Summer destinations

May 16, 2024May 16, 2024

Hotel credit cards in India that offer maximum benefits — which one has the lowest annual fee

No 7. Instant payment versus travel on credit | Payment preferences lean towards UPI for most transactions, while credit cards reign supreme for high-value transactions such as international bookings.

credit cards, hotel credit cards, top credit cards, credit cards 2024, best credit cards 2024, best hotel credit cards — **Hotel credit cards:** Hotel benefits on credit cards may come as complimentary memberships to premium hotel loyalty programmes, accelerated value-back on booking hotel stays, etc. Such benefits are generally available on premium credit cards, which charge a high annual fee and come with stringent eligibility requirements, said Rohit Chhibbar, Head of Credit Cards Business, Paisabazaar.

May 5, 2024May 5, 2024

West Bengal summer destinations: 10 lesser-known hill stations for a much-needed break

No 6. Mirik | This small town located in the Darjeeling district is known for its peaceful atmosphere, that can be a perfect getaway if you are looking to keep the daily hustle and bustle aside for a few days. Settled near the Sumendu Lake, this place is famous for its lakes and mountains as well as the orange orchards and tea gardens.

On the other hand, the mercury touched an unbearable 47.2 degrees Celsius in Paschim Medinipur's Kalaikunda on April 30. Taking stock of the intense heatwave, the state government preponed summer holidays for government schools to April 22 from the original May 6 start date. As the mercury rises in West Bengal, the CNBC-TV18 Travel Desk has handpicked destinations nearby with a cooler climate for you to escape the heat with family and friends. Let's take a look at these places to take a break. — On the other hand, the mercury touched an unbearable 47.2 degrees Celsius in Paschim Medinipur’s Kalaikunda on April 30. Taking stock of the intense heatwave, the state government preponed summer holidays for government schools to April 22 from the original May 6 start date. As the mercury rises in West Bengal, the CNBC-TV18 Travel Desk has handpicked destinations nearby with a cooler climate for you to escape the heat with family and friends. Let’s take a look at these places to take a break. (Image: Reuters)

