Published in the Sunday Sakal on 18 February, 2024

"Darr ke aage jeet hai" – a powerful mantra echoed in a popular ad campaign, urging us to confront our fears and emerge victorious. In the realm of health, there has been a notable shift towards consciousness, with many of us opting for healthier lifestyles, steering clear of soft drinks and processed foods. The adage "Staying in the pink of our health is much in our hands" rings truer than ever. Understanding that health is indeed wealth, we've embraced the importance of maintaining both physical and mental well-being. This ethos forms the cornerstone of our Veena World Women’s Special tours, where we come together to laugh, dance, sing, and explore new horizons with confidence and vigour.

Having traversed the globe extensively on Women's Special tours, I have had the privilege of meeting remarkable women from various corners of the world. From Leh Ladakh to London, Shimla to San Francisco, and Australia to America, I've witnessed first-hand the sheer joy and empowerment experienced by women as they break free from societal constraints and embrace life to the fullest. Whether donning nine-yard sarees or sporting swimming costumes, these journeys have been nothing short of transformative, instilling in me a profound sense of purpose.

Breaking the taboo surrounding solo travel, we've championed the idea that a happy woman translates to a happy home. Our 'Women’s Special' tours serve as a conduit for delivering joy through tourism, empowering women to reclaim their autonomy and explore the world with unbridled enthusiasm. Over the years, we've witnessed a paradigm shift in perceptions, as family members have come to recognize and support the inherent need for women to embark on enriching travel experiences.

What began as a modest concept in 2006 has since blossomed into a full-fledged movement, offering an array of exhilarating activities such as rafting, kayaking, hiking, trekking, and wildlife safaris. These tours cater to diverse preferences, attracting friend groups, family girl gangs, and solo travellers alike, with the assurance of a congenial room partner at no additional cost.

As we usher in 2024, we're poised to elevate our Women’s Special tours to unprecedented heights. This Women’s Day, we're thrilled to unveil over sixty tour options spanning the globe, from the scenic landscapes of Europe to the captivating allure of Australia, Japan, Korea, and our beloved India. With an added emphasis on adventure, our tours now feature thrilling activities like rafting, kayaking, and wildlife safaris, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

So, dear ladies, as we gear up to celebrate Women’s Day, let's seize the opportunity to break free from limitations, broaden our horizons, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's the azure waters of Mauritius, the majestic peaks of the Himalayas in Leh Ladakh, the vibrant energy of America, the regal charm of Europe, or the serene shores of Thailand – let's embark on this journey fearlessly, united in our quest to defy expectations and conquer the world!

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Veena World Travel Mission 100 Countries  

Let’s explore Our Incredible India and  
Wonderful Countries Around the World 

Embarking on a journey to explore all seven continents of the world is a lifelong endeavour. Typically, travellers commence their odyssey from their home continent, often Asia. Having traversed through the captivating landscapes of India and Southeast Asia, Europe inevitably beckons. Upon fulfilling the European Dream, attention turns to a destination that is both a country and a continent - Australia. The North American continent, especially the United States of America, then becomes a focal point. Many tourists effortlessly check off these four continents from their bucket lists. However, three continents remain: Africa, South America, and Antarctica. 

Africa, in particular, holds a proximity to us, yet it remains somewhat overlooked by Indian travellers. When African delegations or associates engage with us, they often pose a pressing question: "Millions of tourists flock to our countries from Europe and America. How can we make Indian tourists see Africa as a 'must-visit' destination?" Our response to them is simple: those who have experienced Africa come back enamoured, often expressing surprise at the sheer beauty they encountered. They regret not visiting earlier. Therefore, it's imperative for all African countries to unite and launch a comprehensive awareness campaign showcasing the progress of African tourism and the myriad attractions awaiting visitors. Indians should feel drawn to Africa in the same manner as they are to destinations like America and Australia. While Africa may not be the cheapest option, let's explore it before it becomes exorbitantly expensive. 

Following Africa, there's the enchanting allure of South America and the unparalleled uniqueness of Antarctica. This month at Veena World witnesses the commencement of two expeditions to Antarctica, while next month, travellers will immerse themselves in the wonders of South America. So, let's continue marching towards our travel mission! 

