Travel Light And Wise

Try as much as possible to have garments in colours that complement each other so that they can all be worn in different combinations. For eg, you could carry a pair of jeans with two or three shirts that go with them - it's as good as carrying three sets of clothes; or the pants could be those with zips at the knee that can be converted into shorts. If you're packing Indian clothes, carry two or three lightweight 'kurtas' with a set of white 'salwar' or 'dupatta' or anything that you can mix and match with them.

Carry clothes that are lightweight, washable and wrinkle-free.

Dark coloured clothes are better during journeys as the dirt doesn't get too prominent.

Make sure that the outfits you choose breathe comfort.

Carry comfortable shoes. If you're travelling for a special occasion, carry your party shoes; else, a pair of walking shoes should do.

To combat the cold, don't forget your pullover or a shawl - it's good if the colour matches with most of the clothes that you will be carrying, though!

Cosmetics and toiletries should be neatly packed away in a separate pouch, just to avoid soiling of your clothes, in case of a spillage.

Keep accessories and valuables to the minimum.

Travelling With Family

What's the best way to travel when you have kids with you?

Would an all-inclusive option work better when travelling with a family?

Would a cruise work for your family?

The answers to all these concerns are in 'The Femina Travel Book: Travelling With Kids'. As well as information on budgeting, travel insurance, safety at your destination, great travel buys, and of course, great family destinations.

Check it out today!

Go Nepal

THE Nepalese tourism industry is looking forward to welcome more tourists in the winter season. And, yes, it's perfectly safe now.

Soaltee Crowne Plaza and The Malla Hotel in Kathmandu; Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge, Tiger Tops Tented Camp and Tiger Mountain Tharu Lodge in Chitwan; Fishtail Lodge in Pokhara; and a few other small hotels have opened their hotels and lodges and resumed operations since September 2004.

So, if you've been planning a holiday to Nepal, you have a great choice of accommodation. Pack your bags and go.

For more information, contact Nepal Tourism Board, C/o TRAC Representations (I) Pvt Ltd Tel: 011-23737348,

E-mail: ntbindia@tracrep.com

Incredible India

THE world is rediscovering India, indeed! 'Conde Nast Traveller', UK, announced that India had ranked number six among the top 10 destinations in its Annual Readers' Travel Awards 2004.

In the survey, 'Conde Nast Traveller' readers appreciated the diversity of the culture India has to offer, its superlative hotels and resorts, and the hospitality of its people. India was also singled out this as being good value for money.

Here's to 'apna desh'!