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Admit it. The one thing you are really looking forward to right now, is a holiday. A break from work and the humdrum routine of daily life. A getaway that refreshes, recharges and allows you to discover new places, new experiences.

But something has shifted, subtly, in the last few months. Just as we have become more mindful of diet, fitness and work-life balance, we have become more mindful of the way we view the world. No longer is the Earth a cornucopia of places all ours to enjoy at will on holidays. There’s also a longing to connect with it at a deeper level and give back to the planet that we call our own.

Luckily, we seem to have woken up in time to heed Earth's call. Away from the madding crowds of touristy destinations, there are still spots where you can combine self-indulgent holidays with enriching, sustainable experiences. Tucked away in the island continent of Australia are an array of such destinations, unspoiled and uncluttered, waiting to be discovered when borders open up again, even if you are homebound for now.

The road less travelled

Think pristine, ancient bush landscapes dotted with wildlife. And then think of exclusive lodges that are set into this canvas, allowing you to soak in the luxury. Part of a private wildlife conservancy, Arkaba in South Australia's Flinders Ranges allows you to engage with the land and conservation work of native animals even as you enjoy an exotic holiday in the lap of nature. Or if you prefer to spend your holiday in the first carbon neutral hotel in the world, relaxing in a villa amid stunning cliffs and valleys, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley might just be destination for you.

Think Local, Eat Local

Sustainable travel is not just about saving on the carbon footprint anymore. It now has a broader connotation and includes the social, cultural, economic, and physical aspects of a destination. Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley isn't the only destination where you can relish locally produced foods. The world's tiniest continent is also known for an abundance and variety of locally grown produce. Luxe lodges like Lake House, a mere 1.5 hours from Melbourne, boasts a restaurant that is a genuine example of paddock to plate dining, sustained over 30 years, with menu sourced from organic farms around the verdant property. If that doesn't get your taste buds alight, there are numerous eateries like Nomad in Sydney where the mindful traveller can feast on foods raised ethically, enjoying water that's carbonated on site and charcoal that's sourced responsibly!

Explore your wild side

What's Australia if you can't get up and close with the native wildlife, in the wild? If snorkelling, diving and boating in the world’s largest reef system can get your adrenaline pumping, Lizard Island, the northernmost island resort on the Great Barrier Reef is where you should head. If you want to watch kangaroos lounge on the beach, wombats waddle across grassland and marine life dart and dash around coral reefs, you can join operators like Australian Wildlife Journeys which offer unique animal encounters in the wild, underpinned by strong conservation activities. There's a range of activities to explore, that ensures the safety of the fauna while allowing guests to see them in their majesty in the wild!

Are you a culture vulture?

You cannot visit the world's oldest living culture and come away untouched. Did you know that the history of the Aboriginal people stretches back over 50,000 years and has some truly fascinating art practices, traditions and stories? What better way to discover the fascinating world of the indigenous peoples and delve into their stories and culture than to visit the oldest continuously-running Aboriginal art centre while you holiday at Longitude 131, a luxury lodge located near the sacred monolith of Uluru in the Northern Territory.

Or if you prefer a walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole at the base of Uluru, you can have an immersive Aboriginal art experience that combines a connection to land, ancient culture and unique insight into art of a continent that still remains to be explored with new eyes. And while you are guided on how these stories are expressed through art, you are free to join a hands-on painting session, where you get to learn the meaning behind the art!

A complete immersive experience

Several of Australia’s luxury experiences are designed not just for a regal getaway, but for affirmative inclusion in the local flora and fauna. Whether you are helping extract honey from a beehive or searching for vegetation that's critical to endangered animals, you immerse yourself in nature and reconnect with the planet that we have all regretfully neglected for a while. You could actually start planning for your next Aussie trip and make up for all those lost holidays of 2020!

Nature has so much beauty to offer and that’s evidenced by the fact that when our country went under lockdown, the only thing filling people’s Instagram feed was the clear blue skies, the vibrant green trees and a series of animal appearances that would have been otherwise left unnoticed on any given day. Man has a deep relationship with nature and anything out of the ordinary strikes us. If a day with an AQI under 100 can fill us with such joy, can you imagine what would happen if you were to witness natural beauty in all its glory? If there’s one place on this planet that can boast for some of the best natural phenomena then it’s none other than Australia. Don’t believe us? Then continue reading:

1. Bioluminescent Plankton at Jervis Bay in NSW

I bet everyone reading this article would have come across pictures of shores with blue translucent light beaming on the surface. Well, at Jervis Bay, which is a mere 3 hours away from Sydney, this phenomenon becomes a reality. Due to a natural chemical reaction within plankton, the plankton become luminescent and emanate a blue glow. This unusual natural phenomenon, which can only be seen at night can happen at any time of the year but is more common in spring and summer months when the water is warmer.

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A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Jan 16, 2020 at 7:17pm PST

2. Min Min Lights, Outback Australia, Northern Territory

The easiest way to convince people that you saw a UFO or some supernatural phenomenon is by taking a picture of the Min Min Lights. These unexplained light phenomena literally will stalk you. Described by witnesses as floating, fast-moving balls of colour that glow in the night sky that stalk people, leaving some feeling confused and frightened, there is debate as to whether the Min Min Lights exist, or if they are simply an Aboriginal folktale that has been passed down for Generations. If you want to find out and investigate further, the only way to do this is by heading down under to outback Australia.

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A post shared by Bushranger 4x4 Gear (@bushranger4x4gear) on Oct 2, 2018 at 6:47pm PDT

3. Morning Glory Cloud, Burketown, Queensland

Wondering what Morning Glory clouds are? Well, think of contrails but make them big and close. Close enough to touch. And then multiply these in 2, 3, or even 4s! During September and October, the rare meteorological phenomenon referred to as the ‘Morning Glory Clouds’ roll across the Gulf and can be observed above the skies in Burketown. The cloud bank can be up to 1,000km long, 1-2km wide and can travel at speeds of up to 60km/hour. Although these clouds can be found in other parts of the world, Burketown is the only place where they appear frequently at set times of the year.

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A post shared by #exploreTNQ (@tropicalnorthqueensland) on Sep 13, 2018 at 12:18am PDT

4. Coral Spawning, The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Once a year, on cues from the lunar cycle and the water temperature, entire colonies of coral reefs simultaneously release their tiny eggs and sperm, called gametes, into the ocean. Known as Coral spawning, this phenomenon creates an underwater blizzard with billions of colorful flakes cascading in white, yellow, red, and orange. An extremely crucial process in fertilisation, this lasts only a few nights, but travellers can take a night time coral spawning dive trip or join an overnight vessel during the coral spawning dates for another chance to view this weird and wonderful sight

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A post shared by #thisisqueensland (@queensland) on Nov 28, 2019 at 3:03am PST

5. Cuttlefish Annual Aggregation, Eyre Peninsula, South Australia

Australia is the only place in the world where a mass of beautifully colored cuttlefish come together to migrate to the waters of the upper Spencer Gulf to breed. This annual migration, which takes place predictably every winter, is a sight to behold for every scuba enthusiast. Travelers can snorkel with the amazing giant cuttlefish at Stony Point between June and July, located on the coastline of the Upper Spencer Gulf Marine Park in the Eyre Peninsula.

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A post shared by South Australia (@southaustralia) on Jul 1, 2018 at 2:15am PDT

6. Australia’s Pink Lakes, South Australia, and Western Australia

Another Insta-worthy phenomenon, Australia is home to several pink lakes. From the outback of South Australia to the coast of Western Australia, few things are as beautiful and baffling as Australia’s pink lakes. Most of these stand-alone lakes get their vibrant hues due to the high concentration of salt in them.

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A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Apr 10, 2019 at 12:00pm PDT

7. Aurora Australis, Tasmania

Much like the Northern Lights, the Southern light illuminates the Aussie sky in colors of green, blue, red, and even pink. The Southern Lights can be viewed all year round – although most commonly during winter, May to August, and during the spring equinox in September. You can head to Bruny Island, Satellite Island, Bathurst Harbour, and Cradle Mountain for the beautiful natural light show.

