Travel
This is what long-haul travel to Europe looks like right now. Spoiler: It sucks
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Alan Granville is a travel reporter for Stuff.
OPINION: I have to admit I’m not a big traveller.
Yes, Alanis Morissette could add another line about how ironic it is for the travel reporter who doesn’t really enjoy travel, but here we are.
Don’t get me wrong, I love the ultimate destination and joy of exploring a city, region or country, learning about new places and cultures, trying local food and drink, but the nuts and bolts of getting there are overwhelming and rather stresses me out.
I’m one of those “we have to be at the airport four hours before our flight” type of traveler, constantly checking to make sure my passport is in my pocket while constantly worrying about flight connections and if I should be must have a pen ready to fill out an arrival card. You’ll never see me on The Amazing Race, that’s for sure.
CONTINUE READING:
* Travel writers reveal the best places they’ve visited
* What you should pack in your hand luggage in the travel chaos
* Flying from Wellington to Dublin: A 41-hour journey of attrition
So you embarked on a delayed, Covid affected trip back to Ireland last month Filled me with both genuine excitement at seeing my family again after four long years and uneasiness at having to contend with traveling in a world of endless airport queues, AWOL luggage and general flight chaos.
It turned out that my fears would come true completely.
Alan Granville/Stuff
Try and fail to sleep at Singapore airport.
Long-distance travel still sucks
First the bad news. All of the usual aspects of long-haul travel that were (literally) a nuisance in the past are still there, just with a glossy coating of pandemic. Lots of waiting, outrageous food prices, boredom and stunning seats now coupled with face coverings, empty airport shops and extremely hassled staff.
Unless you’re sitting at the pointy end of an airplane, long-haul economy class travel is still an acid test that relies heavily on a) having a good airline and b) having well-behaved fellow passengers.
Luckily the airlines my husband and I used to fly to Ireland and back were mostly decent. Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Aer Lingus and Qantas were all seen somewhere along the way and I cannot fault the crew or the service. Where available, there were no bad meals, and drink and drink breaks were frequent. So that’s a big tick in the positive box.
But no matter how good the airline, I don’t think an economy seat is particularly comfortable on a flight longer than an hour, even on the state-of-the-art Singapore Airlines A350 we had on one of our legs . It was a case of constant fidgeting and desperation. I envy and sometimes despise those who can sleep on airplanes.
The flights were all full, so there was little or no movement to take over an empty row. After four years of non-long haul, I had also forgotten how difficult it can be to grab a meal in a confined space. I just resorted to throwing bits of rice towards my mouth. It mostly went in. Usually.
Which brings me to my fellow travelers. For the most part they were pretty good, but it It only takes one horrible experience to ruin a trip. Ours were very, very, VERY active little kids who spent 13 hours screaming and kicking the longest leg of the journey from Singapore to Amsterdam while their gentle parents looked on humbly. It was on an airplane.
Masks suck (but are necessary)
Look, I’m not getting into the often heated debate about masks, but wearing them for hours on end on flights is irritating. I don’t think anyone really likes wearing them, but these are the times we are in that it’s a part of life. For the record, I’m pro-mask because I’m immunocompromised.
There was a very adamant passenger on a Singapore Airlines flight who made it very clear that he dislikes wearing masks and that the crew could not force him to wear them. It wasn’t for health reasons, he just didn’t like her. He protested before he got on the plane, he protested on the plane, and no doubt he protested afterwards.
Here’s the thing, you bought a ticket from an airline that makes mask use mandatory. You have even been to an airport (Singapore) where it is mandatory. You cannot ignore these two facts. If you’re too valuable to follow the rules, book tickets with a mask-free airline. Making the already difficult job of ground crew and flight attendants even more difficult doesn’t make you a bigger person. As I said, nobody likes to wear them, but it’s something we need to do on certain services. Suck it on Buttercup.
Alan Granville
Masked at Singapore Airport.
Queues suck
I’m not sure what has happened since Covid emerged, but I think researchers need to look at the effect of Rona on people’s ability to queue.
This has been exacerbated by staff shortages across the industry as the rapid return of travel combined with the desperate need to rehire those who have been axed during the particularly dire times of the pandemic has caused general confusion.
Three separate check-in experiences resulted in queues that merged, split, and then merged again as travelers grew frustrated with a lack of direction from staff, as well as a lack of open check-in counters.
It took more than an hour to walk a few steps at the Lufthansa counter at Dublin Airport when the ‘bags check only’ queue formed, only to be closed by a puzzled-looking staff member through a queuing barrier flap fold them back into the “Check-in only” line. As more than 100 people tried to get the attention of the limited check-in staff, voices were raised, nerves racked and trolleys pushed against each other.
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A global shortage of baggage handlers has led to an increase in the number of delayed or lost bags.
