Food & wine luxury tours
As the world grows more and more complicated and fast-paced, taking time to smell the roses (and enjoy the finer things in life) becomes more and more of a treasure. Whether it’s taking the first sip of a full, rich wine, paired with the perfect cheese, or sighing in contentment in the relaxation only a spa can bring, Travel Jaunts has everything ready for bliss. From following a food trail in India, to leaning back in Switzerland’s largest alpine themed spa, we have it all.
10 Best Food, Wine and Spa Experiences in the World
South African Wine Tour
The “Rainbow Nation”, as it is affectionately called, gets its nickname for being a melting pot of cultures, languages and traditions. In South Africa, you will find the right combination of delectable wine for you – whether it in the pearl of South African vineyards (Paarl), the technical viticulture of Stellenbosch, or the spectacular French wines in Franschhoek. From kayaking to the African Penguin colony, to seeing exotic wildlife in Kruger National Park, to hike up Table Mountain to see the gorgeous view, there is a thrill awaiting you every minute of this tour. Enjoy the markets and history of Johannesburg, Soweto, the home of Nelson Mandela, and follow the trail of apartheid in Pretoria. Take Travel Jaunts’ South Africa tours from India.
Best time to go to South Africa – From May to September, the dry season of South Africa is when animals congregate near watering holes, enabling you to watch the exotic wildlife, and the weather is less cold than in the harsh winters. This is the perfect time for your South Africa wine tour.
How to go to South Africa – You can fly in through Cape Town Airport, which has direct flights to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, and start your journey there. Follow the South Africa adventure tour package itinerary around, and you can depart from Johannesburg Airport, which has connections to all the major Indian cities as well.
Where to stay in South Africa – In Cape Town, it is best to stay close to the Cape Peninsula, for easy access to the tourist spots and adventure activities, or near Table Mountain for gorgeous views. In Johannesburg and Pretoria, you can stay close to the city centre.
India Food Tour
Indian cuisine is one of the most varied and interesting in the world. Influenced heavily by the many religions of India, as well as its time under Islamic rule, almost each state of India has its own special dishes to try. Travel Jaunts’ India food tour of India stimulates all your five senses – you can smell the aroma of food, feel the textures, hear the food being made, see the dishes and of course, relish the food at the end. The culinary tourism in India takes you from fiery Bengali food to the seafood of Goa and Kerala.
Best time to take the Food Tour – The winter months of November-March might be the best time to take the tour, as most of the places covered have harsh summers, especially Delhi, Goa and Cochin.
Where to stay for the Food Tour – For Goa, it is best to stay somewhere close to the sea, to take advantage of the numerous seafood restaurants nearby. In Delhi, the Old City, with its famed market of Hauz Khas, is the best option to stay in. For Cochin, perhaps enjoying a leisurely houseboat stay is the best way to see the beaches and enjoy the food of the city.
How to start the food tour – Begin your journey by flying into Kolkata Airport, which is well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. From there, a combination of flight and driving takes you through the cities of Varanasi, Lucknow, Agra, Jaipur, Delhi, Goa and Cochin.
Himalayan Tour from India
Nestled in the foot of the Himalayan mountains, Ananda greets you with open palms, and a salute of “Namaste” (welcome). Find all your worries melting away in one of the world’s best luxury wellness retreats, where you will be rejuvenated through a mixture of traditionational Ayurveda, Yoda and Vedanta with a fitness regime, and healthy, nourishing and organic food to harmonize energy. Return from your retreat in Ananda with a new life.
For first-time visitors, India is a grand, multi-sensory experience that will take months to complete, as one of the world’s most diverse countries in terms of geography, culture, cuisine, language and ethnicity. However, the Himalayan tour package from India takes you on a divine journey across the Ganges, and back to the glory days of the Mughal empire – through Delhi, Agra, Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Best time to take the Himalayan Tour – The winter months of November-March might be the best time to take the tour, as the days are cool and clear, punctuated by days of warm sunshine, in Delhi, Agra, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Ananda.
Where to stay during the Himalayan Tour – You can spend a few of your days staying in the Ananda Spa in Rishikesh to enjoy the spiritual retreat of your dreams. In Delhi, the Old City, with its famed market of Hauz Khas, is the best option to stay in. For Agra, staying close to the Taj Mahal is a must to see it in all its beauty. In Haridwar, staying alongside the banks of the river Ganges helps you make the most of this holy city, as most of its main temples are located there also.
How to travel the Himalayan Tour itinerary– Begin your journey by flying into Delhi Airport, well-connected to Mumbai and Bangalore. You can depart from Delhi Airport as well after completing your tour.
