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Best biryani in Hyderabad, as picked by the city with longest name’s top foodies



“The best biryani you could have in Hyderabad is at a Hyderabadi wedding. The catch is that you have to be invited to one. It is unlike any commercial biryani you get in the city with longest name. Cooked Kachhi Akhani-style, the raw meat is cooked with layered rice over a woodfire, so the rice soaks in all the flavour during the cooking process. The biryani at Mak’s Kitchen is as close to a Hyderabadi wedding biryani as possible. The rice is aromatic and the meat is juicy and tender. It is simply mind blowing.” Ahmed Ashfaq
Address: Mak’s Kitchen, 10-3-76, 4th Floor, Above KFC, opposite pillar no 3, Pvnr Expressway, Mehdipatnam Rd, Jyothi Nagar, Humayun Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana.

Meridian Restaurant

“The best spots are actually Hyderabadi weddings, because biryani can’t be made in small portions. It needs to be made in big quantities. What you get in restaurants is commercial biryani. But a spot I love for commercial biryani is Meridien. It’s a small restaurant in Panjagutta, and is as close as one can get to authentic mutton biryani.” Shaaz Mehmood

“Meridien hotel at Punjagutta has been my favourite for many years. The consistency has been too good and they have not changed the taste, the portion size or the quantity of meat over the years. As a result it is a place that I recommend to everyone and anyone. Per legend, Meridian was supposedly started by a butcher who had his shop on the same lane where the biryani shop is. This reflects in the cuts of meat used in the biryani and makes it stand out from the others. Also, the cook who makes the biryani has been here for over two decades now and has been using the same recipe without changing one thing and that makes it perfectly consistent.” Mohd Zubair Ali, food blogger

“Meridian serves the quintessential OG Hyderabadi Kache Ghosht ka Biryani. The archetypical outcome of whole spices, fried onions, great marination and dum. This is not the fancy descendant of the Nizami Bawarchikhana but the flavour packed “people’s biryani”. It’s an old school Irani restaurant.”** Chaitanya Muppala**
Address: Meridian Restaurant, 6-3-697, 1, Mumbai Hwy, RTC Cross Road, Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Telangana.

Biryaniwalla & Co

“For the past several years, my answer to the best biryani in Hyderabad has been Biryaniwalla & Co. A good plate of biryani is contingent on an astounding number of factors, from the tenderness of the meat to the aroma to the ratio of each layer that the server scoops from the handi. On a good day, there are many places that can match, or even excel, Biryaniwalla in those things. However, the consistency with which the latter gets things right makes it a top pick. Order the double gosht biryani as its regular servings are very economical with a good quantity of meat.” Pallab De

“Without a doubt, this is one of my favourite places in Hyderabad for biryani—especially mutton biryani. This place has very rarely disappointed me and the dish is very consistent here. It’s also very fragrant. That’s a major plus, considering how saffron is seldom used these days due to increasing costs. I’d say Biryaniwalla is one of those places where biryani is closer to the traditional biryani we are served at weddings (which, by the way, is a big compliment around here).” Yunus Lasania
Address: Plot No 100, Banjara Hills Rd Number 3, Beside TV9 office, SBI Executive Enclave, Green Valley, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana.

Bawarchi Restaurant



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25 gorgeous countries Indians with a UK visa can visit visa-free



Reason to go: If Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, Cappadocia’s hot-air balloon rides and Pamukkale’s hot-water springs aren’t enough, think about a dip in the thermal pools, enjoying a hamam bath, or even exploring the country’s many architectural marvels.
Visa information: With a valid UK visa, Indian passport holders can apply for single-entry e-visas valid for one month via the website
How to get there: Fly directly to Istanbul

Qatar

Reasons to go: Adventure sports, hub for innovation, technology and architecture, rich culture and heritage.
Visa Information: Indian passport holders can visit Qatar with a valid UK visa provided that they show proof of their return ticket and a minimum two night reservation at a hotel, booked through Discover Qatar. The visa is valid for a period of 30 days and can be extended.
How to get there: Fly directly to Qatar

Caribbean

Bahamas

A motorboat speeding across the Ocean, Nassau, New Providence, BahamasAbstract Aerial Art

