We’re people who love to travel and it’s a pleasure to share our experiences from around the world with you here. You’ll see our favourite destinations, quirky stays and budget stay. Also the best wedding banquet halls and the most lit party destinations. You’ll also find insightful opinions about why we travel in the first place and what it’s really like out there.
Enjoy the blog and please tell us what you think - feedback welcome!
Have you been working hard and feel the need to break-free from the monotonous routine? A #MiniBreak is what you’re looking for; whether you want to chill with friends or spend some time with the family, go solo or treat your partner to a surprise! Take a Monday off and enjoy an extended weekend!
Who isn’t tired of getting caught up in a hectic web of urgent activities? Plan a getaway from this chaos and add some new pictures to your family album. Embark on a spiritual yet adventurous journey to Haridwar, or picnic in the lush Munnar greens.
Juggling the client’s needs seems to hardly leave any time for your own needs. Take advantage of the long weekends this month to find your own voice. Trek to McLeodganj and find some peace of mind in the monasteries or visit Coorg for a quaint experience, immersing yourself in its history and culture.
Couples find it increasingly harder to spend time with each other but not this month! Surprise your partner with a romantic long drive to Alibag or enjoy the scenic views of Dalhousie.
In a constantly connected world, we might enjoy each other’s company in the virtual world, but it’s time friends reunited in the real world! Party on the beaches of Pondicherry with picturesque lighthouses or chill in Daman & Diu with a spectacular view of the horizon.
Siblings share quite a unique bond. They were your first BFF and they outlive all other equations. Not only you’re used to living with each other but make the most beautiful memories together. And when it comes to traveling, they make the best travel buddies. Here are 7 reasons why you must go on a #MiniBreak with your siblings-
You have that sync
You have known your siblings since childhood and are aware of all of their habits, be it good or bad. Wouldn’t you just hit it off if you were travelling together?
You don’t need to convince your parents.
Your parents are already convinced, as they don’t have a reason to not let you and sibling go for a trip. After all, it’s more like a family trip.
Collect memories, together.
You have so many memories to look back at after being together for such a long time. Be it that marriage wedding of your distant cousin or your first family vacation. Travelling together will only add on to your heap of memories.
You don’t have to worry about who’s going to pay
There’s an off chance that your parents will give you and your sibling extra allowance to ensure that you don’t fall short of cash during your trip. Use it to eat the local cuisine and shop for yourself.
They’ve got your back.
They have been with you through thick and thin, be it your first break up or sneaking you out in the middle of the night. They have done it all, and would continue to do so in the future.
Pack less. Share more.
If you and your sibling are both guys/girls, you can always share your clothes. That ways, you have to carry less weight on your shoulder while trekking around town.
Music is sorted
You have grown up together and quite likely have a familiar taste in music. Play your favorite tunes and dance like no one’s watching!
August is the month of long weekends and there cannot be a better time to plan your #MiniBreak.
We understand that planning a holiday can be a tough task, that’s why we have rounded up some places where you can head off for a #MiniBreak to escape the chaos and commotion of the city life. What’s even better is that you enjoy 30% off on all your hotel bookings.
Pick your happy place:
Take a Mini Break in Manali
Manali, a stunning valley nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, is also known as India’s adventure playground as it offers a wide range of activities such as trekking, paragliding, rafting & skiing (yes, you heard that right). So, pack your bags and gear up for some adventure as the mountains are calling and you must go!
Amritsar is home to the spectacular Golden Temple; a place of great beauty and sublime peacefulness. Apart from this, it is also home to food gold as the many streets surrounding the Golden Temple serve lip-smacking food (both veg and non-veg).
Pro-Tip: Visit Wagah Border to watch the Beating Retreat Ceremony to celebrate India’s 71st Independence Day.
