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Shopping Nuts and Bolts: India is aggressively becoming the hotspot for shopping worldwide. With a host of large, swanky malls popping up every now and then, the country has become one of the most talked about shopping destination among the travelers’ taking cheap flights to India.

All these chic malls are loaded with ace brands and best of dining & leisure facilities, but what still seem to steal the show are the local markets in the nation that glue every visitor with an unusual hex of its dazzling exhibits and sparkling lanes.

Let’s take a look at what India has in its kitty for the most discerning shopping aficionados and their diverse shopping desires.

Major Shopping Malls in India

1.       Phoenix Market City Mall-Mumbai: With a remarkable built in area of 4,050,000 sq ft, this gigantic mall is the largest shopping archade in India as well as in Asia offering ovr 600 outlets, 14 screen multiplex and more than 20 restaurants. The mall has a superb connectivity with airport and can be reached taking cheap flights to India from London as well.

2.       Lulu Mall-Kochi: Next in the list is the Lulu Mall of Kochi that has a total area of 3,900,000 sq ft which houses over 360 outlets, nine-screen multiplex, ice skating rink and a bowling alley.

3.       Phoenix Market City-Pune: A little smaller that Lulu is this one with a area of 3,400,000 sq t. This mall comprises of large Coutyard, Hyper-Market, public plazas, water bodies, retails and entertainment counters.

4.       Phoenix Market City-Chennai: The mall is built in a considerable space of 2,400,000 sq ft and offers 300-plus stores, a lavish food court, 30-room boutique hotel, an apartment comples, ampitheatre and a club.

5.       Mantri Square Mall-Bangalore: Situated in Malleshwaram Bangalore, this mall was once the biggest mall in South India with 250 retail stores having over 10,000 brands.

6.       Z Square Shopping Mall-Kanpur: This mall is one of the hotspots in Kanpur built in an area of 1,500,000 sg ft having all high-class modern amenities like an upscale entertainment zone, food court, etc.

7.       Great India Place-NoidA: This is one of the largest operational malls in India with a total area of 1,500,000 sq ft and has a 6-scree Big Cinemas apart from a variety of national and international retail outlets.

8.       Select Citywalk-New Delhi: With a 1,300,000 sq ft this mall also houses serviced apartments besides the coomercial and official spaces which are dicided into three zones:Staple Traditional, Celebration and High Voltage.

9.       AlphaOne Mall-Ahmedabad: The mall is built in a 1,200,000 sq ft area and has 210 stores, a large food court and a 6-screen multiplex.

10.   Neptune Megnet Mall-Mumbai: In a 1,056,000 sq ft area, this mall houses a Family Entertainment centre called GLEOTST besides a host of retail stores and popular restaurants.

You may not get your favorite brand here but for that real spirit of Indian shopping culture, these local markets are winners hands down. With cheap tickets to India, one can grab the best of Indian traditional and contemporary ware ranging from the trendiest collection of garments, accessories and gadgets to ethnic jewelry, shoes, home furnishing and other lifestyle stuff.

Shopping from these regional bazaars give you that extra stroke of cultural influence, and a grand scope to bargain uptill your ultimate content.

Best Local Markets in India

1.       Chappan Chowk-Indore

2.       Johari Bazar-Jaipur

3.       Mall Road-Shimla

4.       36 Chowringhee Lane-Kolkatta

5.       Chandni Chowk-New Delhi

6.       Manik Chawk-Aligarh

7.       Colaba Causeway-Mumbai

8.       Chor Bazar-Mumbai

9.       Connaught Place-New Delhi

10.   Chinese Market-New Delhi
 
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The essence of modernization wrapped in heritage – Shanghai

If your witty brain cells are on the quest to find solace, in the arms of a holiday package, then this write up will elude a sigh of relief to your hard working cells! How about a holiday filled with joy, ecstasy, entertainment and lots more? Great, isn’t it! A holiday trip to Shanghai, China can satisfy your fun loving soul. Direct flights to Shanghai, China are available from many places.

