Something New... Something Different

Published in the Sunday Sakal on 14 April, 2024

We all yearn for innovation. In every field, humanity constantly seeks novelty, which fuels our energy. When several months pass without a fresh endeavour, restlessness sets in. Our guests echo this sentiment, always eager for the next adventure, urging us, "What's next? Take us somewhere new. Show us the unexplored corners of India and the world." Indeed, there's much left for us to discover. Recently, our product, marketing, and air teams collaborated to unveil six new tours spanning from August to February, promising to unveil previously unseen destinations. Sudhir and I have eagerly enlisted for all six tours as tourists, eager to experience Veena World's renowned service first-hand. 

Our upcoming adventures will lead us to the remote reaches of Greenland and Iceland aboard a cruise. Despite years of travel, the Philippines has remained conspicuously absent from our itinerary—until now. It's time to check it off our bucket list. While we've guided countless tourists through Bangkok and Pattaya, many have yet to experience the charms of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Krabi in Thailand. Our forthcoming tour aims to remedy that oversight. Despite our extensive tours in Japan, both Sudhir and I, along with many of our guests, have yet to explore Korea and Taiwan. Through the support of our guests and alongside the expertise of Veena World tour managers, we're venturing into these new territories. 

Additionally, Tanzania beckons with its allure. Although Europe may be geographically compact, it boasts a wealth of enchanting countries. Our itinerary includes a journey to Malta, Tunisia, and Sicily, promising a delightful blend of cultures and landscapes. And why not start our exploration of India from its crown jewel—Kashmir? The allure of the northernmost region of India captivates us, prompting us to include it in our itinerary. 

As we continue to innovate, we're also crafting a unique seventh tour, details of which will be revealed soon. So, let's embark on this journey together. Can you resist the call to join us?

Europe by Road 

Enhancing your holiday experience is easily achieved by embarking on a road trip to your chosen destination. Travelling by road allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, cultural richness, culinary traditions, and lesser-known gems of a region. This holds especially true in Europe, a continent teeming with a plethora of attractions. From the coastal roads of Italy to the highlands of Scotland, the diverse geography and rich history of Europe unfold seamlessly when explored via the avenue of 'Europe by Road.' 

Among the myriad options, one standout route for exploring 'Europe by Road' is the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Renowned globally for its breath-taking scenery, this coastal road in southern Italy offers a picturesque journey. Here, rugged mountains stand sentinel over the crashing waves of the ocean, creating an unforgettable vista. Amalfi, the largest and most historically significant city along this route, beckons with its ancient charm. Nearby, the village of Ravello preserves traces of the Roman Empire, while iconic villas like Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone, and La Rondinaia captivate tourists with their allure. Recognized for its cultural and natural significance, the Amalfi Coast was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. 

In the south eastern region of France, the 'lavender route' in the province of Provence is celebrated as an olfactory delight. From June to August, the roadside meadows burst into a profusion of purple as lavender flowers bloom, infusing the air with their sweet fragrance. Beginning the journey from Valensole, travellers are treated to vistas of lavender fields stretching to the horizon, creating an enchanting ambiance. Quaint villages like Glod and Rusion along this route offer glimpses into rural French life, adding to the charm of the journey. 

Further north, in Bavaria, Germany, the Würzburg to Füssen road has been christened the 'Romantic Road,' offering a 350 km journey through picturesque landscapes. Traversing verdant forests, rolling hills, and historic villages, this route transports travellers to a bygone era. Medieval castles, quaint villages, and lush vineyards dot the landscape, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romance. 

Additional options abound, including the Coastal Road along Norway's Atlantic coast, the Costa Brava Coastal Road in Spain, the Furka Pass in the Swiss Alps, and the Grimsel Pass. Whether opting for a chauffeur-driven van or a motorhome, travellers have ample choices to tailor their journey to their preferences. Camping amidst Europe's scenic landscapes is made possible with camper vans, offering a unique and immersive experience. 

By renting a self-drive vehicle, travellers can craft their itinerary and delve deeper into the rich tapestry of European culture and nature. Embrace the essence of European life and landscapes on this year's road trip through Europe. And remember, Veena World's customized holidays team is always at your service, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. 

55 Countries in 6 Years 

Reflecting on my global travels, I often recall a line from the movie 'Anand': "Babumoshay, Zindagi Badi Honi Chahiye, Lambi Nahin!" This sentiment resonates with my own journey. Over the past six years, I've had the privilege of exploring 55 countries worldwide, a feat made possible by Veena World. Despite the interruptions caused by the two-year shadow of Covid, I dare say I might have added ten more countries to my list. 

My affiliation with Veena World began eight years ago. When selecting a destination, I'm drawn to unique monuments and man-made marvels. For instance, my fascination with the 'Great Wall of China' from a young age led me to book Veena World's China Tour. From that very first trip, I felt like a member of the Veena World family, finding solace in the warm reception at their Matunga Branch. This familial atmosphere extends seamlessly into their tours, where experienced tour managers attend to our needs with the care one would expect from kin, whether guiding us through daily excursions or assisting with shopping. One aspect I particularly appreciate about Veena World's tours is their all-inclusive nature, allowing travellers like myself to focus solely on enjoying the experience. 

In my early years of touring, I gravitated towards renowned landmarks like the Seven Wonders of the World and Europe's top destinations. However, my preferences have since shifted towards offbeat destinations. Regardless of where I roam, I make it a point to collect souvenirs—a token, a magnet, a coin, or a T-shirt—to preserve the memories of my journeys. Even at the age of 72, my passion for travel remains undiminished. Each journey offers the opportunity to encounter new cultures, meet diverse people, and acquire fresh knowledge. 

Traveling with an esteemed organization like Veena World grants me the freedom to explore without worry. As my wanderlust persists, I eagerly anticipate each new addition to Veena World's tour roster, eagerly perusing their travel planner to chart my next adventure. Presently, I'm eagerly anticipating a journey to South Korea with Veena World. 

-Ganesh Kamat, Matunga, Mumbai