Sakal Newspaper Article 11th Aug - English Translation

Veena World Travel Mission

From Homemaker to Globetrotter

If someone had told me just a few months ago that I would be travelling around the world, exploring different countries, experiencing their cultures, and immersing myself in their history and natural beauty, I might not have believed it. But ever since I began travelling with Veena World in 2013, I have visited 44 countries across the globe. Next month, I’ll be touring Tunisia, Malta, and Sicily, followed by a trip to Bali in October. By then, I will have visited 47 countries—almost halfway to my goal of visiting 100 countries. Needless to say, I am incredibly excited!

This journey has been made possible by the unwavering support of my husband, Mahesh Shinde, who has always encouraged my passion for travel. His support gave me the confidence to explore the world on my own, and Veena World’s Women’s Special tours provided the perfect platform for solo travel. I am immensely grateful to Veena Patil for bringing this concept to life. The assurance of a room-sharing partner on these tours has allowed me to travel the world at a very affordable price. 

I have a particular fondness for countries blessed with natural beauty. Among the many destinations I have visited, Edinburgh in Scotland, the Midnight Sun Cruise in Norway, Mount Jungfrau in Switzerland, and Croatia stand out for their breath-taking landscapes. These places have left a lasting impression on me, not just for their natural beauty but also for the discipline and cleanliness of the people there. 

During my travels, I have discovered many treasures, including the magical world of Disneyland. I am so captivated by the experience that I have visited Disneyland in Hong Kong twice, as well as the ones in Orlando and Paris. Germany’s rich history fascinated me, and I was deeply moved by my visit to the Auschwitz camp during the Eastern Europe tour. The helicopter ride over the iconic Niagara Falls in the United States is another memory I’ll never forget. 

My love for travel is so profound that even during the restrictions after Covid, I made sure to visit Ladakh, refusing to let anything stand in the way of my passion for tourism. 

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Women's Special Vietnam! 

Are you ready to explore an amazing and inspiring country in Asia? 

In the last two years, Vietnam has become the top destination for Indian tourists. This is the same Vietnam that, through intense patriotism and unwavering determination of ‘Do or Die’, managed to overcome and drive back a powerful country like the United States. There's so much we can learn from this resilient nation. Previously, Vietnam wasn’t well-known among Indian tourists, nor was it a common bucket list destination. But now, the craze for Vietnam is undeniable.  

Once you experience its natural beauty and man-made wonders, you will find yourself wondering, ‘Why didn’t we visit this country sooner? How have we not yet explored this neighbouring gem?’ To date, literally thousands of tourists have visited Vietnam with Veena World, and all the feedback shares a common sentiment of surprise and delight. I haven't encountered a single tourist with negative comments about Vietnam.  

So, if it’s not already on your travel list, Vietnam should be added immediately! We offer a variety of group tours to Vietnam, and you can even customize your holiday. We are also organizing corporate tours to Vietnam on a large scale. Now, we are excited to introduce a special women's tour at a promotional price in November. But don't delay your booking—the promotional price is designed to encourage as many women as possible to experience the wonders of Vietnam. Come immerse yourself in its beauty, dance, explore gardens, lose yourself in the joy of Vietnam, rejuvenate, and return refreshed, ready to face life with renewed happiness.  

When the woman of the house is happy, the whole household is happy. You must enjoy life to the fullest! So, Chalo, Bag Bharo, Nikal Pado! 

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Indian Boutique Hotels

with Veena World Customized Holidays 

One of the best ways to enjoy a holiday in India is by staying in boutique hotels. But what exactly are boutique hotels? While corporate hotels focus on standardized services, boutique hotels emphasize a personal touch. These hotels typically have fewer rooms, ensuring a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. Often housed in traditional yet stylish buildings—such as old palaces or aristocratic estates—these hotels provide personalized service and privacy, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and truly enjoy their stay.

For a boutique experience reminiscent of the colonial era, consider staying in Kochi, a historic spice trading port on the coast of Kerala in South India. Here, a British-era trading house has been meticulously renovated to preserve its old-world charm while offering modern five-star amenities. Guests can embark on a sunset cruise from the hotel's private jetty and savour delicious meals at Promenade, a restaurant with views overlooking the historic port of Kochi. 

If you would like to experience life on a tea plantation as it was during the British Raj, head to Darjeeling, where you will find boutique accommodations in two charming bungalows dating back approximately 165 years. Located on a tea plantation by a picturesque river, these bungalows offer themed bedrooms, verandahs, and beautifully landscaped gardens, making for a truly memorable stay. During your visit, you can tour a tea factory, participate in tea tastings, and even try your hand at tea picking. 

In Maharashtra, you can experience boutique luxury in Sawantwadi, a village in the Konkan region. Staying in the Royal Palace here allows you to directly experience the royal lifestyle of the past. Sawantwadi, known for its rich arts and crafts heritage, offers not only a visual treat of local art but also the chance to savour special Konkani dishes and a variety of global cuisines. 

For those seeking a leisurely holiday in the hills, the boutique hotel in Gethiya village near Nainital is an ideal choice. This property, which is around 500 years old, is set in a picturesque location that enhances the experience of your stay. From delicious poolside breakfasts and bird watching to mountain cycling and bonfires with live music, every moment here is crafted to create lasting memories.

India offers numerous options for enjoying a holiday at a boutique hotel. You can add a unique twist to your getaway by staying at Wilderness Camp, where you can experience star-bed camping in Pench, Madhya Pradesh, or at a boutique hotel housed in the historic fort of Maheshwar.

So, choose your destination, and let the team at Veena World Customized Holidays guide you to an unforgettable experience.