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Your Platform Magazine December 2023 Edition
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Top 10 Safari Destinations That Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List in 2024!
1 Embarking on a wildlife safari is a journey of a lifetime for every nature enthusiast. It is an opportunity to witness the untamed beauty of the animal kingdom up close and personal. The thrill of spotting majestic creatures in their natural habitat is unparalleled, leaving travellers with memories that last a lifetime. With countries renowned for their wildlife-rich terrains, narrowing down the top 10 safari destinations is no easy task. However, here’s a curated list that showcases the best of the best. 1. SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA: Serengeti National Park, situated in Tanzania, presents a distinctive and memorable experience for enthusiasts of nature and wildlife. Recognized for its expansive plains, scenic landscapes, and abundant wildlife, it stands out as a top choice for safari enthusiasts. The park is renowned for hosting the annual wildebeest migration, a spectacle where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the open grasslands in pursuit of lusher pastures. This extraordinary event is a captivating display of the raw cycle of life, providing a unique opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Beyond the renowned migration, Serengeti National Park showcases a diverse array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and cheetahs. Visitors have the privilege of observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With its awe-inspiring landscapes and remarkable animal encounters, a journey to Serengeti National Park promises to leave a lasting impression, crafting indelible memories for those who explore its wonders. 2. MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE, KENYA: The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya stands out as a must-visit haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. This remarkable reserve is celebrated for its expansive open plains, abundant wildlife, and the dazzling spectacle of the wildebeest migration. Those who venture into the Maasai Mara can witness the mesmerizing sight of thousands of majestic animals crossing the Mara River, creating a breathtaking natural phenomenon that lingers in the memory. The reserve hosts a diverse array of wildlife, featuring lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs, providing ample opportunities for thrilling game drives and indelible animal encounters. Beyond its wildlife allure, the Maasai Mara also offers a distinctive cultural experience by allowing visitors to engage with and learn from the indigenous Maasai people. These traditional tribespeople share insights into their rich culture, traditions, and showcase vibrant dances and ceremonies. With its extraordinary scenery, captivating wildlife, and cultural immersion, a journey to the Maasai Mara National Reserve guarantees an unforgettable adventure for all those who embark on the experience. 3. OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA: Situated in Botswana, the Okavango Delta beckons visitors with a distinctive and unforgettable experience. As one of the largest inland deltas globally, it remains a magnet for tourists throughout the year. The Delta showcases a remarkable ecosystem that sustains a diverse array of wildlife, featuring elephants, lions, hippos, and a myriad of bird species. Exploring this natural marvel is a unique venture, with traditional mokoro canoe rides allowing visitors to glide through narrow water channels, providing an intimate encounter with the incredible wildlife. The Delta further entices with opportunities for exceptional game viewing and bushwalking safaris, offering glimpses of animals thriving in their natural habitats. Beyond its wildlife allure, the Okavango Delta provides a chance for cultural immersion by allowing visitors to experience the traditional lifestyle of the Botswana tribes residing in the surrounding areas. This delta stands as a truly remarkable destination, delivering an authentic African experience that is a must-visit for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. 4. KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA: Nestled in South Africa, Kruger National Park stands out as a must-visit haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados. Encompassing a vast expanse of over 19,000 square kilometres, it ranks among the largest game reserves in Africa, offering an immersive journey into the wilderness. The park is renowned as the dwelling place of the iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, rhinoceros, leopards, and Cape buffaloes – alongside a diverse array of other animal species and vibrant birdlife. Visitors have the opportunity to embark on exhilarating game drives, guided walks, or indulge in the luxury of staying in lodges for a unique and unforgettable experience. The park’s stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the chance to witness majestic animals in their natural habitat render Kruger National Park a truly remarkable destination worthy of exploration. 5. MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE, TANZANIA: A visit to the Masai Mara National Reserve in Tanzania is a must for those seeking incredible wildlife encounters and awe-inspiring landscapes. The reserve is a haven for a diverse array of animals, including lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and zebras. An extraordinary highlight is the chance to witness the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Mara River in pursuit of greener pastures—an unparalleled spectacle often dubbed the “greatest show on earth.” Beyond its wildlife allure, the Masai Mara National Reserve enchants with stunning scenery, featuring vast open plains, rolling hills, and the dramatic Mara River, creating an ideal backdrop for photography enthusiasts. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, a visit to the Masai Mara National Reserve promises an unforgettable experience, blending remarkable wildlife sightings with breathtaking landscapes. 6. SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK, ZAMBIA: For those in search of an authentic and unforgettable African wildlife experience, South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a must-visit destination. Recognized as one of the world’s premier wildlife destinations, this park provides unparalleled opportunities to observe some of Africa’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. From the majestic elephants and graceful giraffes to elusive leopards and mighty lions, visitors to South Luangwa National Park are assured of awe-inspiring game sightings. Guided safaris, available both during the day and at night, offer a chance to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, which include the meandering Luangwa River and the lush surrounding vegetation. Furthermore, the park is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, boasting an abundance of bird species. With its stunning scenery, captivating wildlife, and immersive safari experiences, South Luangwa National Park in Zambia stands as a destination that should not be
10 Visa-Free Getaways That Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List in 2024!
0 When it comes to travelling, one of the most crucial aspects to consider is the visa requirement. Obtaining a visa can be a lengthy and expensive process, which can sometimes deter individuals from exploring new destinations. Fortunately, there are several countries around the world that allow Indians to visit without a visa. In this article, we will explore the 12 best visa-free destinations for Indians in 2024. MALDIVES The Maldives is well-known for its magnificent beaches and clear waters, and it offers Indians the opportunity to enter without a visa for a period of 90 days. This tropical haven, located in the Indian Ocean, is celebrated for its stunning sandy beaches and vibrant turquoise waters. Its exceptional coral reefs, diverse marine life, and luxurious resorts provide unparalleled experiences, making it the perfect destination for travellers in search of relaxation, romance, and adventure. Visitors can also partake in various water activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing, enabling them to explore the extraordinary underwater world it possesses. Moreover, the Maldives not only boasts picturesque beaches but also treasures a rich cultural heritage. By immersing themselves in the local islands and engaging with the warm and friendly Maldivian people, visitors can experience the local traditions and customs firsthand. A journey to the Maldives ensures an unforgettable escape to paradise, where breathtaking natural beauty, opulent accommodations, and a serene atmosphere await, offering a rejuvenating experience for the mind, body, and soul. THAILAND Thailand remains a favoured destination for Indian travellers due to its lively culture, mouth-watering street food, and stunning temples. Indians have the advantage of being able to enter Thailand without a visa for a maximum of 15 days. Thailand’s charm lies in its distinct blend of cultural vibrancy, awe-inspiring landscapes, and warm hospitality. From the lively capital city of Bangkok, adorned with intricate temples and bustling markets, to the breathtaking beaches and islands in the southern part of the country, Thailand offers something for every traveller. This country is renowned for its extensive history and magnificent ancient ruins, including the famous temples of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. Moreover, Thailand is a paradise for food lovers, boasting a wide array of delectable street food and top-notch cuisine. Whether you seek to explore bustling urban centres, unwind on pristine beaches, or delve into a vibrant cultural immersion, Thailand is a destination that will captivate you, leaving you yearning for more. MAURITIUS This beautiful island nation in the Indian Ocean is renowned for its breathtaking coastlines, vibrant reefs, and extravagant resorts. Indian citizens can enjoy a visa-free stay for a maximum of 60 days. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a picturesque island that has captivated travellers for ages. The allure lies in its powder-white beaches, translucent turquoise waters, and flourishing tropical flora, making it an idyllic haven for beach enthusiasts. Alongside its mesmerising natural charm, Mauritius also offers a diverse cultural tapestry steeped in African, European, and Asian influences. The bustling local markets, splendid colonial architecture, and delectable culinary delights create an enthralling cultural journey. Moreover, Mauritius boasts a plethora of outdoor activities, including snorkelling, diving, hiking, and golfing. Whether you seek tranquillity, adrenaline-pumping adventures, or an immersive cultural experience, a trip to Mauritius guarantees an indelible memory. NEPAL If you’re looking for a thrilling destination with magnificent mountains and a lively culture, Nepal is the ideal place to visit. Indian citizens have the advantage of being able to travel to Nepal without a visa. Nepal offers its visitors a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience. From its awe-inspiring landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, there are countless reasons why one should explore this captivating Himalayan nation. One of Nepal’s top attractions is its breathtaking mountains, including Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Those with an adventurous spirit can embark on trekking expeditions in the Annapurna or Everest region, where they can witness mesmerising views of snow-covered peaks and picturesque valleys. Aside from its natural beauty, Nepal is also famous for its temples and religious sites, which showcase the country’s profound spirituality. The ancient cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan are renowned for their magnificent palaces, pagodas, and temples, which reflect the region’s rich architectural and artistic heritage. Furthermore, the friendly and welcoming nature of the Nepalese people adds to the country’s overall charm, making every visitor feel like a valued member of the local community. With its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Nepal is undeniably a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those in search of spiritual enlightenment. SRI LANKA Located just a short plane ride away from India, this tropical heaven awaits you. Sri Lanka is a remarkable country in South Asia that has countless reasons to attract tourists. One of its main draws is its awe-inspiring natural landscape. From stunning beaches with golden sand to breathtaking mountains and lush rainforests, Sri Lanka has it all. What’s more, the country boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the impressive rock fortress of Sigiriya. Sri Lanka is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can delve into ancient temples, partake in traditional festivals, and uncover the country’s captivating history. Moreover, Sri Lanka is famous for its delectable cuisine, which presents a wide array of flavors and spices that will enrich your taste buds. The warm and welcoming nature of the Sri Lankan people adds an extra layer of allure to this extraordinary destination. Therefore, if you desire a fusion of natural splendor, cultural legacy, and unforgettable memories, Sri Lanka is the ultimate choice for your next getaway. JAMAICA If you’re looking for a Caribbean getaway, Jamaica is the perfect destination for Indian travellers who don’t need a visa to visit. This stunning island offers beautiful beaches, vibrant reggae music, and mouthwatering local food. Jamaica is a spectacular place that has something to offer for every type of traveler. Its natural beauty, pristine sandy beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters have earned it the nickname “paradise on earth.” But Jamaica is more
Beyond the Backstreets: Indian Women Travel Bloggers Reshaping Travel Narratives
1 In the realm of travel blogging, a captivating revolution is underway, led by a formidable cohort of Indian women who have transformed the landscape with their narratives of exploration, resilience, and cultural immersion. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, these trailblazing women are not just documenting their journeys but are rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a traveller. Their blogs and social media platforms serve as windows to the world, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of global adventures seen through a distinctly Indian lens. As they crisscross continents, these women travel bloggers are dismantling stereotypes and challenging societal norms, inspiring a new generation of adventurers with each click and caption. In this exploration of Indian women travel bloggers, we embark on a virtual expedition, celebrating the stories of resilience, wanderlust, and empowerment that define the journeys of these extraordinary women who have carved a niche in the vast world of travel blogging. KRITIKA GOEL Kritika Goel is a full-time YouTuber