STARS of TRAVEL

Travel isn't just about places; it's as much about people. There are those who dream of building hotels, those who open up their own homes to others; those who are so passionate about their hometowns that they can't wait to share their favourites with everyone; those whose passions and skills draw visitors galore; those who just love travelling so much that they inspire the rest of us to as well. This issue pays special tribute to all those in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. May we all make great memories together!

- ANDREA PINTO

VIVEK SAHNI CEO & Co-Founder, Kama Ayurveda

Your best wellness holiday?

Vana, in the Himalayas. There’s nothing like it. It’s calm and beautiful, with amazing doctors, treatments, brilliant food and interesting people.

A place or journey that attracted you to the Ayurveda beauty regime?

The first time I went to Coimbatore and discovered the Arya Vaidya Pharmacy. I met the doctors and understood an alternative way to heal the body.

A favourite shop you discovered on your travels?

I love junk, thrift and antique shops. Even if I don’t buy anything, there’s tons of inspiration. (kamaayurveda.com)

JAYANTI RAJAGOPALAN Founder, Detours, Hyderabad

Eleven years a corporate slave and three more in development, Jayanti “Jonty” Rajagopalan had had enough. Enter Detours. “The aim was to curate experiences that give a deeper understanding of Hyderabad’s history, culture and food,” she says. After 12 years of guiding immersive experiences across the country, there’s no regret. “The artisans and common people we interact with have a sense of pride in sharing their day-to-day life with visitors,” she says. (detoursindia.com)

BILLA MAJID BAKSHI Founder-Owner, Kashmir Heliski, Gulmarg