Losing your pockets sucks
I cannot describe how happy I was when I saw our bags fall onto the carousel at Dublin Airport. Horror stories pollute ours Travel issues section but we had escaped unscathed on the outward flight. That changed on the way back.
I knew we would be in trouble because of a short connection time. Our tickets allowed an hour to change trains in Frankfurt. However, our arriving Lufthansa flight was delayed by 45 minutes. Luckily Lady Luck smiled at us as we pulled up to our gate, right next to our next Singapore Airlines plane. We were in Germany a total of five minutes when we raced up the gangway, turned left and raced down the next gangway. We made it…but our luggage didn’t.
If there’s one crucial tip I can give budding world travelers right now — buy a baggage tracking device like an AirTag or Tile. We had put one in each of our two bags and as we made our way to Australia to catch up with my husband’s family we were able to see the bags come to life. The lovely lady at the baggage handling desk at Brisbane airport assured us that our luggage would be forwarded to us at our next stop in Hervey Bay.
The bags did arrive in Brisbane but then firmly refused to move. For days we could see the luggage was there and our tiles were pinging the locations. However, it proved impossible to contact Singapore Airlines or the baggage handler Swissport. An automated daily email said they were working hard to locate the bags. But we knew where they were – Brisbane. More than 30 calls to a voicemail or answering machine added to the frustration. The (non-)conversation went back and forth.
Eventually a begging message on social media helped clear the blockade and a very apologetic Singapore Airlines got us back together with our bags the day we flew back to Wellington from Brisbane.
Covid sucks
Oh yes my husband and I also contracted Covid in Dublin where I gifted it to my mum and we then missed a belated celebration of our wedding with my family and saw the cancellation of my aunt’s 90th birthday party. But that’s a story for later.
I know traveling has always been a privilege, especially over the past few years, and it’s something I will no longer take for granted. It’s great to see the world opening up again, families and friends being reunited, new and old destinations being explored and rediscovered. I just hope when it’s your turn to ride long distances the experience won’t be that crappy.
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Food lovers, brace yourselves for an unforgettable culinary experience! Amidst the bustling city of Mumbai lies a hidden gem that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Pratik Restaurant is not just another eatery- it’s an institution in itself, renowned for its delectable cuisine and impeccable service. From traditional Indian delicacies to global cuisines, this restaurant has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Come join us on a gastronomic journey as we explore why Pratik Restaurant is the best dining destination in Mumbai!
What is Pratik Restaurant?
Pratik Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Mumbai. The restaurant is known for its excellent food and service. The restaurant has a wide variety of Indian and international dishes on its menu. The restaurant also offers a wide range of drinks and desserts.
Pratik Restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It offers an array of different cuisines such as North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, Mexican, Italian and more. Diners can also enjoy live music performances in the restaurant. The staff at Pratik Restaurant is friendly and attentive.
The Different Types of cuisine served in Pratik Restaurant
There are different types of cuisine served in Pratik Restaurant which include North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The restaurant also has a Jain kitchen that serves Jain food. The restaurant has a wide variety of dishes to offer which are all delicious and made with fresh ingredients. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the service is always good. The prices are also very reasonable. Overall, Pratik Restaurant is a great place to eat in Mumbai.
The ambiance and service of Pratik Restaurant
The Pratik Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Mumbai. The service is amazing, and the place has a great ambiance. I ordered the chicken tikka masala, which was delicious. The naan bread was also very good. Overall, I had an excellent experience at Pratik Restaurant.
The location of Pratik Restaurant
Pratik Restaurant is located in the heart of Mumbai, near the Gateway of India. It is one of the most popular restaurants in Mumbai and is known for its delicious food and great service. Pratik Restaurant has a wide variety of Indian and international dishes on its menu, making it a perfect place for both tourists and locals alike.
Why is Pratik Restaurant the best restaurant in Mumbai?
Pratik Restaurant is the best restaurant in Mumbai for several reasons. First, the food is absolutely amazing. The chefs are extremely talented and use only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Second, the service is outstanding. The waitstaff is attentive and polite, and they go out of their way to make sure every customer is happy. Third, the ambiance of the restaurant is perfect. It’s elegant but not pretentious, and it has a warm and inviting atmosphere. fourth, the price is very reasonable given the high quality of the food and service. Last but not least, Pratik Restaurant is just a short walk from many of Mumbai’s best hotels, so it’s convenient for visitors to the city.
These aspects have all contributed to Pratik Restaurant’s reputation as the best restaurant in Mumbai.These factors come together to make Pratik Restaurant the best restaurant in Mumbai.
For all these reasons, Pratik Restaurant is the best restaurant in Mumbai.