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A post shared by Discover Tasmania (@tasmania) on Feb 26, 2020 at 9:53pm PST

8. The World’s Largest Dinosaur Footprints, Broome, Western Australia

It’s hard to imagine a world where dinosaurs roamed freely along with man. But if there’s one place where this becomes a reality it is in Broome, Western Australia. At 1.7-metres long, the fossilized dinosaur footprints here are 130 million years old and extend in patches for 80km along the coast. At the southern end of Cable Beach is Gantheaume Point, a scenic area of red sandstone cliffs where visitors can observe footprints of dinosaurs located on the flat rocks 30 meters out to sea and are only visible at low tide. This phenomenon is definitely for the bucket list.

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A post shared by Western Australia (@westernaustralia) on Nov 26, 2019 at 9:33pm PST

9. Horizontal Falls, Western Australia

One of the most fascinating natural phenomena on this list is Horizontal Falls, which can be found in Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago. The first fall is about 20-meters wide, while the second is about 10-meters wide. The powerful tides in the Kimberley can reach more than 10-metres and the direction of the flow reverses ensuring the water flows two different ways each day, and a unique waterfall effect. A scenic flight or a sea safari is the best way to explore the Horizontal Waterfalls.

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A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Oct 9, 2019 at 11:00am PDT

10. Red Crab Migration, Christmas Island

Walk the red crab carpet on Christmas Island, off the far north-west coast of Australia. The island is home to an estimated 40-50 million bright red land crabs. Each year, at the start of the wet season (November - January), a spectacular awakening occurs. Mother Nature rolls out the red carpet as hordes of crabs emerge from the island’s forests and march their way down to the ocean to breed.

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A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Dec 16, 2019 at 2:00am PST

Head over to the Land down under and experience these incredible experiences. If you need help planning your trip to Australia, check out these super helpful resources.

Want a quick pick-me-up? Then, look no further. Here’s some of Australian’s unique wildlife sending you virtual snuggles to bring a smile to your face! So brace yourself because it’s about to get cute.

This koala is as chill as it can get

Wolverine the koala at Queensland’s Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is living the good life! Sunbath, belly rubs, and not a care in the world!

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"Keep going... keep going... Hey, I didn't say stop!" 🤤 @koalakrusader visited this cheeky #koala at @currumbinsanctuary on @queensland‘s @destinationgoldcoast, where the koalas are certainly super spoiled. Get up close and personal with native Aussie animals, and meet a koala joey through the 'koala nursery experience.' You'll get to learn more about these fluffy creatures from the keepers, and take home a photo of you cuddling an adult koala. #seeaustralia #thisisqueensland #wearegoldcoast #wildlifephotography #travel

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Aug 18, 2019 at 11:01pm PDT

This sleepy quokka will make you hit the snooze button

Staying active isn’t for everyone, especially not for this adorable sleepy quokka from Western Australia’s Rottnest Island. Let this cutie be the inspiration to take that nap you have been craving!

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How good is the snooze button? 😴 @edringwood saw this sleepy #quokka on @rottnestislandwa, who's not quite ready to get up from its afternoon nap yet. These adorable critters generally sleep during the day and become more active at night, but you’re likely to see some hopping around in daylight when you visit this island in @westernaustralia. A short ferry ride from @destinationperth or #Fremantle will get you here. #seeaustralia #justanotherdayinwa #rottnestisland #wildlifephotography #weeklyfluff #animalkingdom

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Aug 22, 2019 at 12:01pm PDT

Lose yourself in the serenity of this Sea Turtle

Great Keppel Island in the Southern Great Barrier Reef is surrounded by 17 beaches, where these absolutely delightful sea turtles live. Imagine, floating around in the deep blue ocean, with the sun gently beating down your face. Oh, how amazing it’s to be a sea turtle in Australia!

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Spotted: #GreatKeppelIsland local shellebrating another glorious beach day. 🎉🏝️ @keppelexplorer saw this sea #turtle going for its morning swim around the @queensland island, located off the @visitcapricorn coast in the @southerngreatbarrierreef. Only a 30-minute ferry ride from @visityeppoon, the island has 17 beaches and countless #wildlife experiences, it's a must-do for nature lovers. Plan a #HolidayHereThisYear and join a @keppelexplorer guided tour to swim, dive, snorkel and see the best highlights of the island in a day. #seeaustralia #thisisqueensland #visitcapricorn #southerngreatbarrierreef #wildlifephotography #travel

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Feb 19, 2020 at 2:02pm PST

This sea lion is living the free life we all want to!

In the mysterious yet loveable underwaters of Southern Australia’s Port Lincoln lies the humble abode of the sea lion. If you ever wondered what it’s like to take a swim with these magnificent creatures.

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Although she's rather modest, Sally has always been the best bubble blower in her colony 😊 @nicol.wright met this bubble blowing extraordinaire on a @calypsostarcharters ‘Swim with the Sea Lions’ tour in @southaustralia’s @port_lincoln. This part of the @eyrepeninsula is renowned for its marine life experiences, which also include swimming with wild dolphins, whale watching and cage diving with great white sharks. P.S. There’s still a couple of weeks left to squeeze in a swim with these playful sea lions in #SouthAustralia before the water gets too chilly, @calypsostarcharters operate their tours until mid-June, they then start up again in September when the weather is warmer. #seeaustralia #seesouthaustralia #eyrepeninsula #wildlife #adventure

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Jun 1, 2019 at 4:01am PDT

Kangaroo cuddles are the only cure to your blues!

The Beatles were right - all you need is love - but you also need some kangaroo cuddles! And there are a ton of cuddles to be had at The Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs, where dozens of orphaned kangaroos are rescued, taken care of, and loved!  

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Love is all you need 💕 Sending you a virtual hug from @thekangaroosanctuary in @ntaustralia. We went through the archives to dig up this old memory, and isn’t it a goodie 😍 We encourage you to do the same and share snaps from your previous holidays or weekends away in Australia, as a reminder that there are so many more good times and adventures to be had when you #seeaustralia in the future.

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Mar 25, 2020 at 12:42pm PDT

This wombat can NOT keep calm!

If you’re the opposite of that quokka, then this southern hairy-nose wombat’s mood at The Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs is right up your alley. Get inspired and hit the streets for that 5K run you’ve been putting off!

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When you realise it's almost the weekend💃 Meet Bliss, @thekangaroosanctuary’s resident Southern Hairy-Nosed #wombat, who likes to sleep all day and then gets the 'zoomies' when she wakes up at sunset, before partying all night - that’s our kinda girl! 😉 This #wildlife sanctuary at @visitcentralaus's #AliceSprings is not only home to lots of rescued baby kangaroos and adult roos, but also two orphaned wombats, which are actually the only of their kind to be found in the whole of the @ntaustralia since this isn't their usual habitat. They’re quite the lucky pair to be based at this special spot, which is open for guided sunset tours from Tuesday to Friday each week. #seeaustralia #NTaustralia #RedCentreNT #wildlifephotography #weeklyfluff

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on May 9, 2019 at 12:01pm PDT

Chill out the Aussie way

At The Australian Reptile Park in New South Wales’ Central Coast, lies the perfect combination of weather, gum leaves, and a slow pace of life. Want to slow it down and appreciate the finer things? Come ‘hang’ out here.

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Next up on #Australia’s Got Talent: Lane from @australianreptilepark. 🐨 @ranger_dean discovered that koalas' acrobatic skills are tenfold better when there’s food involved. Watch this talented #koala in action on the beautiful @visitcentralcoastnsw, only an hour’s drive from @sydney. You can book an up-close photo opportunity with the koalas (as well as wombats, kangaroos and dingoes) while you’re there, although we can’t guarantee they’ll be performing this routine. 😂 #seeaustralia #newsouthwales #centralcoastnsw #australianreptilepark #wildlifephotography #travel

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Nov 14, 2019 at 2:00am PST

Queensland, Australia is no short of wonders! Dive into the world’s largest coral reef or drive past the heritage-listed rainforests and no matter what you do, Queensland will leave you speechless in no time!

As it’s easy to get lost in all the incredible experiences Queensland offers, we’ve made it easy for you by choosing the top 10 experiences to try there.

