With the ongoing pandemic and restrictions, several travel enthusiasts have had to cancel or postpone their trips this year. Some chose to push it to 2021, while others canceled it altogether. WFH has become the norm, with most of us spending hours behind the screen. With travel restrictions and guidelines imposed, it won't be possible to visit your favourite destination so soon. However, with Unlock 4 and 5 guidelines in place and certain restrictions being lifted up (with due precautionary measures, of course), a staycation in your city can be your best bet for a quick escape, while spending quality time with your loved ones. With the long weekend approaching, we list down five staycations in Mumbai that we absolutely loved:

Sofitel (Bandra Kurla Complex)

Looking for the perfect staycation, right in the heart of Mumbai? Sofitel (BKC) might just be the right option for you. The rooms are luxurious, and have been done up tastefully, with the fine detailing of French art de vivre. The staycation package comes with a luxury room booking, along with a lavish breakfast from Pondicherry Cafe, check-in and check-out benefits (early/late), and complimentary wi-fi access among others. 

Price: Rs 10,000 onwards | Book Here

Taj Land's End (Bandra)

Fancy a classic sea view room, with a breathtaking landscape of the Arabian sea and the beautiful Bandra bandstand? Taj Land's End is your perfect choice for a luxurious 5 star staycation, with the best room views. Enjoy a staycation with their 'Urban Getaway' package, which includes F&B credits, delicious breakfast, 20% off at the salon, and flexible cancellation policy. The package is available across various room options - including their stunning Luxury sea view suite.

Price: Rs 6250 onwards | Book here

JW Marriott (Juhu)

A beach front hotel, packed with the most impressive features? Yes please! JW Marriott Juhu offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea, and faces the iconic Juhu beach. Upscale comfort with premium decor and delicious food (we are huge fans of Lotus Cafe) - this is a perfect choice for your staycation with loved ones, if you are looking to enjoy a comfortable, luxurious and peaceful stay. Book their 'Extraordinary Staycations' package, which comes with accommodation in a well appointed room, breakfast, complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability), 1 main meal for 2 guests, apart from additional exclusive benefits. What's more - 2 kids (below age 12) can stay and dine for free. 

Price: Rs 9000 onwards | Book here

The St.Regis (Lower Parel)

Prefer a staycation in the heart of South Mumbai's favourite destination - Lower Parel? Look no further! The St. Regis - one of Mumbai's tallest buildings, comes with accommodation that offers an unmatched view of the maximum city. We love the elegant decor, which is sophisticated, traditional, and does not compromise on comfort. A key USP at this property is the F&B. We absolutely love the spread and wide variety. Book a staycation with their 'Extraordinary Staycations' package, which comes with complimentary breakfast, 1 major meal for 2 adults, additional exclusive offers, and free stay + dine for kids (below age 12). You can also avail a complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability).

Price: Rs 9500 onwards | Book here 

Grand Hyatt (Santacruz) 

Spread across 12 acres of greenery and situated close to the Western Express Highway; Grand Hyatt is a beautiful and serene property, which is perfect for a weekend getaway within the city. Their staycation packages are perfect for solo, couples and even families. We recommend their 'Unwind and Dine' staycation package, which comes with various room options (with the choice of king, queen or twin beds). The package includes a scrumptious breakfast, F&B credit, check-in/check-out (early, late) benefits among others.

Price: Rs 6999 onwards | Book here

A few things to remember, before you book your staycation - most properties have stringent rules in place, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Certain public areas like Swimming Pool, Gyms, Buffets may not be available. Hence, it is advisable to check with the property before getting your reservations done. Also, please remember - responsibility begins with you. So, please take all necessary precautions, including wearing a mask, carrying your safety kit (sanitiser, spray) and plan your trip, only if you have duly tested yourself and / or are fit to travel.

This October, stay tuned for a month long special series on our website and social media platforms, where we explore the Luxury and Hospitality industry. For more updates, follow us on

 Most of us have been patiently waiting to get back to traveling (albeit, with strict precautions). However, looking at the current scenario, we can confirm that restrictions would be relaxed in an organised, phase-wise manner. The civil aviation ministry has entered into air bubbles with 14 countries, where Indian citizens can fly. Currently, talks are also on with several other countries, in order to facilitate two-way international travel. However, currently there are some countries where Indians are not allowed to fly, which means that no air bubble can be set up with these countries as of now.

So, what exactly does one mean by 'Air Bubbles'?: Air bubbles are temporary arrangements between two countries, which are aimed at re-starting commercial passenger service, at a time when regular international flights across the world are suspended. As we all know, International flights were suspended in March, as almost all countries had imposed a strict lockdown, in order to combat the spread of Covid-19. Repatriation flights resumed in May, but these flights are different from air bubble flights as repatriation flights can’t carry passengers both ways.

So, which countries can Indians not travel to (as of now) and why?: As several countries are opening international travel gradually, governments are in the process of identifying high-risk and safe countries. 

• The European Union didn’t identify India as a safe country. However, India does have air bubble with Germany and France. 
• South Africa: South Africa will resume international travels from October 1. However, it is likely that the government will not allow Indians to travel to the country. 
• Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has barred all flights to and from India in its effort to keep a check on the Covid-19 situation in their own country.
• Hong Kong: Earlier this month, Hong Kong placed a bar on Air India flights, blaming Indian travellers for an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong. However, we hear the bar will be lifted soon. Also, just FYI - there are other airlines operating to Hong Kong.

So, which destinations can Indians fly to?

The 14 countries where Indian citizens can fly to include: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bhutan, Canada, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Maldives, Nigeria, Qatar, the UAE, the UK, and the US.

Current relaxations for domestic air travel:  The government is gradually lifting certain restrictions such as relaxing the cap on number of flights from 45 per cent of pre-Covid number to 60 per cent. In addition, on-board meal services have been allowed on domestic sectors. From among the latest developments, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has allowed airlines to decide the baggage rules.

We highly urge all travellers to ensure they step out only in case of an emergency or urgent travel requirement. Ensure you take all necessary precautions and follow all strict hygiene measures.