Goa needs no special introduction. Laid-back travellers can enjoy soulful music on white-sand beaches and unwind at a shack with their choice of beverage. For those who are always on-the-go, rent a scooty/open jeep and drive past Goa’s narrow picturesque bylanes and feel the breeze on your face.
It’s often said that “You don’t just see Udaipur, you experience it.” From the sunrise in Lake Picholi to the sunset in The City Palace, there are innumerable places to fall in love with in India’s Most Romantic City.
This World’s Oldest City knows a new way to your heart every time. Here, you can reconnect with your spiritual self, as it’s home to more than 50 Ghats. What’s more? You can witness the vibrant colors come to life in the streets, indulge in street eateries, take a walk by the Ghat and enjoy the sunset from a boat ride.
Pro Tip: Visit the evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Is your travel itch tingling? Then pack your bags, put on your travel shoes and plan your #MiniBreak with us because it’s rude to keep your long weekend plans waiting!
You name it and these bloggers have been there and done it all to make it to the #HighestBloggerMeet
With engines revved, hands steady on the wheel, eyes glued to the expansive scenery ahead, and around them – their hearts may have been wandering, but their minds were still pondering over what was to be revealed at Khardung La?
Milestone reached and achieved! At 18,000 feet, and 140 kms from the worlds highest battlefield, the bloggers reached Khardung La. What better place to host the #HighestBloggerMeet? They were literally on top of the world.
And if you thought that was all, you’re mistaken! At Khardung La we announced big, big news for the travel community: OYO launched #OYOnauts! The bloggers were ecstatic to be part of this event.
Wondering what’s #OYOnauts? Here’s the dope for you:
What’s #OYOnauts? A community of travellers and bloggers who have been bitten by the travel bug!
It is a group of people who love to travel & love to share their experiences with friends & followers.
What do I get becoming an #OYOnaut?
OYO will provide a platform to travellers like you, giving you the chance to explore some of our best properties and to share this awesome experience with everyone.
An all expense paid trip to an OYO destination of your choice within India, Nepal or Malaysia. Did we mention the awesome goodie bag you get when you’re selected?
How do I become an #OYOnaut?
Tell us why we should shortlist you.
Choose your top 3 destinations from India, Nepal & Malaysia.
Share your work in the form of an image, a video or a blog
Steering through the terrains, we are up above 9000 ft., but there are miles to go before we reach the #HighestBloggerMeet. We know you are as excited as the bloggers. And before FOMO gets you, here are some juicy details of the journey.
Day 1:
Excited as they were, they left Delhi with energy and took their first stop at Murthal to revive it with some mouth watering buttery paranthas.
A great traveler once said “A chai a day keeps the traveler awake“. The bloggers stopped to refuel at 4 pm and revved towards Jammu, the next pitstop.
Day 2:
After quite a surreal stay at Jammu they took off early in the morning towards Sonmarg, a crown in the jewel of Kashmir. But, It ain’t a journey if there are no hurdles. A sudden landslide got them to take a refuge at Ramban and stay over there for the night.
Day 3:
A traveler might have 99 problems but clicking a good photo ain’t one. The roads unclogged around 6 pm and the bloggers made a stop over at the mesmerizing Dal Lake for some chai-paani and reached Kargil at 7 pm.
Day 4:
After paying homage to our heroes, the bloggers left Kargil at 6 Am to experience the breathtaking beauty of Sonmarg on their way to the picturesque town of Leh, the last destination before the big reveal.
Having experienced multiple hues and views of Leh, the bloggers are finally just 4000 feet short of the #HighestBloggerMeet at Khardung La.
Stay tuned as there’s more to come. Follow the journey to the #HighestBloggerMeet to unfold the big news.
The showers have already set in the rainy mood. Feel like traveling while it pours? Well, the country is blushing right now, from the hills to the beaches, long drives to the Sunsets, everything is worth visiting during the rains.
