Vacays for the 'just married'

Think about it, the first time you book a hotel room under a 'Mr and Mrs' could be quiet a memory-specially if you're booking the honeymoon suite! We wanted to make sure that nothing in the world comes in the way of romance, so we sorted sure-shot R and R destinations for the beach-bums, the nature lovers, the spa seekers, the adventurers and the shopaholics. Map out your itinerary to one or more places from our easy-to-refer guide that includes fab travel spots in India and some next-dorr places-Nepal, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Myanmar-to holiday at. We bet these twosome treats will come in handy in a couple of decades when you want to revive your sex life-one look through the photo album, and the heat is on, baby! Stash your sexiest belongings in your travel bag, now's the time to make full use of them!

BEACHES
Agatti Island Beach Resort
Romance Quotient: In the night, phosphorent plankton wash ashore on the coral sands and give the beach an enchanting blue glow! Discover a still-hidden part of India in the Lakshadweep islands, a rhapsody in blues that stretch from sea to sky. Your destination is Agatti, the only island in the string of 36 that boasts an airport. Be not surprised, be thankful, for it is the isolation of the islands that has contributed largely to them escaping the litter of sunbathing tourists and the ugliness of unending concrete construction.
Check into one of the 20 cottages that sit right on the beach, between towering coconut palms, and you can have your meals in their shade. If you're a genius with the fishing rod, the resort will happily arrange a barbecue so you can relish your own catch of the day. And we're not talking about your partner, either.

Casa Vagator
Romance Quotient: Stay in the penthouse, with its three terraces and balconies, and a giant jungle bathroom-great views all around.
There are just 11 airy, light-filled rooms at this small boutique resort, where smart sophistication meets beach shack living. It overlooks one of the most popular beaches of Goa, so prepare for the constant refrain of trance music every night from Nine Bar, which is close by, if you're going in season. The bar itself, an open-air affair, is a great way to spend your evenings, and the homemade pizzas are particularly yummy. The rooms are of an eclectic sensibility, with original works of art on the walls and furniture from across the world. Walk down the private beach path to get your hands on the sands, and come back for a sundowner in the open-air terrace bar.

Cherai Beach Resorts
Romance Quotient: Peep into village life from a country boat in the canals, net fish from the backwaters and later, have it cooked by a chef.
They advertise themselves as God's permanent address in His own country, and it's so very simple to see why. The Cherai beach, a 10 km long expanse of gold, wins as the finest in Kerala, and the resort is a marvel of design, allowing lagoons and canals to flow around its heritage and modern cottages. From the front of it, there's the beach in all its glory, and from the back, the cool and mysterious backwaters seem to conceal untold beauties. The Fisherman's Villas are built in traditional tribal style, with coir and bamboo, palm leaf-thatched roofs and terracotta floors, and no two of them are alike-breezes from both water bodies on either side vie for attention. There's even-and we can't be prouder of this-a disabled-friendly cottage in the resort.

Estuary Island
Romance Quotient: Forget candlelight, your romantic dinners on the deck over the water will be accompanied by the glow of kerosene lamps.
Sway to the music of the slender palms and thread your way through the stunning landscape of Kerala at Estuary Island, where lake, river, sea, and beach meet. Situated in an estuary next to Poovar Island and just 32 km from the capital, this resort is enveloped by the serenity of the backwaters against the backdrop of the clear blue Arabian Sea. Meander away on the walkways through the coconut groves, take the 5-minute boat ride to the beach, and give in to the beauty of it all. Choose from airy luxury suites, cottages, and garden-view rooms, and have your meals on Lotus, the floating restaurant in the lake-the open kitchen allows you to watch your food being made and steal some secrets. When you tire of the beach, visit the Padmanabhapuram Palace, seat of the erstwhile Travancore royals, or head to Kanniyakumari. You won't feel like coming back to the city post this!

Om Beach Resort
Romance Quotient: Take a boatride to paradise beach, an exclusive, isolated expanse of the velvety sands that you can reserve just for the two of you.

Find a bit of Goa near Bangalore in Gokarna, where the Om beach is a great option for couples who're looking to cushion their beach bumming. Known for having the heart of a hippie, Gokarna has its hair ruffled by the calming breezes from lush forests nearby, and spiced with the salt of the sea. There are other beaches to laze on as well-Kudle and Half Moon. While you're up in the air, it's a good time to check whether the place really is shaped like the ear of a cow, as legend claims. But the question is, do you know what the ear of a cow looks like?

NATURE
Aman-i-Khas
Romance Quotient: Lie side by side and share an Aman Raj massage together in the spa tent.