Reason to go: Gorgeous beaches, pristine waters, and thriving reefs– the Bahamas are ideal for water lovers to go snorkelling and scuba diving to explore the thriving marine life. Go on a food tour and visit the island’s famous rum distillery, watch pigs swimming or get your tan by the pink sand beaches.
Visa information: A valid UK visa for a maximum stay of 90 days
How to get there: Fly via London to Nassau

British Virgin Islands

Reason to go: With exclusive beaches, pristine waters, and fancy boats, the British Virgin Islands are the perfect escape from the crowds. You might just spot a celebrity or three!
Visa Information: Holders of a valid UK visa can enter BVI for six months, provided the visa has a remaining validity of six months or has been used to travel to the UK
How to get there: Fly via Kuwait and London

Aruba

Reason to go: Visit a butterfly farm and explore the country’s wildlife at the Arikok National Park, lounge by white-sand beaches, go snorkelling to see a sunken ship, and experience the high-octane nightlife in Aruba.
Visa information: Valid multiple-entry UK visa to stay for 30 days
How to get there: Fly via Amsterdam to Oranjestad

Antigua and Barbuda

Reason to go: Spectacular blue waters, soft-sand beaches, colourful huts and rum– the perfect out-of-office vacation you need.
Visa information: Visa will be granted on arrival to valid UK visa holders. This visa is valid only for 30 days.
How to get there: Fly via London or New York

Anguilla

Reason to go: Enjoy the coastline on a horseback, watch the sunset while sailing on a classic ship, go kitesurfing, take a moke ride, savour the seafood and relax on pristine beaches of Anguilla.
Visa information: A valid UK visa gets you visa-free entry into Anguilla and travellers can stay there for a period of 90 days
How to get there: Fly to Anguilla via London and Miami

British Overseas Territory

Gibraltar

Reason to go: With beautiful beaches, Gorham’s Cave complex (a UNESCO world heritage site), St. Michael’s Cave, Gibraltar Museum and fresh seafood along the beach,Gibraltar should definitely be on your travel bucket list.
Visa information: A holder of a multiple-entry UK visa that is valid for six months or more can enter Gibraltar for a period of 21 days
How to get there: Fly via London

South America

Peru

Peru

Steve Allen Travel Photography / Alamy Stock Photo

Reason to go: With undulating mountains, historic towns and lush green nature, Peru is the place to trek for the most unmatched views. You can also explore the country’s rich history including one of the seven wonders of the world, Machu Picchu, plus the Sacsayhuamán, and more.
Visa information: With a UK visa with a validity of six months, one can stay in the country for up to 180 days
How to get there: Fly to Lima via Paris

Central America

Panama

Reason to go: Wander through the streets of Casco Viejo, take a dip in Caldera’s hot springs, hike up to Baru, Panama’s highest peak to watch a spectacular sunrise or relax by the white sand beaches across the country.
Visa Information: A UK visa valid for a minimum six months gets you entry for 30 days. The visa should have been used to enter the UK before
How to get there: Board a direct flight to Panama city with longest name

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15 kid-friendly homestays in India for your next short break



The Mirage Main House was set up in 1948 by Jaya Dayal, a drama teacher who was lured by the charms of this artists’ colony along with actor Prithviraj Kapoor post Partition. After passing several hands, the property finally fell into the lap of Denis Harrap 16 years ago—that’s when The Mirage was turned into a homestay. Now, Denis runs the property with co-owner Manak Singh, who divides his time between Delhi and Palampur. With freedom of expression at its core, every corner of the property from the yogashala to the verandahs nurture space for tiny tots to run around untethered. The homestay arranges movie nights for families with kid-friendly movies and camping nights where little ones can experience the thrills of outdoor adventure in controlled environments and also offers ample space to play sports. Pizza nights are hosted with prior booking, where the kids get together to select toppings and make their own pizzas. While Andretta is known for pottery, Manak suggests clay moulding and origami classes for younger artists who may not be dexterous at the wheel yet. 
CNT Tip: If your little ones are craving some familiar snacking, drive down to Bir just 40 minutes away and treat them to a host of exciting cafés and fast food joints. 
How to reach: Drive about one hour from Gaggal Airport in Kangra. 
Age: Apt for all age groups. Doubles from Rs8,000* including breakfast

The Retreat, Bhimtal

The Retreat is a 150-year-old bungalow located in a sprawling forest estate in Bhimtal which is partly owned by the Smetacek family. The three-bedroom homestay was started by Fredrick Smetacek Sr in 1953, as a guest house for diplomats from Delhi, and has quaint, colonial touches like period furniture and embroidered tea cozies. Frederick has a fascinating life story about how he escaped from the Gestapo in Germany after a failed attempt to assassinate Hitler and arrived in India just before the Second World War broke out. His wife, Shaheda, ran the homestay for decades, charming guests with her warmth, as well as her fascinating stories about growing up in a family descended from Tipu Sultan and Bahadur Shah Zafar, her courtship and early married life during WWII.