1. Snorkel with the locals in the Great Barrier Reef

It’s a no brainer that this 2300 km stretch of coral paradise is one of the places you should definitely visit in your lifetime. There are tonnes of ways to take in the beauty of the place—from snorkelling and scuba diving to 360-degree aerial touring in a helicopter. Learn about its significant role in Australia’s rich ecosystem only to come back respecting this place more. Most popular areas for Indian travelers to access the Great Barrier Reef are Cairns, the Whitsundays, and the Bundaberg region in Queensland.

2. Explore the Daintree, the oldest tropical rainforest in the world

An easy 2-hour drive from Cairns is all it takes to visit this world heritage-listed tropical rainforest that’s nestled between Port Douglas and the Great Barrier Reef. Cruise through the Daintree river photographing saltwater crocodiles, do the Mossman Gorge dreamtime walk and learn about the Kuku Yalanji tribe, and  you’ll never want to leave this place so intertwined with nature!

3. Visit a heritage-listed waterfall such as the Wallaman Falls

Nothing rewarding like a beautiful waterfall at the end of a trek and Queensland has got plenty of it! Trek through the mesmerizing petrichor-infused Girringun rainforest and wait for it, the Wallaman waterfalls is nothing like you have ever seen! The spine-chilling view from the top, in particular, is no less than an awe-inspiring adventure you’ll keep telling stories about. And off the record, have you tried crafting your adventure vacations with Pickyourtrail? It’s our proud niche we don’t always call out, but specialise in.

4. Spend time island hopping in the Whitsunday region

One of Australia’s most iconic destinations, the Whitsundays are a group of 74 jewel-like islands that sit right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Hop from Hamilton to Whitsunday or Long island, relax on Whitehaven Beach – one of the world’s best beaches, or get out on the water in the sailing capital of the country.

Don’t forget about the mainland, though. The Whitsunday Coast has charms of its own, with great beaches, national parks and the buzzing town of Airlie Beach.

Also fly over the iconic Heart Reef, one of its kind in the world!

5. Cuddle a Koala in one of many wildlife sanctuaries

Australia has amazing wildlife—if it’s not called out enough already! It crept into people’s bucket list when celebrities like Chris Hemsworth and our homegrown Bollywood Star Parineeti Chopra started posting pictures of them cuddling with the cute animals. Get up close to these amazing marsupials in Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - Brisbane, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary - Gold Coast, Cairns Wildlife Dome - Cairns, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures - Port Douglas and of course Australia’s largest zoo – Australia Zoo!

6. Skypoint Adventure Climb - Witness the gorgeous skylines of the Gold Coast  

Why go under the radar when you can go over the top? Climb straight atop the Q1 tower observation deck, 270 meters in a 90 minute-adventure, to put the incredible beauty of the Gold Coast region in perspective. All the better if you choose to climb during the sunset - take in the panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis complemented by a golden-hued skyline.

7. Revel in the buzzing nightlife and dining scenes of Queensland

Australia is not just wildlife and nature. There’s an unspoken nightlife scene in Queensland that’ll keep even the non-partygoers entertained. Eat your way around Queensland in Northshore Eat Street that’s lavishly dotted with streetside food stalls and fine-dining rooftop bars, or level up your gourmet game by visiting Miami Marketta, the buzzing night market. The list doesn’t end here — Howard Smith Wharves and the Collective Palm Beach, are also the must-visit places that light up Australia’s nightlife.

8. Head on a road trip from Cairns to Cape Tribulation via Port Douglas

If a road trip in Australia is on your mind you have probably heard of the Great Barrier Reef drive which most gracefully straddles the Great Barrier Reef and Port Douglas and gives major road trip goals! The best itinerary through this route is the one which connects Cairns and Cape Tribulation via Port Douglas. Trust me, this 3-hour drive can never be done in 3 hours, with so many gems you can’t resist but to stop on the way. Hot tip: You can plan all the details of your perfect self-drive adventure holiday with Pickyourtrail, in a completely hassle-free way.

9. Get a surfing lesson in the Gold Coast

With favourable winds and waves complementing each other, the Gold Coast is undeniably a surfer’s paradise. Don’t say no to the calling of the waves, enrol in a surfing course and cross one of the most quintessential experiences to try in Queensland.

10. Test your nerves by an adventurous skydive or bungee jump in Cairns or the Gold Coast

How come you can visit the adventure capital of Australia and not try anything that doesn’t send chills down your spine? You may flap your hands, panic while trying to catch your breath but once you realize you’re not falling but flying, look around and take in the views underneath you. Cairns, Gold Coast and the Great Barrier Reef are all on their own league when it comes to the adventures on offer - you won’t be disappointed!

Ready to fall in love with Queensland? Craft your holiday, your way with Pickyourtrail!

‘The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page’.

Saint Augustine seems to have hit the right note with this quote, folks. The thought of embarking on a new adventure, exploring the sights and sounds, gorging on local cuisine, and meeting people from different cultures is the stuff our bucket lists are made up of!

Imagine how thrilling it would be to pursue your higher education abroad? You wouldn’t just make memories and learn from new experiences, but it will also shape you as an individual. Networking and meeting people from different cultures will make you so much more receptive and open-minded, and enrich you in unimaginable ways. What’s more, you will expand your career prospects like never before.

No wonder - an increasing number of students are opting to study abroad. If numbers are to go by, more than six lakh Indian students are currently pursuing their higher education in a foreign country. That’s not all - if you plan to pursue courses in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, then you have options galore!

Unlike earlier, access to education loans is much simpler - whether a student needs financing for the course, accommodation expenses, study material or any other related costs, everything is available without a hassle. That means come what way, students can fulfil their dreams - there’s really no reason to give up! Zero in on a course and university, and let your biggest dreams take shape right in front of your eyes.

Speaking of foreign destinations, let’s explore the best destinations for Indian students:

USA

The very mention of USA conjures up images of skyscrapers, big tech giants and of course, some of the best universities in the world! Shreya was a bright student right from her early years - she knew she wanted to pursue an engineering degree, but was a little apprehensive if she could afford the course fees abroad. With the right guidance, not only did she fulfil her dreams; today, she works as a software engineer at a top tech company in New York.

While she was studying in the US, she got an opportunity to hone her skills, and gained exposure in ways she had never thought of! She also got to be a part of an exchange program and that changed her perspective even more.

The universities in the USA offer state-of-the-art facilities and world-class teaching faculty. Some of the popular courses in the US include MS in Computer Sciences, BTech, MBA, BSc, etc.

Canada

For Ankit, studying abroad was always a dream. While he wasn’t sure about what he wanted to pursue, he knew he wanted to go to a foreign university. With time, he realised he had strong communication skills - that’s when he decided to go for a course in Journalism and PR. He was weighing in on his options, when he zeroed in on Canada.

Statistics suggest that there are over half a million students studying there! Its location is a huge advantage, and so is its affordability - when it comes to cost of living, course fees or other expenses, Canada is relatively more economical than other countries.

Oh, and how can we forget the cherry on the cake - Canada has lenient entry procedures and allows students to stay back after their course! Now, that’s a win-win.

Germany

Think higher education opportunities, think Germany. The country has been ranked as the fourth most popular destination for international students, and for good reason. After all, some of the best colleges in the world are established here. Oh and that’s not it - after you’re done, you can also expand your horizons by working for some of the top companies here (and of course, guzzling the best beer after work).

There’s another surprise - international students are free from paying any tuition fees. You just have to pay some minimal administrative costs and take care of your travel expenses. Germany equals Ger – less – money.

Australia

If you wish to study abroad, you should hop (because, Kangaroos!) your way to Australia! The Land Down Under has some of the best universities, 8 of the top 100 to be precise, that provide high Koala-ty courses in Business Administration, Law, Accountancy, Agricultural Sciences, Logistics. Australia also pays well; part-time jobs are known to pay upwards of 17 or 18 dollars in some cities! This is perfect if you have a study abroad loan and wish to repay it while you study.

New Zealand

Avantika had gone to New Zealand for a holiday when she was in school, and fell in love with the place! She is an adventure junkie and as we all know, there’s no dearth of such experiences there. That’s when she decided to go abroad and study in New Zealand - little did she know that her wildest dreams would come true, and she’ll have a perfect life! Not only did she get into one of the best universities, she also landed a great job - now isn’t that super motivational?