Leukerbad Spa Experience
Leukerbad, located in the Swiss Alps, is a paradise of natural waterfall showers, stone grottos, whirlpools and gentle massage jets, ranging in temperature from 28 to 43 degree celsius, for your relaxation and enjoyment. Spend hours in this geothermal springs down, relaxing and luxuriating in having your stress taken away by Switzerland’s largest alpine based spa.
Other than that, enjoy the chocolates and designer boutiques of Zurich, the Bundezplatz Government building in Bern (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the vibrant nightlife of Geneva, the medieval Chillon Castle in Montreux, going skiing and snowmobiling in Zermatt, the medieval township of Lucerne, and the naturally lovely waters of the emerald lakes in Interlaken.
Best time to visit Switzerland – Between April and June, and September-October, the weather is at its pleasant bests, and the cities are less crowded with tourists.
Where to stay in Switzerland – You can spend a few of your days staying in the town of Leukerbad, near the Spa, to enjoy the wellness retreat of your dreams. In Zurich, the Old Town or District 1, is the best option to stay in. For Interlaken, staying close to Lake Thun and Lake Briez, the two main lakes, is the best option, and there are several hotels and villas close by for you to stay in.
How to plan the Switzerland Tour Itinerary – Begin your journey by flying into Zurich International Airport, well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. From Zurich, it is an easy journey to Bern, Geneva, Montreux, Interlaken, Leukerbad, Zermatt and Lucerne, mostly by road or by scenic mountain railway. You can depart from Zurich Airport as well after completing your tour.
Kyushu hot springs experience
An onsen (natural hot springs), is fuelled by volcanic activity, and the relaxing atmosphere of wellness and retreat that it promises. Japan has over 2300 onsens around the country, many of whom have become resorts in their own retreat. In Kurokawa Onsen, the springs are said to be beneficial to nerve pain, and the town has maintained its traditional atmosphere to go with it – the streets are covered with ryokan and shops. In Beppu Onsen, another speciality in this steam-caped city is sand and mud baths. Yufuin Onsen, set at the base of Mount Yufu, is a charming town full of boutique stores, and numerous museums as well. Come here for the ultimate relaxing experience.
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, Japan’s capital, the Buddhist culture and shrines of the coastal town of Kamakura, exploring the Otaku culture of Akihabara, hiking the Fujigoko five lakes, the historical haven of Kyoto, and the mouth-watering food, cherry blossoms and marine life of Osaka in this thrilling and relaxing Japan tour package from India.
Best time to visit Japan – Between March and May, and September-November, the weather is mild, and the rainfall is less.
Where to stay in Japan – In Tokyo, stay close to the JR Yamanote train line for easy access to the tourist spots. In Beppu, Kurokawa and Yuifin, you can find accommodation close to the onsens to enjoy all-day access to them.
How to reach Japan – Begin your journey by flying into Narita International Airport in Tokyo, well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. You can depart from Fukuoka Airport as well after completing your tour.
French Wines Experience
The world’s most visited country, France is a paradise of mediterranean beaches, alpine villages, and big cities teeming with art, architecture, food and culture. Enjoy the world-famous delights of Paris such as the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) and more, as well as a slow, romantic cruise down the Seine River, or a show at the Moulin Rouge. The wine region of France, including Reims, Champagne and Burgundy, where you can enjoy strawberry champagne with ice and see the glorious history of French wines. The UNESCO listed landscapes of the Loire Valley are spectacular to see. Bordeaux, the heart of the wine-growing region of France, and Saint Emilion, a UNESCO world heritage site and a Romanesque commune, is the perfect day. Enjoy this France tour package from India.
Best time to visit France – Between April and June, and September-November, the weather is mild, the cities are less crowded, and the prices are lower in general. French summers are hot, and should be avoided.
Where to stay in France – In Paris, the 7th arrondissement is the best place to stay for first-time visitors, as it is close to the major tourist attractions. In Reims, Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy, it is best to stay in hotels and villas close to the vineyards, so you can enjoy the experience completely and see the scenic views.
How to reach France- Begin your journey by flying into Paris International Airport, well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. You can depart from Paris Airport as well after completing your tour.
Chile and Argentina Experience
A country bordered by the Andes mountains, Chile is home to a world-class wine culture, being the ninth largest exporter of wine in the world. Indulge in the rich tastes of Pinot Noir and Syrah in Casablanca, as well as embark on a journey to experience the history of colonial Santiago, the home of famous author Pablo Neruda, and taste the delicious traditional dishes of Arollado hiaso (park roll).
Argentina, a country largely known for its love of football, is also the perfect setting for tango, architecture, wine and delicious food. Lose yourself in the delicious wines of Mendoza Valley and Valle de Uco, as well as taking in the contemporary art deco buildings and leafy streets by riding a bicycle.
