After a strict selection process for a couple of months, Gaura Travel was nominated for the 2023 IABCA Australia India Impact Award. IABCA is the leading alliance that builds awareness and understanding between the peoples and institutions of Australia and India.
During the award submission process, we presented the story of our successful chartered flights during the pandemic, where we successfully reunited over 20,000 families.
The IABCA Australia India Impact Award honors the accomplishments of an organization that brings value to the bilateral relationship. The category rewards enterprises and organizations that expand from Australia to India or India to Australia. As a finalist, we were invited to join the prestigious IABCA event in India and took part in the following activities and events.
Monday, February 13th 2023: IABCA Mumbai Welcome Dinner
Tuesday, February 14th 2023: IABCA Delhi Welcome Reception
Wednesday, February 15th 2023: IABCA Global Leaders Forum and Awards Ceremony
Thursday, February 16th 2023: IABCA Cultural Day
Friday, February 17th 2023: IABCA Cricket Day
After all the excitement, it’s time to return to our Head Office in Melbourne, with good memories, an extended network, and a ‘Highly Commanded Award’ under the category of 2023 IABCA Australia India Impact Award (Organisation) under our belt. We would not have won this award without the constant support from our loyal customers. Thank you for trusting Gaura Travel for over 16 years, with you by our side we hope to soar higher than ever before and continue to provide you with your best way home!
February is a month full of love indeed, with many celebrating with the ones they cherish most, not only on Valentine’s Day but throughout the whole month, and even after that!
Seeing the streets lined up with flowers and any other ornaments of love sure makes you want to meet your loved ones in person, be it your partner, your parents, or any other person that makes your heart warm. Every day is a love day and the ones closest to you should be cherished on a daily basis, that’s true – but there’s no harm in a little extra celebration now and again, is there?
Well, we’ve got some good news for those wishing to travel back home to India, as this past Monday the Indian government has announced that passengers travelling through China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Japan will no longer be required to undergo pre-departure RT or PCR testing. However, the 2% random COVID testing guidelines for all foreign arrivals at the airport will remain in effect. This also includes passengers travelling from Australia.
Please note that all passengers should still ensure their vaccination status is fully up to date before travelling, and that temperature scanning checks are still being performed by health officials at airports. For the benefit of your own health and the health of your loved ones, it’s vital to take these precautions before you travel home to visit your loved ones in person.
This good news has arrived just in time for our Holi-Sale! You can fly home to India from only $599 this month. Visit us now at https://gauratravel.com.au/ and let us provide you with your best way home or call us anytime as we are available 24/7 for you! Come home soon and celebrate love with your loved ones in person.
Some people might mix up India’s Independence Day with the Republic Day as they both are centered around the event of India’s independence. While the former celebrates the date of India’s separation and independence from British rule, which is held on August 15th each year, the latter commemorates the date that the Constitution of India came into effect, officially turning the nation into a republic separate from the British Raj. This event became known as Republic Day, and is celebrated on January 26th each year.
Every year in New Delhi, a public parade is held along the wide Rajpath avenue to celebrate Republic Day. The 74th Republic Day will be commemorated this year on Thursday, January 26, 2023.
History
On August 15, 1947, India declared its independence from Britain; yet, for the first three years of its independence, the colonial Government of India Act of 1935 continued to play a significant role in the country’s governance.
A coalition government chosen by provincial legislatures set about preparing the constitution that would regulate the newly independent country not long after independence was declared, and finally confirm India’s status as a republic.
As a tribute to the Indian National Congress’ Purna Swaraj (full self-rule) independence proclamation from 1930, which is seen as the first tangible step towards independence from Britain, January 26 was chosen as the formal enactment date.
The DRDO tableau passing through the Rajpath during the Republic Day Parade (2013). Image courtesy of the Indian Ministry of Defence.
Celebrate it at Home
Every year, New Delhi has a Republic Day parade that marches along Rajpath, through India Gate, and on to the Red Fort. Enjoy the fun and excitement of this special event together with your friends and family by your side. Celebrate Republic Day back home by flying with us at the best prices!
Flying home is one of the most wonderful things you can do since visiting your loved ones in person may bring you a valuable warm feeling. However, because home is far away, the journey can be exhausting, with mandatory connecting flights and hours spent on the plane (s).
But there is some good news for you! This February, you can fly direct from Sydney to Delhi with Air India, a reputable Indian airline.
Delhi is at its finest in February, when the weather is at its best. The daytime temperature ranges from 10° C at its lowest to 23° C on average. Flowers are in their peak bloom during this time, and the weather is pleasant, making visiting Delhi a wonderful experience. Not to mention, coming home to Delhi in February means you can also celebrate the Holi festival 2023 at home!
Another reason to come home this February is to watch the most-awaited, Cricket Match! You can check the full schedule here.
On February 17th, 19th, 21st, 24th, 26th, and 28th , you are able to go home from $599 only. Furthermore, no RT-PCR Test is necessary for your travel!
Do not pass up this fantastic opportunity to experience the familiar warmth of home before you even walk off the plane. Seats are selling fast, call us now.
India is well known throughout the world for being home to some of the world’s most beautiful natural landmarks, as well as its deep ties in tradition. As there are many different religions and cultures throughout India, there are many festivals and celebrations that take place during the year from region to region, one of them being Pongal. It is a time for gathering with loved ones and friends, as well as gift-exchanging to strengthen social ties.
Tamil communities around the world celebrate Pongal, which is a time to express appreciation to the Sun, Mother Nature, and all the farm animals who contributed to a bountiful harvest.
Celebrated over four days, Pongal also marks the beginning of the Tamil month called Thai, which is considered an auspicious month. It usually falls on the 14th or 15th of January each year.
Pongal in Australia:
In the six states of Australia, which has a population of over 18 million, there are roughly 30,000 Tamil people, with New South Wales and Victoria having the highest numbers of Tamil residents.
