It’s only apt that a year begins with hopes of chalking out new itineraries and getaways. And 2018, it seems has 16 reasons to make you smile — already! The year comes with 16 long weekends and city youngsters are thrilled at getting a reprieve of three to four days ever so often. They have already jotted down ideas for a perfect short vacay and they share their bucket list with us.
For this city-based software engineer vacationing in the lap of luxury has always been close to his heart. Saurabh Kumar Mishra, 26, says, “If one is into fitness like me, then Mullayangiri (Chikmagalur) is the best. It’s known to be one if the highest peaks in the state. I enjoyed the trekking trails here. But make sure you beat the crowd by going there early morning. The view from the top is breathtaking and rejuvenating. This trek may not be for amateurs so ensure you join a group of experienced trekkers. Even Marari Beach is a great option, it is about 11 km from Alleppey town, and a place where one can stretch, do yoga, flips and more. Make sure you carry your packed meals as the area lacks healthy food options. But there is plenty of coconut water available!”
But if going the whole trek way is not really your go-to, spending a long weekend at a vineyard might be another option. Entrepreneur Ashok Shastry, a 27-year-old, says, “For a long weekend out, I would suggest visiting the newly re-opened Sula winery. The 2.5 hour trip down Mysore Road to the vineyard is amazing. The place gives one a feeling of being in a small French vineyard during sunset. The scenic atmosphere coupled with glasses of your favourite red or white, and delicious food really makes for a great getaway.”
Coming to the pub city, a tipple holiday surely works for many. But if the idea of a getaway is to relax and detox, then heading to the pristine beaches of Varkala where yoga is a universal practice seems like the best bet. Twenty-five year old IT professional Diksha Sharma loves Varkala, and elaborates, “I would suggest it for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle of city life. It offers plenty of yoga retreats and Ayurveda centres for anyone who is looking to de-stress, detox and relax. The beach is great for surfers, and one can take up the numerous other classes on offer as well.”
Yet, for some, it’s about doing something out of the box, and invigorating.
A city-based professional thinks that Skandagiri is the destination for one of those 16 weekends. Sharath Dev, 25, says, “Skandagiri is a place that is approximately 70 km from the city. Fitness fanatics who love trekking and nature should definitely plan a trip to Skandagiri. To make the experience even more interesting, one should opt for the night trek rather than the day trek.”