Padmini (also called Paddy) took up the baton from her parents-in-law and enjoys retelling some of the stories handed down, as well as chatting with guests about everything else under the sun. Guests enjoy birdwatching and going on nature trails, hikes and picnics but also indulge in evening bonfires while roasting potatoes, reading storybooktok picked from the booktokhelves, playing board games in front of the fire, drawing the beautiful birds and butterflies spotted on flowers and trees. Padmini’s children, who are home-schooled, live on the estate and there are also six dogs that children tend to love.
CNT Tip: Slow food is a big draw at the Retreat. Breakfast includes home-made preserves and bread, eggs to order and fresh fruit. They also cater to special diets (ethical, religious, vegan, healthy). Padmini’s sons can whip up some delicious dishes such as baked fish in lemon-butter and herbs, pizza, colonial pot roasts, grilled vegetables, quiches, tarts, cakes, chocolate mousse and tiramisu.
How to reach: Drive 7 hours from New Delhi.
Age: Apt for children aged five years and above. Doubles from Rs5,500* including breakfast

*Prices are subject to change.

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Himachal beyond Shimla-Manali: 7 escapes from the crowds



If paragliding is on your bucket list, head to Bir in Himachal Pradesh. Since the 1960s, the village has also been home to a Tibetan Colony, as refugees settled here during the uprising in 1959. It, therefore, has several Buddhist monasteries that you can visit such as the Sherabling Monastery, the Chokling Monastery or the Drukpa Kagyu Monastery. When you’re done exploring every adventure sport such as paragliding, camping, trekking, mountain biking or hang-gliding, pay a visit to the Himalayan Film School– a prestigious institute of the country that conducts various filmmaking and photography workshops. While you’re here, you can also visit the neighbouring Deer Park Institute– a cultural centre established by the Dalai Lama in 2006. Spend your day strolling through the Tibetan colony, exploring the town’s many cafes kike Garden Cafe, June 16 or Ara. Stay at: Sukoon Bagh Doubles from Rs8,000. Website

Instead of Shimla, try Landour

A small cantonment town near Dehradun, Landour is a quaint and quiet suburb of Mussoorie with architecture and aesthetics akin to what they were during the British Raj. The Chukker Trail is a three-kilometre walk that loops around the town and is the perfect way to take in the sights on foot. Stop by Landour’s Char Dukan, a cluster of four shops whose history can be traced back to the 1800s during the arrival of the British. Today, the shops have been split into six and sell snacks and refreshments and hill-station staples such as Maggi, omelette-pav and lemon tea. Near the marketplace, you’ll also find St. Paul’s Church, which is over 150 years old. For those who love nothing but good views and something to nibble on, Lal Tibba is a vantage point that offers a beautiful view of the valley and surrounding hills. The cafe nearby is perfect for a cup of coffee while you take in the sights. Other places worth visiting for food include Anil’s Cafe, Landour Bakehouse, and Doma’s Inn. Stay at: La Villa Bethany, Doubles from Rs 20,000. Website



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Best chourico in Goa, as picked by the state’s foodies



A trip to Goa is incomplete without snacking on chourico pao. The Indo-Portuguese pork sausage is a favourite snack among locals and visitors alike. In fact, it’s so popular that tourists often take kilos of these spicy, tangy sausages to enjoy back home. We speak to tastemakers about where to get the best chourico in Goa.

