Reimagine Your Mornings

In Mexico's Laguna San Ignacio, Pacific grey whales have become the unexpected companions you never knew you needed. Once hunted nearly to extinction, these majestic creatures now approach boats on their own, offering visitors an unforgettable close encounter.

Every winter, thousands of these whales migrate to this protected sanctuary, seeking safe waters to mate and nurse their young. What makes the Laguna unique is the whales’ behaviour — they approach humans with what seems like inquisitiveness, often allowing onlookers to touch them. Strict ecotourism rules ensure the whales aren’t overwhelmed, creating a rare and respectful interaction between species.

Thanks to the efforts of conservationists and local communities, these encounters have become a symbol of both wildlife recovery and sustainable tourism. For those lucky enough to experience it, the connection feels profoundly mutual.

If whale-watching is on your bucket list, why not add a twist — let the whales watch you too?

Imagine travelling without the need to pack — just showing up and everything you could possibly need awaits you. A fresh trend in luxury travel is elevating convenience, as high-end hotels now curate personalised wardrobes, premium toiletries, and bespoke amenities for guests. This shift allows travellers to focus on enjoying their trip without the hassle of packing or worrying about forgotten essentials.

Hotels like London’s Jumeirah Carlton Tower are redefining luxury by providing guests with more than just opulent surroundings. With a curated wardrobe tailored to individual style, whether it’s sophisticated evening wear or casual outfits for exploring the city, every detail is carefully selected. This seamless approach allows you to enjoy a fashionable stay without the need to overpack, making your experience effortlessly chic.

This trend isn’t just limited to clothing. Luxury hotels worldwide are elevating the travel experience by offering curated collections of premium skincare, toiletries, and even workout gear, tailored to your needs. This thoughtful service transforms your stay into an indulgent and hassle-free retreat. With everything provided, from high-end essentials to fitness equipment, the convenience of travelling without heavy luggage or forgotten items makes your journey seamless.

In this new era of travel, the art of minimalism meets indulgence. All you need to do is arrive; your stay will handle the rest, making every journey lighter and easier. And not to mention making your airport experience a breeze. 

Imagine exploring the enchanting Polynesian islands without the headache of securing a visa. For Indian travellers, the Cook Islands presents an enticing option with its visa-on-arrival policy, allowing stays of up to 31 days — making it an ideal tropical getaway. Nestled in the South Pacific, this island paradise is celebrated for its unspoiled beauty, crystal-clear lagoons, and rich Polynesian culture.

Kick off your adventure in Rarotonga, where lush rainforests and pristine beaches beckon. For a more tranquil experience, venture to Aitutaki, home to one of the world's most breathtaking lagoons. Whether you’re kayaking through turquoise waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs, or trekking through dense foliage, the islands showcase nature at its finest.

Beyond its landscapes, you can immerse yourself in the spirit of Polynesia by joining a local ‘island night’ — a lively celebration with traditional music, dance, and food in a festive atmosphere. The highlight of any Island Night is the performance of ura, a traditional dance accompanied by rhythmic drumming and singing. The dances tell stories of the islands’ history, love, and nature.

Alongside the captivating performances, Island Nights also offer a chance to indulge in a traditional Polynesian feast. These buffets often feature dishes like umu kai (food cooked in an underground oven), seafood, and tropical fruits. It’s a culinary journey into the flavours of the islands.

East Africa is a hiker’s paradise, offering some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. With its towering mountains, winding forest trails, and lush savannahs, the region caters to both seasoned adventurers and casual trekkers alike. Whether you’re hiking Tanzania’s majestic Mount Kilimanjaro or exploring the serene Usambara Mountain Range, each trail has something unique.

If you’re looking for a thrilling climb, Mount Meru near Kilimanjaro, provides a slightly less demanding but equally rewarding experience. Its volcanic slopes wind through rainforests teeming with wildlife.

On the Kenya-Uganda border, Mount Elgon offers another unforgettable trek with its volcanic valleys and labyrinthine caves. And for those seeking a more laid-back adventure, Tanzania’s Usambara Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot, offer casual hikes through idyllic landscapes, without the need for permits or guides.

With its diverse ecosystems and breathtaking scenery, East Africa has an adventure of a lifetime waiting for you.

Japan’s roads are more than mere pathways — they are gateways into the country’s soul, revealing breathtaking landscapes and rich culture along the way. One such iconic journey is the Hakone Turnpike, where the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji looms large. As you drive, each turn offers a stunning view that transforms with the seasons, making it a year-round spectacle. The charming town is known for its hot springs and art museums. 

