Travel
The Waverly Hotel: For The Modern Urban Family
The Waverly Hotel and Residences in VR Bengaluru offers an ideal mix of lifestyle experiences for a holiday in the city
When I landed in Bengaluru, I wanted something really different this time. I wanted to experience a feeling of being away from the city’s traffic and chaos. I wanted it to be an experience that offered me more than one thing in a different sort of package. I chose the suburb called Whitefield and then I decided that since I was in Silicon City, Virtuous Retail (VR) Bengaluru would step in as that retreat I was looking for.
After a one and a half hour drive from the Kempegowda Airport, the magnificent façade of The Waverly Hotel and Residences becomes visible as it looms in front of me in the guise of a large black box. It is situated bang in the middle of the business district, amidst five star and budget hotels. What’s different about it is the fact that VR Bengaluru offers a wonderful seamless community experience.
A profusion of amenities
It offers a luxurious boutique hotel and residences (The Waverly) along with a collaborative co-working space (The Hive) and a vast lifestyle space that houses a PVR theatre with nine screens including one
IMAX, pubs, cafes, restaurants, and a complete multi-level premium retail shopping arcade. The community event spaces extend to public art, a state of the art fitness club, a spa, and salon. I now knew exactly what would go into my three days’ stay in Bengaluru.
I reached just in time to have lunch at the Whitefield Arms Café, curated beautifully by Chef Barathan. The hotel, consisting of 54 rooms, is done up in true British contemporary style. The Waverly rooms (333sq ft) and the Studio rooms (487sq ft) were perfectly suited for extended stays, apart from the loft rooms (650sq ft).
I lapped up the luxury offered to me in the form of the Library Suite (The
Grand Room – 740sq ft). Entering my suite, I found that the curtained window in my living room opened out to the Whitefield skyline. I gasped as I drew it aside and lounged at my writing desk, satisfied that I had a working space that offered an introductory note laced with pastel macaroons. The hospitality emitted a high style quotient as I wafted towards my comfortable-looking bed, and placed my clothes into a large closet space.
Moving around
Rested after the evening tea, I was eager to see what else VR Bengaluru had to offer. I sauntered off to see
The Tribe Fitness Club and saw that it was indeed the first machine-less club that I had ever seen, completely state of the art and specialising in CrossFit, Pilates, Zumba, Yoga, etc.
The Nutri shots bar also offered protein shakes, smoothies, and fresh juices to help replenish energies lost in extensive workouts. Getting the feel of the place, I promised myself a yoga class the very next day.
The fabulous art collected by the hotel lined its hallways as I found out further that they also had an Art
Collective on display at the shopping centre. The Whitefield Art Collective is in its third edition and houses art from some of India’s premier art institutions, including Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy School of Art, and The Delhi School of Art. This initiative connects communities and provides a national platform for established and emerging artists. Feeling all charged, I went ahead for dinner at one of the restaurants in the adjoining mall. Nasi & Me turned out to be the restaurant with pan Asian street food.
Navigating my way
The next day began with Yoga in the morning, followed by breakfast at the all-day dining. I savoured the buffet and stepped back into The Maze. I went to see how The Hive worked. It turned out to be a melting pot of diverse cultures.
Here, people come to work together under one roof, mixing their personal and professional lives. It is perhaps one of India’s largest collaborative workspaces (100,000sq ft of shared and private offices and associated amenities) – truly impressive in my opinion.
A light lunch at The Salt serving Indian cuisine followed by an interesting serene afternoon spent at
The Bounce Spa and Salon marked my day. Ably rested, I retired to my room and enjoyed reading and browsing through the many books in my living room, after all, it was the Library Suite. Retail therapy was on my mind as I had passed the many branded stores on my way to the restaurants and back. I had actually saved an entire evening for that. My evening passed in browsing the bookstores, major branded stores and the Kids’ Zone. VR Bengaluru has thought of everything for the urban traveller with or without family. Later in the evening, I spent time watching the sunset from the Sky Deck. The Waverly has its very own rooftop place for events. I basked in the sunset that allowed such a panoramic view of the city. I then decided to take a dip in the 20m heated pool and settled down for a quick round of cocktails and some starters by the pool. I was then ready to call it an early night.