**No 1. Darjeeling |** Undoubtedly the most famous hill station of West Bengal, this place remains on every traveller’s bucket list and is best known for its tea gardens and toy trains. If you love trekking, then this place in the foothills of the Himalayas is the one that should definitely not be missed out. Some of the popular places here include Singalila National Park, Happy Valley Tea Estate and Peace Pagoda among others. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 2. Rimbik | This hidden treasure located in the Singalila National Park area of the Darjeeling district is extremely popular among the trekkers. Sitting on the river Rammam, this place is close to Sikkim and offers two trekking routes that connect Sandakphu to Rimbik. Besides that, you can also look forward to the Dhirdam Temple, which features a perfect blend of Hindu and Tibetan architecture. — **No 2. Rimbik |** This hidden treasure located in the Singalila National Park area of the Darjeeling district is extremely popular among the trekkers. Sitting on the river Rammam, this place is close to Sikkim and offers two trekking routes that connect Sandakphu to Rimbik. Besides that, you can also look forward to the Dhirdam Temple, which features a perfect blend of Hindu and Tibetan architecture. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 3. Siliguri | Often called the 'Gateway of North India', Siliguri rests on the banks of Mahananda River and the foothills of Himalayas. The best part is that it is located hardly 15 minutes away from the Bagdogra Airport. This is should be on the wishlist of those who love nature at its finest. Some of the popular places here include Mahananda Weir National Park, Honk Kong Market and the jungle safari in the Chilapata Forest. — **No 3. Siliguri |** Often called the ‘Gateway of North India’, Siliguri rests on the banks of Mahananda River and the foothills of Himalayas. The best part is that it is located hardly 15 minutes away from the Bagdogra Airport. This is should be on the wishlist of those who love nature at its finest. Some of the popular places here include Mahananda Weir National Park, Honk Kong Market and the jungle safari in the Chilapata Forest. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 4. Sandakphu | This hill station in West Bengal stands tall at the highest point of the Singalila Ridge. Located in the Darjeeling district close to the Nepal border, Sandakphu is considered a paradise for those who love trekking, besides showcasing a breathtaking view of the mountains. Known for its natural beauty and pleasant temperatures, Sandakphu can be the perfect place for your vacation this summer season. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 4. Sandakphu |** This hill station in West Bengal stands tall at the highest point of the Singalila Ridge. Located in the Darjeeling district close to the Nepal border, Sandakphu is considered a paradise for those who love trekking, besides showcasing a breathtaking view of the mountains. Known for its natural beauty and pleasant temperatures, Sandakphu can be the perfect place for your vacation this summer season. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 5. Kalimpong | This hidden gem in West Bengal is home to several popular monasteries, churches, and Tibetan handicrafts. Located almost an hour away from Darjeeling, this hill station gives a perfect view of the Teesta valley, besides featuring few colonial-era buildings like Durpin Monastery and MacFarlane Memorial Church. Also, do not miss a visit to the Deolo Park if you are planning a vacation here. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 7. Dooars | Surrounded by beautiful streams, wild jungles, and exotic flora and fauna, Dooars is known as India’s gateway to the neighbouring country, Bhutan. This hill station in West Bengal is famous for its deep forests that should be explored atleast once in a lifetime. This is yet another place in the state that can be a perfect destination for nature lovers. — **No 7. Dooars |** Surrounded by beautiful streams, wild jungles, and exotic flora and fauna, Dooars is known as India’s gateway to the neighbouring country, Bhutan. This hill station in West Bengal is famous for its deep forests that should be explored atleast once in a lifetime. This is yet another place in the state that can be a perfect destination for nature lovers. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 8. Takdah | Takdah, which used to be a British cantonment before the independence, is an ideal getaway spot for those who are looking for some unexplored hill stations. Also famous among locals as 'Tukdah', this place has tea gardens in abundance and is known for its Orchid Center and Takdah Monastery. Interestingly, this place is located around 28 km from Darjeeling, but still stands isolated and yet to be explored by many. — **No 8. Takdah |** This hill station, an earstwhile, British cantonment before Independence, is an ideal getaway for those who are looking for unexplored destinations. Famous among locals as ‘Tukdah’, this place has tea gardens in abundance and is known for its Orchid Center and Takdah Monastery. Interestingly, this place is located around 28 km from Darjeeling, but still stands isolated and yet to be explored by many. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 9. Kurseong | If you are looking for a ride on a hot air balloon, willing to try out rock climbing or try out rafting, then Kurseong is the place to be. Counted among the most visited hill stations in the state, this place is popular for its waterfalls, parks and museums along with the temples and churches. — **No 9. Kurseong |** If you are looking for a ride on a hot air balloon, willing to try out rock climbing or try out rafting, then Kurseong is the place to be. Counted among the most visited hill stations in the state, this place is popular for its waterfalls, parks and museums along with the temples and churches. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 10. Samsing | Samsing, which is situated between Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, is another perfect place to be in West Bengal, known for its scintillating mountain views, deep forests and serene riverbanks. This offbeat hill staion is yet another beautiful place which remain less explored by the tourists. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 10. Samsing |** Located between Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, Samsing is another perfect place to be in West Bengal during summer season. It is known for its scintillating mountain views, deep forests and serene riverbanks. This offbeat hill staion is yet another beautiful place which remain less explored by the tourists. (Image: Shutterstock)

May 1, 2024May 1, 2024

Take off to Andaman and Nicobar Islands for a 10-day adventure and visit these 11 places

A summer vacation on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands promises an unforgettable experience in this paradise of pristine beaches. Turquoise waters and the lush greenery the archipelago offers travellers is a perfect retreat from the scorching summer heat. From exploring the historical landmarks of Port Blair to snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs in Havelock and Neil Islands, every moment on the islands is a feast for the senses. Relaxing on secluded beaches, indulging in thrilling water sports, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets paint a picture-perfect backdrop for cherished memories. (Image: Shutterstock)

Whether immersing in the tranquility of nature or embarking on adventures in the ocean, a summer vacation to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a blissful journey into tropical serenity. In case you plan to visit the tropical paradise, an ideal stay with family would entail a 10-day trip and a tour of these 11 places, handpicked by the CNBC-TV18 Travel Desk.

