26 Fantasy Cruise 08 30 Sun & Sands of Goa 22 Discover 40 Deserts & Palaces New North of Rajputana Europa America

January/June 2013

PLAY | EAT | SHOP | RELAX | EXPLORE

Wak a Wak a ! Colourful South Africa Calls Endless VACATION | 1 Summer 2013 CONTENTS features

06 Letters from members 08 US & Canada Two countries, one border, one heart. Whether you’re out with your family, or looking for a good time alone, or trying to be one with nature, holidaying in US & Canada can be a satisfying, fulfilling vacation!

12 Magic memories 14 Waka Waka Look for these symbols throughout the magazine (It’s Time for Africa!) Explore the diverse and stunning country of South Africa, with its forests and beaches, museums, tribal villages and island prisons, with RCI’s African vacation!

20 Snappy holiday recipes 22 Hungary Kya! Get a glimpse of Central Europe’s natural beauty and historic significance with a trip to WORRY MERRY Hungary – a tranquil and idyllic country with a colourful past.

26 Fantasy Cruise 30 Gorgeous Goa Experience the good life, with family-friendly resorts, sun-soaked days on the beach and romantic night cruises, only in laid-back Goa! PEACE RENEWAL PACKAGES: FOR 3 & 5 YEARS OF UNINTERRUPTED VACATIONS. 34 More resorts More vacations 5-Year Plan 3-Year Plan Renewal Plans Savings You Pay* You Save* You Pay* You Save* 36 Summer offers (www.southafrica.net) o ur i s m (www.southafrica.net) Regular renewal fee 0% `12,900 `0 `9,700 `0 40 Royal Rajasthan More than 12 months before expiry 15% `10,950 `1,950 `8,250 `1,450 Check out the multi-hued, multi- cultural land of the Rajputs with 6 to 12 months before expiry 10% `11,600 `1,300 `8,750 `950 RCI Recommends! 3 to 6 months before expiry 5% `12,250 `650 `9,200 `500

® Because your vacation means the world to us . Check out rci.com RCI Member Helpline Toll Free (All India): 1800 419 2131 Bangalore: +91 80 4184 9100/6691 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rci.com - So u th A f r ica n T R PHOTO COVE *Terms and conditions apply. Call RCI member helpline for details. Taxes will be charged extra, as applicable. Cannot be clubbed with any other offer. Calculation rounded up to the nearest R50. 2 | JAN - JUN 2013 RCI news Infinite Holiday Prospects From Your Desktop Life is an Register online today. Discover time travel. Adventure! Hans Christian Anderson once said, ‘To travel is to live’. We sometimes get so caught up in the nitty-gritty of daily life that we forget to truly experience the joy of living. There are so many unique adventures waiting just around the corner, and all you need to do is grab one and enjoy the ride. Search Book your Travel is a means of exploring not just the Online and world around you, but the intricacies of your dream holiday inner self. You can test your courage on a Resort wild white water rafting expedition, or find Directory inner peace in the vast undulating vistas of of over the desert or open the pathways of your mind 4000 dream by interacting with people from different cultures. In the end, when you look back on your destinations life, you want to say that you have really lived, that there was more to your world than the drudgery of our day to day existence.

This issue of Endless Vacation is a sensory experience in itself. These pages will take you Trading Power on a trip around the world, and give you a taste of the exotic. From the diverse landscape of Calculate to know Africa to the rich history and culture of Hungary, from the bohemian beaches of Goa to the the value of the week colourful bazaars of Rajasthan, and beyond, this is your guide to a whole new world. you own So make the most of your timeshare investment. Pack your bags, book your RCI vacation in any of our over 100 affiliated resorts in India and over 4000 affiliated resorts across the world and experience life!

I wish you a new year filled with happiness and holidays! Save with our 100% fabulous faster and Happy Holidaying! discounts convenient

Radhika Shastry

POLICY ON MEMBER CONTRIBUTIONS: Please note that any entry, story, information, content, artwork, photograph, video, image, etc, including entries received for Magic Memories, Snappy Holiday Recipes and Wish You Were Here (collectively, the “content”/“entries”) shared by you must be original and you must be the owner of it. By sharing entries with us, you grant RCI a licence to unlimited and unrestricted use in any media, worldwide, without any payment or consideration, and expressly waive any copyright or trademark rights or any other rights that you may have under any other law in this regard. RCI reserves the right to use or publish these entries, in any form, format, medium, language, etc, in whole or in part, in any of its publications or presentations in India or abroad without obtaining any written permission, licence, or consent from you in any manner whatsoever. The entries submitted by you will be considered the property of RCI, and will not be returned. By sending an entry to us, you represent that you own or have the necessary rights, licences, and permissions (without the need for any payment to other person or entity) to use, and to authorise RCI to use, such entries for commercial and non-commercial purposes. You also agree that RCI reserves the right to edit the content, including the text and images shared by you to fit available space or to ensure consistency with style guidelines; to use the content at its discretion in any format/medium of communication; to correct errors in language; and to touch up images to ensure better reproduction of the content in any medium of communication. You agree that RCI may include your full name, and any other information related to you, in the event your entries are published, and you also agree that RCI is under no obligation to publish entries shared by you. You agree that prize winners for the Endless Vacation contests or any other contests or content will be decided by RCI and such decision shall be final and binding.

Endless Vacation® Magazine is published twice a year by RCI India Pvt. Ltd. Designed by Water CDC (I) Pvt. Ltd. Original articles and contributions may be reproduced or transmitted only with written permission from Because your vacation means the world to us® the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by RCI India for any losses or other consequences resulting from . advertisements or other material in this publication. All offers appearing in the publication are subject to terms RCI Member Helpline Toll Free (All India): 1800 419 2131 Bangalore: +91 80 4184 9100/6691 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rci.com and conditions, and availability. ©RCI 2013. Terms and conditions apply.

4 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 5 BHIMTAL I would like to share my experience in Mountain Club, Bhimtal. It is located in the beautiful area of June Estate. The Mountain Club is located amongst a dense forest of oak and pine trees. The weather was very pleasant and refreshing. The resort rooms were well furnished with a fully equipped kitchen and the staff was cooperative and very friendly. Though we reached past midnight, the waiter was waiting for us with hot food that we had ordered on the way. The resort has a swimming pool, table tennis, cricket, carom and badminton. The menu offered excellent Kumaon food. The best part of the resort was the tree house; we enjoyed watching RESTFUL RAICHAK Recently I went on the birds and the peaceful, a family vacation to Raichak, to the Ffort serene environment. The staff Club. It has become one of our fondest was cooperative in arranging sightseeing and suggesting different tours like Jim Corbett Park and memories and one that will last for many surrounding places in Bhimtal. We had one of the best vacations at Mountain Club Bhimtal and we are years to come, for the entire family. thankful to the staff of the club and RCI for this wonderful experience. - Shakib Raiba, Lotus Goa This was my first vacation through RCI. Right from the booking process onwards, every aspect of our stay was well organised. VIVA LAS VEGAS! We vacationed at the Hilton Vacation Club in Las Vegas and had a wonderful, The staff was very welcoming and efficient enjoyable stay. We had booked a 2-bedroom apartment, and got a well-furnished Junior Suite with a and we were relaxing in the allotted suite basic kitchen interconnected to a 1-bedroom apartment with a large sitting-cum-full kitchen. within a few minutes. Located on the banks of the river Ganga, the resort atmosphere is fresh and pure, with well-maintained gardens. The heated pool was quite large and we enjoyed the best jacuzzi ever! The in-house facilities are excellent and the kids had many activities to keep themselves entertained all day. The variety offered on the menu surpassed my expectations. Though tourist cars are available, we opted for the unique experience of travelling by cycle rickshaws The hotel is situated at the end of the Strip near Circus Circus, Riviera and Sahara (now closed), around the market. and one has to take the Deuce bus which comes every 15 mins to the centre of activity. Since we are senior citizens, and have often been to Las Vegas, we were quite happy with the peace of the Hilton I have to visit the resort again as my kids are keen too. - Vinod Kumar, Club Mahindra Vacation Club and easy accessibility to the famous Hotels Win, MGM, Bellagio, Paris, Venice and the brand new Aria. MY LI’L SWISS VACATION My parents and I visited Switzerland this summer. Hope this proves helpful to RCI members interested in Las Vegas, which has no comparison in the I thoroughly enjoyed my stay there. We flew to Geneva and from there we went to the world for casinos, entertainment and fun! - Ketki Patel, Sterling Holidays hillside village of Leysin. We had to take a very small train up to our resort, Castel Club. Our room at the resort was very comfortable, with a spectacular mountain view. The first day after reaching Leysin, we went to see Glacier 3000 by cable car. But the visit I MALAYSIA still cherish is the one to Cailler’s Chocolate Factory. They were celebrating 100 years of the My husband and train that goes to the factory. People in costumes were distributing chocolates to everyone. I visited Pulau One day we also went to see the local Leysin village. I want to go there again. Tioman to explore - Namrata Bhardwaj and Ashutosh Bhardwaj, Country Club the dark side of the ocean, to experience what lies beneath. We’d COMFORTABLE IN VIRGINIA read that the island My husband and I have just returned was rated one of from our visit to the Canaan Valley the most beautiful An entertaining incident or Resort in West Virginia. a cultural insight. Or even in the world by Time magazine. We weren’t disappointed. how RCI has enhanced your I would like to compliment you on the The Berjaya Tioman Resort has a marine centre which organises holiday experience. Just resort facilities. It was a 100 percent write in to all kinds of activities in the sparkling emerald waters that equipped resort with all the facilities Editor, Endless Vacation surround the island. They provide the boat, the guide and the RCI India Pvt. Ltd. available inside the unit and that was snorkel gear. We checked out Coral Island, Malang Rocks and Pine Valley, First Level incredible. Rengis Island. One dip - and we were hooked for life. Our guide Embassy Golf Links Business Park, Off We would definitely recommend this knew these waters like the back of his hand. Intermediate Ring Road resort for its comfort and proximity to We go through our pictures, discover things we’d missed while Bangalore 560 071, India one of the most beautiful regions of or email [email protected] we’d been trying to hold the camera still against the ocean the United States of America. and share your memories currents. We know we’re coming back - the call of the ocean is with other RCI members*. - Neeru Brijinder Singh, Foreign Resort hard to resist. The next time, we’ll probably try diving, go deeper *Please refer RCI’s policy on member contributions down, discover new territory, and uncover more of the ocean’s detailed on page 5 secrets. - Sawan Dutta, RGBC