New Zealand is a beautiful country, and is home to 8 of the top universities from the QAS world rankings. Course fees and living expenses are also quite affordable, and the eligibility to get admission here is not too strict. Moreover, students can pay their fees after getting approval on their student visa. Some of the common courses in New Zealand include Animation, Tourism, IT, Hospitality, Management (the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu has a branch in New Zealand), Education, etc.

Once you’ve taken your pick - sit back and relax, because Avanse will turn out to be your BFF! Avanse offers 100% financing to students to ensure all their education-related expenses are met. Oh and guess what, you can get collateral-free study abroad loans without any limit on the loan amount.

From pre-admission loans for proof of funds, to pre-visa disbursement loans that help with visa formalities and fast-track loan services that expedite your admission process, everything is taken care of! The loans are designed to finance both traditional and non-traditional courses, including Engineering, Medicine, Law and Management, among many others!

The world is your stage - choose what you love and move ahead towards a lucrative career. After all, Avanse is here to empower you!

The past few years have seen a significant rise in people quitting their jobs and following their passion. This used to be a fairly romanticised notion back in the day and while it continues to be so today as well, the feeling of it being far from the truth has vanished. People are now willing to take up smaller jobs while working on their passion projects. This phenomenon is what is known as the “gig economy” which then fuels “micro-entrepreneurship.” Narendra Saini was one of the many individuals living the “urban life” in a big city in Mumbai, not too far away from his home in Gujarat. After working in the advertising industry for a few years, he decided that it was time he invested his money and efforts into something that was closer to home and so he collected all his savings and opened up his hotel. Owning a small business that too in the hospitality industry, comes with the harsh reality that everything happens at a price. While any entrepreneurial journey is based on great ideas and functioning with a close-knit team, there are chances that it may initially run low on capital. Moreover, it is underrated how much money and resources go into proper research and development for a successful venture.

A push in the right direction can help small entrepreneurs reach their potential

This is where OYO Hotels & Homes stepped in with its innovative model and created an opportunity for a budding entrepreneur like Narendra to become self-sustainable thereby earning high yields from his hotel Capital O 48482 Hotel Tribecca Inn in Ahmedabad. By leveraging capabilities like operations, transformation and renovation and onboarding, all supported by innovative technology, OYO helped Narendra increase the occupancy of his hotel while delivering quality-assured and standardized stay for guests. 

OYO’s end-to-end support meant that Narendra’s hotel had a new logo, a set of branding guidelines, and an establishment that met the company’s standards. In just 3 months after joining hands with OYO, his partner and he saw the results. He said, “Before joining hands with OYO, our main challenge was promoting our hotel through different channels. There was a time when in the offseason we used to get only 25-30% occupancy which now, post associating with OYO, has jumped to more than 80%.”

Innovation drives competition

It is very common that owing to their limited resources, an entrepreneur always has to stay two steps ahead of the market to stay relevant. This drives innovation. And innovation drives competition. There is nothing more fascinating than to see entrepreneurs come up with better ideas to try and outwit competition. To outsmart the competition, entrepreneurs need better resources. For better resources, you have bigger organizations. With their support and innovation of smaller businesses at the helm, you can guarantee that customers will always be happy.

The assurance of a level-playing field

An entrepreneurial venture has a lot to compete with, not only with smaller counterparts but with larger competitors who are always trying to infiltrate the smaller markets. Having a strong backing means that these businesses can afford to keep up with their competition without suffering a huge loss. A vast business with a rich market and operational intelligence brings an opportunity for a small scale set-up to learn from numerous resources, innovative programmes and industry-leading technology.

Something similar happened to Vijal J. Suthar, hailing from the USA, an asset owner in California who saw a huge upsurge in her hotel performance after associating with OYO (now known as OYO Townhouse Lake Arrowhead CA). She says, “Coming on board with OYO has helped my hotel tremendously whereby we get 24*7 support from the team. Having OYO’s support in turning around the properties and bringing them up to their true potential is a big motivation. The transformation process has been very smooth right from revamping the interiors to the exterior including signage and branding. I do believe in OYO and would like to see this brand grow and reach newer heights soon!” 

This goes on to show that if you have the right idea, the perseverance and passion to do something for yourself, a little push from a brand like OYO Hotels & Homes can go a long way in changing your fortunes. If you own an asset like Narendra Saini or Vijal J. Suthar, then you can also benefit from the numerous initiatives taken up by OYO.

For more information, log on to https://partner.oyorooms.com/in

A first-time father reminisces marriage, love and life thereafter.

Adulthood is truly unpredictable - there’s no way you can be prepared for it. It brings with it a bunch of emotions - happiness, surprise, excitement and shock. Sometimes it throws you off track, at other times it’s just too overwhelming. The lessons from childhood, figuring out ‘life’ during teenage years or even a foray into the professional space - nothing can tell you what’s going to happen next and how to deal with it.

After all these years of dealing with ‘life’ came the biggest milestone - marriage. Thinking of that day still makes me smile and how; after all, it was the most memorable day of my life.

I still have vivid memories of that special day - I was surrounded by my family and closest friends, and there my soon-to-be-wife (who was at a distance) was beaming at me, and I was looking right back at her, my pink cheeks clearly visible to those who were around. While we were waiting with bated breath for this day, behind this excitement was also a tinge of nervousness. I wasn’t the first guy to go through this; many of my friends had been a part of this drill before. I replayed their advice in my head ‘Just keep your head down, count the pheras, keep yourself calm, soon it will all be behind you’.

After we got married, life was a bundle of routines - we set up the house together, shopped for groceries over the weekend or took care of laundry.  I efficiently slipped into the role of a husband, just as an employee who joins a new company. I tumbled and fell several times and tried to achieve work-life balance as much as I could. With high pressure at work, it was difficult to be there at all times, but I gave my best shot. Juggling work, life and love was not as easy as I had thought, but I did all I could to succeed.

After a few months, both my wife and I started to open up to each other, shared better communication and made each other feel truly special. Never did we expect that at this juncture, life would take another turn, but for the better. Guess what? That evening, when I returned from work, Isha hugged me and whispered those golden words “You are soon going to be a father, Shrey.”  If marriage gives one cold feet, fatherhood is about experiencing all kinds of emotions in a split second - shock, happiness and tears.  I was overjoyed and nervous at the same time, but trust me, that moment was when it became real.  

Once again, it was time to witness another milestone in our relationship. As opposed to previous situations, we did all we could to prepare ourselves - right from attending Lamaze classes, stocking up on every baby book there was in the market to being there for each other through this special phase of our lives. I tried my best to ease her discomfort as much as I could. Our relationship had a unique sparkle and strength, just like a one-of-a-kind natural diamond.

While I had a huge amount of respect for Isha, I saw her through these nine months and realised how she is no less than a superhuman - after all, nourishing a baby in the womb is no child’s play (literally!). Through those sleepless nights when she suffered nausea, back ache and several other issues every single day, she remained calm and endured it all with a smile. That’s when I realised how much my own mother would have gone through before I was born. Men might be strong physically or rather appear to be, but women have immense emotional and mental strength that is unmatched. Isha displayed resilience and strength of character and won me over every single time. She’s the real diamond in my life – strong, beautiful and precious. No wonder God chose women to bring another life into this world. Imagine men going through these nine months - nah, it’s impossible.

Here, I was struggling to slip into this new role and my wife was cruising through this journey, and how. It felt she naturally fit into this role and boy, my respect just multiplied. Marvelling at how she dealt with this phase so deftly, I knew I wanted to gift her something that would perfectly epitomize her inner strength, her ability to withstand immense pressure yet shine bright, and also mark this turning point in our journey together.

Fast forward to the day when Kiara came into our lives and not just changed us as people but also our relationship. I was right next to Isha, holding the little bundle of joy in my arms (tears were rolling down our eyes) and we didn’t want that moment to end; it was miraculous and real. My wife held my hand and whispered into my ear ‘We’ve done it; it’s all under control’. My wonder woman, who had gifted me a miracle, transformed me not once but twice, without me even realising how and when this happened. She was rock-solid through it all, just like a natural diamond - calm, composed, brilliant, with an unmatched inner radiance. There was so much I had to learn from her.

