Continued...............

• Be aware of the Local Laws - You are leaving your country so don't expect your own law system to follow you around the World.
• Get your vaccinations if you need them - Yellow fever is not fun. You will kick yourself if you could have prevented it and you didn't.
• Scan your passport and Travel documents - Give copies to family/friends. If you lose your passport or travel documents, this backup will save you a lot of heartache. It will also help your family to find you in the event of a disaster.
• Learn a few phrases of the Local language - Speak to the Locals, experience their culture, don't just wander through it.

• Know the scams of each destination - Get on the internet and work out the scams so you don't become a victim of these scams.
• Learn the art of Haggling - Haggling saves you money. Be Bold. That extra bux will buy you a coffee
• learn the basic geography of the country you are visiting. There is nothing worse than a traveller who has no idea where they are travelling.
• Learn how to use a Compass. Sounds extreme but helps in a crisis.
• Get travel insurance. It's obvious, but probably one of the most important items on the list.
• Allow relaxation time to get over Jet lag. You don't want to be on a go for 6 weeks straight, it Should be a Holiday.
• Keep a change of clothes and basic toiletries in your carry-on. 
• Research the airports you are travelling through so you can find the fastest way through and use the facilities. Don't just sit at the boarding gate.
• Take a jumper on the plane. It is cold and has air-conditioning.

• Take Imodium and panadol/nurofen. The cuisine of other countries can be harsh on the tummy at times.
• Check if the drinking water is safe. That includes brushing your teeth, ice in cocktails and drinking water in the shower.
• Be aware of altitude sickness. Give yourself time to adjust between altitudes, drink a lot more when you are high up,
• Know the local road rules. 
• Be respectful. Pay attention to how local women dress to work out how you should.

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Art of Travelling

There's an art to travelling well. Some little secrets you learn on the way, like making sure you find a map at the airport before you leave and always throwing spare plastics bags into your suitcase for dirty clothes. 

• Wash your clothes in the sink/shower - Use the Hotel soap or take a little traveller sized bottle of laundry detergent with you. It's much easier than finding a Laundry in a foreign country. 

• Learn how to use a needle and thread - You have only got some space for a few items of clothing. Sewing a broken button back on will save you a lot of hassle.
• Carry baby wipes/ face wipes - This can be used to feel clean when there are no showers. Yes, sometimes there are NO showers.
• Learn how to say "No Thank You" - Most travel advice columns will tell you to learn how to say "Hello", "Yes Please", "Thank you" and "Do you speak English?". But in some countries you really want to be able to say "No Thank you, Leave me alone".
• Grocery stores are a traveller's best resource - Cheap food, local flavours. Find the nearest one to your Hotel and you will save yourself a heap of cash. Have a picnic lunch everyday.

• Keep an emergency stash of Money - If you lose your wallet you will still need to eat. An empty chapstick is a fantastic secret hiding spot.
• Roll your clothes when packing - No creases and more clothes fit into your suitcase.
• Always keep a stash of spare plastic Bags for dirty clothes/shoes - Smelly socks will make your clean clothes stink, always.
• Learn how to pack light - You do not need to take 20 kgs for a week of travel. You can wear a trouser 2 days in a row or more. The less you have to carry, the happier you will be travelling.

• Always carry a hard copy map of the city you're going to - Save your phone charge for when you really need it.
• Make sure your Bank Cards work - There is nothing more annoying on Holidays than spending hours on the phone to the bank back home.
• Carry tissues than can double up as toilet paper - Plus carry a hand sanitizer.
• Be prepared to Sleep anywhere - Ear plugs and eye patches will help block out the light.
• Learn how to take a decent photo - Don't come home with a bunch of Instagram selfies. Memories fade and you would want something to remember the scenery by.
• Pack Smart - Put necklaces in straws so they don't get jumbled. Use a button to keep your earrings together.
• Learn basic First Aid - This is just a great life skill, if nothing else.
• Get folders for travel documents & itineraries - Keep them organised so you don't have to mess about digging through pockets in your bag at the airport Check-In.
• Use public Transport - It's fast, it's easy, it's cheaper and it will get you a better travel experience. Get a map and learn about the different tickets in advance.
• Ask the Locals for advice, tips - The best beach is probably isn't the most popular one. The locals can help you find those secret spots you will rave about.
• Peg clothes to the outside - As you walk around in the sun to dry them after washing, Cheap & easy!!
• Know where the Embassy is - Find it in your map. Don't think just because you are in a "safe" country you wont need it. All it takes is a quick Google search, write down the address and put it in the safe place.