Conclusion
Pratik Restaurant is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal while in Mumbai. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, the food is fresh and flavorful, and the staff are always friendly and helpful. Whether you want to enjoy lunch with friends or dinner with family, Pratik Restaurant will make sure that your experience is memorable. If you’re ever in Mumbai be sure to check out Pratik Restaurant – it’s definitely worth it!
Switzerland is a country that is famous for its stunning natural beauty, picturesque villages, and alpine landscapes. A Switzerland tour package offers visitors the opportunity to explore this enchanting country and experience all it has to offer.
Convenience and Time-Saving
One of the main advantages of booking a Switzerland tour package is the convenience it provides. Planning a trip can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the country. A tour package takes care of all the logistics, such as transportation, accommodation, and itinerary planning, leaving you free to simply enjoy your vacation.
Moreover, Switzerland tour packages are designed to save time and ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the country’s must-see attractions. With a well-planned itinerary, you’ll be able to visit all the top landmarks and experience the best of Switzerland without having to worry about logistics or navigating the country on your own.
Tailor-Made Options
Switzerland tour packages come in a variety of options, catering to different budgets, interests, and preferences. Tour operators can customize packages based on individual needs and preferences, providing a more personalized and unique experience.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly package or a luxury experience, there is something for everyone. You can choose from packages that include sightseeing tours, scenic train rides, cable car rides, and more. If you’re a first-time visitor, a comprehensive tour package that covers all the country’s highlights is an excellent choice. These packages typically include visits to popular landmarks like the Matterhorn, Lake Geneva, and the Swiss Alps, along with other attractions like the Rhine Falls, Chillon Castle, and the city of Zurich.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, you can opt for a package that includes activities like hiking, skiing, and paragliding. Some packages focus on specific interests like food, wine, or culture.
Value for Money
Switzerland tour packages offer excellent value for money. By bundling transportation, accommodation, and activities into a single package, tour operators can negotiate better rates with hotels and attractions, which they can then pass on to customers.
Moreover, tour packages often include additional perks like complimentary meals, airport transfers, and free entry to select attractions. These inclusions can add up to significant savings, making a tour package a cost-effective way to experience the best of Switzerland.
Expert Guides and Local Insights
Another advantage of booking a Switzerland tour package is the opportunity to benefit from the knowledge and experience of expert guides. Tour guides are typically locals who know the country inside out and can provide insights and tips that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.
They can help you navigate the country, avoid tourist traps, and introduce you to local customs and traditions. Moreover, they can provide a deeper understanding of the country’s history and culture, making your trip a more enriching experience.
Safe and Secure
Switzerland is a safe and welcoming country, but like any destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Booking a tour package ensures that you’re in safe hands, with experienced operators who prioritize safety and security.
Tour operators use licensed drivers and vehicles, and ensure that all activities are conducted in compliance with safety regulations. Furthermore, many tour packages provide travelers with a local SIM card, making it easy to stay connected with loved ones and emergency services in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
In conclusion, Switzerland is a country that offers endless opportunities for adventure, luxury, and relaxation. Booking a tour package is a convenient, affordable, and safe way to explore all that this vibrant destination has to offer. With a wide range of options available, there is a Switzerland tour package to suit every budget and
If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, consider visiting Himachal Pradesh. This beautiful state in northern India is known for its stunning natural scenery, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. In this blog post, we’ll share 10 interesting facts about Himachal Pradesh that will inspire you to book a Himachal Pradesh tour package from Chandigarh and explore this incredible region for yourself. In addition to being India’s top tourist destination, Himachal Pradesh has a lot more to offer
The highest cricket ground in the world-
Cricket is a beloved sport in India, and fans of the game will be thrilled to learn that there’s a unique cricket ground in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh that’s worth a visit. This cricket ground is not just any ordinary cricket ground – it’s actually the highest cricket ground in the world, situated at an altitude of 2,444 meters above sea level. The cricket ground is located in the small town of Chail, which was once a summer retreat for the Maharaja of Patiala. The ground was built in 1893 and is surrounded by stunning mountain views. It’s a perfect spot for a game of cricket, but playing at such a high altitude is not without its challenges. The thinner air can make the ball travel faster and higher, and players may find themselves getting tired more quickly due to the lower oxygen levels.
Land of the Gods-
Himachal Pradesh, a state in northern India, is known as the “Land of the Gods.” This beautiful region is nestled in the Himalayas and is home to many important Hindu temples and pilgrimage sites. One of the main reasons Himachal Pradesh is called the “Land of the Gods” is because it is home to many important Hindu pilgrimage sites. The state is considered a sacred place by Hindus, and many people come here to pay their respects to the various gods and goddesses worshipped in this region. Some of the most important pilgrimage sites include the Brajeshwari Devi Temple in Kangra, the Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan, and the Hidimba Devi Temple in Manali.