While I had been thinking of what to give Isha for a while, it was at that moment I knew I could only give her a natural diamond to celebrate the miracle of life she’s brought into our world. After all, a real diamond is a miracle of nature and truly priceless, just like Isha and Kiara are invaluable to me. In life there are only a few moments that are as rare, real and precious as this one, and only a rare, precious and unique natural diamond can best embody this experience.

All I could think was how to say ‘thank you’ to Isha for bringing this miracle into our lives and for being the perfect partner in this journey of parenthood. From the day we met to now, life has been a rollercoaster, but we’ve dealt through it together and come closer like never before. The ups and downs, highs and lows all seem worth it, after all this moment of joy is incomparable to anything in our lives. Kiara is truly a miracle of life, and Isha now has her own eternal miracle of nature to remember that ‘forever’ moment.

You’ve seen videos of people on the sun-kissed beaches of Australia. You have heard your friends talk about their trip to the Great Barrier Reef or how they explored Melbourne. With so many things to offer, Australia is bound to be on top your travel bucket list. Well, it’s time to act on it because leading airlines are offering exclusive prices to fly to Australia. Starting from Rs. 40,000*, the fares are perfect for someone who likes to book their travel in advance. But hurry up, because the sale is valid till 13th December. Read more here.

If that’s not motivation enough, these eight spots will definitely make up your mind.

1. BONDI, NEW SOUTH WALES

As one of Sydney’s most popular golden-sand beaches, Bondi Beach needs no introduction. This stretch of sand comes alive with the sunrise, and the party continues all day and well into the night. As you walk to the beach, chances are you’ll see surfers riding the waves, swimmers getting their laps in at the Bondi Baths, and plenty of people soaking in the sights and sounds (and sun) from their towels on the sand. You can dip your toes into a true-blue Aussie way of life and sign up for a surfing lesson here; there are plenty of accredited schools along the main stretch that’ll show you the ropes. Grab a bite at the iconic Bondi Icebergs, one of the country’s oldest swim clubs, or walk the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, a six-kilometre (3.7-mile)

2. WINEGLASS BAY, TASMANIA

Lounging on one of the top ten beaches in the world should be a definite addition to your Aussie bucket list. Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay is situated within Freycinet National Park, just a one-hour drive from the capital city of Hobart. A crescent-shaped bay with clear blue waters, hugged by the peaks of the Hazards range – you could spend hours taking Insta-worthy photos here. A cruise along the waters is one of the best ways to get up-close with the bay and its highlights. Spot wildlife and gaze up at the soaring granite cliffs as you learn more about the region and its history.

3. AUSTRALIA’S COLOURFUL LAKES

You can never get enough of Australia’s coast, but for something a bit different, head towards Western Australia and its colourful lakes. The bubblegum pink lakes of Australia’s Golden Outback are an astonishing site, and will make a great addition to your Instagram feed. The most famous of the pink lakes is Lake Hillier, near Esperance, an eight-hour drive or short flight from Perth. In this region, you can also visit Lake Ballard near Kalgoorlie, a salt lake that features a permanent art installation of 51 statues. Down in South Australia, you can visit the bright pinks, blues and greens of Lake MacDonnell in the Eyre Peninsula, or even see the world’s largest ephemeral lake, Lake Eyre. Whether there's water or not, it is a phenomenal sight best taken in on a scenic flight.

4. KANGAROO ISLAND, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

If you are looking for up-close encounters with Australia’s intriguing wildlife, Kangaroo Island should be a top pick. Located a quick 40-minute flight from Adelaide, over a third of this island is a conservation park that is home to everything from kangaroos and koalas to short-beaked echidnas and tammar wallabies. You’ll find all of this in beautiful surrounds, including natural structures like Admirals Arch and the Remarkable Rocks. Kangaroo Island also provides opportunities for a luxurious retreat, whether it's staying in an award-winning lodge set atop coastal shelves, treating yourself to a massage at a cliff-top spa, or sampling the delicate flavours of marron – a type of crayfish – paired with some of the country’s best produce, gins, wines and brews.

5. DAINTREE RAINFOREST, QUEENSLAND

Trek through lush jungle amid ancient ferns and green vines as you spy animals and plants that are found nowhere else on the planet. This is the Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Here you can fly through the canopies of an age-old forest on a zipline for a bird’s-eye outlook of the land below, or cruise down the Daintree River towards Cape Tribulation, where the Great Barrier Reef meets the rainforest. You'll also find plenty of lodge and luxury accommodation. This is truly a magical place – it’s no surprise it served as inspiration for the movie Avatar.

6. SNOWFIELDS AUSTRALIA

If you are visiting in the Australian winter (June – August), don’t miss a trip to Victoria’s snowfields. From skiing and snowshoeing to cutting through the powder on a snowmobile and skidding down slopes on a toboggan, there’s plenty for an adventure-lover to pick from. While you’re here, go on a dog-sledding experience; it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Alpine scenery. You will get a chance to test out your mushing (dog sled driving) skills before spending some time cuddling with your new four-legged friends. But if you'd rather stay cosy indoors, you can opt for a wilderness retreat, where you’ll enjoy being curled up in front of a warm wood fire with cheese fondue.

7. VLASOFF CAY, QUEENSLAND

If you want to step off the beaten path towards something secluded and remote, consider Vlasoff Cay. This private sand island is surrounded by the vast blue ocean and appears only at low tide, making it a unique spot for an intimate picnic. You can get here on a helicopter or take a chartered boat from Cairns and settle onto the sand with a delicious picnic lunch and a bottle of bubbly.  The island is yours to explore, making it the perfect mix of leisure and adventure.

8. HEART REEF, WHITSUNDAYS, QUEENSLAND

When a heart just pops up in nature, you have to check it out. Heart Reef is a naturally formed coral heart found in Hardy Reef in the Whitsundays and was first spotted by an Air Whitsunday pilot flying overhead in 1975. It may have popped up in your Instagram feed once or twice (especially if there was a romantic proposal involved), and though it might look remote, it’s not difficult to get that ‘Gram worthy shot. Its protected nature means that the only way to see it is via a helicopter or light plane flight over – that’s also the best way to get a photograph (or five) of this romantic location. You can combine the flight with a tour of other incredible sights in the Whitsundays, like Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach.

We are the prized generation. Part of India’s burgeoning young, modern, urbane and cool millennials! Tradition is old school, Telegram is cooler than Whatsapp, Diesel is passé, Tinder is way cooler than OKCupid, and hackathons not marathons are our events to participate in, right? 

We’re proud of breaking most social conventions. And rightfully so too! After all, if our generation won’t breach establishment norms, who will? We are young professionals, working furiously and flexibly; health and fitness is no less important to us than wealth.

Complications Galore

Over the past decade we went to college, got a job, travelled, moved, switched jobs again and now we think we have it all figured out. We have a lot to look forward to - growing our careers, getting married, starting a family, paying off impulsive car loans, buying a home, trying to save what we can, and more.

In the last few years life has suddenly become a lot more complicated.

Sure, we’re making good money, but can’t decide if it’s better to save for a down payment or pay off my student loan. I want to plan an epic honeymoon, and also be prepared to send my kids –whenever they arrive – to the fancy Ivy League I missed going to. 

OMG, it just dawned on me that I have to do my own financial planning, not my parents or grandparents! 

YOLO- You Only Live Once!

Stop living paycheck-to-paycheck! Figure out how to cut costs, even by a few hundred rupees a month. A sure way to set financial goals and begin saving right away. Set a target to save at least three months’ of our salary within three years, if not earlier. 

ULIP is a great way to build a corpus of our investment. ULIPs offer a whole host of high, medium and low risk investment options under the same policy. One can choose an appropriate policy according to the risk taking appetite. ULIP policies also allow switching between fund options without any additional expense as many times as you wish.  