Riding through Whitefield
A day into Whitefield is a must, though there are no historical places left to sight as such; but one can easily drive through the 100ft road at nearby Indranagar and explore Bengaluru’s eateries and microbreweries. I preferred to come back to The Waverly since I still hadn’t got enough of its offerings. The Toscano, their Italian eatery, is a quaint space that can be accessed from the mall and from the lobby of the hotel. I enjoyed my multi-course meal, with my usual Perrier. The food turned out to be a great mix of old and new world Italian cuisine.
The Sky deck is fully equipped with a state of the art 26x12ft LED HD screen, making it an open-air venue for a movie screening like no other in Bengaluru. A host of events happen here like movie marathons, live music shows, and sports events. It was truly memorable as I walked along to the
ALT, the signature open-air rooftop lounge bar.
It was a befitting close to my three day stay – discovering VR Bengaluru – aptly nicknamed the Black Box, inside which I found a seamless experience of shopping, hospitality, food, leisure, and entertainment. It was a perfect holiday mix for me.
Text Credits: Maya Lalchandani
Travel
Travel Wellness: Staying Healthy and Fit While Exploring
Travelling is an enriching experience that broadens horizons and creates lasting memories. However, maintaining your health and fitness while on the road can be a challenge. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets, lounging on a beach, or embarking on an adventure, staying well and fit is crucial for enjoying your travels to the fullest. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy and active while exploring new destinations.
Plan Your Travel Meals
Eating healthy while traveling can be challenging, but with a little planning, it’s entirely achievable. Research local cuisine before your trip and seek out restaurants or markets that offer nutritious options. Opt for meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your meals to maintain control over ingredients and portions.
Stay Hydrated
Travel can easily disrupt your hydration routine. Always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Drinking enough water helps with digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you’re traveling to a place with different water quality, consider bringing a portable water purifier or sticking to bottled water.
Incorporate Physical Activity
Finding time to exercise while traveling can be tough, but it’s essential for maintaining your fitness and energy levels. Here are a few ways to stay active:
- Use Hotel Gyms: Many hotels offer fitness centers. Utilize these facilities to keep up with your workout routine.
- Explore on Foot: Walking or biking around your destination not only provides exercise but also allows you to experience the city’s sights more intimately.
- Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of local outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or even a beach workout.
Maintain a Sleep Schedule
Adjusting to new time zones can disrupt your sleep pattern, which affects overall health. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule by setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can also help you wind down and improve sleep quality.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
Travel can be exciting but also stressful. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Many travel destinations offer wellness retreats or classes where you can participate in mindfulness activities.
Pack a Travel Health Kit
Prepare a travel health kit with essentials like vitamins, medications, and first-aid supplies. Include items such as hand sanitizer, travel-sized disinfectant wipes, and any prescription medications you may need. Having these on hand can help prevent illness and manage minor health issues.
Stay Active During Travel
Long flights or car rides can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Take breaks to stretch or walk around every few hours. Simple exercises like seated leg lifts, neck stretches, and shoulder rolls can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.
Adopt Local Wellness Practices
Explore and embrace local wellness practices and traditions. Whether it’s a traditional Thai massage, Japanese hot springs, or Ayurvedic treatments in India, incorporating local wellness practices can enhance your overall travel experience and contribute to your well-being.
Avoid Overindulgence
While it’s tempting to indulge in local delicacies, moderation is key. Balance indulgent meals with healthier options and be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying treats in moderation allows you to savor local flavors without compromising your health goals.
Stay Social and Connected
Social interactions and maintaining connections with loved ones can boost mental health and overall happiness. Make time to connect with fellow travelers, locals, or family and friends back home to keep your spirits high and your travel experience fulfilling.
By integrating these wellness tips into your travel routine, you can ensure a healthier and more enjoyable journey. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress will help you feel your best and make the most of your travel experiences. Safe travels and happy exploring!
Travel
Real House of the Dragon Location You Want to Visit
Returning to Westeros for the battle between the Blacks and Greens in “House of the Dragon” season two. A civil war within the House of Targaryen over who should inherit the Iron Throne is the subject of the television drama series, which is based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and takes place two centuries before Game of Thrones. Along with other important members of the season one ensemble, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, and Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen are returning for the presently running second season.
We can’t wait to explore all of the amazing filming locations that this series has brought us. Considering how rich the universe is, it makes sense. Rather than depending solely on computer-generated scenery and soundstages, several of the actual filming locales contribute to the world of Westeros’ distinctive atmosphere.
Here, a guide to House of the Dragon filming locations you can visit:
Castleton, Derbyshire, England
In the first season of the show, Castleton, a village in high-peaked Derbyshire with one of the oldest lead mines, was transformed into The Vale of Arryn. Those who watch Game of Thrones would recall this as the location of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a stronghold where adversaries can be driven to their deaths via a moon portal. The region, which was once inhabited by Celtic people, is well-known for its traditional English hamlets and the limestone valley of Cave Dale, which is located inside the national park.
St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England
St. Michael’s Mount is a rocky tidal island with a 12th-century mediaeval church and a small, intimate village connected to the island of Marazion by a causeway that visitors can cross on foot during low tide. Blackwater Bay, a sizable body of water at Kings Landing’s edge, is home to House Velaryon, the fictional Driftmark of House of the Dragon, which is housed in the island’s main fortress. A prior appearance of Driftmark occurred in the Battle of the Blackwater in Game of Thrones.
La Calahorra, Granada, Spain
Reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities bordering the seas of Westeros, the imaginary continent at the heart of the world of Game of Thrones, is the municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada. At the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, on the solitary hill in the region, lies a mediaeval fortress known as Castillo de La Calahorra, one of the region’s most iconic monuments. The exterior of the castle, which serves as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, defies the rules of Gothic design, making it one of the first buildings in Spain to be influenced by the Renaissance between 1509 and 1512. Its exquisite split-level interior features a centre courtyard, four corner towers, and marble.
Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain
The province of Cáceres, in western Spain, is a veritable time capsule. Ancient structures that date back hundreds of years nevertheless look substantially the same, displaying a variety of architectural influences, such as Roman, Moorish, and Gothic. Several locations in the region were used to film the King’s Landing sequences, including the walled city of Plasencia in season one, Trujillo in season two, and the capital city of Cáceres in both seasons.
Bourne Wood in Farnham, England
Bourne Wood was the location of one of the largest fight scenes from season two of House of the Dragon. Large clearings in the forest make it perfect for expansive combat scenes and large film crews, while the absence of newer, more contemporary buildings or power lines gives the location a timeless sense. According to London Cult’s documentation, the forest was outfitted with a tent camp and certain areas were covered in artificial snow. The woodland is about an hour’s drive away, making the setting very handy for films like House of the Dragon that are headquartered out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio.
Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain
An island in Biscay called Gaztelugatxe has a hermitage that goes back to the tenth century. The iconic stone bridge was used for filming House of the Dragon. In season seven, the islet served as a stand-in for Dragonstone during filming for Game of Thrones. the location of the initial season’s encounter between Rhaenyra and her dragon on Dragonstone Bridge.
Travel
Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves
As the summer sun beckons, it’s time to dust off your travel bags and embark on exciting adventures. Whether you’re jetting off to exotic destinations or exploring hidden gems closer to home, packing the right essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey. Join me as we explore the must-have items to pack in your travel bags for a memorable summer getaway.
Sun Protection Essentials:
Beat the heat and safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays with sun protection essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Additionally, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel can provide relief from sunburns and keep your lips hydrated.
Lightweight Clothing Options:
Embrace the spirit of summer with lightweight and breathable clothing options that keep you cool and comfortable on your travels. Pack versatile pieces such as cotton shirts, shorts, flowy dresses, and swimsuits for beach outings. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing and save space in your luggage.
Hydration Essentials:
Stay hydrated on the go by packing a reusable water bottle in your travel bag. Fill it up whenever you have access to clean drinking water to quench your thirst and reduce plastic waste. Consider packing electrolyte packets or tablets to replenish lost minerals during outdoor activities or hot weather.
Travel-Friendly Toiletries:
Streamline your toiletry bag with travel-sized essentials that meet TSA regulations and save space in your luggage. Pack items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and moisturizer in leak-proof containers. Don’t forget to include a compact travel towel and wet wipes for quick refreshment on the go.
Tech Gadgets and Accessories:
Capture unforgettable moments and stay connected with essential tech gadgets and accessories. Pack your smartphone, camera, or GoPro along with chargers, power banks, and adapters for international travel. Consider investing in a lightweight and portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu beach parties or outdoor picnics.
First Aid Kit and Medications:
Be prepared for minor emergencies and health-related issues by packing a well-stocked first aid kit in your travel bag. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip.
With these essential items packed in your travel bag, you’re ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From sun protection essentials to tech gadgets and first aid supplies, being prepared for every situation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey wherever your travels may take you. So, grab your bags, soak up the sun, and let the summer adventures begin!
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