No 1. Port Blair | As the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair offers a blend of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, including the Cellular Jail National Memorial, Corbyn's Cove Beach, and the Anthropological Museum. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 1. Port Blair |** As the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair offers a blend of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, including the Cellular Jail National Memorial, Corbyn’s Cove Beach, and the Anthropological Museum. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 2. Ross Island | Once the administrative headquarters of the British, Ross Island now stands as a captivating ruin, with remnants of colonial architecture amidst lush greenery, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and scenic charm. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 2. Ross Island |** Once the administrative headquarters of the British, Ross Island now stands as a captivating ruin, with remnants of colonial architecture amidst lush greenery, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and scenic charm. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 3. North Bay Island | Famous for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, North Bay Island is a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers, with opportunities to explore underwater treasures and enjoy thrilling water sports activities. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 3. North Bay Island |** Famous for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, North Bay Island is a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers, with opportunities to explore underwater treasures and enjoy thrilling water sports activities. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 4. Havelock Island | Renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, Havelock Island beckons visitors with its serene ambiance and stunning sunsets, offering an ideal retreat for relaxation and adventure amidst nature's splendor. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 4. Havelock Island |** Renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, Havelock Island beckons visitors with its serene ambiance and stunning sunsets, offering an ideal retreat for relaxation and adventure amidst nature’s splendor. You can also go scuba diving and snorkeling here. (Image: Shutterstock)

**No 5. Neil Island |** With its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque landscapes, Neil Island is a tranquil paradise, where visitors can unwind on secluded beaches, indulge in snorkeling or explore the lush interior on bicycle rides. It is also known for known for its bioluminescence plankton that create a blue glow, which is dreamy to watch at night. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 6. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island | Formerly known as Ross and Smith Islands, this twin island destination offers a unique experience of walking on a natural sandbar connecting the two islands during low tide, surrounded by clear turquoise waters and pristine beaches. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 6. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island |** Formerly known as Ross and Smith Islands, this twin island destination offers a unique experience of walking on a natural sandbar connecting the two islands during low tide, surrounded by clear turquoise waters and pristine beaches. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 7. Elephant Beach | One of the most comercial beaches on Havelock Island, this place is accessible by boat from Havelock Island. Elephant Beach is famed for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun on its sandy shores. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 7. Elephant Beach |** One of the most comercial beaches on Havelock Island, this place is accessible by boat from Havelock Island. Elephant Beach is famed for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun on its sandy shores. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 8. Limestone caves | Located in Baratang Island, the limestone caves are a geological marvel, featuring stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, accessible by a boat ride through the dense mangrove forests of the Andaman Islands. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 8. Limestone caves |** Located in Baratang Island, the limestone caves are a geological marvel, featuring stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, accessible by a boat ride through the dense mangrove forests of the Andaman Islands. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 9. Laxmanpur Beach | Known for its breathtaking sunset views and long stretches of white sand, Laxmanpur Beach on Neil Island offers a serene ambiance for leisurely walks, beach combing, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 9. Laxmanpur Beach |** Known for its breathtaking sunset views and long stretches of white sand, Laxmanpur Beach on Neil Island offers a serene ambiance for leisurely walks, beach combing, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 10. Diglipur | Located in North Andaman, Diglipur is blessed with lush forests, pristine beaches, and natural wonders like the Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andaman Islands, and the serene beaches of Kalipur and Ramnagar. (Image: Shutterstock) — **No 10. Diglipur |** Located in North Andaman, Diglipur is blessed with lush forests, pristine beaches, and natural wonders like the Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andaman Islands, and the serene beaches of Kalipur and Ramnagar. (Image: Shutterstock)

**No 11. Jolly Buoy Island |** Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, offering a paradise for snorkelers and nature enthusiasts alike. (Image: Shutterstock)

April 24, 2024

Leh-Manali highway reopens: 10 reasons why you should not miss the scenic route this summer

After nearly five months of closure due to heavy snowfall during winter, the 428-kilometer Leh-Manali National Highway has reopened for vehicular traffic by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), officials announced on April 23. The scenic roadway, serves as an alternate route, linking the Union Territory of Ladakh with the rest of the country through Himachal Pradesh, which was shut in November following the onset of winter. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 1. Spectacular Scenery: The Leh-Manali Highway offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range, with snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and meandering rivers along the route. — **No 1. Spectacular scenery:** The Leh-Manali Highway offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range, with snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and meandering rivers along the route.