#VeenaWorldTravelMission 

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My Husband Is Not My Tour Manager 

"Come on, let's go; our driver should be outside by now."... "Hello, hello, I'm Ashish. I had booked a car, but I can't find it here."... "Where should we eat today? Yesterday's place wasn't good."... "Hello, hello, is anyone listening? Our flight got cancelled, and we are stuck here. Hello, hello"... These are snippets of dialogue from a honeymoon tour where the husband inadvertently takes on the role of tour manager. Regardless of how much they may disagree, these worries persist. Will the designated driver show up at the airport? We have a reservation for the Eiffel Tower tomorrow at eleven; will our transportation arrive on time? What if our next hotel denies our reservation? Will we make it to the airport on schedule? What if our flight gets cancelled? The list of such concerns seems endless. 

"Come on! It's your honeymoon, be stress-free. Veena World has you covered!" Veena World offers two types of experiences: honeymoon tours and customized honeymoon holidays. The latter comes in two forms: readymade holiday packages and tailor-made holidays to your liking, anywhere in the world. Despite valid questions about the concept of honeymoon tours—after all, isn't a honeymoon supposed to be a private affair? —Veena World has successfully organized these tours for the past decade. Thousands of honeymooners have enjoyed Veena World's offerings and are satisfied guests. 

Modern-day honeymooners are often pressed for time, making it difficult to plan intricate details. Thus, referring to Veena World's travel planner simplifies the process: choose your destination, book, and then sit back and relax. It's a welcome relief amidst the chaos of wedding preparations. Moreover, honeymoon tours are reasonably priced, covering air travel, accommodation, sightseeing, meals, and even visa fees and visa application processing for international destinations. 

There are two key benefits to honeymoon tours. Firstly, the company of fellow honeymooners creates a vibrant atmosphere. Having peers of a similar age group fosters camaraderie, with shared experiences and anticipation for the future. This significantly enhances the tour's ambiance, with activities ranging from fun and games to candlelit dinners, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Secondly, having a Veena World tour manager accompany honeymooners adds a sense of security. In an increasingly unpredictable world, having a trustworthy companion by your side is invaluable. It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience, alleviating worries not only for yourselves but also for your families back home. 

So, let's go, pack your bags, and embark on this adventure with Veena World!  

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Mind, Body, and Soul

Fatigue, burnout, exhaustion, collapse, depression, anxiety... These words are frequently heard nowadays. We use them so extensively in our daily conversations that they seem to have become a part of our vernacular. This widespread usage is a testament to the combined effects of today's fast-paced work life, competition, targets, performance pressure, greed, and desires. The younger generation increasingly feels the need for psychiatrists or therapists. While "work-life balance" may sound like a cliché, it's the stark reality of our times, an imperative need. Those who manage to strike this balance emerge victorious in the race. Therefore, the importance of mind-body detox, a healthy lifestyle, spiritual well-being, and reconnecting with nature cannot be overstated. This is precisely where Veena World Customized Holidays comes into play. We jestingly suggest that when life begins to feel mundane, it's time to get up, get out, and travel... Change the scenery, even for a short while. Take a break, whether it's for minutes, hours, or days, to rejuvenate yourself and return with renewed vigour and enthusiasm. 

Rejuvenation is not just a concept; it's a thriving business, one that we are deeply intertwined with. Tourism itself is a form of rejuvenation. There's a unique thrill in embarking on a journey and a fulfilling joy upon return. For those opting for private customized holidays with family and friends, we tailor holidays to their heart's content. Our team is virtually available 24/7 to cater to their needs during their holiday. Nowadays, many small and large groups of families and friends who choose customized holidays request a tour manager to accompany them. While they have had their holiday meticulously planned by us, they can now relax and enjoy themselves without any worries, as the tour manager takes care of everything. The demand for wellness holidays within these customized packages is on the rise. Complete rejuvenation is the goal, albeit with a reasonable budget. However, the value for money is undeniable. There are numerous excellent wellness resorts worldwide, including some in India, which are deeply rooted in our cultural ethos. Some of the world's best wellness retreats include Chenot Palace Weggis in Switzerland; Kamalaya in Ko Samui, Thailand; Villalara Longevity Thalassa and Medical Spa in Portugal; Mandarin Oriental in Marrakesh, Morocco; Clinique La Prairie in Geneva, Switzerland; Aro Ha in New Zealand; Stanglwirt Green Spa Resort in Austria; Euphoria Retreat in Greece; Ananda in Rishikesh; and Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat and Spa in Bali, Indonesia. 

Ideally, no one should find themselves in a situation where they require a wellness retreat due to illness. However, adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent illness is essential, and wellness retreats can play a significant role in achieving this. Rest assured, Veena World Customized Holidays is here to handle everything else. So, worry not, and embrace happiness... Hakuna Matata!