Sights to be seen:

Shanghai, the premiere city of China is a traveler’s delight. In the past 20 years, the city has seen a huge boom in tourists from all around the world. This is a must see place for someone visiting Asia. Non stop flights to Shanghai from London comforts your journey and is priced at cheap rates too. The places that standout as eye catchers are –

·         Oriental Pearl Tower – it is one of the most majestic and tallest towers (468m) in entire Asia, found along the banks of Huangpu River. It contains a very high observatory deck and provides the entire city view. It also boasts majestic lightshows at night time.

·         The Bund – one of the premiere attractions of the city is The Bund. Located along the banks of Huangpu, it is the center of colonial Shanghai. New and old commercial houses, grand buildings, European architectural art buildings crowd it. It appeals to tourists due to its stellar night light show. The area also encompasses boutique shopping roads and modern pubs, restaurants.

·         Yuyuan Gardens – this is the most ancient city garden crafted with Ming and Qing architectures. If you did book direct flights to Shanghai at last minute, the garden deserves an obvious visit. The Grand Rockery at the center garners the most attention due to its classical Chinese architecture. The City God Temple is located close by.

·         Jade Buddha Temple – one of the oldest Buddhist shrine in Shanghai is the Jade Buddha temple. The Buddha statues were brought in the 19th century from Burma. The temple features many craft work and many people come to offer their prayers.

·          People’s Square Park – to spend some quality time with friends and family, this is the apt place. The racetrack turned park hosts lush greenery along with a rich plethora of bars and cafes nearby.

·         The Shanghai Disney Resort – the mega project is expected to finish by 2016.  The $4.4 billion theme park with resorts in Pu dong will attract many Disney lovers.

Important events:

1.      The charm city hosted the 2010 World Expo, recording a huge number of visitors.

2.      The Shanghai Jazz music festival is held on the 3rd week of Oct. and imbibes many international performers.

3.      The Shanghai F1 circuit hosts the Formula One races every year. 

Stay at Shanghai:

Many direct flights to Shanghai, China make Shanghai’s airports crowded. For the entertainment sector –

·         Your shopaholic soul can meet its need at Quip Lu and Pearl Plaza.

·         You can eat Xiaoping and drink local beers like Karin and Asahi.

·         Hotels are available for affordable price range.

·         You can take a ride of Shanghai Maglev Bullet train.

 
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Want a sparkling vacation? Grab your tickets to Abu Dhabi

Direct flights to Abu Dhabi, UAE will directly fly you to the largest member of the seven emirates making up the United Arab Emirates. The capital of the UAE and also number two in population among the country’s states, Abu Dhabi houses the government. This destination is also one of the largest petroleum oil drills supporting in large extent to its economy. It is world’s 67th most expensive city, and even treasures its cultural, political, industrial and commercial fields. A place of captivating art all around, you will feel mesmerized starting from the point you land at the airport of this metropolis. Arabic architecture is simply world class.

Ride on your flying carpets:

Sheikh Zayed Mosque-

Book cheap direct flights to Abu Dhabi and get to experience luxury without burning holes in pockets. Take blessings at the country’s largest mosque built by the United Arab Emirates late President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This grand mosque bridges the Arabic architecture and the Islamic faith. The design of the mosque is a fusion of Mughal and Moorish mosque architectonics. A pure and serene atmosphere and the white marble finish will make your stay at this metropolis awesome.

Abu Dhabi Corniche-

Time waits for none, but last minute direct flights to Abu Dhabi waits for your untimely decision on tour. The Corniche Road of the city stretches up to eight kilometers giving place to all activities and for every age. The embankment includes play areas for the children, a common place for strolling or cycling, cafes and restaurants at your service and the shimmering Corniche Beach tops it all.

Khalifa Park-

Situated in the Middle East of the United Arab Emirates, this is acknowledged as the best parkland one has ever seen. The park comes in ‘all in one’ category. Green lushes, dancing fountains, museum, aquarium, play arena, library even they have their own trains. An educational, historical ride called the ‘Time Tunnel’ should not be a miss.