Best time to visit Chile and Argentina – March and April are called the “shoulder season”, and is perfect for visiting Chile. Argentina springtime, from October-December and autumn (from April to June), is perfect for visiting to avoid the crowds and enjoy the climate.
Where to stay in Chile and Argentina – In Buenos Aires, you can stay in the neighbourhood of Palermo and Recoleta, where you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and be close to the tourist attractions. In Santiago, you can stay in Providencia, which is buzzing with tourists, hotels, eateries and nightlife.
How to reach Chile and Argentina – Begin your journey by flying into Buenos Aires International Airport, well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. You can depart from Santiago Airport in Chile after completing your tour.
Italy Food Tours
Italy, a paradise of delicious cuisine, great and plentiful wine, and vibrant art and history make it the perfect vacation spot. The island of Capri, with its famous blue grotto and seafood, is the perfect vacation spot. Naples, with its delicious pizza, and Rome, the capital of Italy, clearly shows the glorious Italian history through ruins around the city, with the most famous being the Roman Colosseum, a grand homage to the battles of years earlier. Enjoy the rich Bolognese sauce of Bologna, washed down by a drink of limoncello in the Amalfi winery, with the sweet and sour taste lingering on your lips as you see the beautiful scenery. Nearly one third of the world’s greatest art treasures lie in Florence, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the Seven Wonders of the Word.
In Venice, the city of canals, enjoy a trip around the city in the network of boats, drinking in the beautiful plazas and carved balconies of Venetian architecture. Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is famous for its mixture of modern and contemporary architecture, such as the Pirelli Tower. Step up and book your Italy tours from India, and let the experience soak into your bones like a da Vinci painting.
Best time to visit Italy– The spring and fall seasons (April-June and September-October) are perfect times to visit, due to the pleasant weather, lower prices, and reduced amount of tourists in the area.
Where to stay in Italy – It is best to stay close to the city centres of Rome, Florence, Milan and Venice for proximity to the tourist attractions.
How to reach Italy – Naples Airport is the perfect arrival point for the tour, as it is well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. After completing the tour, you can depart from Marco Polo Airport in Venice, which is also very well-connected to major cities in India.
So, make your bookings for the Italy tour packages from India, with Travel Jaunts.
Melbourne
Over the course of a fortnight have a chance to travel through the charming Great Ocean Road from Melbourne to Adelaide, which features the 12 Apostles and shipwrecks with the backdrop of pristine blue oceans. Have a taste of the impeccable wines and delicacies while basking on the beaches and frothy seascapes. Finally go scuba diving and cruising on the Great Barrier Reef off the Queensland Shoreline before watching an opera show in the Sydney Opera House.
You will visit the picturesque natural relief amidst modern wonders and the beautiful Wine Regions and enjoy dishes such as Pavlova (a meringue cake base topped with whipped cream and fruit), Witchetty Grub and Lamington (a square of sponge cake covered in chocolate sauce or sometimes raspberry sauce and coconut).
Best time to visit Australia– The spring and fall seasons (March-May and September-November) are perfect times to visit, due to the pleasant weather.
Where to stay in Australia – It is best to stay close to the city centres of Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney for proximity to the tourist attractions. In the McLaren valley, it is best to stay close to the vineyards.
How to reach Australia – Melbourne International Airport is the perfect arrival point for the tour, as it is well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. After completing the tour, you can depart from Sydney, which is also very well-connected to major cities in India.
Festivals in Australia 2020 – On 19 and 20 March, Melbourne celebrates its Food and Wine festival, where chefs from around the world throng to enjoy the world’s biggest gastronomic celebration.
So, make your bookings for the Australia tour packages from India, with Travel Jaunts.
Iceland Tour Packages from India
The land of fire and Ice- Iceland, a Nordic Island Nation hosts not only dramatic landscapes adorned with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and vast glacial National parks, but is also credited with the bizarre food indigenous to the isle like- Kæstur Hakarl (fermented meat of Greenland shark) that only the dauntless wanderer would try. Enjoy the black sand beaches of Iceland with Travel Jaunts’ Iceland Tour packages from India.
Best time to visit Iceland – The midnight sun and warmer temperatures make summer the best season to visit Iceland. For hiking, July and August is the best time to visit Iceland whereas February, March, September and October are typically the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights.
Where to stay in Iceland – In Reykjavik, you can stay in the neighbourhood of Midborg, which is the heart and soul of the city. At the Blue Lagoon spa, you can stay in the Blue Lagoon Resort, close to the spa, for convenience. In Hella and Vik, you can stay in resorts in the city.
How to reach Iceland – Reykjavik International Airport is the perfect arrival point for the tour, as it is well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. After completing the tour, you can depart from Reykjavik as well.