At the Hakone Open-Air Museum, you can admire striking sculptures that seamlessly merge with the surrounding nature, creating a harmonious blend of art and landscape. To make the experience of being there more peaceful, take a panoramic cruise over Lake Ashi and you might spot just breathtaking reflections of Mount Fuji glistening at the surface of the lake.

For a coastal escape, venture to the Noto Peninsula. Here, traditional fishing villages dot the shoreline, offering a picturesque retreat from the ordinary. Explore the quaint streets of Wajima, famous for its lacquerware, and savour fresh seafood at local markets. Each stop along this scenic route invites you to connect with Japan’s natural beauty and cultural roots, transforming your journey into a memorable adventure.

Sweden has introduced a hiking trail that offers something truly special — an opportunity to explore untouched nature without the hum of engines or city noise. Stretching from Stockholm through the stunning archipelago, this new trail links the Swedish capital to serene, car-free islands like Utö and Fjärdlång, creating a peaceful escape for those looking to reconnect with nature.  

As you traverse through the trail’s rugged cliffs, dense forests, and coastal landscapes, it almost feels like stepping into a different world. The absence of cars on these islands fosters an atmosphere of pure tranquillity, where the only sounds are the rustle of leaves and the gentle waves of the Baltic Sea. 

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, this trail invites you to slow down and soak Sweden’s untouched beauty in — where modern distractions fade and nature takes centre stage.

The Azores, a lush archipelago of nine volcanic islands off Portugal’s coast, is emerging as a must-visit destination in 2024. São Miguel, the largest island, charms visitors with its rolling green hills, volcanic landscapes, and serene geothermal pools. Whether you’re hiking through the crater lakes of Sete Cidades or relaxing in the thermal waters of Furnas, the island offers a perfect blend of nature and tranquillity.

Yet, the Azores are more than that. Terceira has its heritage city of Angra do Heroísmo that lets you take a trip in time. On Pico Island, on the other hand, you may climb Portugal’s highest peak or promenade along famous vineyards. Faial boasts beautiful blue hydrangeas and an old marina. And Graciosa and Santa Maria are quiet escapes where you can relax against the backdrop of dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches.

Whether you’re canyoning through Flores’ waterfalls or spotting whales off the coast of São Jorge, the Azores have an adventure of every sort at every turn waiting for you. 

Somewhere in the South Atlantic is Tristan da Cunha, our planet’s most isolated inhabited island. It is home to some two hundred people in the settlement of Edinburgh of the Seven Seas. You can go there, but you will need to take a boat and the journey can take up to several weeks depending on the weather.

Life on the island is self-sustained, with locals relying on fishing and farming. Homes are traditionally built by the residents using volcanic materials, though younger generations are now experimenting with drywall for better insulation against the cold, damp climate.

Although the residents’ connection to the outside world may have improved with the effective use of satellite internet, Tristan da Cunha has managed to retain its own appeal. The black-sand beaches are calm and safe with rugged cliffs, where the islanders lead a leisurely life that is dictated by the rhythms of nature. It still remains an oasis in the midst of the frenzied modernity.

Tucked away in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima offers an unexpected cultural retreat far from the neon bustle of Tokyo. Known as the country’s “art island”, Naoshima has transformed from a quiet fishing village into a sanctuary for contemporary art lovers. Dotted with avant-garde museums and outdoor installations, such as Yayoi Kusama’s iconic pumpkin sculptures and the minimalist Chichu Art Museum.

On a walk around town you can see small galleries nestled into sandy beaches between quaint streets. The island, with its richness of nature, architecture, and art, provides a peaceful retreat from the more busy tourist destinations in Japan. It also is a must-see on the list of art aficionados. But more than anything, it is ideal for a relaxing and immersive holiday.

And if this sounds intriguing, you’re about to find another reason to visit Naoshima at the earliest. As it turns out, you can fly domestically through Japan on the house. This means that if you are going to any destination in the country for your next trip, you may have another reason to visit Naoshima while you’re there.

Madagascar, an island nation off Africa’s southeast coast, should be on your must-see list, especially if you are a wildlife enthusiast. Its unique evolutionary path has birthed a fascinating array of species found nowhere else on Earth.

In the Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, one can observe the largest living lemur, the indri, whose call fills the lush, misty forests. Beyond close encounters with these extraordinary primates, you can also revel in the natural beauty of the island.