6 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 7 { wish you were here - US & Canada } YOU KNOW

WHAT I DID LASTThe travel memoirs of 13-year SUMMER? old Ishan Agadi...

’ve always wanted to go abroad, and I finally got the opportunity when my family and I went on a 7-week holiday to Canada and the US.

I We stayed for a week at the RCI resort at Mont Tremblant in Canada, and visited the Mont Tremblant theme park. My favourite two activities there were the Skyline Luge, a thrilling gravity ride originally from New Zealand (which I went on 7 times!) and the spider web where you’re put into a harness which is attached to these really long wires and when you jump on the trampoline it takes you more than 3 storeys high! I had never experienced anything like that, it was truly amazing.

We also stayed at the RCI resort in Canmore, Banff. This was my favourite place on our trip to Canada. In Banff, we went onto the Columbia Icefield which has won many awards for the Best Environmental stewardship practice. To get on the glacier we had to travel on ice explorers – huge bus-shaped vehicles with Terra tires, with spikes for grip. We reached the top of the glacier and there was water trickling down the sides and it was pure drinking water!

In the US, we stayed at an RCI resort in Orlando. We arrived at Disneyland in style, in a great beast of a Hummer. They were showcasing a Harry Potter theme that week with Hogsmeade town and Hogwarts. They even had Butter Beer! Overall the trip was so amazing that I can’t think of a more perfect vacation!

8 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 9 EXPLORING NORTH AMERICA Disney park, Disneyland in Anaheim, California, the River, across the majestic Grand Canyon to As the second and third largest countries in the world only theme park designed and built under the direct the breath-stealing high of scaling Mount respectively, Canada and the United States offer the supervision of Walt Disney, with its famous Sleeping Denali in Alaska, North America’s highest discerning traveller with a host of holiday options. Beauty castle featured on the Walt Disney logo. Also peak, you can experience every thrill known Whether you’re looking for some quiet family time worth a visit are the SeaWorld theme parks in San to man. You can go dog-sledding in the or a hair-raising adventure, you are sure to find your Diego, Orlando and San Antonio. You can watch Canadian Arctic, or hike through the vast spot somewhere in the vast expanses of the North the dolphins dance, or hang out in the shark tank, tracts of wildernesses in the Grand Tetons American continent. RCI gives you a glimpse of the or take thrilling water rides, all adding up to the region. For a more laid-back vacation, you can various kinds of vacations you could choose for your vacation of a lifetime! go snorkelling and kayaking in the Florida next getaway. Keys, or take a walking tour to appreciate For a more culturally enriching experience, Vermont’s fall foliage. Sun Worship! you can take your family to the National Mall in Long, balmy days of sun, surf and sand! Nobody who’s Washington D.C. with its excellent (and free!) kid- Whatever the type of vacation you desire, you watched American television could have missed the friendly museums, or experience the art and culture can find it in the US-Canada region. Explore glorious bikini-dotted beaches of Southern California of Montreal’s museums and galleries. More fun yet is the bounty of man’s imagination and God’s and Miami, Florida. And of course, nothing screams a visit to Calgary’s Heritage Park, a living creation with RCI!   beach holiday like a trip to Hawaii. For a picturesque history village. and infinitely less crowded vacation, you can also take a road trip down the Oregon coast, exploring the artsy little seaside villages and taking in the dunes at Siuslaw forest. But there is more to the US coastline than the West Coast beaches. The wild and lovely shoreline of Maine and Massachusetts is bound by STAY RCI has over 1600 resorts across USA and over water too cold to swim, but the views alone are worth 120 resorts across Canada. it, as is the food. For more detailed info, visit www.rci.com

Canada may not be the first place to come to mind EXPLORE when you think of a beach vacation, but that only USA A nation blessed with many natural makes things better! Unlike the overcrowded beaches wonders and always on the move, it has plenty of the US West Coast, Canada has some spectacular to offer to visitors. You can choose any kind of yet peaceful sandy spots for sun worshippers. From holiday for yourself in this country which is the trendy Wasaga Beach in Ontario - the world’s Anil B Agadi is a Club Mahindra Member forever reinventing itself. longest freshwater beach, to the warm, almost tropical Canada Wild and beautiful, cosmopolitan and waters of Hornby Island in British Columbia, Canada’s And for a glimpse of the great natural wonders prosperous, Canada is a paradox in more than waters can be as welcoming as the US. of the world, plan your trip around the amazing one way, the second largest country in the world. national parks of Yellowstone and Yosemite, the Recommended holidays in USA & Canada What Happens in Vegas... Grand Canyon and, of course, the Niagara Falls. Beach Holidays | Casinos & Gaming Holidays Experience the decadence, excitement and bright Family Holidays | Health Spa Holidays | Lake lights of Sin City’s numerous casinos. The final word Thrills and Chills! Holidays | Adventure Holidays in luxurious casinos, Las Vegas is an experience not Some of the greatest highs and deepest lows can be WHEN TO VISIT to be missed. But for those who want to dip their toes found in the massive landscapes of US and Canada. USA You can go to America any time of the into a slightly smaller pool, there is always Reno, the For the avid naturalist and adrenaline junkie, there year - the tremendous spread of the country biggest little city in the world or Atlantic City, the is no place on earth that offers as diverse a range means a great deal of variety in climate and second most popular gambling destination in the of adventure activities. From the heart-thudding seasonal events! The best time to visit really US. For a taste of the Old South, you can cruise into a experience of white-water rafting in the Colorado depends on where in the USA you are going. The peak season for tourist travel runs from riverboat casino on the Mississippi or board one of the May to September, though spring and fall are numerous riverboats dotting the Chicagoland area. the prettiest months on the east and west coast of the country. Your love affair with the cards and the slot RCI Member ANIL B AGADI haS won the Wish You Canada The best time to visit is during spring, machines can also continue across the border with the Were Here award of a free Exchange Holiday summer and autumn, encompassing the months numerous casinos dotting the Canadian side of the for this issuE. of April to October. Spring (April to May) is a Niagara Falls as well as the casinos that abound the To win yourself a full waiver of the applicable fee for an Exchange Holiday, email your entries*, in 1,000 to 1,500 words, before 31 May, 2013 delightful time to visit owing to the blossoming rest of Ontario State. along with at least 3 photographs, to [email protected] or send to Endless of tulips and daffodils across the country, with Vacation, RCI India Pvt. Ltd., Pine Valley, First Level, Embassy Golf the added advantage of warm days and off-peak Family Fun! Links Business Park, Off Intermediate Ring Road, season tourist rates. Autumn (September to Bangalore 560 071, India. Nothing says family fun like a trip to Disney World. October) witnesses the fall foliage in Canada, *Please note that RCI’s Policy on Member Contributions detailed on page The world’s most-visited theme resort, Disney World is 5 will apply to all entries. To avail of the free exchange holiday, members with the temperatures comfortable enough to every kid’s dream. You can also visit the other iconic must have a valid banking. still enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities.

