Where to Next? Let Me Help You Decide!

Published in the Sunday Gujarat Samachar on 02 March 2025

Where to Next? Let Me Help You Decide! 

One of the most exciting yet challenging parts of travel is choosing where to go. The world is full of incredible destinations, each offering something unique—breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, vibrant cities, and unforgettable experiences. But with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. 

I’ve been there too—scrolling through travel blogs, staring at maps, and trying to decide which place to visit next. Do I go for a relaxing beach escape? A culture-packed adventure? Or a thrilling city experience? The possibilities are endless, and sometimes, the hardest part is simply picking one. 

At Veena World, we live and breathe travel. And one of my favourite ways to share that passion is through our podcast—Travel. Explore. Celebrate Life. Available on YouTube, Spotify, JioSaavn, and Apple Podcasts, this weekly show is all about inspiring travel conversations, fun travel stories, expert tips, and personal experiences from around the world. So, if you ever need a little extra travel inspiration, tune in and join us on this journey! 

But today, let me make your travel decision a little easier. Here are three fantastic destinations, each with its own charm. Let’s dive in.  

Mauritius – The Tropical Escape 

If you’ve ever imagined yourself lounging on a white sandy beach, the sound of gentle waves in the background, and a cool breeze carrying the scent of the ocean, then Mauritius is the place for you. Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this island paradise is known for its stunning beaches, turquoise lagoons, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage.  

One of the most famous spots in Mauritius, Île aux Cerfs is a dreamlike island with crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and plenty of adventure. You can relax on the beach, snorkel in the pristine waters, or take a thrilling speedboat ride. Nature lovers will be in awe of Chamarel’s Seven-Colored Earth, a geological wonder where sand dunes display shades of red, brown, violet, blue, green, and yellow—a result of volcanic activity over millions of years. Just nearby, the Chamarel Waterfall, the highest in Mauritius, cascades dramatically against a lush green backdrop, making it a picture-perfect sight. 

If you’re fascinated by nature and wildlife, a visit to Île aux Aigrettes is a must. This protected island sanctuary is home to rare species like the Aldabra giant tortoise and the pink pigeon, found only in Mauritius. For those who love adventure, Black River Gorges National Park is an absolute treat. This lush, mountainous region is perfect for hiking and nature walks, offering panoramic views, waterfalls, and encounters with native wildlife. 

Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures, and Grand Bassin, a sacred crater lake, is a significant pilgrimage site for the Hindu community. Home to the towering statue of Lord Shiva, this tranquil spot is perfect for those who appreciate spirituality, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. 

Sri Lanka – A Land of Culture and Nature 

If you’re looking for a destination that offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and warm hospitality, then Sri Lanka is calling your name. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” this island nation is a treasure trove of experiences, from ancient temples and scenic train rides to golden beaches and lush tea plantations.  

One of the most iconic landmarks of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is an architectural and historical marvel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as Lion Rock, rises dramatically 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. A short drive from Sigiriya takes you to the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This complex of five caves filled with over 150 Buddha statues and stunning murals is a spiritual and artistic masterpiece.  

Nestled in the central highlands, Kandy is a city of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty. It is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist temples in the world. The city is also known for its lively cultural performances, colonial-era charm, and the serene Kandy Lake. 

Known as “Little England” for its colonial-era bungalows and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea-growing region. Here, you can visit a tea plantation, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea while admiring the scenic beauty. 

For wildlife lovers, a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a heartwarming experience. This sanctuary provides a home to rescued elephants, and you can witness them bathing in the river, feeding, and playing in a natural environment.  

If you’re looking to unwind, Bentota’s golden beaches are the perfect place. Whether you want to relax by the sea, go jet-skiing, or take a boat ride through the Madu River mangrove forests, Bentota is a tropical paradise. 

Dubai & Abu Dhabi – The Futuristic Adventure 

If you’re drawn to glamour, adventure, and cutting-edge innovation, then Dubai and Abu Dhabi should be at the top of your list. These two cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are known for their ultramodern skyscrapers, luxurious experiences, thrilling adventures, and rich Arabian heritage.  

Dubai’s most iconic landmark, the Burj Khalifa, towers over the skyline at an astounding 828 meters (2,717 feet). A visit to the observation deck on the 124th and 148th floors offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Arabian Gulf, and the endless desert beyond.  

Connected to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall is not just a shopping centre—it’s an entertainment hub with over 1,200 stores, an indoor ice rink, an aquarium, and even a virtual reality theme park. A visit to Dubai is incomplete without experiencing the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert. The desert safari includes thrilling dune bashing in a 4x4, camel rides, sandboarding, and a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars.  

Dubai’s famous Palm Jumeirah is an engineering marvel, an island shaped like a palm tree. At the tip of the Palm lies Atlantis The Palm, a hotel made popular by the Shah Rukh Khan movie, Happy New Year!  

One of the most breathtaking places in the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Adorned with stunning white marble, intricate floral designs, and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, this mosque is a symbol of peace, spirituality, and grandeur. Car enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies will love Ferrari World, home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, which reaches speeds of 240 km/h (149 mph) in just 4.9 seconds! This Ferrari-themed amusement park offers an exciting mix of rides, interactive exhibits, and racing simulators. 

So, What’s Your Pick? 

Now, the choice is yours—where will your next adventure take you? Will it be the tropical paradise of Mauritius, the cultural richness of Sri Lanka, or the futuristic charm of Dubai and Abu Dhabi? Let me know which destination excites you the most by writing to me at neil@veenaworld.com See you next time!