In all likelihood, we don’t have enough money saved yet to take care of your family if something happens. Term life insurance is inexpensive when we’re young. Mere  Rs 1,000 can multiply up to 12 times in 20 odd years. Remember, term life insurance is not just one product, it can have many variations. Always plan your investments accordingly. Term insurance should definitely be a part of our investment mix. 

Priceless Tip

Let’s also find a financial planner or a tax advisor, and learn how to save taxes. Investing money in many government approved schemes will reduce the tax liability to great extent. A tip I got from my dad still holds good: “Always keep the 50/30/20 rule in mind: 50% of your income towards necessities like your household expenses and taxes, 30% toward discretionary items like vacations and partying, and 20% toward savings. ”Having a larger pool of money to invest in something bigger when the time is right is invaluable.

If breaking conventions is our norm, we might as well break yet another – investing in insurance schemes is not all fuddy-duddy, buddy!

This content was provided by HDFC Life

Every year, as it nears December, most people put their minds on saving the “dreaded” income tax. As a law-abiding citizen, one must file an income tax return annually to determine the tax obligations. As many as 8.45 crore taxpayers have been registered as of March 2019. In fact, among all states, Maharashtra tops with the highest number of tax filers, followed by Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

In most developed countries including US and other richer nations, the tax component of individuals are far higher. They also do not have as many advantages of tax deduction schemes as we have in India. Most countries, including India, employ a progressive tax system, in which higher-income earners pay a higher tax rate, in comparison to their low-income counterparts.

Here’s a look at the Income Tax slabs for the Assessment Year 2019-20:

Tax Deductions Allowed in India

i) Deductions on Investment

The government allows for certain deductions to save tax, at the end of every financial year. It is essential to keep yourself informed of all the deductions, rebates and concessions to pay the least amount of tax on your total income. Ideally, it is advised to start tax planning at the start of every financial year to gain maximum benefit.

In India, you can claim a tax deduction up to Rs 1.5 lakh of your total income under section 80C. These are the investments specified: Public Provident Fund, tax saving mutual funds, tax saving fixed deposit, National Savings Certificate, premium on life insurance policy, ULIP (Unit linked Plans)and Employees Provident Fund.

We also have Section 80CCC that provides a deduction for any amount paid or deposited towards receiving annuity from insurance.

Further, under Section 80AA, deduction is allowed with respect to any income that is earned by way of dividends from a domestic company (this is included in the gross total income of the assessee.

ii) Income Tax Deduction for Interest on Home Loan

The interest portion of the Equated Monthly Installments paid for the year can be claimed as a deduction from your total income up to a maximum of Rs 2 lakhs under Section 24. From Assessment Year 2018-19 onwards, the maximum deduction for interest paid on Self Occupied house property is Rs 2 lakhs.

iii) Tax deduction on Medical Insurance

In India, as an individual or Hindu Undivided Family, you can claim a deduction of Rs 25,000 under Section 80D for yourself, spouse and dependent children. There’s also an additional deduction for insurance of parents, up to Rs 25,000, if they are below 60 years of age. If they are above 60, the deduction amount is Rs 50,000.

For instance, a health insurance policy from HDFC Life can provide a range of tax benefits. The premium paid for a Health Insurance policy can be deducted from the total income under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act. The tax deduction under Section 80D is also allowed for making a payment to purchase or renew a Health Insurance policy on self, spouse, dependent parents or dependent children.

These are ways and means to maximize our tax benefits. But any such analysis would be incomplete without taking a look at Unit Linked Insurance Plans in India, one of our strongest options to save tax.

Unit-Linked Insurance Plans are fast becoming one of the most favoured instruments to save taxes. They have a minimum lock-in period of five years and make for an ideal investment avenue. ULIPs in India are affordable, offer diversified return options, and also multiple switches between available fund options. According to your risk appetite, choose a plan you think works best for you that will in turn offer you stable returns over a period. Besides the benefits of financial returns, one of the most attractive features of ULIPs is the tax benefits they offer, much to the advantage of the policy subscriber. HDFC Life Click 2 Wealth offers this and much more!

Paying your taxes sincerely and on time is your patriotic duty. Utilise these tax benefit schemes to save your money. Pay more attention to the act of tax planning. For any assistance, there’s always HDFC Life you can count on.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 is just a few months away, and the Women in Blue are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting cricket tournament Down Under and the biggest women’s sporting event ever staged in Australia.We’re looking at some of the biggest firsts in cricket – that most people don’t know about! Starting with ICC’s vision to break the world record for attendance at a women’s sporting by having a high capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on women’s day next year (March 8), to a lot of awe-inspiring centuries and stellar bowling spells led by women. So, until we get to cheer them on in Australia this February, let’s celebrate some of the most impressive landmarks in cricket – all of which were accomplished by women!

Cricket’s First World Cup

Eight international teams came together for the first men’s in 1975. But what few people know is that the first Women’s World Cup was played two years earlier, in 1973! There were seven teams competing, including an under-25s Young England team and an International XI made up of the best players from the rest of the world. Home team England took the cup in the tournament with a decisive win over Australia.

The First Double Century

Indian cricket fans undoubtedly remember Sachin Tendulkar’s epic double century against the Proteas in a 2008 tournament. But did you know that, in 1997, 11 years before the Master Blaster’s lauded innings, Australian cricketer Belinda J Clarke posted an amazing score of 229 not-out in a match against Denmark in Mumbai? Belinda was not just the first cricketer to score the first double century in a One-Day International; she also had the highest individual score of an unbeaten 229 off 145 balls for 17 years until Rohit Sharma’s 264 against Sri Lanka.

The Youngest Double Century

Ace Pakistani batsman Javed Miandad was only 19 when he scored a double century in a Test match against New Zealand – a statistic that leads most people to celebrate him as the youngest achiever of this feat in the cricket world. However, Kiwi cricketer, Amelia Kerr, at the tender age of 17, bettered that record in 2018, scoring an unbeaten 232 against the Irish Women’s team.

Image Source: Getty Images

The First 10 and 100

Doing exceptionally well with both the bat and the ball is a tough feat – but that’s just what Betty Wilson did! In 1958, this Australian cricketer was the first player in either the men’s or women’s version of the sport to bag a 10-wicket haul and score over a hundred runs in the same Test match. She is only one of five cricketers, male or female to have bagged this achievement – fellow Aussie, Alan Davidson, who is widely credited with the first 10 and 100 in a Test did so in 1960.

The first to 400

When Ricky Ponting’s Australia scored an incredible 434/4 against South Africa in 2006 – only to lose to the Proteas who managed to get to a whopping 438/9, it was celebrated as a landmark game in One-Day International cricket. However, it was the New Zealand’s women cricket team – known as the White Ferns – who first got to 400 runs in an ODI, tallying up 455 runs against Pakistan in a January 1997 match. Incidentally, the White Ferns have also posted the highest ever tally in a One-Day International in 2018, getting to an unbelievable 491 runs against Ireland.

Women’s cricket is full of many more incredible feats, like Jhulan Goswami’s amazing 10/78 bowling spell, Smriti Mandhana’s record of never having got out for a duck, and Mithali Raj’s impressive batting statistics (highest run scorer in the history of women’s cricket) – all of which make the women’s games just as much fun to watch as the men’s! And next year, the women are all set to lead the game in Australia where they will compete for the title of the best in the shortest format of the game. While there will be enough action to keep you hooked on-field, off-field boasts of some pretty amazing sights and sounds too. 

Image Source: Getty Images

Whether you are in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, or Perth, there’s something for everyone. Discover more details here.

The gaming industry is slowly becoming a crucial part of the entertainment industry in the country, and here’s an opportunity that cannot be ignored going forward. 

In 2021, 300 million more Indians will be engaged in mobile games and fantasy sports. So here’s an opportunity that’s being tapped on aggressively in the gaming industry and a point to be noted is that Indian consumers are selective with their choices. Therefore, it’s not easy to satisfy them with one particular consumer good or game. They want options and hence, the gaming industry has upped its game with the growing demand. It has no choice with the state of the art technology that’s available at the disposal of the Indian youth.

Some trends that are really driving the wave are the following and a very important case study to note in terms of these trends is Junglee Rummy,

1. Mass appeal

Today, entertainment is not only limited to television and music, it’s also a gaming. Therefore, even game developers today have to think of games that will be of mass appeal. For example, cards is a game that connects all age groups and demographics. No wonder Junglee Rummy has taken over the industry with 5mil+ players on its platform ever since its inception. The founders of this game simply took this traditional and seemingly old-fashioned game and transformed it into a new-age online version, and it is working wonders for them, majorly because of its mass appeal. 

2. Technology meets design

Since the market is vast and there’s a piece of pie for everyone, game developers are experimental in their approach with the formats of the game. While a game like Junglee Rummy is played with real money to engage its consumers, there are games that create a virtual world for the player. This is precisely the reason why a graphic designer is as important as the game developer in the game industry today because as easy it is to engage a new gamer in a new gaming format, it’s as easy to distract the player with another game. To make sure the player doesn’t lose interest quickly, it is mandatory for a gaming company to keep experimenting with new format and newer features.  

3. Trillion dollars digital opportunity

The Indian online gaming industry has already grown into a billion dollar industry in the past two decades. If you’re a game developer in today’s time, nothing makes more sense than picking up the most universal traditional game and creating a user-friendly online version of it, just like Junglee Rummy did. India has crossed 7.7 billion app downloads for games, according to India’s trillion-dollar digital opportunity by McKinsey and Co.2017.

Something that Indian gamers may be looking forward to in 2019 is innovation in terms of new gaming formats that may include Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence and the like. As a game maker, the end goal is not a new user but it’s the loyal user. 

4. Challenges 

It’s the thrill that counts for the new-age Indian gamers. They are young, more experimental and way more technologically advanced. And it’s great news that gaming platforms today are secure end to end and online payments are no longer a barrier to entry, thanks to the many payment gateways that have made digital payments a piece of cake for the Indian audience in the recent past. Therefore, gaming is no longer a luxury, it’s an urban lifestyle for many people in cities, who engage in these games in the evening and late night mostly. So, the opportunity is way beyond multiple level games to make it challenging for serious Indian gamers there are in the market today. For example, players enjoy big-ticket tournaments that they can join from the comfort of their homes. 

5. Incentivise 

Players are making real money through games like online rummy. The cash prizes are not limited to thousands, it goes up to lakhs with some games like the card games. With a small registration fee, a player opens new avenues for themselves to make real money by just getting very good at the game. 

To tell you the truth, online gaming is here to stay. If there’s a gamer out there interested in making money while also engaging your mind in a fun game, they are one rummy game download to start that run. If cash and rewards are not incentive enough, it’s a game that you can play with the family sitting wherever in the world. When’s the last time you got an opportunity like this to bond with your family again? Exactly. 

Whether you're into nature and wildlife, amusement parks, or just relaxing on the beach, Australia's playground is the place to make memories that last a lifetime.

1st day? Straight to the sand and waves, of course!

The Gold Coast has almost 60km of beautiful white beaches. Top picks for a family trip are Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads. Both are great for picnicking and barbecuing, and are good spots to swim or take your very first surfing lesson – they’re quieter, and the water is calm.

Immerse yourself in the rainforest the whole of Day 2

Lamington National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world. It's an incredible place to experience nature and trek, with more than 160km of trails. To really get up close to the rainforest, try the O' Reilly's Treetop Walk, a network of suspension bridges 15-metres high that takes you through the cool canopy of flowering and fruiting trees.

A day for the kids with cuddly koalas and more

Give your kids the quintessential Australian experience on Day 3! The Currumbin  Wildlife Sanctuary, a 10-minute drive from Gold Coast, is  home to all the species of Australian wildlife you might dream of. Residents include koalas, kangaroos, platypuses, wallabies, Tasmanian devils and red pandas. While you’re there, you can meet Kangaroos, cuddle Koala’s and take a tour of the wildlife hospital.  Little booklovers will also love the Gruffalo Trail, a walk inspired by The Gruffalo, British writer Julia Donaldson’s most famous work. With the onset of the whale-watching season in June stretching to November each year, hop on a whale-watching cruise from Surfers Paradise to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Visit a theme park... or four

Dreamworld is Australia's largest amusement park. With rollercoasters, water rides, a 75km/h swing and the world's tallest free-fall, it's the perfect spot for thrill-seekers. Even the littlest ones can enjoy family thrill rides such as Escape from Madagascar and the Sky Voyager, a new virtual-reality ride that takes you on a journey over iconic spots like the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney Harbour.  There's also plenty to do for those who like to keep their feet firmly on the ground, including animal encounters and a DreamWorks experience where kids can get close to Shrek, Po, and the Madagascar Crew. The Gold Coast has many other theme parks and experiences, including SeaWorld and Warner Bros. Movie World. Warning, you may need more than two days to cover all these theme parks, so you can plan to visit them on Day 4, 5 or more!

Tour the city of Gold Coast in a fire truck

Hop on the coolest ride in Australia for a tour of Gold Coast. Board your Fire Truck at Surfers Paradise for your adventure that starts with siren sounds as you depart for an exciting ride to the Spit via Surfers Paradise, along the beachfront / Esplanade, via Narrow Neck, and past Sea World. Plenty of smiles, laughs and waving to everybody to be enjoyed as you ride aboard a real Fire Truck! At the Spit you will be able to experience operation of a fully functional fire hose & pose for photographs holding the nozzle & wearing authentic Fire Helmets! Kids love the chance to sit in the drivers seat for a steering photo and an up close view of the Fire Engine! Then it’s time for an introduction to the workings of the truck & pump, followed by another fun Fire Truck ride with the music on for the return journey to Surfers Paradise!

Experience the food throughout the trip

Forget taking your itinerary day-by-day! Relish every moment, AND food, for every palate and preference is catered for here, plus there's a thriving vegetarian scene. The glorious weather and fresh, clean air mean most restaurants have outdoor dining areas where you can look out on jaw-dropping scenery. A must-visit is Northcliffe Surf Club, which has gorgeous views of the coastline and a family-friendly menu with classic Aussie food. If you are craving Indian food by the end of your visit then head to Kokum by Michelin star chef Mural at Main Beach Embracing traditional Indian techniques and featuring handpicked local Australian ingredients. For the best breakfast or brunch scenes must do is Paddock Bakery in Miami, Bam Bam Bakehouse in Burgeligh or Cardamom Pod in South Port.

Singapore’s latest lifestyle destination, Jewel Changi Airport, is full of photo spots that will capture your perfect moments as you explore and enjoy your time here! Here are nine attractions that are absolute musts. 

1. Rain Vortex

Photo credit: ill_bandit

This 40m high waterfall is the tallest indoor waterfall in the world, and almost every angle gives you a great photo. You can even take snaps as you hike up the walking trails for that panoramic view of Jewel. If you are lucky, you may just spot a rainbow in the vortex!

Photo tip: Dress in solid colours – complicated prints and patterns can be distracting, drawing the viewer’s eyes away from you and that great scenery shot.

2. Light and Sound show

Photo credit: yee_traveller

Be mesmerised by the light and sound show at the Rain Vortex from 7.30pm. Great spots to watch from are at level 1, where there are seating areas by the trails, or at the balcony on level 4.

Photo tip: To get really impressive shots, set your smartphone to sports mode or bursts. This setting is ideal for when things are happening fast and you can’t anticipate when to press the shutter. If you’re going for a night shot, in front of the Light and Sound show, click repeatedly and capture the Vortex illuminated in various colours.

3. Immersive Garden

Photo credit: 4050st

The Rain Vortex is at the centre of an immersive garden (22,000 sqm of Jewel is dedicated to green space). Standing at the bottom of the waterfall would give you some stunning images.

Photo tip: Take some time to play around and get some candid shots – at certain angles it can look like you’re pushing the Vortex over.

4. Forest Valley

Photo credit: gootradventures

This four-storey garden is home to thousands of plants, trees, ferns and shrubs. The trail walks offer a variety of angles with different views from every floor, so give yourself time to explore.

Photo tip: To capture the space in a different light, stick around till nightfall. You will find the area completely transformed.