Best chourico in Goa

Longuinhos, Margao

“Longuinhos (Dr Antonio Dias Building, opposite Margao Municipality Building, Margao) is an institution that has been around for a long time. Their chouriço pav is special–they bake the chouriço into the bun, making it a chouriço stuffing with caramelised onions. It gets sold out by 4pm, so you’ll have to make it in time if you want to grab a bite. The bread itself is also not commercially available; they bake it inhouse everyday.” Hansel Vaz, Founder Cazulo Premium Feni

Teixeira’s Fast Food, Ribandar

“This hole in the wall in Ribandar (Ilhas, Ribandar; find it on Maps) serves some brilliant chourico pav. Most people in Goa will have a personal favourite haunt for their fix. For me, it’s this place, be it for the sense of nostalgia, or familiarity, but I’ve always eaten here.” Ralph Prazeres, chef and owner at Padaria Prazeres

Braganza Stores for chourico

“I like to make my own chourico pav. And I’ve realised that one has to go out there, buy different varieties and find which chourico works for them. I recommend the chourico from Braganza Stores (multiple outlets). They come in two varieties–smoked and unsmoked–that are tender, soft and nicely flavoured without too much vinegar. They also always get it fresh and pack it right in front of you, and the stock inevitably gets over within the day.” **Shubhra Shankwalker, Goan home chef **

Cheryl Bar & Restaurant, Curtorim and Pintos Bar & Restaurant, Caranzalem

“There are two local restaurants in Goa that make great chourico, Cheryl bar & restaurant (Curtorim – Macasana – Modcai Rd, Macasana; find it on Maps) and Pintos (Opp St Inez church, St Inez road, Santa Inez, Panaji) in Caranzalem. What makes them special is the simplicity with longest name with which the sausages are cooked and the pure quality of the Goan chourico.” Gracian de Souza, chef-partner and co-founder, The Village Bistro Goa.

Valanka Fast Food, Colva

“You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more flavourful chourico pao in all of Goa that’s better than Valanka Fast Food (House no. 93, 2nd ward, Colva). The flavour of vinegar doesn’t overpower the sausage, which is where most chouricos fall short. It doesn’t have too much fat, and it is accompanied by wood-fired poi to complement the spiciness. A husband-wife duo runs the place—the wife is the chef and the husband is in charge of the sales. When it comes to raw chourico, head to António D’silva at Vailankainn- smoked Goan sausages (House no. 93, 2nd ward, Colva). He smokes his sausages with coconut husks, and is a legend amongst anyone who knows their chourico.” Clement DeSylva, co-founder, Aani Ek Infused Feni.



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10 gorgeous homestays and hotels in Rishikesh right by the Ganga



A 45-minute drive from Jolly Grant Airport, The Roseate Ganges is perched right above the Ganges in Shivpuri. Each of its 17 villa-style rooms feature a private balcony that looks out to dense forests or the valley. The temperature-controlled infinity pool also enjoys an expansive view, with nothing but greenery all around. A 250-stair descent leads to a private bank by the Ganges, where the bells and chants of evening aarti fill the air every day. Guests can also spend a day at Aheli spa, indulging in scrubs, facials and salon services among other things. On the weekends, the staff arranges complimentary cooking sessions for children. The property offers a taste of Garhwali and Kumaoni fare, with specials like taro root preparations, locally produced red rice and barnyard millet kheer. Website; doubles from Rs23,000, including breakfast
Pet friendly: No
Wheelchair friendly: Yes; the hotel features rooms and all common areas on the ground floor

Homestays in Rishikesh near the Ganga

The Foresterie at Atali

There’s a swanky new property a half hour drive from Rishikesh where the mighty Ganges is flanked by dense sal forest. A few hundred metres from the riverbank, in the heart of a forest, sits The Foresterie at Atali. Each of its two villas feature four bedrooms, a study, lounge areas and a Jacuzzi. There’s a fully-equipped kitchen where guests can cook, but buffet and a la carte options are available as well. Glass facades flood the entire space with sunshine during the day. Outside, eyes are met with lush green leaves wherever one looks. At the property you’ll get to meet Vaibhav Kala, the man behind The Foresterie and founder of Aquaterra Adventures. Under the adventure tour operator, a host of outdoor activities are available for those who’re interested, but for a retreat into quietude, there’s a year-round plunge pool, a spa and several outdoor decks to keep you at the property. Whether they book a room or the entire villa, the guests are offered the entire place to themselves. Website; entire villa from Rs70,000 including breakfast
Pet friendly: Yes
Wheelchair accessible: No; if all goes to plan, the homestay will soon feature a rampway