From October to December, the island of Nosy Be, off the northwest coast of Madagascar, provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with whale sharks. This unique experience lets snorkelers and divers glide elegantly next to these magnificent giants in their own environment.

Ranomafana National Park, on the other hand, is a paradise for birdwatchers, featuring over 115 bird species, many endemic to Madagascar. Lastly, while at Moheli Island you can see sea turtles nesting from October to April, providing an intimate look into this ancient ritual.

As India’s wildlife tourism continues to boom, we at The Jurni sat down with Suyash Keshari, a wildlife presenter, filmmaker, and conservationist whose work has captured the hearts of nature lovers worldwide. From photographing majestic tigers in India’s national parks to guiding life-changing safaris, Suyash’s passion for wildlife is evident in everything he does.

In this interview, he shares his thoughts on the evolution of wildlife photography, the rise of eco-conscious travel, and how connecting with nature can transform lives. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a budding photographer, this conversation offers a wealth of insights and tips.

1. Despite having one of the most diverse and breathtaking geographies in the world, wildlife photography in India has only started to come into the limelight domestically in the last few years. Can you tell us a little bit about this field, and how you came to enter it? 

I think mainstream wildlife photography has been around in India for over a decade. It was with the advent of a rise in easy accessibility to the national parks, coupled with the social media craze of sharing your experiences, when the lines of professionals and passionate individuals who take photography seriously began to blur. But what has happened in the last few years is that a lot of non-photographers, and even those who may not be keen wildlife enthusiasts, have started visiting national parks. This trend began after the pandemic — when people wanted to visit locations which are remote and less touristy. Traditionally, the Indian market had been skeptical of wildlife holidays — fearing that these locations may not have good hotels and safety was a big concern. But when they started exploring and partaking in these experiences, they saw that there is no dearth of options when it comes to wildlife lodges catering to the needs of even the discerning traveler — with large and spacious rooms with modern amenities while still retaining an earthy touch, delicious food, and the stellar wildlife experience. Indians connected to the wild side of the nation. Our wild and remote national parks — with their tigers, leopards, sloth bears, elephants, birds, and much more — now started to appeal to the masses. 

2. Over the course of your safari expeditions, you must have met thousands of travelers. What are some of the biggest ways you've seen safaris influence the people – before they start and by the time they leave? Do you think the rise of environmental concerns have influenced the new-age traveler in any way? 

In today’s world, there are very few experiences that allow you to have the kind of positive impact on people’s lives that wildlife experiences do. I often tell people that I’m not in the business of safaris and filmmaking, I’m in the business of changing lives.
And I really mean it — our safari experiences don’t just shift people’s perspectives, they transform a person’s entire being.

On safari, our guests interact with their guides, the locals, and other safari goers. They build core memories around these social experiences. In the wilderness, they encounter animals, watch how these animals interact with their families, learn how one tiger cub can have such unique personality traits compared to its sibling, and even how locals name them based on these traits.

They learn that much like humans, each animal has emotions and a unique personality. Our safaris help travelers connect with wildlife in more ways than one can imagine. This is why I always say — What we can see, we can love, and what we can love, we will fight to protect.

3. India is now well-placed to become one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. Do you foresee this as boosting safari tourism in the country and subsequently, our conservation efforts?

Any hike in the level of tourism inflow to India is a positive sign for the economy. Our country is blessed with so much diversity in culture, cuisine, landscape, and heritage. Wildlife tourism has also become a key aspect of the inbound and even domestic travel industry. More people are becoming aware of India’s wild wonders as well as the threats they face and conservation issues surrounding such ecosystems. 

The rise in tourism has unfortunately not led to a sustained rise in conservation efforts by the tourists as well as hotels and lodges. Everybody follows the profitability model but only a few are keen on giving back. That has been the cornerstone for our operations at my company Ameliya Safaris — we earmark 5% of our sales from every single itinerary, back into conservation. We build waterholes for wildlife, fund education programs, and equip anti-poaching units with the necessary gear they need to perform their jobs. I would like to see every single travel operator, hotel, and lodge engage in practices that give back to the wild and get the tourists involved. 

Additionally, there needs to be a change in the government policies and mass tourism should absolutely come to a stand-still. At the moment, 30-50 vehicles enter each zone in a national park, which leads to overcrowding around animals — we are all familiar with scenes of jeeps surrounding a tiger on the road. Most parks have three or four zones in the core where tourism is allowed. The limit of vehicles should be brought down to four to five in each zone and we should increase the number of zones to 30-50 instead. There is enough space and road connectivity to do that. This will ensure that animals in a specific area do not get crowded by tourists, the additional areas will also generate employment for locals, and also increase patrolling efforts through vehicular movement.  Only then would the  rise in tourism have a positive impact on conservation too. 