10 | JAN - JUN 2013 { magic memories }

Rajen Mistry VITS Memories are forever Winning Top of the World in Munnar is simple! All it takes is a fun-filled RCI holiday and your camera. And of course, Madhusudan Kabra RGBC for you to enter your photograph in the RCI Magic Memories Contest. The Disney Family Remember, it’s the quality of the moment you have captured that matters. Ravindrac Savadi Flying high Sterling Holidays in the Land of the Long White Cloud New Zealand 1st Prize Digital Camera Virendra Chandalia Treasure Island

Run Baby, Run. 2nd Prize iPod Atul Kumar P Mehta Club Mahindra One with the Funny Guys

Anuradha Ananth Dr. Abhay Shah Club Mahindra Sterling Holidays

Jumbo Spa in Thekkady All fall down at Niagara

*Please refer terms & conditions regarding member contributions on

For the Jul-Dec 2013 issue of Endless Vacation, please email your entries* before 31 May, 2013 page 5. You could also mail or courier 3rd Prize them to The Editor, Endless Vacation Binoculars to the [email protected] with ‘RCI Magic Memories’ in the subject line. All entries must have Auli is your name, RCI membership number and the holiday destination clearly mentioned. Soft copies RCI India Pvt. Ltd., Pine Valley, First Neelam Agarwal for Family Level, Embassy Golf Links Business Country Inn should be in JPEG or TIFF formats, with a minimum size of 1,800 pixels x 1,200 pixels. Prints Park, Off Intermediate Ring Road Fun should be at least 15 cms x 10 cms in size on photo paper. Please do not staple the prints. Bangalore 560 071, India.

12 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 13 { RCI recommends - South Africa } Waka, Waka It’s time for Africa!

rom forests to beaches, galleries to malls, tribal villages to island prisons, South Africa encompasses several distinct and beautiful worlds within its borders. Culturally diverse and Fscenically stunning, this country will take your heart by storm. Explore South Africa with RCI!

14 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 15 The first image that comes to mind when you think of South Africa is the wild sweep of the bushveld, big cats lazing in the sun and elephants winding their calm way to a waterhole. Exotic and exciting, the safari is the experience that defines the wild and mysterious continent of Africa.

South Africa has more than 300 protected areas, but the proudest jewel in the SANPark crown is the Kruger National Park. Spread out over a massive 7523 square miles, with 517 DID YOU KNOW? species of birds and 147 species of large mammals, Kruger The Mpumalanga province is home is a haven for any wildlife enthusiast. You can see all of the to the world’s most famous game African Big Five (lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and reserve, its third-deepest canyon, rhino) at Kruger, but there’s more to Kruger than just wildlife. There are several areas of archaeological interest such as ancient caves, and a fascinating Masorini and Thulamela, and for the passionate golfer, there’s gold-rush history. an unfenced nine-hole course at Skukuza. Traditional VhaVenda food reflects South Africa has a host of other equally interesting parks Limpopo Province’s heritage of and reserves. You can visit Table Mountain National Park if earthly bounty to delicious perfection you want a peep at the zebras and the bonteboks, or visit the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site, where you from baobab infused milk dishes to can spot everything from a hippo to a turtle to a whale! peanut rich venison stews.

Several parks, including Kruger, allow you the option of a self-drive vacation, or a guided tour. But if you’re setting out by yourself, make sure to read all the safety information first... the inside of a lion is probably not as appealing as the outside!

Raise Your Glass! Robert Louis Stevenson once commented that wine was bottled poetry. But you don’t have to be a connoisseur to enjoy the Cape Winelands. Surpassing scenic beauty, well-preserved architecture and the heavenly taste of South African wines means that there’s something for everyone in a wine tour. From Oh the beautifully preserved towns of Stellenbosch and Paarl, timeless and elegant in their serenity, to the soft colours of the my! valley in which Franschhoek nestles, this area has been the heart of the South African Wine trade for hundreds of years. Come face to face with the African There are 17 ‘official’ wine routes registered with the South Big Five - Lion, Elephant, African Wine Routes Forum (SAWRF), and each wine route has its own website. If you want to get a little off the beaten Cape Buffalo, path, there are special interest routes like the Cape Route 62  Leopard and Rhino

16 | JAN - JUN 2013 wine route, said to be the longest wine route in the world, the Spirit of the land Western Cape Brandy Route, and the Green Mountain Eco Route - the world’s first biodiverse wine route, or you can create your own route, depending on your tastes and interests. In addition to the excellent wine on display, the STAY Winelands are also known for RCI has over 170 resorts across their gastronomic delights. Several South Africa. For more detailed info, visit estates, like Buitenverwachting and www.rci.com Rust en Vrede have international award-winning chefs who can tickle EXPLORE your palate and get you drunk on Eastern Cape The Eastern the food as well as wine! Cape features expanses of untouched beach, bush and forest. Be sure to check out the Leliekloof Valley of Art, Eastern Cape hiking trails and safaris. Flowery praises fall from the Bloukrans Bridge Bungy, From Heidelburg to the Storms the world’s highest commercial bridge Free State The Free State River stretches the Garden Route, bungee. You can also go shark cage province is home to a number of impressive rock features, a veritable paradise of sun, sea and diving in Mossel Bay and experience from dramatic sandstone forest. Renowned for having the the thrill of seeing the great white shark up close and personal in its cliffs and caves to two billion- second mildest climate in the world, year-old hills. The best way to natural environ. Tip: Don’t watch Jaws the verdant beauty of the Garden explore them is hiking trails Route encompasses diverse ecological the night before you undertake this in Golden Gate Highlands systems, from the Fynbos biosphere and adventure! National Park. Temperate forests of Outeniqua and Western Cape Be sure A true-to-the-land experience Tsitsikamma to the marine reserves and This city life! to give yourself at least 2 soft coral reefs of the coastline. For the more urbanly-inclined, South weeks to explore the diverse Africa’s cities offer a wide variety of Western Cape region, home to Africa’s most visited city, The best way to explore the Garden choices in terms of cultural experiences, Cape Town and the stunning Coorg - Coffee, Spice & Plantation Life: A 300 acre working plantation resort tucked route is by car. You can stop along the shopping and entertainment. You Garden Route. deep within the cool green hills of Coorg at a height of 800 m. Bordered by the legendary river way at several scenic spots and tourist can visit Soweto to see firsthand the Cauvery. Surrounded by virgin forests. Enveloped by the heady aroma of coffee and spice. centres, from the bustling centre of site of the anti-apartheid struggle, or FOOD FACTOR Shrouded in myths and legends. Welcome to Orange County, Coorg, a Gold Crown resort. George to the lagoon at Knysna, to experience the vibrant colour of the Zulu cuisine From the South African tribes at Mpumalanga’s the more upscale neighbourhood of comfort of isibhede and Kabini - Wildlife, the Tribal Way: A resort inspired by a tribal village. Designed around Ndebele villages. You can satisfy the phutu porridge to the Plettenberg Bay. Alternatively, for a a pristine river. Bordered by a legendary forest. Welcome to Orange County, Kabini, tucked within artist in you with a tour of Cape Town’s intoxication of utywala beer more fun experience, you can also board the Nilgiri Biosphere. A journey that takes you closer to the heart of a rustic land. One that opens the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, Africa’s last art galleries, or simply worship the sun and the fiery perfection of chakalaka relish, Zulu dishes up the wild side of nature. remaining passenger steam train, from stretched out at Durban’s sophisticated Golden Mile, finishing off the day are seasoned with history, George to Mossel Bay. infused with culture and full with a throw of the dice at the Suncoast of fine flavours. Casino and Entertainment World. For the more adventurous, the WHEN TO VISIT Special Offers For RCI Members deceptively tranquil Garden Route Passionate, vivid, exotic and South Africa has a temperate contains a variety of wild, heart- climate and is known for its exuberant, South Africa is a feast for thumping experiences guaranteed to long sunny days. Winter is the senses. Whether you’re travelling as satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you. You from May to August; spring a couple or as a family, you’ll never run can opt for a soaringly exciting canopy from September to October; out of things to do and places to see. summer from November to ride through the Tsitsikamma forest, Pack your bags today and explore the February and autumn from or jump-start your adrenaline with a luxury resorts Dark Continent with RCI!  March to April.

