Four Easy Trips For The Long Weekend

With another long weekend coming up, it’s time to plan out a great budget friendly weekend getaway with your friends. If you are still clueless about where to go, here are some easy to do trips from Bombay, Delhi, Chennai and Bangalore!

From Bombay: Goa

Easy to do, suits all budget types and is always fun! Although I have to admit that Goa may get a bit crowded, considering the long weekend but there is no denying that you will still end up enjoying the sun, sand and the sea while sipping a Pina Colada or a King’s beer at the beach.

Avoid Baga and Calangute, instead head to Ashvem and Arambol where the crowd will be good and just about the right amount. 

A sundowner at Shanti on Ashvem beach is a must. For those looking for a relaxed stay with some spa indulgence, check into La Cabana resort at Ashvem. If you are going to Goa for the first time then fight the crowd at Infantaria Cafe in Calangute because the breakfast is completely worth all the bruises that you may end up with!

Getting there: You can easily get to Goa from Bombay by air, by road and by rail.

For more details on Goa click here.

From Bangalore: Hampi

Hipster paradise and a historical delight is how I’d describe Hampi. Famous for its scenic terrain, this little village is extraordinary.  Hampi has two sides to it, one; the religious site frequented by Indian tourists and the main living area of the locals, and two; the Hampi Island (not really an island) as it is referred to is a stretch of shacks and restaurants catering to the needs of backpackers from all over the world. 

Book a room at any one of the many accommodation options available on this side, expect no frills but all your basic amenities should be there. 

Rent a moped or a scooter and set out to explore the bouldered region. It’s a great place to meet new people and have a completely chilled out vacation.

Visit the laughing Buddha Café for a European breakfast. Restaurants serve only beer but you can ask them to get you hard liquor on special request, also you can carry it yourself before you reach Hampi. Non vegetarian food and beer is served in restaurants which are located at the Hampi Island.

Getting there: You can easily get to Hampi from Bangalore by an overnight bus to Hospet from where Hampi is just a half an hour rickshaw ride away.

For more details on Hampi click here

From Chennai: Pondicherry

A food lover’s paradise is what I have decided to call Pondicherry after my first visit there. Pondy is not only beautiful with all its French architecture but also a great destination for your taste buds. The number of restaurants and cafes there are mind numbing and some of them serve really great food!

Where to eat:

Villa Shanti

Café Des Arts

Tanto (in Auroville)

Happy Food Restaurant and Farmer’s Market (in Auroville)

If you have a little more time, then you could sign up for some surfing lessons or visit the Matrimandir in Auroville.

Getting there: Pondy is an easy drive 3 hour from Chennai. You can drive down or book a seat on one of the many buses that go there.

For more details on Pondicherry click here

From Delhi: Jaipur

Food, shopping and culture, Jaipur has it all. A great getaway with both friends and family, Jaipur has a lot to offer. Accommodations can range from budget friendly hotels to luxury indulgences such as the Fairmont Hotel, it’s all up to you and the kind of experience you want.

Reserve sometime in the day to visit the Amer Palace which is breathtaking and a splendid piece of architecture. A quick stop over to view the Jal Mahal should be a part of your itinerary as well, followed by an evening at Nahargarh. All of Jaipur, beautifully lit and shining in its radiance can be marveled at from Nahargarh. Have a beer and some Maggie at the restaurant on top, the food isn’t anything to rave about but who cares about that when you have beautiful weather and a splendid view.

Where to eat:

Anokhi Café for breakfast

Tapri for coffee, tea and conversations

Chokhi Dhani for a touristy experience and a never ending thali

Handi on M.I. Road for some Lal Maas and Roti

Shopping:

Jaipur is a treasure trove for shoppers and one can find beautiful jewellery, dupattas, sarees, dress materials, mojris and handicrafts at almost every market. Visit Bapu Bazaar, Johari Bazaar and M.I. road to satiate your shopping needs.

Getting there: Jaipur can be reached from Delhi by road, by air and by rail

For more details on Jaipur click here

So where will you be going?!