Arabian Wildlife Park-

Non-stop flights to Abu Dhabi from London would save you plenty of time to be with nature and do animal safari. This conurbation is basically an ice-cream in which the ice feeling never dies out till it gets finished. Be at the Arabian Wildlife Park, on Sir Bani Yas Island that shelters above 10,000 open animals providing a nature like habitat. You will find an opportunity to get a close look at the Arabian Oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs along with many other species. So are you ready for the adventure?

Hili Fun City-

What is fun without scream and shout? The Hili Fun City goes perfect with its name and is located in Al Ain. Established since 1985, it is the firth’s very first theme park. A well organized amusement center for all ages shall make an eighty to become eight, literally. So come and live your childhood!!

 
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Colombo is arguably the biggest holiday destination in Sri Lanka. The most prosperous city in Sri Lanka and one of the most gorgeous cities in this Island country, Colombo attracts a very large number of tourists looking for the counterpart of Indian Holidays. Book direct flights to Colombo and explore this vital Sri Lankan Metropolis for a nice and care free holiday.

Colombo the Sri Lankan Heart

Colombo is the most important city in Sri Lanka, the former capital and the home of current capital of Sri Lanka (Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte), Colombo is the heart of all major activities in Sri Lanka. Located in the Western Province and the capital of this Province, Colombo is the largest city of Sri Lanka. Colombo is the biggest Cultural, financial and commercial hub of Sri Lanka. Book now your cheap direct flights to Colombo and explore this mesmerizing Sri Lankan City.

Five Angelic Cultural Sights of Colombo

1.      Gangaramaya: Arguably one of the most important temple in Colombo, portraying an astounding blend of Chinese, Indian, Thai and Sri Lankan Architecture and cultures. This Buddhist Temple, sitting on the shores of Beira Lake, is a great place to learn about the Sri Lankan way of Harmony. An interesting piece of information, the shrine was made from the donations of a Muslim sponsor.

2.      New Kathiresan Kovil: Famous by name of Kovil, this is one of the most lavish Hindu Temples in Sri Lanka; this huge temple which is sitting in the Sea Street is a mesmerizing place. Dedicated to Murgan the god of wars in Hindu mythology, New Kathiresan Kovil is really a place to visit and admire the gorgeous architecture.

3.      Isipathanaramaya: Isipathanaramaya is basically a Buddhist temple, located on Isipathanara Road; this is known as the most serine places in this chaotic city. Isipathanaramaya is known for its calmness and the colorful artwork. Easy access from all major parts of Colombo makes Isipathanaramaya more famous among tourists.

4.      Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque: One of the most famous mosques in Colombo, Jami-Ul-Alfar is more of a historic place, built in 1909; Jami –Ul- Alfar is arguably the oldest mosque in Sri Lanka. Located in Pettah region, this red bricked stunning mosque is a major tourist attraction in Colombo.

5.      St. Thomas Chapel: A beautiful Church, having great stone work and known for its serenity, this church is located within the premises of prestigious St. Thomas College, you’ll be astound to know that St. Thomas Chapel is only Scottish Church in whole Colombo, also may be in Whole Sri Lanka.

 
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Experience the grandeur of the island country Sri Lanka

If you are planning your honeymoon trip book direct flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and go romantic by the grandeur of this island country. This tropical destination which is surrounded on all sides by the Indian Ocean will never make you regret.

This beautiful island country has plenty to offer. Sri Lanka is known for its rare species and magnificent elephants. This island shaped like a pearl has attracted tourists from all over the world. With its diversity and natural beauty, this island will make you amaze.

The coast is surrounded by water on all sides and hence boasts of some spectacular beaches, while the interior of the island has a diversity of landscapes, from rich wildlife in its jungles, to the amazing tea plantations that surrounds the hilly regions. This island also has its share of history. The Buddhist civilization gives the island its cultural identity. So what are you waiting for? Book your last minute direct flights to Colombo now!