18 | JAN - JUN 2013 For details contact Bangalore, India: Tel: +91 (0)80 4191 1021/22/23 E-mail: [email protected] www.orangecounty.iness VACATION | 19 { snappy holiday recipes } Pearly Bites Ingredients Bread | Soaked Moong Dal | Puffed Rice | Coriander | Ginger | Green Chilly | Lemon | rd Hing | Salt and Oil to fry Method Take a slice of bread, apply green chutney (coriander, ginger, green chilly, lemon, hing, salt Prize mixed ) on it. Then put Moong Dal (grind mixture with green chilly, hing & salt) on it. Now put puffed rice (kurmura) on it. Pat gently and cut bread into 4 pieces. Heat oil in a pan, put the bread pieces in oil with dal portion on top. Turn quickly because bread turns golden quickly. Lower the flame and turn the dal side down. When golden brown, take them out and serve hot with a drizzle of tomato ketchup. Sunita Surendra Mardia RGBC st

Ingredients 4 potatoes boiled | 2 tablespoons butter | 2 green chillies finely chopped | 4 cubes of cheese grated Prize Mixed herbs (optional/seasonal), salt, pepper, tomato ketchup. Chocolate & nd Method Peel and mash potatoes, removing lumps. Mix herbs, salt, pepper, green chillies. Divide the mix Strawberry into 3-4 portions. You should get a smooth mixture with no lumps. Prize Roll each portion into a ball and flatten into a patty Remove the spring bottom tin from the shape. In a pan, heat butter, place the patty in the Cheesecake refrigerator and pour the cream mixture over pan, fry both sides till brown (4-5 minutes) and turn Ingredients Chocolate, grated 1 cup | the biscuit layer. Level the top. over. Place the grated cheese on the turned over side of the patty. Once the cheese melts, remove the patty Chocolate chip biscuits, coarsely powdered 8-10 Chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours or till set. | Butter, melted 2 tablespoons | Fresh cream, from the pan and serve it with tomato ketchup. chilled, 1 cup | Sugar ½ cup | Hung yogurt 1 Take chocolate syrup in a spoon and draw Chaitra Bhat cup | Gelatin, 2 teaspoons | Vanilla essence, 1 concentric circles on the surface. VITS teaspoon | Chocolate syrup for decoration With the tip of a knife or a toothpick make very superficial radial lines to make a design. Method Add the melted butter to the coarsely powdered chocolate chip biscuits and Cut into wedges and serve. mix. Transfer the mixture into a spring bottom cake tin, spread evenly and press gently. Keep it Dr Jay Sheth & Dr Mekhla Naik in the refrigerator to set. Pour fresh cream into Club Mahindra More a bowl. Add sugar and beat with a hand blender great recipes to try till sugar has completely dissolved. out on your next holiday Add hung yogurt and continue to beat. Pour If you’d like to win, send us your 1st Prize: Weber is all about great food, family, friends, leisure and fun. Weber is the favourite holiday recipes before 31 May, 2013 quarter cup of water in a bowl and heat in the 2nd Prize: Weber world’s leading manufacturer of charcoal and gas barbecue grills. A concept to [email protected]. You could also mail or microwave. Add gelatin and set aside to melt. WeberApron that was started five decades ago in the US by a visionary has revolutionised Smokey Joe courier them to: Charcoal Grill the art of cooking wholesome and healthy food and has redefined fun times Melt the chocolate in the microwave on HIGH around the world. The grills are user-friendly and come with a range of The Editor, Endless Vacation, RCI India Pvt. Plus Ltd., Pine Valley, First Level, Embassy Golf Links for one minute. Take it out and whisk till For all winners accessories to help make your barbecue grilling experience a lot of fun. smooth and add to cream mixture and mix well. Weber's “Getting For further information: Business Park, Off Intermediate Ring Road 3rd Prize: Good at Grilling” 1800-102-3102 (Toll free) Bangalore 560 071, India. Please note that RCI’s Add the melted gelatin to the cream mixture Weber Mitt recipe book by Email: [email protected] Policy on Member Contributions detailed on and mix well. Add vanilla essence and mix. Chef Manu Chandra Website: www.weberindia.com page 5 will apply to all entries.

20 | JAN - JUN 2013 { wish you were here - Hungary } but it was fascinating in its own way. Cold War enthusiasts contain statues of the seven Magyar chieftains who founded should definitely not miss the House of Terror, a chilling, Hungary, and other notable figures. heartbreaking monument to the tumultuous years following World War II, when Hungary’s secret police waged a We also visited the stunning Hungarian State Opera House, campaign of terror supported by the Stalinist regime. a neo-Renaissance building that is one of the most beautiful edifices in Budapest. More inspiring is Heroes’ Square, the entrance to City Park. At the centre of the square is the Millennium Monument, The tiny Margaret island was a pretty place to relax when Hungary Kya? a landmark that pays tribute to Hungary’s heroes. Atop the we tired of the hustle and bustle of the twin cities.  central pillar is the archangel Gabriel, holding the Hungarian RCI member Dr. Yatin Desai gives us a glimpse into the rich history, culture and crown and a cross, and the surrounding colonnades architecture of Central Europe's most tempestuous nation.

Beautiful Budapest

prawling out on a curve of the great Danube River, the twin cities of Buda andS Pest are a treat, both in terms of natural beauty and architectural diversity. The best views of Budapest are from the famous Castle Hill – we strolled across the Chain Bridge, which gives you a breathtaking view of the Danube and Pest city, and then took the Sikló (a funicular railway) up the hill to the Royal Palace.

The Royal Palace, in addition to the residences, also contains two museums, the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. The History museum was especially interesting, with exhibits tracing the 2000-year history of The Turkish legacy is kept alive and well this conflict-filled city. We were in Budapest through the Turkish baths that surprised to discover just how many abound the city. From the Gellért Baths, which times the city and the palace, in have been likened to bathing in a cathedral, particular, had been invaded, burned, to the traditional Turkish baths at Király, with or otherwise destroyed and rebuilt! its central skylit dome, the thermal springs under Budapest provide a warm and relaxing Pest city was not as picturesque as experience for travellers. Buda with its frame of green hills,