                    To be continued on the next blog..........

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Go Mobile with our latest application

Get easily connected to Summit Hotels & Resorts 24/7 on your Smart Phones & Tablets.

Our Application works on Apple devices like Ipads, Iphones & Ipod Touch. It also works on all Andriod devices, Tablets & Smart Phones.

This is an easy to use app like any other applications that can be comfortably downloaded on to your Phones or Tabs wherein you can get all the detailed information about the Hotels and its facilities. However, you need to have internet connection on your Phones or Tabs. You can have an easy access to any kind of information you require which may include – finding the location of the Hotels to locating places of interest and so on.

The application can be downloaded according to your convenience. There is no additional charge to it. It’s simply a Free App. 

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Student Packages

An academic year vacation marks the end of an academic year.
As a learning ground of knowledge and enlightenment, we at Summit Hotels & Resorts would like to take this opportunity to invite you and your disciples to the picturesque destinations in the region filled with glorious scenic sites, nature walks, trekking, wildlife adventure, rich culture and heritage.

Summit Hotels & Resorts launches the first of its kind Informative & Educational Vacation packaged to experience the culture, tradition and taste of the Region and make it one of the memorable moments in each individual’s life.

You can choose to be in the heart of the city with Hotel SUMMIT TTAKSHANG RESIDENCY, GANGTOK – Hotel SUMMIT YASHSHREE SUITES & SPA, DARJEELING or Hotel SUMMIT EMBASSY, SILIGURI or enjoy the serene beauty of our premium properties at Hotel SUMMIT NORLING RESORT & SPA, GANGTOK - Hotel SUMMIT GRACE RESORT & SPA, DARJEELING – Hotel SUMMIT NEWA REGENCY, PELLING – Hotel SUMMIT GARDENS RETREAT & SPA, KALIMPONG or Hotel AIRPORT SUMMIT, BAGDOGRA.

Summit Hotels & Resorts is very much preferred by students group because of the environment that provides a sense of security. This factor along with the locational advantages and good food makes us the most visited hotel in the region.

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Trekking Sandakphu @ 3636mts

Summit Hotels & Resorts had Coordinate & Organised a Trekking Camp which was a success. A 6 member group from the prestigious Siliguri Round Table were kind enough to share the following travelogue with us.

Living Outdoors  – Siliguri Round Table 220

Like many other people in the world Siliguri Round Table decided to take this journey so commonly travelled by trekkers and enthusiast all around in a bid to encounter the experience first-hand. All the members who embarked on this 3 day Trek were native to the place but most of us had never made the journey beyond the comfort that lies within the City. But in the unexpected we found profound bliss and serenity.

We had our trekking days limited to 3 nights/4 days.

Day 1 – The Trek was flagged off from the Chairman Kuldeep Chowdary’s residence. We travelled all the way from Siliguri to Maneybhanjang via a scenic drive through the lush tea gardens & undulating hills of Mirik. Upon reaching Maneybhanjang we changed Vehicles and hopped on to the Land Rovers up to Chitrey. Once we reached Chitrey we decided to hike up to our overnight destination Tumling.  The weather was however not on a favourable side since it was drizzling all throughout the hike up to LameyDhura. Nonetheless we walked for 3 hours to our pit stop – SHIKHER LODGE in Tumling which was one of the Best Lodges throughout the Trek. The rooms were excellent and the service impeccable. The owners of the lodge were courteous enough to arrange a special evening for us – Although there is electricity throughout the area, never did we expect to have a Candle lit dinner at an altitude of 2970 meters.