Sri Lanka and its history!

Sri Lanka is filled with historical and culturally significant buildings and landmarks.

·         Anuradhapura is the most famous historical city of the country. It has a large variety of ancient ruins, and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ruwanweliseya Stupa, which is the one of the largest ancient world structures, is located in this city. Even the world’s most Authenticated oldest tree, the Sri Maha Bodhi, is located in this city.

·         Polonnaruwa- This place is another famous historical site with its awe-inspiring architectures and temples.

·         Sirigiya- If you have booked nonstop flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka visiting this place is a must. The rock fortress stands at 200 meters high, and is the best place to capture that perfect family picture, as the view from this place is simply awesome. This architectural delight is one of the most treasured art works of the country. And yes it is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Srilanka and its amazing beaches!

·         If you are in the mood to surf, then head to Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Weligama, which are a surfers delight. And Hikkaduwa has a wide variety of coral reefs, that’s provides you with the ultimate snorkeling experience.

·         If you have booked Book direct flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka from London with your wife and kids, then a visit to Dondra Point and Mirissa Beach will make your kids jump in delight as sperm whales and blue whales can be spotted here.

·         The Dutch Galle Fort, which is the best preserved sea fort in this part of the world, is another World Heritage Site.

Sri Lanka and its Wildlife!

Sri Lanka is a country with rich wildlife species.
The Yala National Park- This Park is famous for its elephants and the number of leopards in this park is also one of the highest in the world. Yala is surrounded by six national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries. The ecosystem of this place is totally diverse for which such rich variety of wildlife is found here. 

 
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The sweet heart you will fall in love with

Fly down via direct flights to Delhi, India and get to taste the country’s multi flavored city at its heart. It is India’s second most populous city and is given a special status under the Indian Constitution’s 69th amendment act, 1991, as the ‘National Capital Region’. Also named as the ‘National Capital Territory of Delhi’, it includes the capital city of India, New Delhi. Being the cultural capital of the nation, you get a complete holiday feel.

Your ancient beginnings at Delhi-

The Red Fort-
Cheap direct flights to Delhi will save your pocket from burning, yet promise to give you memorable days in India.  Standing by the banks of the holy Yamuna River from the historic 17th century, the Red Fort was constructed by the Mughal emperor Shajahan.  This red monument is more like a mini-city of the old times. Constituting many halls made for the kingly arrangements are simple eye catching. The wonderful light and sound shows in the evenings completes your Red Fort tour.

Purana Quila-
Purana Quila or the Old Fort is Delhi’s another legendary landmark with a scar of the past.  Built by king Humayun of Mughal dynasty, this fort is a masterpiece in its architecture. The fort has three gates namely Humayun Darwaza, Taqi Darwaza and Bara Darwaza. Among which Bara Darwaza is still an impression of strength made of red sandstone.

Bahai Temple-
Don’t worry if your vacation comes late to you. Cheap flights to Delhi from London will give your holidays a perfect tip. What would be your Delhi tour like if you miss the spectacular Lotus temple? An excellence of modern art, the temple looks like a gleaming lotus of marble is situated on Bahapur Hills in South Delhi. It is the seventh Bahai temple in the world and is flooded by more than four million people every year from across the world. It symbolizes purity and universality of the Supreme, and also makes no bar among religions.

Qutub Minar-
With a height of 72.5 meters, the Minar is acclaimed as the highest stone tower in India. Laid by Qutbuddin Aibak, the viceroy of Mohammed Ghori, on the Ghori’s win over the Rajputs, the Minar stores many stories from the past. A perfect historic day is served at the Qutub Minar with architectural delight. 

Iron Pillar-
Non-stop flights to Delhi will reach you to this city of sights in no time. Your walk around the Qutub Minar complex will bring you to this ethnic 7.2 meters tall Iron Pillar depicting India’s age old grip on advanced science of metallurgy. Completely rust free standing with pride since 2000 years is believed to make your wishes come true on hugging.  So why stay away from your genie?