The Taboos Village himachal pradesh-
Nestled in the remote Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh lies a unique and intriguing village called Taboos. This small village is known for its rich cultural heritage, unique architecture, and stunning natural scenery. One of the most striking things about Taboos village is its unique architecture. The village is home to an ancient monastery that dates back to the 10th century, and the buildings in the village reflect the traditional architecture of the region. The Taboos Monastery is one of the main attractions in the village, and it’s easy to see why. The monastery houses a valuable collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures, and the walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes and paintings. Visitors can explore the monastery and learn about the history and culture of the region.
Held India’s first Paragliding competition himachal pradesh-
Himachal Pradesh, a state in northern India, is known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure sports. In 1986, the state made history by hosting India’s first-ever paragliding competition in the beautiful town of Bir. Since then, paragliding has become one of the most popular adventure sports in the state, attracting visitors from all over the world. The town of Bir, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is considered the paragliding capital of India. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys, making it an ideal location for paragliding. The first paragliding competition held here in 1986 was a major success, and since then, Bir has hosted several international paragliding competitions, cementing its reputation as a premier destination for paragliding enthusiasts.
A smokeless zone-
Himachal Pradesh is known as a “smokeless zone” due to its strict laws and regulations on smoking in public places. The state of Himachal Pradesh takes its status as a smokeless zone very seriously. Smoking is banned in all public places, including restaurants, bars, hotels, and parks. The state government has implemented strict penalties for those who violate these laws, including fines and even imprisonment in some cases. The designation of Himachal Pradesh as a smokeless zone is significant for several reasons. First, it helps to promote a healthier environment for both residents and visitors.
Has two world heritage sites-
Himachal Pradesh, a northern Indian state, is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites are recognized for their cultural and historical significance and attract visitors from all over the world.
The first World Heritage Site in Himachal Pradesh is the Great Himalayan National Park. Located in the Kullu district of the state, the park is known for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity. The park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species such as the snow leopard and the musk deer. Visitors to the park can enjoy a range of activities, including trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting. The second World Heritage Site in Himachal Pradesh is the Mountain Railways of India. This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises three different railway lines, all of which are located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. These lines are the Kalka-Shimla Railway, the Kangra Valley Railway, and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The lines were built in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and are considered engineering marvels for their use of innovative technologies and materials.
A major hydropower generator-
Himachal Pradesh is a major hydropower generator in India, thanks to its abundant natural resources such as rivers and mountains. The state has the potential to generate up to 27,436 MW of hydropower, and currently has an installed capacity of around 10,000 MW. Hydropower is a renewable and environmentally-friendly source of energy that uses the flow of water to generate electricity. Himachal Pradesh is blessed with a number of rivers and mountain ranges, which provide ideal conditions for the generation of hydropower. The state has several large hydropower projects, including the Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station, which is the largest hydroelectric power plant in India, with a capacity of 1,500 MW.
Nature’s ice skating rink –
Himachal Pradesh, a state in northern India, is home to several natural ice skating rinks. These rinks are formed during the winter months when the temperature drops below freezing, and provide a unique and exhilarating experience for visitors. One of the most popular natural ice skating rinks in Himachal Pradesh is located in the town of Shimla. The rink is situated in the heart of the town and is surrounded by beautiful colonial-era buildings and picturesque snow-covered mountains. Visitors can rent skates and enjoy skating on the rink, which is open from December to February each year. Another popular natural ice skating rink in Himachal Pradesh is located in the town of Dalhousie. The rink is situated in the Khajjiar valley and is surrounded by beautiful pine trees and snow-covered peaks. Visitors can enjoy skating on the rink, which is open from December to February each year. Manali, another popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, is also home to several natural ice skating rinks. The most popular rink is located near the Manali mall road and is open from December to February each year.
Miniature Switzerland-
Khajjiar, a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is often referred to as “Miniature Switzerland” due to its stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. The town is located at an altitude of 6,500 feet above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and a beautiful lake. One of the main attractions in Khajjiar is the Khajjiar Lake, which is surrounded by lush green meadows and tall deodar trees. The lake is crystal clear and reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a stunning and picturesque scene. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake or simply sit and relax while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Himachal Pradesh is a truly unique and special place, offering a wide range of experiences for visitors to explore. From natural ice skating rinks to picturesque landscapes, from world heritage sites to hydropower generation, the state has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in adventure sports or simply want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, Himachal Pradesh is a must-visit destination. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Himachal Pradesh truly deserves its title as the “Land of the Gods”. It’s a place where visitors can experience the magic of nature, learn about the local traditions and customs, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, if you’re planning a trip to India, make sure to include Himachal Pradesh in your itinerary. You won’t regret it!
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