There are more than 10 Hindu temples scattered throughout the states of Australia, meaning Tamils living away from home can still commemorate the Pongal festival, albeit in a less traditional way than those in India.
Key Dates:
The Pongal Festival of 2023 in Australia will begin on 15th of January 2023 and end on 18th of January 2023 .
In India, it will be held from 14th January 2023 to 17th January 2023.
The Pongal 2023 Holidays Calendar according to Indian dates:
Day 1: Bhogi Pongal (14th January 2023)
Since Lord Indra, the ultimate deity, is the God of clouds and rains, Bhogi Pongal is dedicated to the Lord of the Rain Indra for the prosperity of their agricultural land.
In some rural regions, Bhogi Mantalu ceremonies are also carried out on the same day. Those who participate express their appreciation to Lord Indra by dancing and chanting hymns to him in front of a campfire.
The fact that bonfires are formed of waste wood from homes and farms gives them significance. In the name of the gods, girls and the women of the home dance and sing around the bonfire.
Day 2: Thai Pongal (15th January 2023)
It is believed that on this day, the primary Pongal celebration takes place.
Surya Pongal is another name for Thai Pongal. Kolam, a traditionally made auspicious design made of white lime powder and placed at the entrance of the house, marks the beginning of the ceremonial devotion.
The females of the household should do this first thing in the morning and right after taking a bath. Everybody dresses traditionally, accessories, and applies tikkas to their foreheads.
Day 3: Mattu Pongal (16th January 2023)
The Mattu Pongal festival is devoted to cow worship.
On this special day, the farmers dress up their cows with flower garlands, multicolored beads, jingling bells, and sheaves of corn. They are then brought to the village squares, where everyone gathered to admire one another’s cows and makeovers.
Following that, they are worshipped, and an Aarti is conducted in their honor. Bells ringing and cows with elaborate make-up add to the festive and cheerful atmosphere.
Day 4: Kaanum Pongal (17th January 2023)
Kaanum or Knau Pongal is the name of the fourth or last day of Pongal. The leftovers from sweet Pongal, coloured rice (red and yellow), betel leaves, plantains, betel nuts, two pieces of sugarcane, and other items are set in the courtyard and laid on the cleaned turmeric leaves as part of the Pongal ritual on this day.
Simply placed in the middle of the turmeric leaf is the key ingredient—rice. The women of the home gather in the courtyard to pray for the well-being of their brothers and families. This is followed by an Aarti in which holy water is sprinkled throughout the entire house, including the yard.
Pongal customs and celebrations may include ceremonial dances, Kolam creation, cooking sweet Pongal, and cow worship.
Make this Pongal special by spending the days with your family back home! Book a ticket to India this January with flights starting from just $599 and be together with your loved ones. Check out these deals today and make a booking with us.
2023 is quickly approaching, and what better way to welcome it than by making a list of New Year’s resolutions? There’s no better excuse to have a list of resolutions to keep you on track to become a better and happier version of yourself!
As resolutions must be personal and authentic, here are some suggestions to get you started.
Being overwhelmed by the voices inside your head is a common experience, and you are not alone in experiencing it. Life is not always as simple as we would like it to be and writing down your thoughts and feelings is one method to sort out any confusion in your mind and get a better sense of what’s going on. Furthermore, writing down your thoughts might help you clarify them and urge you to take action.
Start by writing down your New Year’s resolutions on a piece of paper or any media that you are comfortable with! You’ll find that once your resolutions are written down, it’ll become much easier to break them down into smaller achievable tasks.
Visit Your Family More
Striving to become a better son or daughter by visiting your family back home is one resolution that you should consider noting down. There is not a day that passes by without your family missing you and wanting you to come back home to visit them, as children are the most precious treasure that a parent could ever have.
Not to worry, by flying home with us, you will be more than able to visit your family next year! Fly India with us from $599 in 2023, and you’ll be able to give your loved ones a hug and eat some of Mum’s delicious home-cooked food. Here’s to many family reunions in the new year!
No need to pressure yourself – New Year’s resolutions can be as small and manageable as you would like. Start with small tasks you can see yourself achieving!
Expand Your Universe
Expanding your universe could be one of the new year resolutions that you might consider having. In this sense, it means that you expand what you are familiar with and that you are open to unlearning any ignorant misgivings you may have against others.
One of the ways to do so is by befriending all sorts of people and try to understand their perspectives and their backgrounds. By doing this, you will be able to become more empathetic and open-minded with everything this diverse and multicultural world has to offer.
Volunteer
Some may believe that volunteering is a waste of time because you get to perform a variety of activities without receiving anything in return. However, they have no idea that by volunteering, they would gain a sensation that no amount of money can buy: the feeling of humility and gratefulness from assisting one another to make the world a better place to live. The satisfaction of being able to make a small contribution to the welfare of the world is priceless.
Try making volunteering as a part of your New Year’s resolutions and find out how giving back to your community can help both you and others.
Pay it Forward
Paying forwards the generosity and warmth that you receive from another person can start a great chain reaction of kind actions that can lighten everyone’s load a little bit here and there. Why not aim to be kinder in the new year and strive to make someone else’s day?
When you’re on your way home from work, and a stranger smile at you? Return the smile and attempt to do the same for others.
A sincere compliment from a coworker? Accept it and give them one in exchange! Why not give a compliment to another person you know or even a complete stranger? A simple act of compassion can make a big difference. Let us all work together to make the world a kinder place and start the new year off right.
Overall, the most important thing is to stay happy and healthy – anything on top of that is a bonus! Maintaining your mental and physical well-being is essential, so we hope that these ideas for your resolution list will help you to live a happier and healthier life. Happy holidays, and best wishes for a prosperous new year!