Day 2 – We started an early morning hike up to Tonglu which is one of the best vantage point besides Sandakphu. One gets to see a 360 view of the whole Himalayan Range if the weather is favourable. It took us about 1 hour to wind up the short hike up to Tonglu and head out to our base in Tumling. After some serious breakfast at Tumling we headed for our next destination Kalipokhari. As the name suggest the pond is black in colour no matter how Green the surrounding area is. We ended the days Hike with a swift Dinner at one of the Lodges where a Bonfire was arranged just before Dinner. One could not help but notice the kitchen at these lodges. Most of the kitchen and Dining area had a rustic and authentic feel to it which was very interesting.

Day 3 – We were all geared up to reach to our final destination of the Trek – Sandakphu at an elevation of 3636 meters. It was a cloudy day to start the day’s hike which was later followed by light showers – All of us were just hoping for the clouds to clear up. The final day of the hike was most strenuous since it was a total uphill climb. After every half an hour we were stopping by to catch our breath for few seconds. It was a relief when we finally saw the milestone which read “Sandakphu- 0 Kms”. There was a sense of relief at the same time a sense of achievement that we had finally reached Sandakphu which welcomed us with a slogan that read – “LEAVE NOTHING BUT FOOTPRINTS AND TAKE NOTHING BUT MEMORIES”.  Since we reached early we decided to hike to a nearby camping site called Goat which is approximately one and a half km away from Sandakphu. The trail that led to Goat was simply breathtaking with Rododendren trees carving the pathway ahead.

Day 4 – We woke up to the most mesmerising view of Mt. Kanchanjunga which was a perfect way to wind up our trek. The mountain and the horizon beyond changing its colour was simply breath-taking. We just stood there and gazed at the mighty Kanchanjunga standing there with all its glory. Even the Hen’s were paying homage to the mighty Mountain with their early morning croaks. Most of us stood there taking pictures to capture the moment. After a brief moment the whole range simply vanished in between the clouds. We descended back on the Land Rovers but made a stop at “land under the clouds” rightfully known as Megma where one of the oldest and highest Monastery stands upright. The locals were kind enough to show us around the Monastery and reveal us facts about the Buddhist traditions which gave the whole Trek a very spiritual ending.

Away from the comfort and luxurious of the modern life one can find peace and tranquillity at the heart of Nature. Maybe this was just a brief instance but we made memories just like the Slogan said – We left nothing but footprints behind...
                             

SUMMIT HOTELS & RESORTS PROVIDES TREKKING SERVICES & FACILITIES

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Indulge yourself to a Complete Holistic Experience...

Treat your body to Luxurious rejuvenation and relaxation in the serenely appointed Spa’s of Summit Hotels & Resorts. Relax the spirit while your body is revitalised by the healing hands of therapist trained in a fusion of remedial practises as well as modern rejuvenation and well being techniques.

Indulge yourself in therapies that soothes the senses and restore the Vital Energy of the body. Unfold the holistic path of life and open out channels to nurture one’s life force.

Understand the journey within with a truly calming experience and a deep understanding of mind body and spirit. 

BASIC TREATMENTS

 FACE CLEAN UP 

FOOT MASSAGE

HEAD & SHOULDER

BACK MASSAGE

       

TRADITIONAL MASSAGE

SWEDISH MASSAGE – lmproves circulation and flexibility, and reduces tension, muscle aches and stress through the use of a firm but gentle pressure. Promotes overall health and well being.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE – Focuses on healing deeper layers of muscle and connective tissues to improve tense, contracted areas such as still neck, low back tightness and sore shoulders. Improves mobility and chronic pain.

 BALINESE MASSAGE – The luxurious spa therapy which evolved on the Island of Bali is a deep pressure message using a variety of techniques including skin rolling, deep tissue manipulation, gentle stretching and reflexology.

 AROMA MASSAGE – Aromatherapy Massage involves the controlled use of Essential Oils from aromatic plants by inhalation and bodily application to promote physical, psychological and spiritual well being. It is a revitalising massage that combines different massage techniques to improve circulation and mobilization.

ANTI STRESS BACK TREATMENT – Our Certified Therapists will give you a full back massage using oil and firm massage strokes. It’s a perfect way to unwind. Helps relieve stress, sore muscle, aches and pains on the low back, neck and shoulders. This treatment will leave you feeling wonderfully renewed.