Against the stone, the orange blaze of a tiger. Temples in orange stone to match. At royal Ranthambhore, this majestic beast rules untamed and you can have the privilege of spying on him as he roams his haunts. The luxury jungle camp even has its own watering-hole where animals slip down for a drink. Just a stone's throw from the sanctuary, the camp is pitched amidst arid, brushwood hills. There are six luxury tents designed in royal Mughal style, that are set up for just nine months, and each tent has its own discreet manservant who pampers you imperceptibly. Beds are elaborate charpais, and at night, lanterns lead the way to the giant flaming uruli around which guests gather to watch the stars and bask in a wonderful calm.

Binsar Retreat
Romance Quotient: Take a twosome trek into one of the trails that lead off from here and, and well, get wild in the forest.

Invigorating air and glorious mountain views, lovely walks with backdrop of snowcapped Himalayas-Binsar is a tranquil forest resort tucked away in the Kumaon Hills. Oak, rhododendron, pine, and deodar grow in abundance; rocks are covered with unusual mosses and ferns-the entire area is a sanctuary filled with migratory birds and an infinite variety of wildlife. Located right in the middle of it, the Binsar Retreat has five eco-friendly, luxury tents set in generous-sized private gardens with wooden floors, handcrafted furniture and traditional textiles. Meals are wholesome and include freshly baked bread!


Glasshouse On The Ganges
Romance Quotient: Ask for breakfast or brunch to be served on the rock terrace perched over the ganges.

The river flowing between its banks, boats in which to sail languidly, mango and lychee orchards to wander in-and one perfect suite. About 16 miles north of Rishikesh lies the former garden house of the Maharajah of Tehri-Garhwal. There are four cottages overlooking the mountains and the river, the most inventive of which is the Gangeshwari Suite. The sleeping area has a four-poster canopy bed and antique furniture, while the open-air bathroom features a tub carved into the rock, with greenery spilling down the walls.

Gurung Guesthouse
Romance Quotient: Sit in the gardens together at dawn sipping the Gurung's unique tea and watch the Khangchendzonga range glow in the first light.

The name 'Tinchuley' literally means 'three stoves'-locals say that it came from a flash of poetic inspiration when one of them sawthe Khangchendzonga catch fire in the rays of the morning sun. Sitting in the Gurung Guesthouse gardens at Tinchuley, at 7,000 ft, you can look down to where the mountains meet the plains in a rolling sweep of tea gardens, catching a glimmer of river. Food comes straight from the land, including marmalade from the orchard. Walk through the woods with one of the Gurungs and study eco-tourism at its best; 35 people representing three generations live in a sprawling house and greet guests with unfailing warmth.

Oberoi Wildflower Hall
Romance Quotient: Book the heated indoor pool and take a late-night swim.

A fairytale holiday surrounded by protected forests. Towards the north lie the snowcovered ranges, while the valleys are crisscrossed with whispering streams and swaying fields. There is a walking trail here for every mood you may find yourself in. The Mashobra spur is dotted with fruit orchards and quaint turn-of-the-century houses. But Wildflower Hall is where the fairytale begins. The former residence of Lord Kitchener, rebuilt to a new magnificence, Wildflower Hall recreates the opulent style of the colonial era.

SPAS
Ananda-in The Himalayas
Romance Quotient: The Kama Suite alone is reason enough for you to visit- many spas offer couple treatments, but this one is truely mindblowing!

Now possibly noted as one of the finest spas in the world, Ananda is an ayurvedic one-stop shop. You drive up to a palace surrounded by serene hills, and are welcomed by soft spoken attendants who from that moment on ensure you bask in the best health luxury can possibly offer. The spa treatments are multitudinous and cover everything from seaweed baths and jasmine salt scrubs to Swedish, Thai and Vedic massages.

Angsana Oasis Spa & Resort
Romance Quotient: Take a break from all that's hectic by relaxing Anthony-Cleopatra style in the very unique Roman spa pools.

It's almost impossible to believe you're still in the city. Somehow nestled in the madness of Bangalore, Angsana-a truly world class spa-manages to keep the peace intact. A perfect destination for those who cannot entirely leave behind their everyday lives, but want a healthy rejuvenation break at the same time, Angsana gives you access to a haven within the hustle bustle. Soak in the Roman pool, enjoy a Russian bath, whirl away in a jacuzzi or get pampered by expert Thai masseurs-just remember to choose the duet option of your treatment, so you can both get pampered side by side. The resort also offers birdwatching and treks, if you're the outdoorsy sort. It's a superb way of just relaxing and taking time off!