On Thursday, December 15th, 2022, we held our annual Christmas Party that was filled with so much fun and shared warmth. We ended our successful year of servicing more than 40,000 passengers by celebrating with great food, company and fun activities.
The celebrations kicked off with a delicious lunch featuring numerous dishes from a variety of cuisines – Japanese, Indian and Mexican to name a few! The team enjoyed a number of dishes such as sushi, butter chicken and nachos, topping it off with fruit tarts and tiramisu for dessert. Each of us had a plateful (or more) of various delectable delicacies, with many going back for seconds!
A selection of the yummy dishes available, including samosas, sushi and more!
As lunch came to a close, we continued the day by opening our Secret Santa gifts and attempting to identify who our Secret Santa was based on the handwriting and type of wrapping the gift was wrapped in. Our team delighted in joy receiving such heartfelt gifts, and the room was filled with laughter and holiday cheer.
After all the gifts were distributed, we travelled to Escape Room Melbourne, an escape room facility located nearby to our South Melbourne office. The team was divided into three groups and tackled three different kinds of escape rooms: Mine Escape, Kellar’s Magic Emporium, and Fractured. With different challenges to face and different puzzles to solve, each team had great fun figuring out the solutions together, and were able to escape the respective rooms in time.
Chamindika Madumali Herath, our Digital Marketing Executive, shared her thoughts on the event:
“It was great to surround with the colleagues, without stress about work and other tasks. Just fun, food and smiles on every one’s face”.
We had a great time celebrating together with the team, and we hope your holiday celebrations are equally fun and filled with holiday cheer! Here’s to more success next year and even stronger teams to help us achieve our goals of serving our customers’ travel needs!
During this wonderful holiday season, we asked our employees what their favorite Indian dish that reminds them most of home was. We came across a variety of Indian meals, ranging from appetizers to main courses to desserts. Feast your eyes on this list of incredibly yummy dishes, recipes and photos included, and get cooking with your loved ones this holiday season!
Mutton Rogan Josh
Recipe
Sauté the whole spices in ghee and prepare saffron milk.
Cook mutton with the whole spices.
Mix yoghurt with saffron milk and other spices.
Add the yoghurt mixture in pressure cooker and slow cook the mutton for 1-2 hours.
Serve with hot steamed rice and naan bread!
Chicken Dum Biryani
Recipe
Slice onions very finely and fry until crisp and light golden brown.
Combine chicken with all marinade ingredients, ⅓ fried onions and ground biryani spice blend.
Rinse basmati rice until clear. Soak ⅓ cup rice in water. Cook remaining rice in rice cooker. For alternative traditional cooking method check our lamb biryani recipe.
Transfer chicken with marinade to a cooking pot. Top with chopped cilantro, mint, half lemon juice, some olive oil, and most of the remaining fried onions.
Add Soaked Rice: Drain and spread it over the chicken.
Final Rice Layer: Layer all cooked rice. Top with remaining fried onions, lemon juice, saffron water and ghee over the rice.
Steaming: Cover with parchment paper, followed by aluminum foil and fit the lid tight over it. Bake in oven for one hour, until steam builds up well.
On Stove top: Alternatively, heat biryani at medium high for 10 to 15 minutes and then simmer at low for one hour until steam builds up well.
Cool biryani for five minutes. Gently mix rice and chicken and serve.
Lassi
Recipe
Fill 6 tall glasses with ice cubes. Place yogurt, ice water, crushed ice, sugar, and salt in a blender; blend until frothy. Pour over ice cubes in the glasses to serve.
Mango Delight
Recipe
Start by peeling and chopping mangoes. Blend it with condensed milk. Do a taste test, we want the puree to be sweeter than you would like. Because this puree will sweeten the cream.
Whip chilled cream in a large bowl until it is doubled but it shouldn’t reach stiff peaks. Save little cream for garnish. Stir in the mango puree in one direction. Avoid over-mixing or deflating cream. Make a layer of biscuit in the ice cream glasses or a dish. We use mango cream between layers. Make sure the mango cream is sweet enough.
Now make a layer of cream at the bottom of a glass dish. You could do this in individual servings too.
Make the next layer of biscuits.
Cover that layer of biscuits with mango chunks. (If your mangoes aren’t sweet consider coating them with 1 -2 tablespoons sugar.)
Pour half of the cream over the mangoes.
Repeat the layer of biscuit and mango chunks and pour the remaining mango cream on it.
Garnish with extra mango slices, and nuts and coconut flakes if you have them. Set the in the fridge for 2-4 hours to set and chill. Before serving place the dish in the freezer for 30-45 minutes. Serve super chilled and enjoy!
Rajma Chalwa
Recipe
Soak rajma overnight and pressure cook till they are soft.
Wash the rajma and allow it to soak in water overnight. Wash it again and pressure cook with 2 cups of water, 1/2 tsp salt and turmeric. Once the rajma is soft and squishy, remove it from the heat and keep it aside.
Chop onion-tomato and make ginger-garlic paste.
Finely chop onions and keep aside, grate the tomatoes, and keep them aside. Make a paste of ginger, garlic, and green chilies.
Prepare the rajma. In a deep bottomed pan, add mustard oil, when it gets heated add green cardamom, black cardamom, cinnamon, clove, peppercorn. Once they become fragrant, add onions, and cook till they are golden brown. Now add the tomatoes and cook on high for 4-5 minutes. Add ginger- garlic-chili paste, cumin powder, coriander powder and black pepper powder. Cook till the spices become fragrant and oil starts leaving the sides of the pan. Now add the rajma and one cup of water. Mix well and cook covered for 10 minutes. Once done, add the ghee. You can garnish with coriander leaves. Your rajma is ready.