22 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 23 { RCI ready reckoner } We hired four-person hand-painted china Hungary cycle cars to explore the is renowned for. We took a Your guide to a island, taking in the serene tour around the Porcelain landscaped gardens and the Museum with its collection famous Music Fountain as of antique china, but the hassle-free vacation well as the Art-Nouveau highlight of the tour was water tower. the mini-factory, where you could see the lumps of clay STAY RCI has over 15 resorts across We climbed the 153 stairs transform into fine porcelain Hungary. For more detailed Standard Exchange to the top of the tower, and before your very eyes! Holiday, ensure that a Trading Power a fee of just r600. Email: info, visit www.rci.com Domestic r7,350 current or future week is [email protected] were treated to a stunning Online# r6,615 Protection banked with RCI. Purchased within 30 360° view of the island and The Blue Danube EXPLORE All rates / offers / International days from confirmation Buda and Pest on either side. Twisty and curvy and Pannonia Check out www.rci.com benefits / promotions Short Haul r9,660 for GetAway Special r absolutely stunning, the Pannonhalma A treasure of is 1,750 mentioned in this issue Online# r8,694 deals. Purchased 30+ days Danube winds its way Hungarian architecture, this of Endless Vacation Day-Trippers! from confirmation It’s only a short journey by between the Transdanubian Benedictine Abbey has stood International Guest Certificate are subject to change Transaction Fees: r3,500 is r3,500 train from Budapest to the Mountains on one side for a thousand years, known Long Haul r16,200 without prior notice. in the middle ages as the Holy Online# r14,580 Lake Balaton region. We and the North Hungarian Maximum of four Guest Additional RCI Taxes will be charged Mount of Pannonia. Certificates in a calendar extra, as applicable were told that the most scenic Mountains on the other. #Visit www.rci.com to Membership Pack year (Jan to Dec), subject as per government Villány-Siklós Wine Road avail our special online Get an additional town in this region was Breathtaking river views rates. to a maximum of two regulations. Call RCI The Villány-Siklós Wine per quarter. RCI Membership Veszprém. Founded on seven and historic architecture member helpline Road in this ancient wine GetAway Special Pack, consisting of a hills, this city, known as the make this area a pleasure Deposit Extension for details. country was the first such to Bonus Holiday rates vary Membership Card, RCI ‘city of queens’ has dramatic to visit. We hit the town For 3 months: r1,250 be developed in Hungary. It according to destination, Directory of Resorts Renewal of RCI landscapes and conversely, of Visegrád with its ruined For 6 months: r2,550 connects eleven towns and season, occupancy of and an Endless Vacation Membership the serene atmosphere of a but still beautiful Royal the unit and the resort’s r villages in a protected wine- Deposit Combination magazine subscription 3 years 9,700 university town. Palace, redolent with the growing area. RCI rating. To qualify Transaction Fees: r2,500 5 years r12,900 for your co-member, for ghosts of the past. But the for and avail a Bonus 10 years r19,500 Puszta and Lake Tisza We explored the old highlight of this town is the Hortobágy (The Puszta) marketplace at the foot Visegrád Citadel. We took is one of Europe's largest of Castle Hill before a walk on the ramparts of expanses of protected prairie. GetAway Special Service tax impact with effect from 1 July, 2012 strolling up to see the varied the citadel and were treated A World Heritage site since • If you cancel a Bonus Holiday at least 61 days As per the Finance Act 2012 issued by the architecture of the churches to unforgettable views of 1999, the Hortobágy National prior to the check-in date*, you will be entitled Government of India, all services offered by RCI and cathedrals that abound the Börzsöny Hills and the Park stretches over an area of to a refund of 70% of the fee. India will have the revised service tax impact with on Castle Hill. From 800 square kilometres. Danube River. • Cancellations made from 31 to 60 days before effect from 1 July, 2012. Veszprém, it was a twenty Lake Tisza Smooth water, the check-in date* will be entitled to a refund All domestic GetAway specials / Bonus Holiday minute bus ride to the tiny If you’re hungry for beauty huge bays, backwaters and of 50% of the fee. transactions with a fee of INR 7000/- or above will islands, rich fish and wild town of Herend, famous and history, you could not do • There will be no refund in the case of be subject to service tax of 7.416%. International stock – Lake Tisza is the for producing the delicate better than Hungary  cancellations made less than 31 days before GetAway specials / Bonus Holiday transactions will second largest surface of the check-in date*. The cancellation policy continue to be exempt. water in the country. In on Rentals and Special Promotions may vary. All other services that RCI offers, including between dams, there are Please call the RCI Member Helpline for details. Standard Exchange, Renewals, Platinum, etc., will sixteen islands and ten water be subject to service tax @ 12.36%. channels. * Check-in date as mentioned in your RCI Confirmation Voucher Please check with your RCI guide about the tax SAY CHEERS structure before confirming any RCI transaction. Pálinka A ubiquitous The tax structure as mentioned above is applicable specialty throughout on both online and call centre transactions. Yatin Desai is a Hungary, Pálinka is the For bookings, renewal and the latest information on Sterling Holidays generic name for the fiery availability, call the RCI Member Helpline: Member fruit brandy distilled Toll Free (All India): 1800 419 2131 from home-grown plums, Bangalore: +91 80-4184 9100 +91 80-6691 5555 / Email: [email protected] / Website: www.rci.com apricots and pears. WHEN TO VISIT Spring (May and June), Cancellation Policy Standard Exchange though quite wet, and • In case you cancel a confirmed Standard Exchange at least 30 days before your check-in date*, your Exchange Fee summer (July and August) will be refunded after deducting a Cancellation Fee of r2,500. are the best times to • There will be no refund if you make the cancellation less than 30 days before the check-in date*. visit Hungary; during • However, if you cancel at least 2 working days before the check-in date*, your Deposit week utilised can be used winter, most of the tourist for future vacation confirmation, as long as it is within validity period, and your RCI membership has not expired. attractions are closed. • The trading power of your deposit will be recalculated from the date of cancellation, unless you have availed Trading Power Protection.

24 | JAN - JUN 2013 { fantasy cruise } COME ABOARD FOR A

laska Experience Europe The Floating Vacation of a Lifetime the Magnificent When describing Europe, "Wow" pretty much Glaciers sums it up. Stand in awe before the works of Breathtaking Alaska Michelangelo in Italy or Gaudí's distinctive Ais one of the most popular architecture in Spain. Wonder at delicate vacation destinations in the masterpieces in Oslo's Hadeland Glassworks. Witness the remains of ancient civilisations in world. From whale watching, Greece and Turkey. From Palace Square in wildlife and glacier tours to St. Petersburg, Russia, to the fjords of Norway; historical towns and gold from the waterways of Venice to the ruins mines to cultural experiences of the Mediterranean, explore the richness to pure Alaskan wilderness and beauty of Europe at sea level. You can adventure, you'll find much to also bring your adventure inland on a Europe experience and savor. Cruisetour - a unique combination of a cruise • One way & Round trip vacation and land tour by luxury motorcoach sailings from Vancouver or train. Venture from Madrid to Toledo  and Seattle

26 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 27 and Barcelona, Spain; explore iguanas to red legged tortoises. Asia Explore Many Exotic Worlds TOP CRUISE I the famous Champs Élysées in Abundant wildlife, endless in One Experience the magic of We had a very memorable Alaskan Cruise Paris, France, and the streets of Asia and let the Asian cuisine beaches and year-round sunshine Experience. We were very impressed with London; visit the peaceful Lake – the Caribbean has truly been tickle your taste buds as you sail the hospitality and fantastic management Como and the canals of Venice blessed with the bounties of through the tapestry of Thailand, of the staff. This was our first Cruise or visit Florence, the birthplace nature. Japan, Vietnam, South Korea and Experience and was of the Renaissance and the holy • Western Caribbean Malaysia. And capture the most unforgettable. We grounds of the Vatican City in • Eastern Caribbean dazzling images of China and its Rome. If you're looking for the • Southern Caribbean treasures on a cruise vacation to boarded at Seward vacation of a lifetime, you've the Forbidden City and beyond. and for 7 nights found it! Start planning your Mexico The Colourful Paradise and 8 days, we adventure today. Awaits Choose an inland Australia & New Zealand enjoyed the sights • Western Mediterranean destination or enjoy distinctively Scenic Beauty Unspoilt It's more and amenities. • Eastern Mediterranean different beaches on the coast than Koalas and Kangaroos. Our cruise ended • Northern Europe of the Caribbean, the Gulf of Australia and New Zealand has at Vancouver. • Norwegian Fjords Mexico and the Pacific. Whatever one of the most unique and During the your preference, it will come beautiful landscapes in the world stay we enjoyed Caribbean Dive into Adventure with Mexican hospitality and coupled with incredible modern onboard Where else on earth would you architecture, fascinating aborigine charm. Stretching from expanses entertainment find water as clear and as blue as and Maori culture, and miles of of desert past rocky beaches in the form the Caribbean? Sandy beaches breathtaking coastlines. Explore and deep into tropical rain of quizzes, magic shows, even a vegetable range in colour from pearl white forests, Mexico is all things to all the mountains and ancient forests carving demo and cooking demo! We got the and pink to golden and black. people, all at one time. Sports and experience the thrill of opportunity to visit the navigation deck and Offshore, sports enthusiasts can enthusiasts, nature lovers and exploring active volcanoes. swim, surf and sail. In the deep understand the workings of the ship. pleasure seekers are drawn to open waters, fishermen try to Other destinations spectacular beaches and coral land billfish, tuna, barracuda • South America The RCI suggestions for online check-in and formations, Mayan ruins and and shark. Beneath the waters, • Hawaii booking of excursions in advance were immensely the American Mediterranean. divers explore the coral reefs • Panama Canal helpful. I am thankful to RCI for a memorable and On the Yucatan Peninsula, and caves. A strong maritime • Canada & New England unforgettable trip. water sports enthusiasts and history has left a variety of • Transatlantic & Transpacific cruises Anuradha Shintre, Club Mahindra adventure lovers are drawn cultural influences – primarily to white sandy beaches, Dutch, French and British – TOP CRUISE II coral reefs and the salubrious scattered along the Caribbean At the outset, I am thankful to the entire team at Caribbean weather. Away from islands, while indigenous people RCI for organising such a nice Alaskan Cruise. and native cultures continue the modern restaurants, shops The Cruise started from Seattle, USA and after to flourish. Each island has and clubs, visitors can explore 7 days we were its own characteristic climate archaeological sites and learn back at the about the Mayans. Prismatic and and economy. Picturesque same port dramatic, colourful Mexico is a coconut, banana and sugarcane with great delight for the senses. plantations abound. Even memories. • Mexican Baja / Riviera – the wildlife is as colourful as The price departure from Los Angeles the islands, from neon blue offered by RCI was excellent and more Exciting Exchange Offers Exchange can be done with a economical Now Available: Trading Power of 14+ against the than I 10 Nights Europe deposited week, exchange fee could have Mediterranean cruise onboard applicable, book up to 4 cabins imagined. Celebrity Silhouette - 15 June ’13 on each exchange. Exchange The Balcony Save USD 600 per cabin available on select sailings and Room was spacious when compared to other categories of accommodation. 07 Nights One way Alaska Staterooms. The Cruise ship Norwegian sailing onboard Celebrity The Trading Power and the Jewel was fully occupied with almost 3,000 Millennium - 05 July ’13 Exchange Fee required for passengers & crew. Entertainment shows were Save USD 600 per cabin Cruise Exchange are subject good, staff was friendly, cleanliness was good, 03 NIGHTS or longer sailings for to change without prior notice. shore excursions were a bit expensive but worth Asia / Bahamas / Caribbean / Fares are dynamic and will vary the price. Other amenities were also excellent. Europe / Alaska and many more depending on the cabin, class, We did wish, however, that they would provide destinations at PMR – Member sailing, availability booking date Indian vegetarian food cooked by Indian chefs! discounted rate and other factors. Himanshu Swaly, RGBC