and Instagrammer, travelling the world and documenting her adventures for her online community of over 850,000 travel enthusiasts. Seven years ago, Kritika embarked on an audacious journey, bidding farewell to the confines of a corporate career to pursue her passion for travel and content creation. Today, she’s living her dream life, getting paid to travel around the world, and inspiring her audience with her escapades. A solo wanderer at heart, Kritika has journeyed through 28 countries in the last two years alone and hopes to someday travel the whole world. Through her lens, she wants to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest and to step outside their comfort zones to experience the beauty of this world, and to make content that helps others live vicariously through her. She loves adding adventure to her travels whether it’s jumping off a plane or going into the depths of the ocean. She is a certified scuba diver and is an ambassador for PADI, GoPro, and Canon representing India on a global scale. ANURADHA GOYAL Anuradha Goyal is the founder of IndiTales, a leading bi-lingual travel media portal where she documents her global travels in words, audio, and video formats with a focus on ancient India. She is also the author of numerous books including How to Read Indian Scriptures (2023), Devi Temples of India (2023), Lotus in The Stone – Sacred Geography In Eternal India (2020), Unusual Temples of India (2020), Cave Temples – From Pre-Historic to Modern Times (2021), Bharat Ke Anokhe Mandir (2020), and The Mouse Charmers – Digital Pioneers of India (2014). She is a translator, co-editor, and conference curator who studies the intersection of her three prime interests – Business Innovation, travel, and Indic Knowledge. ARCHANA SINGH Archana Singh, a seasoned travel writer and content creator with over 15 years of MarCom experience, boldly transitioned from her senior role at Coca-Cola in Southeast Asia to pursue her passion for uncovering untold stories from offbeat destinations. Specializing in crafting compelling content for print and multimedia platforms, Archana focuses on critical issues such as climate change, responsible tourism, women’s empowerment, and social inclusion. Recognized as a Forbes Digital StarS 2023 and recipient of awards from Outlook Traveller, TravMedia UK, Gujarat Tourism, and the Impact Digital Influencer Awards, Archana is a five-time TEDx speaker and a sought-after presence at esteemed global conferences. Sharing captivating experiences on her website, travelseewrite.com, Archana contributes as a freelance writer to respected news outlets in Asia, Europe, and the US. Having explored over 75 countries, she has forged strong partnerships with destinations worldwide and contributed to publications such as BBC, National Geographic, Lonely Planet, and Travel & Leisure. Archana has collaborated with over 150 brands spanning different categories, including tourism boards, travel companies, airlines, hotels, lifestyle brands, and automobiles. Her impactful work aims to inspire positive change globally.
Indian Railways on Fast Track: Record Budget Fuels Multi-Modal Connectivity & “Vande Bharat” Upgrade
0 The new record budget allocated to Indian Railways will ensure rapid growth and innovation TEXT: INDIAN RAILWAYS MAGAZINE India’s railways are set for a major transformation, thanks to a hefty Rs. 2,52,000 crore capital expenditure allocation in the Interim Budget FY 2024-25. This historic investment reflects the government’s “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” commitment and aims to propel the nation’s economy while enhancing passenger comfort and safety. Under the PM Gati Shakti, projects will enable multi-modal connectivity, improving logistics efficiency and reducing costs. This includes the conversion of 40,000 rail bogies to Vande Bharat standards for enhanced safety and passenger convenience. Three major economic railway corridor programs are set to roll out, focusing on Energy, Mineral, and Cement Corridors, Port Connectivity Corridors, and High Traffic Density Corridors. These initiatives, combined with dedicated freight corridors, are expected to accelerate GDP growth and reduce logistic costs. The projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. They will improve logistics efficiency and reduce costs. The Minister of Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the significant allocation. He highlighted a shift in focus over the last decade, moving from adding new trains to enhancing capacity and safety measures. Notable achievements include 26,000 km of new tracks, a Rs. 1,08,000 crore investment in Safety Systems, the Automatic Train Protection system (Kavach), and the development of popular new-generation trains. The budget emphasizes three key corridors for additional capacity: Energy, Mineral, and Cement; Port Connectivity; and ‘Amrit Chaturbhuj’ for high-density traffic routes. These corridors are set to lay around 40,000 km of new tracks, boosting capacity and reducing pollution. The Minister of Railways emphasised that the current budget places a strong emphasis on creating additional capacity through three key corridors. The first corridor focuses on Energy, Mineral, and Cement, aiming to curtail road pollution and lower logistics costs. The second corridor prioritizes port connectivity, ensuring seamless integration with ports through a multimodal approach called ‘Gati Shakti.’ The third corridor, named ‘Amrit Chaturbhuj,’ is envisioned as a railway network equivalent to the golden quadrilateral on high-density traffic routes. Collectively, these three corridors are set to lay approximately 40,000 km of new tracks, significantly boosting railway capacity and reducing pollution. The railway’s potential to save up to 90% of CO2 emissions in a cost-effective manner is expected to bring about a substantial transformation in the country’s economy, fostering efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. Regarding the second significant announcement, the Minister explained, “The success of ‘Vande Bharat’ and ‘Amrit Bharat’ trains has paved the way for the upgrade of all 40,000 conventional coaches. Efforts to enhance capacity are underway on multiple fronts.” Last year, we added 5,200 km of new tracks, equivalent to Switzerland’s entire rail network. This year, the plan is to add 5,500 km, a significant increase from 4 km per day in 2014 to around 15 km per day now. The budget for FY 2024-25 allocates Rs. 2,52,000 crore for capital expenditure (CAPEX). Notably, by the end of January 2024, we’ve achieved 82% of the CAPEX budget for the current year. The clear focus is on expanding capacity, improving the passenger experience, and enhancing infrastructure. The Hon’ble Prime Minister’s emphasis on railways is evident, and completion of the three corridors is expected to address the waiting list problem effectively. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has praised the Interim Budget as inclusive and innovative, expressing confidence in continuity and its ability to empower all four pillars of ‘Viksit Bharat’ – youth, poor, women, and farmers. The Prime Minister highlighted the announcement in the budget to manufacture 40,000 modern ‘Vande Bharat Standard’ coaches, emphasizing that their induction into regular passenger trains will significantly enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers on various railway routes across the country. As part of the strategy for ‘Amrit Kaal’, these three major economic railway corridor programmes have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. They will improve logistics efficiency and reduce costs. The resultant decongestion of the high traffic corridors will also help in improving operations of passenger trains, resulting in safety and higher travel speed for passengers. Together with dedicated freight corridors, these three economic corridor programmes will accelerate GDP growth and reduce logistic costs.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert
Fog No More: Indian Railways’ High-Tech Devices Ensure On-Time Winter Journeys
0 Our humble insight into Indian Railways cutting-edge technology for uninterrupted journeys during harsh winter conditions TEXT: INDIAN RAILWAYS MAGAZINE Winter’s icy grip often brings with it a dense blanket of fog, wreaking havoc on travel schedules and causing frustration for passengers. Yet, Indian Railways is taking decisive action to ensure smooth operations even in the face of reduced visibility. Their weapon of choice? A fleet of 19,742 high-tech “Fog Pass Devices” deployed across the network. These innovative devices, akin to GPS navigators for trains, empower loco pilots with crucial information even when shrouded in fog. Picture this: as the locomotive hurtles forward, the Fog Pass Device displays the locations of essential landmarks like signals, level crossings, and speed restrictions on a dedicated screen. Not only that, it provides clear voice guidance, alerting the pilot about upcoming obstacles 500 metres ahead. This real-time assistance ensures trains stay on track, literally and figuratively, minimizing delays and maximizing passenger safety. This initiative marks a significant leap forward for Indian Railways. No longer will winter fog throw a wrench into travel plans. With the Fog Pass Device as their trusty co-pilot, loco pilots can navigate even the densest fog with confidence, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey for passengers across the nation. So, the next time you embark on a winter train journey, rest assured that cutting-edge technology is working tirelessly behind the scenes to get you to your destination safely and on time. General features of Fog Pass Device: Zonal Railways No. of Devices Provisioned Central Railway 560 Eastern Railway 1,103 East Central Railway 1,891 East Coast Railway 375 Northern Railway 4,491 North Central Railway 1,289 North Eastern Railway 1,769 Northeast Frontier Railway 1,101 North Western Railway 992 South Central Railway 1,120 South Eastern Railway 2,955 South East Central Railway 997 South Western Railway 60 West Central Railway 1,046 Total 19,742 Zonal Railways No. of Devices Provisioned