Steam cook rice and serve with Rajma. To make steamed rice without using a pressure cooker, wash 1 cup of rice in running water. Then, add them to a large and deep-bottomed pan with 4-5 cups of water in it. You can also add a little salt to it for taste. Once the rice is soft and double its size, strain the water. Spread the rice on a plate and allow it to cool for 2-3 minutes. Once the rice is done, serve hot with prepared Rajma.
All these recipes are well-known and the absolute favorites of most Indian communities. These recipes bring back memories of home and our mothers’ cooking for us Indians. It would be a fantastic idea to demonstrate to our relatives that we have gained some cooking abilities since becoming self-sufficient by moving here.
We can also invite them here, and while we will never be able to repay all they did for us as children, we can try by preparing some of these delicious dishes for them. It is time to appreciate our parents and loved ones by visiting them or inviting them here to Australia during the warm and beautiful days at this time of the year by booking special flight deals at a cheap price from us!
We wish you the happiest holiday season together with your loved ones!
No matter how good life may turn out to be at your second home, with all your dreams being achieved little by little, there is truly no place like home.
Coming back home, no matter how many times you have done it, will always be special and something to look forward to; no matter how long the journey takes place or the time and energy that must be spent.
The warm hug of a family, where the love radiates even without words being uttered, is incomparable to the cutting-edge technology that strives to unite distant hearts by enabling real-time talks.
Coming home means visiting family, rekindling the connection that may have dimmed here and there due to miles spent apart.
Sharing stories about the time passed when in-person presence was impossible would be the bittersweet highlight of the trip back home; how you wish you were there to witness it with your eyes yet at the same time, you feel proud that your loved ones were able to go through it on their own, at their own feet.
Spending quality time with loved ones is one of life’s greatest treasures
Cuisines
What other way to perfect your trip back home other than cooking the dishes that make up the memories of your childhood?
The delicious smell of Biryani and Mutton Rogan that would make your mouth water in delight. Scooping the beloved food will be able to bring back happy memories spent at home back in the younger days.
Check out the recipes of Indian dishes that are perfect to be cooked together with your relatives here.
Places to Visit
Who says that you cannot be a tourist at your own home? There are indeed many places to discover in India that just wait to be discovered by you along with your family.
Visiting the pink city of Jaipur is a popular family favourite activity. Jaipur is a stunning desert city with charming antique structures that are a dusty pink colour. In this city, there are many things to do, such as stroll the streets, savor the cuisine, and visit the Amber Fort.
Moreover, be sure to visit the Langar Hall, the community eating facility where all guests, including Indians and foreigners, are welcome to enter for a basic but wonderful free meal that is available nearly at any time.
Come back home now and experience all the things that you have missed while living in your second home.
Here at Gaura Travel, we are incredibly grateful for your constant support and trust in us. Booking a trip home can be daunting and stressful, so our main priority when conducting our business is to ensure our passengers have complete peace of mind when booking with us and ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey. That is why today, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions by our passengers and provided the answers, so that you can book your next flight with us in complete confidence and know that we have your back, every step of the way!
When will I receive my e-ticket? Because of our special negotiated rates with our trusted airline partners, our Flight Deals are relatively inexpensive. Due to this, your e-ticket will be delivered to you 2-7 days before your intended travel. However, there’s no need to worry – our team will keep you updated every step of the way, and will notify you if any changes occur on our end.
After booking Flight Deal offers, will there be any extra charges? You must pay the remaining amount within 12 hours after paying your 5% deposit. There is no additional charge after that.
Can I get a refund on my 5% deposit if I cancel my booking? Your 5% deposit is non-refundable; however, full refunds are possible if the airline cancels unexpectedly.
How long is the refund process? Refunds might take from around 20 to 24 weeks to process. During this time, our staff will keep you updated via email at all times.
I need to travel to a specific location not offered on your Flight Deals page, what can I do? Please go to our Flights page for more itineraries for destinations not available through our Flight Deal offers.
Where can I contact the customer service? You can contact us through these two options:
Airline suppliers and hotels may impose their own mandatory terms and conditions in relation to their Travel Products. To ensure a smooth journey, we recommend all of our passengers to research these product terms prior to your journey to stay informed on whatever procedures or requirements are imposed during your travel.
The table below lists all possible fees charged by us. These are in addition to any Fees or non-refundable components charged by the Travel Providers (As details in the relevant Travel Provider T&Cs):
Your satisfaction and comfort during your journey is extremely important to us – if you happen to experience any inconvenience during the process of booking your trip, we implore you to fill in our customer complaint form.
Have any more questions? Please contact us either through email at [email protected] or give us a call at 1300 359 463. You can also shoot us a message or comment on one of our various social media accounts listed below.
We are getting closer to Christmas and it’s beginning to look like it! Christmas in Sydney is an absolutely magical time of the year, and while we may not have snow, our gorgeous city still transforms into a magical wonderland over the holiday period!
During the summer holiday season, Sydney sparkles with everything from a traditional Christmas supper by the harbor to stunning lights and a flurry of carolers. We have compiled a list of some of the top Christmas activities for you and your family to enjoy.
Woolworths Carols in the Domain
Sydney’s favorite Carols in the Domain is returning in 2022 to celebrate its 40th year! Mark December 17thin your diaries to celebrate Christmas with the stars at the 40th Woolworths Carols in the Domain. As usual, The Wiggles, the world’s most popular children’s entertainment group, will perform at the Carols, which will be a star-studded event featuring Australia’s finest artists.
Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular
Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular, located on the outskirts of Sydney, is well worth the trek up north if you want to enjoy a true Christmas fantasy with your children. From November 4th to January 26th, Hunter Valley Gardens will host the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most magnificent lighting display, featuring over three million lights.
Sydney is home to many Christmas events and installations.
