Chitrakoot - an unexplored destination in India, immortalized by the magical myth from epic Ramayana

StarBuzzOnline.com

By
Meena Chopra

The ancient town of Chitrakoot lies in the historical Chitrakoot region, which is divided between the present-day Indian states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. It is known for a number of temples and sites mentioned in Hindu scriptures. Chitrakoot means the 'Hill of many wonders'. Situated in the northern spurs of the Vindhyas, Chitrakoot gives an enchanting feeling to travellers with its natural forests, gurgling streams and beautiful falls.
According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, Lord Rama spent the first 11 years of his exile along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman in Chitrakoot. As per Hindu mythology, Chitrakoot was also the home of the great sage Atri and Sati Anusuya. It was at Chitrakoot that the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh took birth as Soma (the Moon), Dattatreya and Durvasa as the children of Sage Atri and Sati Anusuya. 

Dr. Jyotsna Suri,
CMD Lalit Suri Hospitality Group

After exploring the legacy of Khajuraho's art, its manifestation of the essence of the philosophy of Indian aesthetics along with the history of Chandela dynasty with its unexplored dimensions,  Dr. Jyotsna Suri, CMD Lalit Suri Hospitality Group was eager to go beyond, explore and revive the magical mythological mystery and the ancient history surrounding the land of Chitrakoot. "An ancient township which is 144 kilometers away from Khajuraho yet remained undiscovered in spite of the fact that Lord Rama spent eleven and a half years of his 14 years of exile there," says Dr. Suri. 

Totally enamored by the rich cultural heritage of the area, a full campaign was initiated by the Lalit Suri Hospitality Group which was initiated and led by Dr, Jyotsna Suri. Chief Minister of U.P Mr. Akhilesh Yadav fully supported and welcomed the initiative of the group to develop this region in bringing it to the world's tourist map. Chief Minister Yadav believes that Chitrakoot has a huge tourist potential.

The distance of 144 kilometers Khajuraho to Chitrakoot was covered in 9 days by 100 cyclists in "Chalo Chitrakoot Abhiyan", who passed through 73 villages of that area which is rich with ancient history, culture and the mystical myths. "Lalit Ramayana Festival" was also started depicting many episodes of epic Ramayana.    

Dr. Jyotsna Suri has been committed in  promoting Indian tourism – both nationally and internationally. She has been the Chairperson of FICCI Tourism Committee for the last six years. Under her leadership, FICCI introduced ‘The Great India Travel Bazaar’ in 2008 and ‘The Great Domestic Tourism Bazaar’ in 2011 – two keenly awaited events in the tourism sector facilitating tourism business interactions. The group is committed in developing new destinations in India. 

Bharat Hotels Limited is the largest privately owned hospitality group in India, having more than 20 years of experience in offering limitless hospitality. After having successfully launched and operated 9 hotels in India, including the one launched in 2009, Bharat Hotels Limited has more than 9 hotels lined up for launch during next two years. The existing operational hotels combined with the upcoming hotels give Bharat Hotel Limited a total inventory of over 3600 rooms in India and abroad.

Travel tips: Top 5 Canadian rail journeys

More and more Canadians are choosing Canada again as a holiday travel destination and they're seeing it roll by in its full romantic splendor on the train.

In fact, a new era in train travel has emerged as VIA Rail's ridership numbers continue to increase on certain routes while higher fuel prices, environmental concerns and chronic road congestion continue to rise. With this in mind, here are the five most popular Canadian rail trips chosen by travelers according to Mylène Bélanger, Senior Advisor, Media Relations for VIA Rail.

What Is Experiential Travel? Here's What We Think

Author: The Travel Word
What is an experience worth? Like the long-lasting memories that come from them, the experiences of travel are what make it priceless and unique.
Today\'s traveller seeks experiences. More than the amenities and creature comforts, more than the attractions and canned entertainment, more than the must-sees and photos, the real-life experiences are what compel people to travel.
Here are reflections from the WHL Group about what the buzzword ‘experiential travel\' means, and our own favourite memories of it.

Connecting with the local kids in Nigeria is an example of experiential travel. Photo courtesy of flickr/Louis Kreusel

Travel Tips with the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO)

Planning a vacation or business trip? Find out why booking your trip with a Travel Industry Council of
Ontario (TICO) registered travel agency means you’ve got Ontario’s travel industry watch dog by your side.
Whether in person, by telephone or over the Internet find out why it is always a good idea to make sure you
purchase your travel services from a TICO registered travel agency. TICO ensures you are protected by the
consumer protection provisions under the Ontario Travel Industry Act, 2002.
 
You can also get some great travel tips, tips for booking online, and a consumer checklist to help you with
your travel plans.
 
Light refreshments will be served.
 