4. What are some of the biggest misconceptions of being a wildlife presenter-conservationist? 

People only see the glamorous side of this profession, which is the end result — incredible photos, rare documentaries, and more. But the effort, both mental and physical, that goes into this profession daily is insane. I spend almost 300 days on the road, waking up around 4 am. I am out all day on dusty, windy, and bumpy tracks and get back to my room only after sunset. Some days are burning hot, some are biting cold, and others are rainy, and you are drenched for over 14 hours in the day. There is no schedule for breakfast, lunch and dinner and you get zero exercise sitting in a vehicle all day. Don’t get me wrong, I love it all nonetheless. But my body does not. Overtime, you start developing aches and pains, muscle spasms, and the constant lack of sleep throws your inner chemical composition into chaos. Then there is the mind, it is as much work to control the mind as it is to weather the daily physical challenges. 

5. What is one insider tip you’d like to share with our readers? 

If you are planning to go on a safari you need to follow these three tips: 

Firstly, book early. The sooner, the better because safari tickets and accommodation in every park is limited. Most of them sell out 3-6 months in advance. 

Secondly, go with a professional. The difference between an excellent safari experience where you come out with a lot of sightings, learnings, and heart bursting with appreciation vs a below-average safari experience where you feel like you did not see anything is your guide. At Ameliya, we take pride in having the best professionals in the world. They are not your average guides. They are highly trained individuals who are also super-hosts. They are the kind of people you will learn a tremendous amount from, but also look forward to having dinner with or sitting around a campfire and sipping on a drink while you listen to their stories. That is what always made me stand apart and that is what I have inculcated in our team. 

Lastly, explore beyond the famous destinations such as Ranthambore and Corbett. India has so much more to offer and the experience you have in a Central Indian park such as Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Satpura, Pench, or an East-Indian park like Kaziranga will far outweigh the experience you will have at a famous park. 

6. Thousands of amateur wildlife photographers are waiting for their big break in the country. What would you like to share with them through this platform, to help them in their journey? 

You have to focus on building a niche and telling stories. That is the only way to stand out. Do things that others are not doing and tell stories that evoke an emotion. 

Rapid Fire 

1. What makes you tick? 

• The possibility of seeing something in the world that’s never been seen before

• Getting people to fall in love with wildlife, thereby inspiring them to protect and preserve our natural world.

2. When it comes to photography, are you an early bird or night owl? 

● Early bird! Most mammals, especially big cats, are very active in the early mornings. I love the time right before sunrise (dawn) and also the time right after sunset (dusk).

3. Your definition of ‘home’ as someone who is away from home base for a major portion of the year? 

● Home is where my wife and I are together. Doesn’t matter which corner of the world it may be. 

4. A destination you most want to visit.

● For work, patagonia for the pumas against the stunning backdrop of the Andes Mountains. For a leisure trip, Iceland because of the beautiful landscapes and to see the northern lights. 

5. An unforgettable travel memory that is imprinted in your mind? 

● Flying over the Okavango Delta in Botswana in a helicopter without the doors attached.

6. What was the last bit of media or art that impacted you profoundly? 

● This year’s unprecedented heat wave across India has been a story that has impacted me profoundly.

7. How do you de-stress? 

● Work out and dance

Perched on Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, Sozopol is a town where history and modernity coexist seamlessly. The old town, set on a rugged peninsula, is a maze of weathered stone and timber houses, ancient fortifications, and dramatic cliffs that tell stories of centuries past. Despite its age, Sozopol effortlessly blends its rich heritage with the energy of contemporary life, creating a captivating destination for travellers. It was formerly the Greek settlement of Apollonia Pontica, and for more than 2,500 years, it provided safe passage through the erratic Black Sea.

Founded by Greek settlers from Miletus in 610 BC, the town flourished as a bustling port, with trade between the Greeks and Thracians playing a key role in its growth. A colossal 13m bronze statue of Apollo once stood here, rivalling the Colossus of Rhodes. Today, the town’s narrow streets are dotted with archaeological finds, including Roman pottery and ancient relics.

Today, you can explore its wide sandy beaches, mediaeval churches, and vibrant seafront tavernas, offering a taste of both Balkan and Greek cuisine. The town’s Greek heritage is still alive, with remnants of its ancient culture found in local traditions, food, and even its dialect.