthen dam in India, the alluring Arthur Lake and numerous trekking delights such as Mount Kalsubai which at 5,400ft. is the highest peak in Maharashtra, Shivaji’s Ratangad or Harishchandragad Fort and the Ajoba & Ghanchakkar peaks.

We present a special offer for a 2 night getaway for 2 adults for the week before Christmas (Dec 16th to Dec 23rd) costing Rs 21,000 (all inclusive) and this is valid only for bookings done till Oct 22nd, 2011. Inclusions -
•              Accommodation in a garden cottage with lake view
•              Check in 1.00 pm with lunch, check out 11.00 am with breakfast
•              Refreshing welcome drink on arrival (non alcoholic)
•              Free Accommodation & meals for children below 5 years
•              Breakfast, Lunch, Eve. tea & Dinner – 2 each (Veg. & Non Veg.) served at “The Oak”  Restaurant
•              BBQ dinner once during the stay
•              Guided forest trek once during the stay
•              Boating for half hour once during the stay
•              Free use of cycles
•              Fishing rods available on request
•              Private baby pools available on request
•              Free use of indoor games-Carom, TT, Badminton/Volleyball/Basketball /Cricket

For the period before Dec 16th 2011, the package costs Rs 19,900/- for the weekend or Rs 14,900/- for weekdays (taxes extra) subject to availability.

Additional cost for children 5-11yrs – 2,500 per child for 2 nights.
Additional cost for children above 11yrs – 5,000 per head for 2 nights.

For bookings you may contact Aldrin Henriques at 022 – 26047290 / 09920311221 or email – enquiry@anandvanresorts.com.

Please do not forget to mention package name ‘FLASHSALEDEC11 through a1journeys.com’.