The Ultimate Christmas Market
The Cambridge Markets are visiting Moore Park and will be offering over 120 stalls for families to explore. Parents and kids can shop for gifts, fashion, jewelry, and more, with food also available. Entertainment and activities will also be offered to keep the kids entertained. The Ultimate Christmas Market will be held on December 5th at Moore Park.
Canopy of Light and Martin Place Christmas Tree
Enjoy the glittering lights of Pitt Street Mall, which features over 94,000 LED Christmas lights draped in a canopy above the shops. The lights switch on every day after 6pm, and if you’re lucky, carolers will be singing Christmas carols around the area. Alternatively, visit Martin Place to witness Sydney’s stunning Christmas Tree light show. The light show begins at 8 p.m. every night on the hour. This amazing event will take place from November 26th to January 1st.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly activities you can experience in Sydney this holiday season. There are many more to discover such as markets, caroling and incredible Christmas performances, and we hope you get to see it all with your family by your side. From the bottom of our hearts, we at Gaura Travel wish you and your family the very best this Christmas season and hope that together with your loved ones, you are able to make precious memories that will last a lifetime.
Looking to fly home to India this January? We’ve got you covered! Fly home from just $999 and be together with your loved ones in the new year. Check out our special flight deals today and get a head start on your new year resolutions!
It’s almost the most wonderful, sparkling and spectacular time of the year again! Melbourne is indeed a very vibrant and lively city, a perfect venue for Christmas celebrations and cheer. Now that Melbourne is fully open for tourists and visitors, people around the world are free to experience the most magical time of the year in this wonderful city. Check out our list of the best family-friendly Christmas activities to enjoy here in Melbourne this holiday season. From kids from one to ninety-two, there’s something for everyone!
Christmas Square at the Federation Square
In the weeks leading up to Christmas starting from this month, Federation Square, located just across from Flinders St Station, is a must visit attraction for kids and adults alike! Here you can experience a magical Christmas wonderland with various activities, and marvel at the incredible 16-meter-tall Christmas tree. Little ones will be delighted to visit Santa’s workshop and can put in a good word for themselves with Santa himself. The festivities will continue until Christmas Day, so you can enjoy the festive cheer for weeks to come!
Christmas Festival of Lights at Adventure Park
From this month until January 1st 2023, you can enjoy a sight of over 1000 spectacular light displays at Geelong’s Adventure Park , bringing Christmas and fairy tales to life. Visit the Elf Workshop and write up your Christmas wishlist for Santa before sending it off to the North Pole. Who knows, maybe even Santa himself will make an appearance? With so many festivities and a wide range of exciting rides and attractions, for those close by, Geelong’s Adventure Park is a must-visit.
Previous Christmas installations in Melbourne over the years
Carols by Candlelight
Held on December 24th, Carols by Candlelight, which has been running for 85 years, is a magical Melbourne event where you and your family can watch various incredible performers sing all of your favourite Christmas carols. Funds raised from donations, ticket, and candle sales will be donated to Vision Australia’s children services, making the festivities even more special and meaningful.
Myer Christmas Windows
The Myer Christmas Windows have enthralled Australian families for generations. The storefront window display is located in the middle of Bourke Street Mall on Myer’s southern frontage. The Christmas-themed display, which began in 1956, has since become a Melbourne Christmas tradition. Many parents and grandparents who remember going to the windows as children pass on the tradition to their own children. Each year, the design and theme are always different, making it a must-visit attraction and a wonderful addition to your Christmas traditions.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly activities you can experience in Melbourne this holiday season. There are many more to discover as you walk through the vibrant streets of the city with your family by your side. From the bottom of our hearts, we at Gaura Travel wish you and your family the very best this Christmas season and hope that together with your loved ones, you are able to make precious memories that will last a lifetime.
Looking to fly home to India this January? We’ve got you covered! Save up to $500 on your trip home and be together with your loved ones in the new year. Check out our special flight deals today and get a head start on your new year resolutions!
Gaura Travel and the leading airline in Australia, Qantas, enthusiastically participated in Celebrate India’s Victorian Festival of Diwali that took place at Fed Square, Melbourne, on Saturday, October 29, 2022.
The Victorian Festival of Diwali returned after a two-year hiatus, and the Indian community felt more than happy to be able to spend the day at the vibrant festival together.
At the event, Gaura Travel and Qantas set up a stand that drew more than 1000 guests. The spin-the-wheel game, where players could win prizes after learning about Gaura Travel’s flight specials, delighted guests both young and old, and brought smiles to many faces.
This year marks Qantas’ first time partaking in the Victorian Festival of Diwali due to their recent launch of a new flight route from Sydney to Bengaluru, establishing the first direct flight connection between Australia and Southern India by airline. Moreover, it was announced that passengers who book Qantas flights through Gaura Travel will receive a special discount on the ticket fare.
CEO Ashwini Sonthalia preparing to give a speech.
In addition to the partnership with Qantas, Gaura Travel also sponsored a lucky draw for a chance to win a free flight to India. Gaura Travel is also proud to have participated in Celebrate India’s Pink Diwali campaign by donating $1 per ticket sold to the National Breast Cancer Foundation during the months of August and September, the final amount adding up to over $5,000.
We at Gaura Travel are very excited to take part in future festivities and can’t wait until the next one! We’ll see you there!
Those who have lived in Australia for many years know that Melbourne is a city of joy with various of events, festivals and gigs. For the serial shoppers out there, Boxing Day and Cyber Monday are two of the most anticipated dates of the year because gifts for loved ones can be purchased at a discount. Black Friday and Cyber Monday fall on Friday25th of November and Monday28th of November, respectively. Both events are amongst the busiest shopping days of the year in Australia, the difference only lies in its platform, while Black Friday sales typically happen offline, Cyber Monday takes place online. National chain stores traditionally offer a limited wide range of goods in an attempt to get shoppers into stores while providing comparable deals online.