28 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 29 { wish you were here - Goa }

Take a trip to the beach with RCI member and aspiring beachcomber Pankaj Dayal.

The resort and surrounding beach were perfect for some family time. My 6-year old kid who was scared of deep gorgeous water lost all fear with multiple pools to experiment in everyday. He built a sand castle on the clean and almost white sandy beach at Varca with the miniature shells collected on the shoreline during morning and evening walks with his Mom. He also made a pot at the goa!or a truly peaceful and luxurious Goa artisan's wheel! vacation, you couldn’t do better than the Club Mahindra resort at Varca beach. My family and I had a memorable week hereF and we will remember it fondly. We were greeted with a glass of refreshing Kokum juice and with a buggy ride. The lush and welcoming surroundings were enough for us to plan our entire week of leisure right there at the resort!

The rooms were unique and romantic, with a stunning peacock creation on the master bed that made the room special and brought a smile to my wife’s face. She had all she wanted – a mini kitchen to toss-up a quick breakfast, a health club to relax and a clean room to return to every time we stepped out.

The managing staff arranged games, songs and folk dances in the evenings as well as a cocktail party. We were kept well-entertained and the staff was very sweet and friendly, so much so that we were made to feel like part of a big, happy family! The activities room, decked with a magazine section, arts, crafts and games was a great way to lull away the hot afternoon hours. 

30 | JAN - JUN 2013 My elder son freaked out on the video games and the Playstation. The homely atmosphere spread throughout STAY RCI has over 10 resorts across Goa. the resort was enhanced by a number of cheerful kids with For more detailed info, families vacationing there. visit www.rci.com

Our kids made new friends and I spotted them playing table EXPLORE tennis and pool with other kids of all ages. Beaches At the very mention of beaches, one thinks of the Premium Vibrant Goa couldn’t be explored simply by sitting around palm-fringed seashore with golden at the resort, so we consulted the travel desk at the resort for sandy stretches, incessant waves, some ideas. We toured the lively and colourful Panjim market, free flowing drinks and mouth- Priceless watering delicacies. The beaches of Dona Paula, Vasco Harbour and the North beaches. Goa are the main draw for tourists worldwide. It was sheer joy to view Goa from up in the air while Privileges paragliding and the water in our faces thrilled us while water Nightlife A heady mix of delicious sea-food and cocktails wafts in scootering on Colva beach. the air of Goa and the nights turn colourful and exciting with the A very tasty Red Snapper served at a beach shack followed steady beats of music ranging from by a beer soaked Mandovi river cruise in the evening and the soft 60s to the wild and rocking authentic Goan cuisine at various restaurants we visited gave trance as well as psychedelic rock. us the satisfaction of having experienced Goa in full. With easy availability of liquor, not to mention the vast shoreline, the We've placed a baby coconut souvenir and our kid's pottery nightlife in Goa rocks with every in our curio shelf to remind us of our amazing vacation. We passing moment after sunset. can’t wait to go back and be beach bums again!  Shopping Pankaj Dayal is a Country Club member The lure of a relaxed holiday attracts many tourists to Goa; it is not a big surprise that the same people would be found scanning the Flea markets and Bazaars of Goa in search of hidden treasures and memorabilia. It is not only the shopaholic but also the regular tourists who cannot * PRICELESS PLATINUM PRIVILEGES resist the charms of the local Goan PAY `3,000 markets. Discount on Vacations  FREE 1-YEAR DINING PLUS WHEN TO VISIT Up to `750 savings, on every Exchange MEMBERSHIP Goa is warm and humid throughout Holiday SAVE UP TO 30% at hotels, restaurants the year, with little variation in the and more, in India and abroad `1,000 OFF temperatures, which stay around On every GetAway Special (Bonus Holiday) SPECIAL GRILL OFFER 28°-33° C (average temperature). One word captures the power of the SAVE `3,375 on a Weber Compact Kettle 50% Discount on Guest Certificates The best time to visit Goa is from New RCI Platinum Membership 47cm Charcoal Grill late October to early April, with SAVE `1,750 when you gift an RCI Holiday Perfect. In one word, that’s what it makes daytime temperatures rarely going with a Guest Certificate** EXCLUSIVE DESIGNER OFFER your RCI vacation. By combining regular beyond 32°C. 20% DISCOUNT on Giordano Apparel RCI products with exclusive lifestyle FREE UNIT UPGRADES benefits, it offers 10 perfect benefits that COMPLIMENTARY LAST MINUTE FOREX SAVINGS UPGRADE to a larger unit when you take SAVE over 2,000 on foreign exchange only RCI Platinum members are privy to. ` an Exchange Holiday purchase from Weizmann Join this elite club for just `3,000* and be entitled to exciting offers and services PRIORITY ACCESS 50% OFF ON TRAVEL + LEISURE worth over `19,000. EXCLUSIVE INVENTORY available in MAGAZINE That’s the power of RCI Platinum. high-demand destinations On 1-year subscription

Call RCI Platinum Helpline TODAY to enrol! +91 80 4184 9239

RCI Member Helpline Toll Free (All India): 1800 419 2131 Bangalore: +91 80 4184 9100/6691 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rci.com *Taxes will be charged extra, as applicable. RCI Platinum membership and benefits are subject to terms and conditions. Please log on to www.rci.com or call RCI member helpline for details. Platinum benefits are not applicable on splitweek holidays. Benefits cannot be clubbed with any other offer. **Maximum of two guest certificates per quarter and four guest certificates a year, no name change allowed. Platinum membership and benefits not available online. RCI reserves the right to modify / withdraw Platinum membership / Platinum benefits without any prior notice. 32 | JAN - JUN 2013 { new affiliations } MORE RESORTS MORE VACATIONS

Ramada Gurgaon Central, Gurgaon (C965) is the byword for opulence, style and luxury. Discerning business and leisure travellers can find the right ambience in its splendidly-appointed guestrooms and boardrooms, designed with a host of innovative features using the latest technology. Guests are treated to open and interactive kitchens cuisine restaurant offers a wide selection of Indian, Continental and Lebanese cuisine. The Staff is courteous and attentive to the - needs of guests and the hotel is suffused with an atmosphere the ofmulti- tranquillity and relaxation. Experience luxurious hospitality at its best, at the Ramada Central, Gurgaon! Hotel Mayur, Gangtok (C907) is a 3-star property with 24 rooms, a multi cuisine restaurant, coffee shop and bar, with a view of the Kanchenjunga range. Outdoor adventures offered: cable car, biking, kayaking, white water rafting, tandem paragliding, heli sightseeing, tracking, zorbing, jeep safaris, lake tours and community visits. Located in Gangtok, the nearest airport is Bagdogra (124 kms), Gangtok is also well connected to Guwahati and Kolkata and Delhi. Gangtok does not have a railway station, but the closest one is just 150 kms away. It enjoys mild weather throughout the year, with the maximum not going beyond 22-25° C.