TREKKERS MASSAGE - Trekking is normally very strenuous. Most of the time, trekking involves long walks that can hurt your legs and your back. Trekkers' Massage is a perfect combination of Ayurvedic massage and Thai massage which will take away the pain from your body and helps you relax. It focuses on preventing and treating injury and enhancing physical performance using techniques such as facilitated stretching. It helps relaxing the muscles and increases flexibility.

SIGNATURE MASSAGE

FOUR HANDS MASSAGE - A deep pressure message using a variety of techniques including skin rolling, deep tissue manipulation and gentle stretching. It focuses on healing deeper layers of muscle and connective tissues to improve tense and contracted areas. Improves mobility, chronic pain and repetitive strain injuries.

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Mysteries & Facts - Sacred places in Sikkim

BABA MANDIR, NATHULA PASS 

Major "Baba" Harbhajan Singh (August 3, 1941 – September 11, 1967) was an Indian army soldier who died near the Nathula Pass in eastern Sikkim, India. He is revered by soldiers of the Indian army as the "Hero of Nathula" and the army men have also built a shrine in his honour. He has been accorded the status of saint by believers who refer to him as the Baba (saintly father). Many faithful people, chiefly the army men posted in those parts have believe his spirit protects every soldier in the inhospitable terrain of Himalayan mountain pass. As with most saints, the Baba is said to also grant favours presumably to those who revere and worship him.Baba Harbhajan Singh born into a Sikh family on August 3, 1941 in the village of Batthe Bhaini in Punjab (India). He completed his preliminary schooling at village school, and then did his matriculation from DAV High School in Patti in March 1955. In June 1956 he enrolled himself as a soldier in Amritsarand joined the Corps of Signals. On June 30, 1965 was granted a commission and posted to the 14 Rajput regiment. During the 1965 Indo-Pakistan war he served as an Adjutant of his unit. Later he was transferred to 18 Rajput. It was with this regiment that he met his end on September 11, 1967 in Sikkim.

According to legend, Harbhajan Singh drowned in a glacier while trying to lead a column of mules carrying supplies to a remote outpost. As the first casualty of the 23rd Punjab Regiment in that war, a manhunt was launched to find him. His remains were found after three days and he was cremated with full military honours. The legend further claims that it was Harbhajan Singh who himself helped the search party to find his body. Still later, through a dream, he instructed one of his colleagues to build and maintain a shrine in his memory.Legend also has it that in the event of a war between India and China, Baba would warn the Indian soldiers at least the three days in advance of any impending attack. During flag meetings between the two nations at Nathula, the Chinese set a chair aside to honour of Harbhajan Singh who has since been saint. Every year on September 11, a jeep departs with his personal belongings to the nearest railway station, New Jalpaiguri, from where it is then sent by train to the village of Kuka, in Kapurthala district in Punjab. While empty berths on any train of the Indian Railways are invariably allocated to any passenger without a confirmed reservation (Reservation against cancellation, RAC, or wait listed) or first come first served basis by the coach attendants, a special reservation for the Baba is actually made for him and left empty for the entire journey to his home town every year with other soldiers travelling along so as to reach him till his home. A small sum of money is also contributed by soldiers posted in Nathula and sent to his mother each month.

 GURUDONGMAR LAKE, NORTH SIKKIM 

Gurudongmar Lake or Gurudogmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 17,100 ft (5,210 m). It lies in the district of North Sikkim in the state of Sikkim in India, only some 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) south of Chinese border. The lake can be reached by road from Lachen via Thangu.
Here is the legend behind the lake according to Sikh history. Guru Nanak journeyed through the area on his way back from Tibet during his third Udasi (journey) in 1516. He provided solace to Buddhists of the Karmapa Nyingmapa sect who had settled down there after being hounded out of Tibet by the Gelugpa sect. During the visit, yak grazers sought Guru Nanak also known as (NANAK LAMA) help over the scarcity of fresh water in the region, because the lake remained frozen throughout the year.Guru Nanak hit the frozen lake waters with his stick and the ice melted away in that part of the lake making its pristine water accessible. The blessed part of the lake hasn’t frozen since.Guru Nanak also advised the yak grazers to drink the lake water to increase libido drained by the lack of oxygen at that height. “Whosoever takes the water of this lake will gain virility and strength and will be blessed with children.” Nineteenth century British maps record the lake’s name as Gurudongmaar, corroborating the legend. Lamas of Karmapa Nyingmapa Sect regularly visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar even today. The monastery at Lachen, commemorates the Guru visit with his footprints, his robe and a water-carrying utensil (kamandal).