History
Black Friday was first used in reference to the crash of the U.S. gold market on September 24, 1869. The connection to the holiday season is a little vaguer, but the use of the phrase Black Friday in relation to a widespread sales event might have originated in the early 1960s, when Philadelphia police officers reportedly used it to describe “the chaos that resulted when large numbers of suburban tourists came into the city to begin their holiday shopping,”. In the late 1980s the event became associated with the idea that stores operate at a loss throughout the year, but are able to earn a profit on the day after Thanksgiving, as it is when shoppers are most likely to spend money on gifts.
The term “Cyber Monday” started getting used in 2005 by the National Retail Federation (NRF), which needed a name for the flurry of online sales that takes place the Monday after Thanksgiving Day. On this year, NRF credited faster internet connections and this attracted online shoppers.
The online merchants wanted a chance to earn the same profits retail stores were making on Black Friday and customers were happy to shop from the comfort of their homes instead of standing in huge lines.
To beat the crowds, be sure to plan your shopping trip early in the day.
Deals We Can Expect
Black Friday deals typically involve massive discounts on the most recent technology, such as new 4K and 8K TVs, smart home devices, laptops, desktops, and tablets. If you want to refresh your home entertainment setup or give your PC a much-needed makeover, you should take advantage of these offers.
Given that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are just days apart, many retailers opt to combine the two events. You will notice that many deals are still labelled as Black Friday sales, even when they occur on Cyber Monday. Think of Cyber Monday as Black Friday’s sister. Both sale events occur over the same long weekend and there are always loads of amazing deals to secure.
Some companies will extend their Black Friday deals over the weekend and into Cyber Monday, while others will launch entirely new, eye-catching promotions to compete with their prior offerings. We may anticipate numerous discounts on companies such as Apple, Dyson, Bose, Cotton On, Myer, Amazon, and many others.
Shopping Tips for Australians
The first suggestion is to just buy what you need. You may think you’re getting a great deal, but in the long run if you don’t get any use out of it, it’s simply not worth buying. The second step is to avoid using credit whenever possible. If you have to pay interest on your purchases, you are not saving in the long run. If you do use credit, for example, to earn rewards, make sure you can afford to pay it off immediately or before the due date.
Yes, sales are designed to entice you to spend more money. However, if you are wise, you can use them to your advantage and save money. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are relatively new in Australia, and while some of us may be hesitant to participate, you can save a lot of money on a variety of things that you need.
In Australia, as indicated above, we have specified dates for both Black Friday and Cyber Monday this year. However, offers frequently begin before the actual day, so if you are seeking to purchase something in particular, it is a good idea to keep an eye out ahead of time. If you miss out on a local sale, don’t fret – retailers in the US generally operate a day behind Australian time, so you can still catch the sales for at least an extra day. Amazon, eBay, and traditional Australian retailers are all good places to look for savings. Don’t forget about supermarkets! If you shop ahead and score some amazing deals on Black Friday, you can save money on food throughout Christmas and the New Year.
Here are some additional tips for you to consider:
Write a Shopping List
Smart shopping is about buying what you need, so start by writing a list of all the things you need or have been putting off purchasing. Once you have written a list of things you need, the next step is to prioritize it. If you can only afford one item, which is the most important one on your list? If you are going in-store to purchase, what is the one item you do not want to miss out on?
Set a Shopping Budget
Most of us have wish lists longer than our budgets. Therefore, it is wise to know before you go shopping exactly how much you have got to spend. If you spend more than you have budgeted, that can mean paying interest on purchases and interest eats into any savings you may have made.
Track Your Spending
Once you have created a shopping budget, you are going to need a way to make sure you do not go over it! You can write down your purchases to keep a tally of what you buy, or you can use a money app to account for your spending. Consider using Goodbudget as one of the tools that you can use.
Research Sales and Purchases Beforehand
Avoid paying more than you have to by doing your research well before the sales. You have already got a shopping list and a budget – this narrows your research down. When researching sales beforehand, create a shortlist of potential brands/styles or models.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
If you are spending the day wandering stores, you will thank yourself if you wear comfortable shoes and clothing. If you are planning to try on clothes, then easily removable clothes and shoes are also a good idea.
Now that you have all the know-how, why not plan ahead and take care of some Christmas shopping at a discount for your loved ones back home? Of course, even if Christmas shopping is a bit out of your budget this year, your presence back home this holiday season is the best gift of all to your family. Check out our incredible flight deals to and from India starting from $999 and make some precious memories with your loved ones this holiday season!
Many people believe that anything low-cost inevitably indicates low quality; while this is true in many circumstances, it does not apply to Scoot. Scoot Airlines, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, is a low-cost airline designed to appeal to the young at heart, value-seeking traveller. Since their inception in 2011, Scoot has expanded their fleet to over 60 modern aircrafts and flies to over 16 countries and 56 destinations across Asia, Europe and Oceania.
There are numerous reasons why Scoot is the airline to fly with; the low pricing, friendly crew and quality service, to name a few. In addition, Scoot has received numerous awards and accolades, most recently being named ‘World’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline’ by Skytrax in 2021 and 2022, following years of being named Best Low-Cost Airline (Asia/Pacific) by AirlineRatings.com (2015-2018) and ranking within the Top 10 of the World’s Best Low-Cost Airlines by Skytrax in 2015, 2018, and 2021.
Image courtesy of Scoot
Price
It comes as no surprise that travelling with Scoot is extremely affordable; a ticket from Melbourne to Amritsar in February 2023 can cost as little as AUD 400.34. Despite having such low prices, no compromises need to be made when flying with Scoot, as the Economy Standard ticket includes 20kg of checked baggage and 10kg of carry-on luggage.