This monsoon, take a break from the same old. Leave your cubicle and take that much needed get-away. Call up for your gang of friends and make that Goa plan happen or take your girlfriend on a romantic escape to the hills or let the monsoons be a perfect occasion for a warm family get-together.
And while you’re thinking about your next vacay, don’t miss the thundering offers we have for you.
Enjoy the biggest gains while it rains. Book an OYO at just Rs. 999/- and use your Paytm wallet as it showers you with 10% additional cash back.
Don’t forget to download the OYO app to get the best offers pouring in your way. #BigRainGain
OYO along with Scout My Trip has set foot on an exciting and eye-opening journey. As they say, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” – and OYO, along with Scout My Trip, has taken their first step towards a record setting #HighestBloggerMeet at Khardung La — plus we’ll unveil a big surprise for the travelling community.
Having started the journey yesterday with these 15 bloggers, we’ve already covered close to 600 kilometres, all the way to Jammu. We’re still around 750 kilometres before we climb to 18,380 feet for the #HighestBloggerMeet.
Their appetite for adventure is never-ending. But first, some food.
You too, can be a part of all the action en route India’s #HighestBloggerMeet by joining us on our journey as we traverse through lush green hills, valleys and mountains covered in snow, to celebrate the joy that is travel.
Here’s the detailed roadmap:
Some pit stops along the way:
New Delhi: Where it all starts!
11th July: Delhi – Jammu
12th July: Jammu – Sonmarg
13th July: Sonmarg – Kargil
14th July: Kargil – Leh
15th July: Leh-over at Leh
16th July: Leh – Khardung La: The big reveal happens here
17th July: Khardung La – Pangong Tso
18th July – Pangong Tso – Korzok
19th July – Korzok – Jispa
20th July – Jispa – Manali/Keylong
21st July – Manali – Delhi
Follow our social handles and gear up for some adventure.
Ahh! The first rains of monsoon are here. Don’t we just love everything these rains bring? The earthy scent, those long drives, romantic walks, pakoras and most importantly a happy mood.
It adds a fresh new flavor to every city and suddenly there is so much to explore. Every view gets more scenic and the food tastes better. Aren’t you already feeling to hit the road and witnessing the magic?
While it has just started pouring in, we’ve curated the best of the most recommended cities. Check it out as each city has an OYO surprise waiting for you. Watch out for the #BigRainGain, starting from the 11th July to 15th July. Just book an OYO in these cities on the given dates and you could stand a chance to avail these mind-boggling excursions for free. Excited much? Take a look.
Jaipur: Royal residences. Glorious palaces. Commanding forts. Meet the pink city.
Not to be missed:The heritage food walk is one of the best ways to get the taste of this pink city. In a 3-hour long food tour, one can experience the actual Jaipur neighborhoods where people live, eat and shop. Featuring ten authentic food stops with 8-10 delicious tastings, you get to escape the crowds and taste the best of what the city has to offer.
Nainital:The city wrapped in between the hills presents quite a rosy picture in the monsoon.
Not to be missed: Catching the sunset at the Tiffin Point is like a dream come true. Though it’s a 3-4 hour trek to the top, but it’s full of picturesque spots – ideal for adventurers and photographers alike.
Amritsar:Monsoon mixes best with Punjabi flavors, culture and patriotism.
Not to be missed:Foot-tapping music and soulful classical renditions rent the air as both the BSF and Pakistani Rangers make their way for the flag lowering ceremony AKA the “Beating Retreat ceremony”.
Goa: Swaying palms. Sun-kissed beaches. Soulful music. You are cordially invited to live a little.
Not to be missed:South Goa sight seeing covering the Basilica de Bom Jesus, St Cathedral Church, Mangeshi temple and Mahalsa temple. The Shantadurga temple and Dona Paula Jetty add to this exciting Goa trip making it a memorable holiday.
Mussoorie:We hear a lot about the European countryside. The beautiful villages of Mussoorie are no less. Add rains and they look heavenly.