Palmarinha Resort & Suites, Goa (C908) is a picturesque world of "Swaying Palms" in Calangute, North Goa. The Resort has all modern amenities, and well-appointed, spacious rooms in Ratan Haveli, Rajasthan (C814) Located at the Northern end minimalist style with great views. Royal Himalayan Club, Shimla (C816) Blessed with some of of Jaipur, Ratan Haveli dates back to the 1700s. Designed and the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes, Shimla is indeed The Suites and Service Apartments have spacious lounge areas furnished by local Jaipuri designers, the haveli aims to give you an a travellers’ paradise. The Royal Himalayan Club at Shimla is authentic Rajasthani experience. Close to the ancient city walls, the and kitchenettes. The resort also has 2 swimming pools, several newly built and occupies 6 floors built into the mountainside – hotel is a mere 10 minutes from the centre of the Pink City. retail outlets and a games room. it offers unrestricted views of the surrounding mountains. The You can enjoy specialty Goan Dishes at The Palms Multi resort is situated in Shimla hills and very close to the highest The hotel has spacious bedrooms, the cosy Ambar bar and the Pink Palace restaurant. A fully renovated bawdi (stepped well) Cuisine Restaurant, experience al fresco dining on The Deck golf course in Asia, the Naldehra Golf Course. With a spa, forms the centre piece of the gardens. Rooftop terraces provide a Terrace, refresh yourself with cocktails at Coco Bar, and attend viewing gallery, entertainment centre, restaurant, bar and great view of the ancient town battlements. special events such as Grill Nite, Oriental Nite, and the Nite delightful terrace area, the resort provides a perfect vacation. Bazaar on the poolside lawns.

34 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 35 { value deals } CLUB MAHINDRA LAKE VIEW, MUNNAR 20% off on food & soft beverages 15% off on published tariff for additional rooms | on Ayurvedic full body treatment sessions at Summer Svaastha, The Spa offers CLUB MAHINDRA WHISPERING PINES, SHIMLA 20% off on F&B, spa & other recreational activities (except outsourced) Usage of Health Club and board games is complimentary Offers valid till 31 March, 2013

20% off on soft beverages CLUB MAHINDRA BINSAR VALLEY RESORT

15% off on spa menu ALMORA 20% off on F&B a la carte | on room tariff on AVERINA BEACH, Goa additional rooms, free entry to fun zone, free 50% off on laundry services upgradation of rooms as per availability 20% off on Aroma & Thai massages Ayurvedic Therapies at the Spa Villa CLUB MAHINDRA FORT KUMBHALGARH

Offer valid until 30th June 2013 KELWARA CLUB MAHINDRA SNOWPEAKS, MANALI 20% OFF on F&B on a la carte menu | 20% off on a la carte & special meal rates CLIFFTOP CLUB, AULI on Svaastha Ayurvedic Spa Massage Centre 20% off on F&B & room tariff CLUB MAHINDRA ROYAL DEMAZONG CLUB MAHINDRA TUSKER TRAILS, THEKKADY GANGTOK 20% off on F&B on a la carte menu COUNTRY INN, BHIMTAL / COUNTRY INN 20% off on food | spa | room tariff on CORBETT / COUNTRY INN, KOSI additional rooms

30% off on room tariff for additional units of Club Mahindra Safari resort, Corbett 15% OFF on the published tariff for the same type or on upgraded units, subject CLUB MAHINDRA DANCING WATERS AMRUTHA CASTLE, HYDERABAD additional rooms to availability NAUKUCHIATAL 20% off on F&B 20% OFF on food & soft beverages 25% off on a la carte dining 20% off on a la carte meals 10% off on activities Seasonal discount on room tariff 20% OFF on Svaastha, the Spa - full body 20% off on buffet meals (breakfast, lunch Complimentary use of swimming pool & gym treatment sessions & dinner) | on health club facilities Kid's activities CLUB MAHINDRA VARCA BEACH, GOA CAMBAY PALM LAGOON, KOLLAM DISTRICT AJIT BHAWAN, JODHPUR 20% off on F&B, spa and CAMBAY SPA & RESORTS, GANDHINAGAR 50% off Tariff for additional rooms on room only recreational activities CAMBAY SPA & RESORT, UDAIPUR basis + applicable taxes against our published tariff CAMBAY GOLF RESORT, JAMDOLI of r18,000 for executive room (base category) EAST BOURNE RESORT, SHIMLA CAMBAY SPA & RESORTS, JAIPUR 30% off on F&B (meals) 30% off on food 40% off on food only (in restaurant 20% off on beverages, health club, spa menu a la carte) room tariff on additional rooms, recreational 30% off on the room tariff for additional activities, games, etc. rooms (breakfast included taxes applicable) HOTEL GREEN CASTLE, mussoorie 15% off on spa menu 10% off on room rent (additional room) on Spa facilities for guests COUNTRY SPA WELLNESS BEACH RESORT

KOVALAM LE ROYALE RESIDENCY, PUNE 20% off on F&B and spa 50% off on rack rate 10% off on activities 30% off on F&B including liquor (Cascade, Iris Complimentary kid's activities, swimming The Royale Buffet) | on liquor (Vibes - The Pub) pool and gym Spa on standard price 20% off on city safari | on salon services CLUB MAHINDRA KODAGU VALLEY, COORG 15% off on special travel packages | on 25% off on published room tariff for Ayurvedic massages additional rooms or on extension of your stay 10% off on laundry 20% off on Food & Soft Beverages | on Free gym, yoga, swimming & games different types of massages offered at Svaastha Spa MOUNTAIN CLUB, BHIMTAL 20% off on F&B & room tariff CLUB MAHINDRA BACKWATER RETREAT

KOLLAM MANTRA HILL RESORT, PUNE 20% off F&B (a la carte, buffet or room 25% off on food service) | Ayurveda spa - on published rate 20% off on additional room tariff 15% off Room Tariff (additional room or extension, etc.) - on published rate