When and Where:
Wednesday, November 21 @ 2:00pm - Four Corners Branch Auditorium
Wednesday, November 21 @ 7:00pm- Cyril Clark Branch Program Room
Tuesday, November 27 @ 7:00pm - Chinguacousy Branch Program Room
For Newcomers:
Tuesday, November 27 @ 2:00pm Chinguacousy Branch - LSP area
Please call 905-793-4636 to register or for more information
StarBuzz, Toronto- 

GREAT INDIAN FOOD TRIP

StarBuzz, Toronto- India! a country older than History itself. A Culture older than civilization itself. A country which cannot be defined or limited into any type of cuisine. A country which has adopted whatever came its way since the advent of humankind and gave it a all new color, all new meaning and made it well, Indian.

Travel in Canada

StarBuzz, Toronto-Author: nicholast54
Canada is breathtaking. Comprising ten provinces and an assortment of natural legacy, the 2nd largest country of the world bewilders almost every human being on the planet. It is a melting pot of cultures. Serene Beaches, marooned isles, hoary mountains, diverse woodland and superbly planned cities, Canada is the finest amalgamation of nature and human brilliance. 

THE LEELA PALACE NEW DELHI NAMED “BEST OF THE BEST” HOTEL IN THE WORLD BY ROBB REPORT 2012

www.insurancerate.com StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-Only hotel in India to join the finest league of luxury hotels worldwide

NEW DELHI – 4 June 2012 – The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts newest flagship, The Leela Palace New Delhi, is the only hotel in India to be named among the “Best of the Best” hotels in the world by Robb Report, which is a definitive authority on the most prestigious luxury brands around the globe. Culminating an entire year’s search for the most exceptional new products and services on earth, Robb Report’s 24^th annual “Best of the Best” Hotels 2012, hand-picked The Leela Palace New Delhi for offering the finest in luxury, placing the hotel amongst the most elite in the world.

Winter Sizzles with Winterlude Festival in Ottawa

www.insurancerate.com 

Just back from Ottawa Winterlude Festival. It is simply amazing. Never thought you could have so much fun with snow and ice. Skate, slide, or create sculptures. There is still one weekend left of Winterlude 2012. just go with families and enjoy!!

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-by Meena Chopra
Winter sizzles with the three weeks of Winterlude Festival in one of the most desirable tourist attractions of Ontario and the capital of Canada, Ottawa. Three weekends from 2nd of Feb till the 20th Feb are full of  fun-filled weekends of unique experience, excitement  and joy for the complete family. 

Most Affordable Tours in India

Affordable tour packages are the best way to catch the attention of the tourists where they don’t need to pay more than their pocket and also choose best travel option in the nominal price StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-Visiting to India is no more a hard dream; gone are the days when people used to think visiting India requires a lot of money. Today, a large number of tour packages have come up with latest beneficial schemes and deals which make your travel hassle-free. One can discover India in its untouched beauty with Affordable Tour Packages [ http://www.cultureholidays.com/otherprogram.htm ]. India, the land of rich culture, has always been top-ranked tourist destination across the world which has countless destinations to discover ranging from snow-peaked mountain ranges to forests, architectural splendors, houseboats, rivers to many other places. 

Travel and Tourism in Russia, Key Trends and Opportunities to 2015

Bharatbook added a new report on " Travel and Tourism in Russia, Key Trends and Opportunities to 2015 " which gives an overview, Demand, Supply Trends and industry analysis reports.

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-Nov 19, 2011 - The report provides top-level market analysis, information and insights, including:
• Historic and forecast market sizes covering the entire Russian travel industry
• Detailed analysis of tourist spending patterns in Russia
• Descriptions and market outlooks for various sectors in the Russian tourist industry, such as transportation, accommodation and travel intermediaries
• Detailed market classification across each sector, with analysis using similar metrics

Liberal Critic for Small Business and Tourism Joyce Murray Congratulates Tourism Industry and Demands Greater Action from Government

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-OTTAWA– As the Tourism Industry Association of Canada wraps up its 2011 Tourism Congress in Ottawa, Liberal Critic for Small Business and Tourism Joyce Murray congratulated tourism operators across the country for their hard work to help Canada’s $74 billion tourism industry grow and prosper. Their efforts have helped Canada become the most powerful country brand in the world for a second consecutive year, as well as the top recommended destination for foreign travelers.