Not to be missed: Bhatoli village near Mussoorie is a quaint ‘Corn Village’ where villagers have corn on the cob hanging outside their homes. You will learn about the local culture and can try your hand at cooking the authentic Garhwali cuisine too.
Aren’t you tempted already to hit these beautiful excursions? Just book an OYO in these cities on the given dates. You will receive RSVP e-mailers; accept the invite as soon as possible. The first 25 users will get a free pass. If you’re booking a double occupancy, we’ll give couple passes. Happy travels, happy Monsoon!
FAQs
Q) How do I get my complimentary OYO Surprise?
A)Step 1: Book an OYO during the #BigRainGain (11-15th July) and make sure you are staying with us on the event date.
Step 2: You will receive an RSVP email and will be eligible to sign up for yourself (in case of a single occupancy) or yourself +1 (in case of a double occupancy booking)
Q) How many slots are available?
A) 25 slots per event are up for grabs!
Q) When will I get a RSVP email?
A) We will send you an email on 16th July, fastest fingers win!
The biggest storm of monsoon is here; download the OYO App to get flooded with offers that are going to wash away the blues. #BigRainGain
OYO has collaborated with Scout My Trip on an exciting, ambitious project. That’s right —gear up for a massive adventure, because we’re bringing you India’s #HighestBloggerMeet at Khardung La. We’ll flag off 15 travel bloggers, as they leave for a breathtaking journey, and will reveal a big surprise for the travelling community.
The roadmap has been chalked out, the rucksacks have been packed and the itinerary is locked in – only fresh tracks, waiting to be marked, await us.
As the adage goes, “It’s about the journey and not the destination.” We’re sure these 15 thrill seekers will have a fantastic ride to the top (18,380ft) with the many scenic spots en-route, the ever-changing landscape and of course, the spectacular roads.
Meet the 15 Bloggers:
Ajay Sood:He’s an international speaker on travel and architectural photography.
Anuradha Goyal: She’s an author trying to experience the world first-hand.
Abhinav Singh: He’s an adventure sports aficionado and a nature enthusiast.
Medhavi Davda: She’s a high-altitude trekker and a certified scuba diver.
Ami Bhat: She’s a restless ball of energy who was born with a bug – the travel bug.
Ragini Puri: She loves going off the beaten path and always looks beyond the obvious.
Johann Binny Kuruvilla: He rediscovered himself while exploring the world and hasn’t looked back since.
Khursheed Dinshaw: She’s a self-proclaimed nomad who masquerades as a freelance lifestyle writer.
Neha Kapoor: She’s one of the 25 Most Influential Women on Twitter.
Raza Rahil: He’s an IT guy by day and blogger by night.
Shubham Mansingka: He’s a storyteller and a travel photographer with a focus on culture and heritage.
Mridula Dwivedi: She has ambitious plans of travelling the world. The entire world.
Lakshmi Sharath: She quit her cushy corporate life to travel and write.
Swati Jain: She has covered 140 cities across 20 states in just a couple of years.
Are you as excited as we are?
Get to know these bloggers a little better as you follow the journey to the #HighestBloggerMeet on our social channels.
Come, be a part of the action.
It’s that time of the year again when romance is in the air!
Monsoon is here and that gives us all a reason to rejoice as we can bid adieu to the sweltering heat. That’s not all, the rains bring respite in more ways than one as they have an uncanny ability to change the mood of a particular city, give it a more vibrant feel and develop a unique character.
So what are you waiting for? Take a deep dive into the eclectic and interesting things you can do during the Monsoon.
1. Take a nature break in the rain to recover completely
2. Test your photography skills at the beach
3. Unwind at a hill station
4. Rekindle your love story
5. Enjoy a hot cup of chai up in the mountains
And this monsoon, it’s not just rains but a lot of gains that are pouring in your way. Watch out for the #BigRainGain, starting from 11th to 15th July, 2017. Stay tuned!