36 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 37 MANALI RESORTS 15% off on all beverages at all THE COUNTRY CLUB THE RIVERVIEW RETREAT, corbett 20% off on food | health club | additional rooms F&B outlets INTERNATIONAL 30% off on extension nights at Hideaway River Lodge on the prevailing tariff 10% off on a la carte orders MEDCHAL 20% off at Jims Grill at the Corbett Hideaway at all F&B outlets 25% off on spa on spa therapy at The Corbett Hideaway ORANGE COUNTY RESORT, COORG Offers valid until 30 20% off on room rack rate Special offers and tariff are not applicable during 10% off on additional rooms June, 2013 15% off on F&B extended weekends 26 to 28 Jan and 27 Complimentary Plantation tour and guided nature 10% off on Activities to 30 March, 2013 walk. Check with the resort for details of other STERLING HOLIDAYS Complimentary Kid's Cultural programme every alternate evening. Slide exclusive benefits. Special food package, Special 50% off on the published activities show / Wildlife movie every alternate evening package for upgradation to Orange County Resort, tariff for extra rooms Kabini special offers at Orange County Resort, Kabini 15% off on food and soft THE RESORT COUNTRY THE LEISURE CLUB, RAMNAGAR guests referred by RCI members can avail offers on beverages | on health club | on CLUB, GURGAON 30% off on extension nights at Hideaway River Lodge room tariff. all indoor holiday activity 20% off on F&B | on room 20% off at Jims Grill Offers valid till 31 March, 2013 tariff (additional rooms) Special offers and tariff are not applicable during PALMARINHA RESORT & SUITES, GOA Complimentary use of all extended weekends 26 to 28 Jan and 27 20% off on F&B STARZ CLUB & SPA indoor and outdoor leisure to 30 March, 2013 15% off on room tariff AHMEDABAD activities including adventure games like 'Aqua Boat' Cultural programme every alternate evening 30% off on the published room tariff at Starz and gym (except spa) Slide show / Wildlife movie every alternate evening PANORAMIC SEA RESORT, ALLEPPY Club and Spa, exclusively for all RCI Members Guitar performance in the evening 20% off on room rent, F&B, health & spa Complimentary spa treatment of similar or lower THE COUNTRY CLUB WILDLIFE RESORT value on availing any paid spa treatment at Sohum BANDIPUR VIJAYSHREE HERITAGE VILLAGE, Hampi/Hospet RAS RESORTS, SILVASSA Spa, Starz Club. Note: Two offers cannot be clubbed 20% off on F&B and spa 15% off on F&B | on spa menu, health club 20% off on food & non-alcoholic beverages 10% off on activities 10% OFF on room tariff on additional rooms SNOWCREST MANOR, MANALI Complimentary kid's activities Complimentary recreational activities / games ROYAL GOAN BEACH CLUB AT BENAULIM 20% off on F&B and room tariff ROYAL GOAN BEACH CLUB - ROYAL PALMS THE FFORT HOLIDAY KLUB, RAICHAK VITS, MUMBAI ROYAL GOAN BEACH CLUB AT MONTERIO TOSHALI SANDS, PURI / TOSHALI ROYAL VIEW 20% off on F&B (not applicable on room service 25% off on room rack rates ROYAL GOAN BEACH CLUB - HAATHI MAHAL, GOA SHIMLA The Orient, Sonar Tori) | on spa menu | on rack 20% off at Jalsa - The Coal Bar | at Sweet 35% off on extra room nights 15% off on published tariff (on additional rooms) rate for additional rooms. (not applicable on Something - the cake shop 25% off on spa menu Happy Meal Experience – Combo meal plan for RCI premium / event dates 15% off at the poolside restaurant (for breakfast 15% off on all beverages at all F&B outlets members | Laundry–10 pieces @ R300/- Complimentary activities Swimming Pool (water lunch buffet & dinner buffet) 10% off on a la carte orders at all F&B outlets 10% off on Health Club & Hobby Studio polo balls are provided), Carrom, Table Tennis 10% off on spa menu Offers valid until 30 June, 2013 10% off on F&B (hard liquor not included) Gymnasium, Children’s play area, Large Chess Complimentary use of gymnasium Offers valid until 30 June, 2013 and steam room ROYAL HIMALAYAN CLUB, SHIMLA THE COUNTRY CLUBE DE GOA 35% off on extra room nights 20% off on F&B THE NAINI RETREAT, NAINITAL PLEASE Note: Offers cannot be clubbed. Offers (including 25% off on all spa treatments 10% off on activities 30% off on extension night at Hideaway River Lodge tariffs, facilities and other charges) are subject to change 15% off on all beverages at all F&B outlets Complimentary use of swimming pool & gym 20% off on spa therapy | at Jims Grill at the discretion of participating resorts. Please check with 10% off on a la carte orders at all F&B outlets Kid's activities Special offers and tariff are not applicable during your resort before booking. RCI is not responsible for any Offers valid until 30 June, 2013 extended weekends 26 to 28 Jan and 27 changes made to the offers by participating resorts. to 30 March, 2013 RATAN HAVELI, JAIPUR Guided nature walk / heritage walk Entry to 35% off on extra room nights boathouse club 25% off on all spa treatments

38 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 39 { RCI recommends - Rajasthan }

Royal Rajasthan

he land of the Rajputs remains as alluring today as it was five hundred years ago. Teeming with colour and history and passion, this jewel of a state is one of India’s treasures. Sweeping sands, majestic palacesT and vibrant bazaars ensure that your vacation will remain in your memories forever.

The Pink City Jaipur is the vivid, bustling heart of the state of Rajasthan. The City of Lakes Filled with stunning pink palaces and forts that pay homage From its spectacular floating palace to the scenic vistas of the to its queenly beauty, Jaipur vibrates with the pride of its long Aravalli hills, Udaipur is a feast for the senses. Internationally and glorious lineage. The delicate, intricate architecture of the renowned as the Venice of the East, this city is a celebration of Hawa Mahal is contrasted by the sturdy serenity of Nahargarh, the Rajput way of life. Palaces, museums and temples abound perched atop a sheer cliff. The museum at the City Palace is – from the high-end luxury of Jagniwas island to the lavish also well worth a visit. But the most spectacular, picturesque sprawl of the City palace, from the breathtaking sunsets of part of Jaipur is its bazaars, stretched along the wide, well- the Sajjan Garh to the serene waters of Badi Ka Talab (Tiger paved avenues of the old city with each section specialising in Lake), Udaipur has treasures, both splendid and hidden to different arts and crafts, a bargain hunter’s dream. offer the discerning visitor. 

40 | JAN - JUN 2013 Because your vacation means... The Blue City Watched over by the massive walls of the Mehrangar fort, Jodhpur is the making connections nexus of Rajasthan. Apart from its impressive fort, the city also has several other architectural gems – from the pearly Jaswant Thada to the sprawling Umaid Bhawan palace. Don’t forget to visit the markets around the Clock Tower for some beautiful antique-style furniture, and the nearby Bishnoi villages for a taste of tribal life.

The Golden City In the heart of the desert is the Sun City, stark and golden. Jaisalmer, home JAIPUR to some of the most scenic desert architecture in India, is more peaceful than JODHPUR PUSHKAR the other tourist hubs in Rajasthan but just as stunning. Here, you can visit the massive sandstone fort, or take camel rides into the desert or watch the famous Manganyar musicians and Kalbelia dancers at the Desert Festival. UDAIPUR Apart from the multi-hued cities of this colourful state, Rajasthan has several other sights to offer the discriminating visitor. There are the beautiful Dilwara temples at Mount Abu, the well-preserved havelis in Shekhawat, the wild beauty of the Ranthambore national park and, of course, the unforgettable sight of thousands impression artist's scale, not to Map to of camels gathered together at the Pushkar Mela.

From the stark beauty of its desert to the delicate elegance of its palaces, Royal Rajasthan almost thrums with passion and colour, a testament to our glorious past. Relax and enjoy Rajputana hospitality with RCI! 

STAY RCI has over 10 resorts across Rajasthan. For more detailed info, visit www.rci.com

EXPLORE Rajasthan has an endless list of things to do that ranges from visiting the royal palaces and museums to shopping and desert safaris. Sneak into royal grandeur by paying a visit to the heritage towns like Your dream holiday is not just a week-long thing anymore. Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer or checkout the spiritual stopovers like It's 24/7. http://twitter.com/RCI_Timeshare Ajmer and Pushkar. Adventure enthusiasts RCI invites you to forums that are teeming with people who and wildlife lovers can choose a holiday in think, dream and live holidays. http://www.facebook.com/RCITimeshare places like Ranthambhore, Mount Abu or http://www.youtube.com/rcitimeshare Bharatpur. Come with us on an online vacation today and discover new destinations, experiences and friends. http://blog.rci.com/ WHEN TO VISIT Though it can be a year round destination, the best time to visit Rajasthan is in winter, between October to March when the desert sun is not so intense and the days are cool and pleasant. Because your vacation means the world to us®. RCI Member Helpline Toll Free (All India): 1800 419 2131 Bangalore: +91 80 4184 9100/6691 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rci.com Terms and conditions apply. 42 | JAN - JUN 2013 Endless VACATION | 43 SUMMER COOLERS

India @ r263* South East Asia @ r345* Choose from over Book online International @ & save up to * 4000resorts * r579 worldwide 10% Booking early increases your chances of getting the summer vacation destination of your choice.

Because your vacation means the world to us®. RCI Member Helpline Toll Free (All India): 1800 419 2131 Bangalore: +91 80 4184 9100/6691 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rci.com *Rates mentioned are on a per day per person basis, based on the applicable fee for an international and domestic exchange, with 4 persons sharing a 1-bedroom unit for a week. Accommodation only. Subject to availability. Taxes will be charged extra, as applicable. Calculation rounded 44up | toJA theN - nearestJUN 2013 rupee. Terms and conditions apply, please check with your guides for details.