Tips for Safe Travelling This Winter

As we travel over the holiday season to vist friends and family, or to escape from the cold weather, here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable.trip

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-

Recreational travel is a favorite hobby for people of all ages, and many of us need to travel to see family and friends. For those of us over 50 we need to ensure we take some precautionary measures to ensure a safe trip.
•Talk to your Doctor in advance. A full check up prior to travelling may be advised. Discuss your itinerary-precautionary measures often differ from one locale to another.
•The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention lists recommended vaccines based on your travel destination. You can obtain more information at: www.cdc.gov/travel
•Ask your Doctor when it is best to take your medications if you are changing time zones, and should you take your medications before or after your flight.
•Pack all medications in your carry on luggage. Ensure you have the amount of medication you need for the duration of your trip, plus a few days extra. Keep all medications in their original containers.
•Keep a list of information with you at all times including: existing medical conditions, and treatment for those conditions.
•Take steps to prevent deep vein thrombosis if it is a long train ride, drive, or flight, you may want to consider compression stockings.

For more tips on travelling safely visit: www.americangeriatrics.org
                                                   
  Bon Voyage

Brazil Travel Guide

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-by: Julie Bowman Your Brazil Holidays will leave you absolutely delighted. There is no other country in the world like Brazil. You can begin your Brazil holidays by visiting Brasilia, the capital of Brazil. You might have heard about Rio de Janeiro, and the music and song that has made Brazil, world famous. The huge country that is Brazil is oftentimes seen as being as large as one of the northern neighbors states. Actually, Brazil has the land mass equal to The United States of America. The southern American country known as Brazil is not only huge but fascinating.

Changing Landscape of the City of Mississauga

Changing Landscape of the City of Mississauga in progress

Changing Landscape of the City of Mississauga in progress

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-

Pics: Ben Girn

Visiting Thunder Bay, Ontario

malta holidays

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-Author: jesse classified - Many people in the world today want to travel far and wide! This is the reason why many people book plain fairs to go to other countries. The reason why people travel is to see things that they cannot see in their own countries like rock formations, mountains, seas and many other things.

Golden Triangle India Holidays in Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the land of kings and the largest state of India, is wonderful Golden Triangle India holiday destination.

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-Sep 29, 2011 - Rajasthan, the land of kings and the largest state of India, is wonderful holiday destination in India. Drenched into royal grandeur, the state is globally famous for its historic background and rich culture & traditions. During holidays in this royal and imperial Indian state you will see many historical monuments featuring forts, palaces, temples, havelis, castles, bastions, mansions and museums. There are also many heritage hotels in this state which doubles the charm of holidays in this state. Have a look at some of the best holiday destinations for vacations in this royal and imperial Indian state of Rajasthan.

Celebrate the grape harvest in style

Perfect time of year to put Niagara on your travel itinerary

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. — As Niagara’s winemakers turn their attention to harvesting the grapes that will become the 2011 vintage, the time is perfect to plan a visit to the picturesque vineyards of the Niagara Peninsula.

St Jacobs Farmers' Market

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-It is an unusual experience to visit St. Jacobs Farmers' Market. It is just seventy minutes from Toronto in the beautiful city of St. Jacobs. It opens in all seasons, every THURSDAY and SATURDAY, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It is Canada's largest farmers' market with almost everything available there from fresh produce to most modern items for your needs. It is the best place to shop and enjoy the weekend.


For details visit: http://www.stjacobs.com/html/shopping-farmersmarkets.html

A very special Culinary Event at St. Jacobs! Right on the banks of the beautiful Conestoga River

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-

Join  Foodlink's 8th Annual Taste Local! Taste Fresh! event  
on Sunday, September 18, 2-5 pm  
at St. Jacobs,  
right on the
banks of the Conestoga River.  

Featuring a sampling of the region's best from local farmers and chefs.

Each farmer/chef team prepares a tasty food item for you to enjoy as you stroll the picturesque grounds while listening to the Tim Louis Jazz Trio and chatting with our local food producers and culinary talent.

Enjoy othe unique silent auction and your very own,one-of-a kind pottery plate to take home.

To purchase tickets online, click here

For details, call 519-513-8998 or email  info@foodlink.ca 
Click here for more details

Adventure Tours in India

The Indian landscape offers a diverse setting for a holiday experience. The thrill of being behind the wheels of an ambassador is whole different feeling.

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-Sep 05, 2011 - The Indian landscape offers a diverse setting for a holiday experience. With the majestic Himalayas in the north, extending to quite east, the beaches of the in the south and west and  of course the sheer brilliance India’s myriad culture and heritage that leave one enamoured and yearning for more.  Be its adventure tours in India or ayurveda tours in India, one can experience the warmth and hospitality of India in every step of the way.

Adventure in India is not just restricted to mountains, exciting options like bicycle tours and motorcycle tours are also popular. In fact, in a first, recently a reputed destinations management company in India, introduced self drive tours in the king of Indian roads the Ambassador car. The thrill of being behind the wheels of an ambassador is whole different feeling. With a road book and GPS to guide one through the journey, it can be quite an interesting experience for the traveler.