Crew
The Scoot crew is exceptionally friendly and accommodating and always ready to cater to whatever needs you may have during your journey. Crew members are always diligently educating passengers on how to use the ScootApp to help manage and book flights, as well as keep track of updates and possible delays. The facilities on board are always pristine, with the crew often racing in and out of the restrooms with cleaning spray in hand. When you board, you can expect top-notch, five-star service!
Experience
Passengers can enjoy inexpensive in-flight entertainment and regular meals on their way home and back. The meals are also fantastic, with options ranging from Nasi Lemak (fragrant coconut-flavored rice served with spicy sambal, tender chicken, long beans, quail egg, and otah – a type of grilled fish cake) to Ayam Briyani (a Singaporean take on the classic chicken biriyani), all of which are Halal-certified. Furthermore, as a Singapore-based airline, many of Scoot’s flights fly via Changi Airport, which is regarded as one of the best airports in the world, with a range of exciting activities to experience. (You can find out more about Changi Airport here.)
Flying with Scoot Airlines is a necessity if you want to enjoy high-quality flying on a budget. Cheap tickets, clean planes, and trustworthiness are just a few of the numerous benefits you can expect from this airline. Furthermore, cancellation and long delays are far from common, meaning you can guarantee your trip will be smooth and stress-free.
Itching to book your next flight home? Give Scoot a whirl and discover for yourself the numerous benefits this airline can provide to you. Find all our Flight Deals with Scoot here and experience 5-star service at the lowest cost.
Being distanced from your loved ones is one of the most difficult things people around the world have had to bear throughout the pandemic; many living far from their home and families felt great sorrow during that tragic time. The feeling of helplessness and longing loomed over many hearts especially those who had to cross oceans to get back home.
With borders quickly shutting due to the pandemic, it became difficult, near impossible, to embrace your loved ones in person; however, Gaura Travel proudly came to the rescue by bringing estranged hearts back together. By securing deals with various airlines and the relevant government agencies, Gaura Travel was able to arrange a number of charter flights between Australia and India until eventually, on November 1, 2021, the border between Australia and India reopened.
In the last few years, Gaura Travel has achieved many great things, both before and after the reopening of Australian borders. Between 2020 and 2021, Gaura Travel flew 102 charter flights, reuniting over 20,000 separated families. Gaura Travel clearly shed a light of hope for those who desired to be closer to their family and friends at home. As a result, Gaura Travel earned a commendable appearance from the Indian High Commissioner and rose to the top of the Indian repatriation Charter Flight market.
The team standing proudly with Indian High Commissioner Mr. Raj Kumar during Gaura Travel’s 10k Reunited event
Gaura Travel has been in business for 15 years, have arranged 1.5 million flights, and looks forward to many more years of assisting people in reuniting and spending quality time with their loved ones. Gaura Travel has a 50% market share in AUS-IND Charter flights due to our clients’ faith in us. As well as this, Gaura Travel is also ATAS and IATA accredited, as well as an AFTA member.
Gaura Travel has also been a sponsor at numerous events such as India Fair 2015 and 2016, India Australia Friendship Fair 2015, Ganesh Festival 2017, and Diwali Festival 2022 in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney. In addition, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air India, and many more airlines have recognized Gaura Travel as a successful travel agency.
Singapore Airlines representative Aidan Truscott bestowing a Certificate of Appreciation for Gaura Travel’s arrangement of charter flights to CEOs Ashwini Sonthalia and Abhishek Sonthalia
While we are proud of our accomplishments, we know that we wouldn’t be where we are today without you. We are eternally grateful to all of our passengers for supporting our business and allowing us to soar higher than ever before. From the bottom of our hearts we would like to thank you for your continued support, and we will continue to do our very best to make you smile!
Interested in flying home this holiday season? Check out Gaura Travel’s flight deals to travel back home to India starting from $999! We are looking forward to catering to your travel needs soon.
Falling on Sunday 13th November this year is World Kindness Day, a day where people around the world spread joy and kindness to one another. The celebration began in 1988, when The World Kindness Movement (WKM), a nonprofit organization, commemorated the event with the first ever World Kindness Day. The purpose of this movement is to create a more just and better world, and to encourage people to be kind to one another. It has no religious, commercial, or political objectives.
Active listening, embracing diversity and surprising your loved ones are just a few of the many ways we may inspire one another to be compassionate both to each other and to the world around us. This World Kindness Day, we’re here to share a few ways you can share kindness with your friends and family, or even a stranger, and make the world a better place.
Active Listening
Active listening is frequently undervalued; while anybody can hear, not everybody can listen. The goal of active listening is to increase mutual understanding through active hearing and response. In addition to this, through active listening, it becomes easier to read and understand non-verbal messages through expressions and body language.
Active listening can help you give others the sense that they are being heard and acknowledged, which is something that everyone secretly desires. If one does not feel heard or seen, life may seem lonely and isolating, despite the quality of life that person may experience. Active listening is also contagious; when someone feels heard or noticed, they might want other people to feel the same, therefore they might act in the same way towards others.
The next time you’re speaking with someone, try to be conscious of how you engage with them. Make sure you pay attention to what they have to say and provide appropriate feedback. Just one act of generosity and care can have a big impact.
Embrace Diversity
In order to avoid conflict, it is important to prioritize acceptance and understanding of different cultures and customs as globalization advances. Accepting the fact that people around the world are brought up following different traditions, life values, beliefs, and cultures is the first step in showing respect for them all.
One of the many advantages of embracing diversity is to be able to learn from one another and expanding your knowledge. There are so much to learn in this world, so what better way to learn if not from the ones who are living it? Diversity is what makes our world interesting, and learning from different cultures can grow your overall knowledge and understanding, as well as allow you to form a newfound respect for said culture. It also allows you to exercise your sense of empathy, which can drop the barrier of separation and establish a common understanding.
A small act of kindness can go a long way!