No 2. Adventure of a lifetime: Driving on the Leh-Manali Highway is an adventure in itself, offering thrilling experiences such as crossing high-altitude passes, navigating through winding roads, and encountering diverse landscapes. — **No 2. Adventure of a lifetime:** Driving on the Leh-Manali Highway is an adventure in itself, offering thrilling experiences such as crossing high-altitude passes, navigating through winding roads, and encountering diverse landscapes. (Image: Indian Army)

**No 3. Experience the unique culture:** Along the journey, travelers have the opportunity to visit remote villages and interact with local communities, providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

**No 4. Every view is postcard perfect:** With its stunning landscapes and ever-changing vistas, the Leh-Manali Highway offers endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture awe-inspiring shots of nature’s beauty. (Image: Shutterstock)

Yaks can survive up to minus 40 degrees, but find it difficult when the mercury crosses 13 degrees. Photo by Sumit Das. — **No 5. Wildlife encounters:** The highway passes through several wildlife reserves and protected areas, offering the chance to spot rare species such as snow leopards, Himalayan ibex, and Tibetan wolves in their natural habitat.

**No 6. Historical significance:** The Leh-Manali Highway has a rich history dating back to ancient times, serving as a crucial trade route between India and Central Asia, and passing by historical landmarks such as monasteries, forts, and ancient trading posts.

No 7. Remote destinations: Traveling on this highway allows adventurers to explore remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are inaccessible by other means, providing a sense of freedom and exploration. — **No 7. Remote destinations:** Traveling on this highway allows adventurers to explore remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are inaccessible by other means, providing a sense of freedom and exploration.

No 8. Test of endurance: Driving through the Leh-Manali Highway presents challenges such as high altitude, extreme weather conditions, and rugged terrain, making it a test of endurance and skill for drivers and their vehicles. — **No 8. Test of endurance:** Driving through the Leh-Manali Highway presents challenges such as high altitude, extreme weather conditions, and rugged terrain, making it a test of endurance and skill for drivers and their vehicles. (Image: Shutterstock)

**No 9. Spiritual retreats:** The highway passes through numerous Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples, and other religious sites, offering travellers the opportunity for spiritual reflection and tranquility amidst the majestic Himalayas. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 10. Unforgettable memories: The unique local culture, unending scenic sights and the lack of luxury facilities make a trip on the Leh-Manali Highway an unforgettable experience, which culminate in lifelong memories of adventure, discovery, and natural beauty. (Image: Shweta Mungre) — **No 10. Unforgettable memories:** The unique local culture, unending scenic sights and the lack of luxury facilities make a trip on the Leh-Manali Highway an unforgettable experience, which culminate in lifelong memories of adventure, discovery, and natural beauty. (Image: Shweta Mungre)

From London to Honolulu, Google ranks the world’s top 20 summer destinations for 2024

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Google’s compilation of the top 20 destinations can assist individuals in planning their summer vacations.

The summers are here and it also means we start planning our holiday gateways for the year. To make the lives of travel enthusiasts a bit easier, Google has unveiled a list of the top 20 destinations for 2024. The list offers the names of the destinations to escape the scorching heat, while also providing insights based on past flight bookings and search trends.

Google’s compilation of the top 20 destinations can assist individuals plan their summer vacations or craft a perfect itinerary. Relying on the most searched destinations by travellers in the United States on June 1 and August 31 last year, the list has some new additions this year. Places that lost popularity since last year have made way for the new ones.

Here is the full list of top 20 destinations for summer 2024:

Rank	Destination
1	London
2	Paris
3	Tokyo
4	Rome
5	New York
6	Cancun
7	Orlando
8	Las Vegas
9	Seattle
10	Athens
11	Los Angeles
12	Miami
13	Barcelona
14	Dublin
15	Fort Lauderdale
16	Honolulu
17	Denver
18	Madrid
19	Boston
20	San Juan

A report by ABC News suggests that Google, for its list, also compiled data from mid-January to mid-March from users in the US to identify the most popular travel-related inquiries in summer. During its research, the platform underlined the maximum use of terms like ‘travel itinerary’ and ‘solo travel’ in January, reaching an all-time high.

The new list, unlike last year’s compilations, saw several changes with Cancun dropping from the second position to sixth place and Tokyo moving up from eighth place to third.

Meanwhile, the first spot in the list was claimed by London, with Paris securing second place, notably as it prepares to host the upcoming Summer Olympics.

The new additions to this year’s list include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Madrid, Spain. Napa Valley in California and Key West, being the southernmost point in the Continental US, emerged as the top trending destinations for “romantic getaways”.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter