Explore India: Kolkata

where to stay:

The Oberoi Grand:  For those who are looking for a bit of luxury and pampering during their stay in Kolkata, look no where else but the Oberoi Grand.  With an outdoor pool, full service spa, and fitness facilities- the Oberoi Grand is an oasis for busy travelers to retreat to at the end of a long day.  Worth the extra buck for those who can afford it, the Oberoi staff is sure to impress with their attentive service.  Rooms start at approx $150/night.  http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/index.aspx

Mrs Gupta’s B & B: Located in the prestigious Ballygunge neighborhood of Kolkatta, this flawless bed and breakfast feel just like home with warm hosts: Mrs. Gupta, Bishwanath, and Benoy.  This three bedroom retreat is a quiet and friendly place that offers a communal kitchen, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and WiFi.  Prices begin at $30 USD/night, book through Airbnb at https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3010806?s=WrFZ

where to eat:

Botmi’s: Local art dealer and socialite, Surajit “Botmi” Iyengar offers authentic Bengali meals, as well as tours, in his impeccably decorated, elegant home that is well known in and around Kolkata. Not only is the breakfast a treat, but the history behind the space is as well.  http://www.afar.com/places/breakfast-at-bomtis-kolkata

Kewpie’s Kitchen: From the earthenware dishes to the food itself, Kewpie’s is the essence of authentic Bengali food.  Set in a historic home, the ambience is always lovely and unique.  We recommend trying the Mithu’s Maacher Thala.  http://www.kewpieskitchen.com/home.html

who to tour with:

Ibex Expeditions:   Started in the year 1979 by Mandip and Anita Singh Soin, Ibex Expeditions has been offering customized, luxury tours throughout India for decades.  Ibex offers every adventure sport under the sun from trekking to rafting to jeep safaris, as well as offering eco tours through national parks in India.  Virtually any wild dream you can conjure up in your mind, Ibex can make it happen for you.  Not only are tours with Ibex a unique and one of a kind adventure, but also offers intimate, cultural experiences for the worldly traveler. Their pledge to responsible travel and environmental consciousness make them unlike any other tour agency you'll ever encounter.  Recipient of National Geographic's Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth in 2009.  Check them out at  http://www.ibexexpeditions.com/ to plan your next incredible adventure.

Explore India: Udaipur

where to stay:

Mewar Haveli:  This hotel is located in the heart of the city with breathtaking views of the Lake Pichola, the Mewar Haveli hotel is a fantastic choice for those on a budget.  Starting at $31 USD a night.  Not only is there free wifi in common areas and private bathrooms, but also air conditioning in all the rooms for those almost unbearably hot days.http://www.mewarhaveli.com/

Mewargarh Palace: A family run guesthouse with sweeping views of the city’s palaces and lakes from the rooftop.  The extremely helpful owners, Rezwan and Farheen, will help you with anything- from booking tickets to train station pickup.  Praised for their tidy, clean rooms and hot showers.  Room prices beginning at $5 USD pp/night.  http://www.mewargarhpalace.com/

where to eat:

Millets of Mewar: A non-traditional lunch spot in Udaipur, Millets of Mewar is for the health-conscious and also budget-conscious. Fresh food is on the menu from Indian street food staples to Italian pastas.  This restaurant is devoted to being environmentally responsible by using only local and organic products that strives to be a zero-waste facility.  http://milletsofmewar.com/

Lal Bagh: This restaurant boasts to be one of the first to focus on the use of organic ingredients with a variety of international cuisine.  Take your pick of Chinese, Italian, or stick with the local Punjabi cuisine.  Have a seat on the romantic, peaceful patio during dinner.  We recommend the Laal Maans, a less-fiery (but still vibrant) red curry with lamb and typically served with rice and naan bread.   http://www.lalbagh.in/

who to tour with:

Ibex Expeditions: Started in the year 1979 by Mandip and Anita Singh Soin, Ibex Expeditions has been offering customized, luxury tours throughout India for decades.  Ibex offers every adventure sport under the sun from trekking to rafting to jeep safaris, as well as offering eco tours through national parks in India.  Virtually any wild dream you can conjure up in your mind, Ibex can make it happen for you.  Not only are tours with Ibex a unique and one of a kind adventure, but also offers intimate, cultural experiences for the worldly traveler. Their pledge to responsible travel and environmental consciousness make them unlike any other tour agency you'll ever encounter.  Recipient of National Geographic's Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth in 2009.  Check them out at  http://www.ibexexpeditions.com/ to plan your next incredible adventure.

Explore India: Bangalore

where to stay:

The Green Path Eco Hotel: Comfortable and clean rooms at The Green Path are not the only perks, the green setting and exotic plants of the hotel are sure to win you over. The unique mixture of nature and urbanization is unlike other hotels you may find in Bangalore.  Fresh, organic food is the standard as well in the hotel’s restaurant.  Rooms begin at $54 USD/night.  http://www.thegreenpath.in/home.html

The Taj West End: Rich with history, this old boarding house turned luxury hotel located in Bangalore is an urban escape on an expansive property.  Take advantage of the excellent staff and accommodations with gardens, pools, and a spa.  Take a trip back to exotic, colonial India when you stay at the Taj West End.  As for a room with a garden view.  Price beginning at $120 USD/night.  http://www.tajhotels.com/luxury/city-hotels/the-taj-west-end-bangalore/overview.html

where to eat:

Mavalli Tiffin Room: This iconic restaurant with old-world charm in Bangalore has various locations all over the city, with the original location on Lalbagh Road.  Started by the Maiya brothers in the 1920s, the Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) has consistently delicious southern Indian cuisine.  We recommend going for lunch. Though quite busy during lunch, they do accept reservations. The masala dosa is a must have.  Dishes range from $1-5 USD.  http://www.mavallitiffinrooms.com/

Brahmin’s Coffee Bar: A small breakfast joint well-known for their tasty food and fast-paced environment, Brahmin’s coffee bar is the place to go for some idli, a savory cake popular for breakfast in southern India.  Super fast and super clean.  Dishes range from $1-3 USD.  

who to tour with:

Ibex Expeditions: Started in the year 1979 by Mandip and Anita Singh Soin, Ibex Expeditions has been offering customized, luxury tours throughout India for decades.  Ibex offers every adventure sport under the sun from trekking to rafting to jeep safaris, as well as offering eco tours through national parks in India.  Virtually any wild dream you can conjure up in your mind, Ibex can make it happen for you.  Not only are tours with Ibex a unique and one of a kind adventure, but also offers intimate, cultural experiences for the worldly traveler. Their pledge to responsible travel and environmental consciousness make them unlike any other tour agency you'll ever encounter.  Recipient of National Geographic's Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth in 2009.  Check them out at  http://www.ibexexpeditions.com/ to plan your next incredible adventure.

Explore India: Jaipur

where to stay:

Lebua Lodge at Amer Jaipur: Right on the outskirts of Jaipur lies the dreamy escape of the Lebua Lodge, where guests are housed in modern canvas tents adjacent to the Amer Fort and valley entrance.  Unlike any place you’ve stayed at before during your travels, the Lebua Lodge has all the amenities of a modern, luxury resort while also offering various activities from elephant rides to hot air ballooning .  We recommend driving the 15 km into the city to eat your meals in lieu of the on site buffet at Lebua.  Prices for a bungalow with king sized bed and private bath begin at $115 USD/night.  http://www.lebua.com/lebua-lodge-amer  

where to eat:

Anokhi Cafe: This local cafe is credited with filling a large gap in the food scene in Jaipur by offering international dishes and organic selections from the nearby Anokhi farm.  French press organic coffee, fresh pomegranate juice, masalas, Thai bean curry, and carrot cake are just a few of the items you’ll find on their menu. Dishes range from $3-$8 USD.http://anokhicafe.com/

Peacock Rooftop Restaurant: A unique rooftop ambience with roaring fires and consistently delicious Indian cuisine, the Peacock Rooftop Restaurant at Hotel Pearl Palace is a sure win for dinner in Jaipur.  Good service is sure to be found as well.  We recommend trying the Laal Maas or the Chicken Tikka Masala.  Dishes ranging from $5-11 USD.  http://hotelpearlpalace.com/site/?page_id=143 

who to tour with:

Ibex Expeditions: Started in the year 1979 by Mandip and Anita Singh Soin, Ibex Expeditions has been offering customized, luxury tours throughout India for decades.  Ibex offers every adventure sport under the sun from trekking to rafting to jeep safaris, as well as offering eco tours through national parks in India.  Virtually any wild dream you can conjure up in your mind, Ibex can make it happen for you.  Not only are tours with Ibex a unique and one of a kind adventure, but also offers intimate, cultural experiences for the worldly traveler. Their pledge to responsible travel and environmental consciousness make them unlike any other tour agency you'll ever encounter.  Recipient of National Geographic's Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth in 2009.  Check them out at  http://www.ibexexpeditions.com/ to plan your next incredible adventure.