Banyan Tree Spa At The Oberoi Udaivilas
Romance Quotient: Settle into an evening of cocktails and dinner on the Bhagwati Royal Barge, floating to the islands across the lake.

Located in the absolutely breathtaking and decadent Oberoi Udaivilas, this is the ultimate outpost of the iconic Banyan Tree Spa. Step out of your classy massage room to the spa's infinity pool. The cliffedge pool overlooks the stately palace in the middle of Lake Pichola. Sink into a tub strewn with rose petals as tinkling spiritual music filters down from hidden speakers. The floor-to-ceiling windows look over the hotel's nature preserve, so don't be surprised if you catch the eye of a deer or peacock as the masseuse wraps you in a black sesame scrub.

Devi Garh Palace
Romance Quotient: Stay at the Devi Garh suite, built on the philosophy of Shiva-Shakti��the male and female energies of Lord Shiva and his lover.

18th-century Devi Garh redefines Indian luxury. An all-suite fort-palace, this exclusive property is fairly traditional, yet feels more international than most other resorts in India. Surrender yourselves to the experts as they bathe you in aromatic oils and relax those overworked muscles. The spa offers eight therapies from across the world, but if your plan is to stick together, choose the deeply relaxing 50-minute Adam & Eve Serenity Massage for couples. Away from the hustle of the city, time spent at Devi Garh will leave you feeling brand new.

Oberoi Vanyavilas
Romance Quotient: Ranthambhore hasclear skies all summer. Plan a night stargazing outside your tent.

Who says being stuck in a jungle needs to be a rough experience? Head to the Oberoi Vanyavilas in the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, where you can spend your entire time in the spa tent, situated just beyond the lake, past deep blue tiled pools, in a fountain courtyard. Indulge in an Indian spice wrap, refreshing orange scrub, or simply a massage while looking out at the shimmering water-it's the perfect way to end a day that may have begun with some early morning tigerspotting. Retire to your luxury tent, reminiscent of a king's army camp tent, complete with velvet and goblets and heavy silverware.

ADVENTURE
Adventure Camping At Sattal
Romance Quotient: Grill the fresh catch of the day from the river together by blazing a fire.

Let seven interconnected lakes gasp at your daring. Put on your boots and scale Suicide Rock together, or experiment with the Burma Bridges and Tarzan's Swing. You can rappel, cross rivers and jump rocks under the watchful eyes of instructors. Join the Explorers' Camp at Sattal and live under canvas in relative comfort with soft mattresses to relax on at the end of a day. From guides to pack mules, if required, the camp has it all!

Camp Mystic River Uttarakhand
Romance Quotient: Leave the crowds and head together for one of the many beautiful treks here; perhaps the Runsiara Tal trek.
This white water river rafting camp sets up canvas every summer at Mori on the banks of the Tons river, to the west of Uttarakhand. It's a great way to set the adrenaline pumping. The Tons is the largest tributary of the Yamuna and rushes down from 20,750 ft, and the camp, situated 3,500 ft above sea level, is rich in Himalayan flora and fauna, densely forested with deodar, pine, alpine oak, birch, chestnut, rhododendron and jamun. When you're not riding the white water you can go catch fish.

Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort
Romance Quotient: Get lost together in the clouds and forest arbours.

A geocache is a kind of treasure hunt for the eco-friendly. Coordinates are given to those who want to take part and you set off for the great outdoors together, using your GPS receivers to help you find the caches scattered in the area. All you need to do is take a coin or something small to leave behind when you remove something from the cache. The beautiful surrounds of the Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort are at your disposal while you set off. Cushioned by the clouds that give Meghalaya its name, gentle rain sprinkles around you while a profusion of orchids and Tolkienesque living root bridges wait to be encountered. The resort offers six comfortable rooms and La-Fuma Dome Tents, though those are available only in dry weather.

Elephant Point Retreat
Romance Quotient: Go on an unbelievably romantic buggy ride!

Scenic beauty, high waterfalls and the banks of river Kameng surrounded by lush tropicalrainforests-all these make for a delightful getaway. The meandering Kameng river provides excellent opportunities for white water rafting, and when you're not rushing down the water together, you can picnic on the river bank. Or visit the orchidarium at Tipli to find a special flower! The Elephant Point Retreat is the perfect place to stay and 16 of the 26 rooms offer splendid views of the river. The resort sprawls over 60 acres of orchard and the food is simple and homely. After a challenging day you can go for a romantic buggy ride together and then sit close in the open-air Garden Restaurant, which has little fires beside each table. Next door to the Retreat is the Pakhul Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can also spend time birdwatching.