5. Architectural Highlights

Photo credit: nicksonnofficial

Jewel was designed by Moshe Safdie, a multi-award-winning architect who has created many iconic buildings. The architecture of the building is also a must for photographers. Head to the viewing deck on level 2 to capture the intricate details of the roof, with the iconic Changi Control Tower in the background. Alternatively, you can snap away as you ascend the escalator to the Canopy Park at level 5.

Photo tip: The roof, reflected in the pond at level 5, makes for great photo. it looks exceptionally beautiful on sunny or rainy days as the natural light and water droplets produce interesting effects.

6. Bamboo Garden

Just by Lobby H on Level 1, you will find a bamboo garden subtly guiding you to the Rain Vortex. Before you pass it, step in and walk along the little path for a different mood.  

Photo tip: For natural looking pictures, look away from the camera. You can also explore the Portrait feature on the iPhone or Live Focus on Android.

7. Lush Green Walls

The lush foliage around the trails of Jewel is a great backdrop to your newest profile photo. Consider taking a shot against one of the many planters.

Photo tip: Wear solid or contrasting colours to stand out, or try clashing green on green for maximum effect.

8. Petal Garden

One pretty spot is the board trail at level 5, near the pond – find the right spot and you will be able to see the curve of the boardwalk. If you love flowers, the hanging floral displays make a perfect background for a selfie – especially from a bottom-up angle. Another option is the Petal Garden at level 5.

Photo tip: The floral display changes regularly so you will get a fresh bloom every time you come. Dress in floral to enhance the vibe of the picture.

9. Crystal Clouds

At the Jewel entrance directly opposite Terminal 2, is an art installation of crystals reflecting weather patterns and resembling glittering clouds – a truly beautiful backdrop for portraits.

Photo tip: Get your photographer to go low and tilt the camera upwards so that the clouds in front of the steel-framed ceiling are your only backdrop, or stand in front of the clouds.

Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore’s newest luxury shopping destination, is packed with stores, restaurants and activities that will surprise and delight. Here’s all you need to know.

1. It’s massive

137,000 sqm, to be precise, the size of almost 20 football pitches. This is split across 10 levels – 5 above ground and 5 below. The mall will house over 280 retail stores and eateries, including new to Singapore brands, local favourites, and top international names like Marks & Spencer, Uniqlo, Coach and Franck Muller.

2. It has serious architectural credentials

The man responsible for the design is Moshe Safdie, an Israeli–Canadian architect who has created iconic buildings around the globe, including the Marina Bay Sands, and won some of the world’s most prestigious awards. This year, he took home the Wolf Prize in Arts (previous winners include Sir Paul McCartney and Marc Chagall). The building’s glass dome is made of 9,000 pieces of glass, and no two pieces are alike.

3. It’s also a destination for nature-lovers

About 22,000 sqm of the complex is dedicated to landscape and green space, and Jewel has one of the largest indoor collections of plants in Singapore. At the heart of the mall is a Forest Valley, a four-storey garden with thousands of plants and trees, and at the centre of that is the 40m-high Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Visitors can even take an indoor hike up one of the two trails. The overall experience is meant to inspire ideas of meaningful beauty and culture.

4. There’s something for thrill-seekers too

At the top level of Jewel is the Canopy Park (opens on 10 June 2019). Here, you can bounce or walk on a net suspended 25m in the air, get lost in the hedge maze, take a slide through a sculptural playscape, or play among the clouds in Foggy Bowls, a specially created area shrouded in mist that’s perfect for the youngest travellers in your group.

5. It has a Pokémon store

Big and small kids in your family will love to visit the first Pokémon Center in Asia, the first outside of Japan. It’s a real-life replica of the Pokémon Center in the videogame, and sells merchandise like plush toys, stationery, card games and video games.

6. There’s an IMAX theatre there

Movie-lovers, rejoice! You can catch the latest films at the in-mall cinema before your flight, which has an IMAX screen for maximum impact.

7. It has Southeast Asia’s largest Nike store

And it’s not just for sports fans. Apart from footwear, apparel and accessories for running, cross-training, football and basketball, it will also carry the coolest lifestyle gear. You can even customise your own Nike T-shirt!

8. There’s a hotel in the mall

Jewel boasts Asia’s first YotelAIR hotel - an affordable, comfortable spot to stay, with everything you need. From self check-in/check-out functions, to cabin workstations, you will have all that you need. Transiting travellers can choose to pay by the hour if they just need a quick snooze between flights.

9. You can check your luggage in for your flight

If you wish to explore Jewel before heading to your next destination, check in your bags at level one and enjoy luggage-free shopping and dining till it is time to set off. Your luggage is checked in to your flight and held securely, so when flight time comes, all you need to do is head to your gate.

10. There are dining options for everyone

Even the fussiest eater in your family will find something delicious. Jewel will house Singapore’s first Shake Shack burger joint, Peruvian restaurant Tonito, and London hotspot Burger & Lobster. There’s also Xiao Bin Lou, a fine-dining Chongqing restaurant that will feature theatrical performances that showcase Chinese culture, and Violet Oon, which specialises in Nyonya, Chinese, Indian and Malay cuisines. There are also eateries within the mall like Sankranti that offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

It's a well-known fact that today, more and more people are turning to travel to fuel their passion for life. And while it would be extremely easy for us to start this article with a cliched travel quote and steer the conversation toward our destination, we decided to take the road less traveled (yes! pun intended) because no quote can describe the beauty that's Queensland, Australia.

So, pack your bags because we are giving you five reasons to book your dream vacation to Queensland

1. It has the perfect weather all year - round

Queensland is known as a place where life is "beautiful one day, perfect the next." It's a destination that lives up to its name and makes tourists feel like royalty! From white sandy beaches to ancient rainforests, Queensland has so much to offer. And the best part about this destination is that there really isn't any "ideal time" to travel here. Queensland basks in sunshine for over 300 days a year, that basically means, perfect weather all year round!

2. Connect with wildlife in the most unique way

There are not many experiences that are quite as thrilling as watching humpback whales in the wild. From shore or in a boat, the sight of the enormous mammals breaching, and blowing is completely mesmerising. Go Whale watching from June-October on the Gold Coast to witness the spectacle of Humpback Whales an estimated 30,000 steaming up Queensland’s coast every year to their annual breeding grounds in the Great Barrier Reef. Queensland is the only place in the world where humans can interact with Minke Whales. These gentle giants visit the northern Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Cairns in Tropical North Queensland between June-July each year forming the only known predictable aggregation in the world! Swim with the Whales or cuddle some adorable koalas. Snorkel with vibrant marine life or simply let your hair down while sailing the blue waters on a cruise. If you love nature, then Queensland is the perfect place for you!

3. The city life will make you feel alive

Love to uncover the culture and history of a city while being in the middle of all the action? Then, Brisbane, the capital, is the place for you! With award-winning wine and food tours, a jam-packed event calendar, adventure activities, and scenic weekend-getaways, Brisbane will keep you on your toes! If you are in the mood for some cocktails, you can always head to one of the many sky-high rooftop bars this city has to offer. And if you want to experience the city through a local’s eye take a free Brisbane Greeters Tour, visit the South Bank Parklands, dine with views of iconic Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves or at Eat Street North Shore food markets, the weekend food markets.

4. Feed your soul with an adrenaline rush in Queensland

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef have more untouched natural beauty than you can ever imagine.  Take a walk into the world’s oldest rainforest at Mossman with an Aboriginal guide, plan a day trip around the Great Barrier Reef or skydive over the Great Barrier Reef. Spend a day with the crocs at Hartleys Crocodile Adventures or take a Hot Air Balloon ride to see the most incredible panoramic views Queensland has to offer.

5. Experience luxury at its best

If you are someone who is looking for a luxury vacation, then Queensland is the playground for the rich and famous. One of Australia’s most iconic destinations, the Whitsundays are a group of 74 jewel-like islands that sit right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Take a cruise from Hamilton Island to Whitehaven Beach – one of the world’s best beaches. Or go out to the Outer Barrier Reef, an exceptional diving and snorkeling spot and take a scenic flight over the iconic Heart Reef. Don’t forget about the mainland, though. The Whitsunday Coast has charms of its own, with great beaches, national parks and the buzzing town of Airlie Beach.