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Summit EMBASSY Siliguri - Brand New Addition to Summit Group Of Hotels & Resorts

Embassy in Siliguri is one of the premier economy hotels in the city. We at Embassy boast of having the best rooms and service in the city. The hotel is located right in the heart of the city which makes it the preferred choice. We cater to the needs of both the leisure as well as the business travelers and have proved to be one of the most popular hotels to stay in. The property is conveniently located in the heart of the city and is a great respite to travelers who take up Siliguri as a base to tour the other beautiful regions around. The famous Hong - Kong market is just a stones throw away from the hotel. Major shopping and trading zones are a minutes walk for the hotel.

                

Silguri is the main commercial city of North Bengal and its importance comes from its strategic location near international and state borders. The city connects three international borders - Bangladesh, China, and Nepal It is situated on the banks of the river Mahananda. Spread around the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, the town is an important transportation, trading and educational center and is blessed with the beauty of nature. Siliguri is a convenient base for travel to the various Himalayan hill stations like Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Gangtok. Saw milling and jute milling are important industries here and tea plantations are of main importance. Some places in Siliguri worth visiting include the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary known to be the home to varied flora, fauna, the famed Royal Bengal Tiger and Elephants. The tea gardens here are a major tourist attraction too. Monasteries like Salugara Monastery and Kalchakra Monastery are famous in the region too. Another famous religious site here is the ISCKON temple. It houses many beautiful idols of Advaita Acharya, Lord Narasimha, Lord Chaitanya and many more. 

               
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Monsoons are here.. Let's Celebrate it!!!

Things To Do This Monsoon Season

With the dark clouds almost bursting at their seams, we know the monsoons have finally arrived and we cannot be more relieved.

• This monsoon season make sure you make one attempt to splash around in the rain. If you have dogs, take them along. It’s probably the most fun you’ll have for a while. Getting drenched in the monsoon showers, splashing water and jumping into puddles takes you back to your childhood days. But if you really aren't up to getting soaked, simply open up your windows and enjoy the smell of the first rain.
• Even though this weather may make you want to give up any sort of work or study, it’s important not to overdo exposing yourself to the rain. Stay healthy, avoid roadside food or anything water based. Remember you want to enjoy this season not spend it in the agony of pneumonia.
• For those of you living by the sea or a short drive away, take a break from the hustle and bustle of your routine, leave your mobile phone at home and go for long walk by the sea.  
• The summer’s gone and so have all  the fruity iced drinks and nimbu paanis you’re so bored of. Nothing complements the monsoon more than a hot drink. So this is your chance to tank up on all the hot chocolate and coffee you like. The upside to it? It lowers your chances of catching a dreadful cold.
• The monsoons are the best season to go and visit various national parks. Discover various flora and fauna. And for the adventure-lovers, there's nothing like a long trek. So pack your bags and go.
• If you cannot let them go outside to play, indulge in some good old indoor games like Scrabble and Cards or just Curl up with a romantic book or watch a romantic movie while lolling in bed. You can also enjoy the view from the window while listening to romantic songs.
• Be stylish, vanity is a bad idea during the monsoons but you cannot be a bore and carry around a dull umbrella. Wear colourful raincoats and add colour to the otherwise cloudy day.
• The downside of this season is that it often hinders you from socializing and going out. Take it positively and sit down to do something creative. Sit near your bedroom window and just watch the pitter-patter. If it doesn’t inspire you to sing, write or even paint, you’ll always remember it as time well-spent.                         
  

 

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