Jeep Safari Through Sangla Valley
Romance Quotient: Go apple picking-you, him, and your iPod!

This is a hidden world glimpsed once every six months when it emerges from its veil of snow. Then it's a place of apple blossoms, greens, gurgling streams, rocks to be climbed and lost glens to be explored. It is an idyll for adventure-lovers, especially if you're based at the Banjara Camps, sited 3,000 metres above sea level, a short drive from Chitkul, the last village on the Hindustan-Tibet Road. Surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, with apple orchards all around and the nearby Baspa River, its tents are suprisingly comfortable. Once inside the wicker porch, you're swaddled in Rajasthani fabrics, with rugs underfoot and beds draped in linen.

SHOPPING
Asia Health Resorts
Romance Quotient: Make a date for a drink at the hotel's rooftop bar and watch dusk fall over one of the most beautiful skylines.

Nestled into the side of a mountain, Asia Health Resorts is located in India's Little Tibet, Dharamshala. The hotel offers a health club, pool and ayurvedic massages and, best of all, a Finnish steam and sauna, a wonderful escape when you're feeling a little chilled. Though Dharamshala is permeated with an aura of spirituality, it's not lacking when you want to indulge in some completely unholy retail therapy. The Kotwali Bazaar offers all manner of Tibetan handicrafts, most attractive of which are the vividly hued hand-woven carpets. For authentic, and beautiful, thangkas and other Tibetan handicrafts head straight to the Norbulingka Institute.

Casa Palacio Siolim House
Romance Quotient: Spend a night on the seas aboard the beautiful wooden schooner jabuticaba.

Flea markets, night markets, Tibetan markets, designer stores-Goa is not just about the beaches, and fun in the sun can include a lot of shopping. The Anjuna flea market on Wednesday is an institution, and it's easy to see why when you are faced with a mish-mash of the odd and the ordinary, the lovely and the bizarre. More specifically, it could include everything from Harley Davidsons to guitars, G-strings to trance CDs, clothes, and jewellery. Also check out Ingo's Saturday Night Bazaar, that has stalls from all over the country. Once you're done buying, head to the centre of the market and enjoy the live performances from a variety of national and international acts. Spend the rest of your time by the pool of Siolim House, a beautiful Portuguese manor.

Hotel De L'orient
Romance Quotient: Walk along beach road at night to be seduced by the rythm of waves and the patterns of light cast by hanging lanterns.

Pondicherry may owe most of its frame to peace, love, meditation and the Bay of Bengal, but it's no slouch when it comes to shopping options. This charming seaside town gave birth to one of India's most deluxe leather brands, Hidesign. That's not all-there are also all the Auroville goodies to lug away, from beautiful pottery and candles to handmade paper and clothes, most of which can be found at La Boutique d'Auroville and at Kalki. Pick up top international brands at Casablanca; textiles, porcelain and stone-work at Via Pondicherry; and centuries-old treasure at the Curio Centre. Mira Boutique sells traditional jewellery sourced from all over the country, and the good news is that there's a store in Hotel de l'Orient, your base and one of India's first heritage hotels.


Hotel Windamere
Romance Quotient: Have a cup of quiet afternoon tea with a string quartet or pianist to keep you company and set the mood.

Shop in the markets of Darjeeling for suitcasefuls of Tibetan handicrafts. You'll find great curios in the virtual Aladdin's Cave that is Habeeb Mullick & Sons. And remember to take back enough of the tea to last you many a happy cuppa, from Nathmulls on Laden La Road. As for your hotel, it started out as a boarding house before being transformed into a hotel with large rooms, deep fireplaces, green baize billiard tables and manor house atmosphere.

Jagat Niwas Palace
Romance Quotient: Have a special dinner in an alcove overlooking lake pichola, with strain's of the sitar from the courtyard.

A nondescript little lane leads you into the Jagat Niwas Palace, a superbly located haveli on the shores of Lake Pichola. Built around a central courtyard with traditional décor, what really makes the hotel special is its rooftop restaurant and the huge window seats in the lake-facing rooms where you can watch the world go by. Book suite 116; it's got the best view over the lake. You wouldn't want to leave that room! You could also take a boat ride on the lake, or just head into the dozens of stores and stalls scattered around, buying leather-bound notebooks, silver jewellery, miniatures, rugs, blankets, and clothes. The best way of remembering your little mad dash from life-picking up gifts for all your friends and tid-bits for your home! Some of the best areas to shop in are Jagdish Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, Chetak Circle and Hathi Pol, but if you're short on time, check out the shops on City Palace Road.