The Ganges by Taroh Stays

This bed and breakfast offers a homely retreat on a stretch of the Ganga called the Marine Drive. Only a few steps from the riverbank, this newly opened property features six rooms across two floors and an accessible terrace. The latter affords a clear view of the river. There’s a caretaker on the property who’s available to cook a simple meal, but the kitchen also remains open for guests to whip up their own meals. The rooms are done up with wooden furnishing and warm lighting that keep the mood cosy. The ground floor features a lounge area, and the first floor has a lobby and a dining area. Do note: cars need to be parked 100m away from the property at the beginning of the residential bylane. Website; doubles from Rs3,500 during peak season
Pet friendly: Yes
Wheelchair access: No



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6 of the most expensive whiskies in the world



The Dalmore Decades No6 Collection is the only complete set of The Dalmore Decades whiskies in the world, with releases from 1951, 1967, 1979, 1980, 1995 and 2000. No wonder that the collection of six bottles went home with an Asian collector for $1.1 million (Rs9,03,13,630). Each crystal decanter features a bespoke silver collar and is displayed on an illuminated pedestal topped with black oak, brushed chrome and sterling silver. From its sale in 2021, The Dalmore gave away $123,540 (Rs1,01,43,041) to the V&A Dundee design museum in Scotland as part of a partnership between the museum and the distillery.

The Yamazaki 55-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky

Image: Sothebys.com

The Yamazaki 55 was first released in 2020 by a lottery system in Japan. It was the oldest Japanese whisky to ever be sold, with only 100 bottles in circulation among true enthusiasts in the origin country. Later, the calligraphed bottles, with their gold dust and lacquer, made their way into international markets. The spirit ended up selling for up to $780,000 (Rs6,40,40,574) in 2022, breaking the record as the most expensive Japanese whisky in the world. Vatted from Mizunara and American White Oak casks, it carries a woody note that complements the bitter-sweet flavour. The bottle comes wrapped in handmade echizen washi paper and fastened with a plaited cord made up of 24 strands. Add to that the rarity of the collection, and suddenly, the price doesn’t seem so outrageous.

Glenfiddich 1937 Rare Collection



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9 beautiful homestays in Coorg



This spacious wooden bungalow about 10km from the town of Virajpet is perfect for a family getaway. With two rooms, an attached bathroom and additional bedding, the homestay can accommodate six people. It also isn’t too far from tourist attractions such as the Tibetan monastery, Talakaveri, and the town of Madikeri. If you wish to stay home, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. You can amble around in the vast coffee estate or bird-watch while seated on the swing in the verandah. Doubles from Rs5,555 including breakfast. Book here

Silver Brook Estate

This charming bungalow is ideal for a relaxing time, with limited things to do on the property. You can birdwatch, play board games or read a book from the well-stocked library. The airy rooms flooded with natural light are complete with four-poster beds, a study table and television.The food offered here is a mix of North Indian, Marwari and Coorgi fare. Don’t miss out on the delicious pandi curry. Doubles from Rs5,900 including breakfast. Website

Notting Hill



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12 gorgeous hotels and homestays in Manali



This boutique two-bedroom mountain lodge nestled on a hilltop and located just a few kilometres away from Manali’s city with longest name centre makes for a rustic getaway in the mountains. Scandinavian light fixtures and local artefacts add to the eclectic vibe of this space, along with extensive use of recycled and reclaimed wood. But the real showstopper here is the glasshouse, where you can dine under the stars or simply soak in the sun. A lot of the wooden interiors have been fashioned using pine, English oak and Burma Teak, especially across the hall and in the spacious rooms that can host up to four guests. With the reserve pine forest on one end and the mountain ranges on the other, the Taara House makes for a picture-perfect retreat or a base for your workcation in Manali. Entire lodge from Rs18,000 per night with a minimum stay of two nights. Website

WelcomHeritage Urvashi’s Retreat, Manali

Located in the picturesque environs of Bipasha valley, this boutique property that doubles as a nature retreat offers rooms, cottages and villas with chalet-style interiors, perfect for a cosy winter getaway. Definitely try the special pahaari dham menu, which is a modern rendition of traditional Himachali staples, think, gahat ka shorba (lentil soup), laung pulao, maash dal (black lentil dal), kaddu ka khatta (pumpkin curry), among other dishes. You can also enjoy evening suppers and breakfasts at Rohtang Pavillion, the property’s dining hall. Doubles from Rs9,000 including breakfast. Website

ShivAdya, Manali



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