Veena World Travel Mission: Polar Bear and Arctic Circle

Published in the Sunday Sakal on 17 March, 2024

 As March unfolds, my anticipation for June 2024 grows, for it marks the commencement of a remarkable journey. What journey, you may wonder, could stir excitement in someone who has traversed 87 countries? It is none other than Veena World's ‘Arctic Cruise-Polar Bear Express’. This expedition to the polar circle at the northern extremity of our planet will render me among the fortunate few who have ventured to both poles. In 2018, I embarked on a 29-day odyssey to ‘South America with Antarctica’ with Veena World, completing my exploration of the globe’s southern reaches. Starting with and having covered almost all of India, I have now set my sights on the final frontiers within my homeland: Sikkim and Lakshadweep. To date, I have embarked on 19 tours to diverse destinations worldwide with Veena World. My insatiable wanderlust often leads me to propose new countries to explore, yet experiencing the world with Veena World feels akin to journeying with family. Despite being an efficiently run business, Veena World exudes a homely ambiance, enriching the travel experience. 

 A standout feature of Veena World's tours is their all-inclusive pricing. I attribute the success of Veena World's excursions to their exceptional tour managers. Through my numerous travels, I have found Veena World's tour managers to be prompt, knowledgeable, and attentive, infusing a distinctive allure into each journey. Among them, Vivek Kochrekar stands out in my memory. I had the pleasure of embarking on five tours with him, including the expedition to South America and Antarctica. Vivek's unparalleled expertise left an indelible mark on me. Though he has passed away and is no more with us, his legacy endures through the capable hands of Veena World's current tour managers. As I strive to achieve my goal of visiting 100 countries with Veena World, I eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead. 

Nepal 

Today, the act of travelling abroad has become rather commonplace. It seems that someone, somewhere, from every household or circle of acquaintances has embarked on an international journey, regaling us with tales of their adventures. However, cast your mind back thirty-five or forty years, and you will find that foreign travel was a rare occurrence. In those days, bidding farewell to a traveller bound for foreign lands was a community affair, with entire households or even villages flocking to the airport for the occasion. Back then, returning from abroad carried with it a unique allure and a certain status. Those who had journeyed overseas were held in high esteem by all, and it was a shared aspiration for many to have ventured to at least one foreign country. 

Neighbouring Nepal emerged as an accessible destination for fulfilling this desire. People from places like Varanasi and Gorakhpur would make the journey to Nepal, either by road or by boarding Air India flights from Calcutta or Varanasi. However, times have changed, and foreign travel has become a routine part of everyday life. Nowadays, people visit Nepal not merely to acquire the title of 'foreign returned' but to explore and experience the myriad wonders it has to offer. Nepal has become a destination in its own right, attracting travellers with its breath-taking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. It has found its place on the itineraries of those striving to visit fifty, seventy, or even a hundred countries. 

Geographically, Nepal is a small country nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, resembling any state in India. India, Pakistan, China, Afghanistan, and Nepal are just a handful of privileged nations which are blessed by the majestic Himalayan range. Housing eight of the world's highest mountain peaks, including Mount Everest, Nepal rightfully claims ownership of this awe-inspiring natural wonder. Additionally, it holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Lord Buddha (Lumbini), the harbinger of peace to the world. 

Renowned as a haven for mountaineers, hikers, trekkers, and adventurers, Nepal's allure extends to all types of tourists due to its stunning natural beauty. Unlike many other nations, Nepal has maintained its independence throughout history, having never been subjected to foreign rule by the likes of the Mughals, Chinese, British, Portuguese, or Spanish. It stands as a bastion of Hinduism, home to the largest population of Hindus, alongside numerous ethnic groups speaking over 123 dialects. 

This small yet culturally rich country boasts ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including iconic landmarks such as Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and Boudhanath, along with the historic Durbar Squares of Bhaktapur, Patan, and Kathmandu. If you have yet to experience the wonders of Nepal, a land that claims many superlatives in the world — the highest, the deepest, and more — consider making it your next destination. Explore this extraordinary neighbouring country with Veena World and discover its unparalleled beauty and charm.  

Veena World Customized Holidays: Bon Voyage... Bon Cruising! 

One of the most cumbersome aspects of any tour is the constant packing and unpacking every couple of days as you transition from one hotel to another with all your luggage. But what if I told you there's a way to embark on an eight, ten, or twelve-day journey without ever playing this luggage ‘pack-unpack’ game? Yes, such an option exists, and it's called a ‘Cruise Holiday’. Did the term ‘Cruise Holiday’ instantly bring to mind the movie ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’? 

Remember how everyone congregated on the cruise to celebrate Anil Kapoor's wedding anniversary in the movie? They embarked on sightseeing adventures across Europe while revelling in the on board amenities. Similar fun awaits you in numerous destinations worldwide. What used to be old-age ships have now taken on a new avatar as cruise ships, offering tourists a fresh perspective on relaxing, luxurious holidays. 

Today, cruise tourism is burgeoning globally, spanning from Antarctica to Southeast Asia. There are cruise tour options available in diverse locations, from icy Alaska to historically rich Europe, showcasing a myriad of cultures and histories. Cruises across various seas and oceans, such as the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Pacific, entice tourists from all corners of the globe. These cruises come in various types, including Ocean Cruises, River Cruises, and Expedition Cruises. Renowned cruise companies like Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises cater to different preferences and budgets. For those seeking the epitome of luxury, companies like Crystal Cruises, Sea Born, and Silver Sea offer extravagant experiences. 

Cruises navigate designated routes while providing passengers with opportunities to explore shore excursions and tourist attractions along the coast. Accommodations on board range from balcony cabins to suites and ocean-view cabins, each offering varying levels of comfort and scenic views. The choice of cabin significantly impacts the holiday experience, influencing factors such as scenery and sailing comfort. 

On board amenities abound, including spas, bars, theatres, swimming pools, gyms, sundecks, and even casinos. Passengers can also indulge in live entertainment such as musical shows, magic performances, and dance shows, ensuring a memorable experience as the cruise sails across the seas. 

Cruise holidays aren't limited to foreign destinations like Europe, America, Hawaii, Scandinavia, the Bahamas; they also extend to domestic locations like Lakshadweep, Goa, Andaman, and even neighbouring Sri Lanka. The choice of which company's cruise to book depends on whether you seek a relaxing holiday or an adventure-filled sightseeing experience. However, it's essential to make cruise bookings promptly, as cruise rates fluctuate dynamically, akin to airlines. 

Navigating the plethora of cruise options and amenities can be overwhelming, but fret not; Veena World offers a customized holiday section tailored to your preferences. With our assistance, book a fantastic cruise tour and amplify the joy of your travel, echoing the spirit of ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’. Bon Cruising!