Surprise Your Loved Ones
Who deserves more kindness than the ones you love the most? Come home and surprise your loved ones as one way to honor World Kindness Day! They would really appreciate the gesture. Good news for you, you can fly home to India from Australia at a very special price starting from $999 this November! Check out our flight deals here, and embrace your loved ones in surprise!
One of India’s most appealing qualities is its unity in diversity, where many religions and cultures co-exist in harmony. The fifth-largest religion in the world, Sikhism, is one of the many faiths practiced in India. On Tuesday, November 8th 2022 this year, Guru Nanak Jayanti, a celebration honoring the first Sikh guru, will take place. The founding of Sikhism was made possible by the spiritual teachings of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru. A spiritual visionary, Guru Nanak travelled throughout Southern Asia and the Middle East to spread his ideals.
The birthdays of the 10 Sikh gurus are the focus of celebrations in the Sikh faith. The Sikhs’ religious views were molded by these gurus. Their birthdays, called “Gurpurab,” are times for communal celebration and devotion. The celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti includes devotional processions, hymns, free treats, martial arts (‘Gatka’), and community service.
3 Interesting Facts about Guru Nanak
Even as a young boy, Guru Nanak appreciated the company of spiritual men and had in-depth conversations with them on the essence of God.
In his youth, Guru Nanak objected to wearing the holy thread known as Janeu, declaring that he would wear the genuine name of God in his heart as a substitute for protection. He reasoned that the thread couldn’t provide any security because it could be misplaced, burned, become dirty, or broken.
When Guru Nanak was twelve years old, his father wanted to teach him about business, so he handed him twenty rupees and told him to start a company with the money. Instead, Guru Nanak used the money to buy food, which he then gave to the impoverished and holy people. When his father questioned him about the state of business, he responded by saying he had conducted “true business.”
A historical painting depicting the meeting of Guru Gobind and Guru Nanak
How to Celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti
Inform the younger generation about the background behind the Guru Nanak Jayanti festival.
Together with your family, read the verses and hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy book).
Prepare delicious treats and share them with your neighbors.
Did you miss your chance to make it home for Guru Nanak Jayanti this year? No worries, because there’s still plenty of time to book your flight home for December! Check out our special flight deals and book your flight home today!
World National Vegan Day is coming up soon on Tuesday, November 1st 2022, and what better way to celebrate than with cooking up some delicious vegan dishes? There is a misconception amongst many that vegan meals are bland and tasteless, as well as lacking the essential nutrients that a person needs to stay healthy, however this couldn’t be further from the truth! Eating vegan can help you lose excess weight, lower blood sugar levels, improve kidney function, and lower risk of diabetes complications.
You may be thinking, that’s all well and good, but what about flavour? Well, with these delicious recipes, you can skip out on the meat and still enjoy a variety of scrumptious meals packed with flavour. Let’s celebrate World National Vegan Day together!
History
Before we get into the recipes, let’s brush up on the history behind the occasion. It all started when Louise Wallis, a vegan animal rights activist, was looking for a suitable occasion to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vegan Society in 1994. The celebration was intended to raise awareness for the vegan community, as well as to celebrate the fact that the word ‘vegan’ had entered the English language. Eventually, November 1st was chosen by Wallis because it falls in between October 31, or Halloween, and November 2, when the Mexican Day of the Dead is celebrated.
The vegan lifestyle is becoming more and more accepted as a way of life that can be lived effortlessly and, most importantly, without harming animals for one’s own food or clothing.
3 Ways to Veganize Indian Recipes
Making veganized versions of Indian dishes is simple and somewhat ‘required’ as many of them are vegetarian by nature. You can convert many of your favourite Indian dishes to veganism with a few simple ingredient changes.
Substitute Ghee with Vegan Butter
Ghee, a type of butter from India, is used frequently used in Indian cuisine. Ghee can be substituted with Vegan Butter that would offer a similar flavor; you can also opt to substitute ghee with oil, depending on the need from the recipe.
Substitute Meat with Pulses
When making curries, dals, soups, and any other meals, pulses (such as chickpeas and beans) can be used in place of meat.
Substitute Cream with Cashews or Coconut Milk
Cashew or coconut milk can be used in place of cream. Blended raw cashews, often known as cashew cream, typically perform incredibly well when an Indian cuisine asks for cream, and it will yield fantastic results.
Coconut oil and cream, legumes and nuts are a great substitute for dairy and protein
If you are looking for rich tasting, comfort food, this delicious vegan chilli recipe will satisfy you. This dish is very flavorful and healthy. For a better eating experience, serve it with rice. 3 steps to make only.
These sweet potatoes can be served as a side dish at a barbeque or transformed into a summer salad by adding watercress or rocket. There are only two easy steps to the recipe, check it out here.
Many people thought that vegan foods are mostly savory, but this is untrue. There are various vegan recipes to cater to your sweet tooth, one of them being this vegan chocolate brownie recipe. Unlike the usual brownies’ recipe, this recipe is made without any dairy or eggs yet they taste just as good, if not better!
Craving for delicious, crispy bites? This samosa recipe will please your yearning! It can be served as an appetizer, snack, or finger food; a perfect menu to share with your family during gatherings.
This Indian cucumber salad recipe is incredibly simple to make and deliciously tasty. Serve it as a side dish with any meal. It is made with chopped onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers and is flavoured with various spices. It is gluten-free, vegan, and oil-free.
Pictured: Vegan Chilli, Brownies, Samosa
Now that you have these delicious vegan recipes under your belt, it’s time to cook up a storm! Enjoy a range of flavourful vegan recipes this World Vegan Day and enjoy a vegan feast with your friends and loved ones!
Speaking of, for the best of the best when it comes to vegan food, why not take a trip home to India? We’re offering numerous flight deals now, with flights starting at just $699. Don’t miss your family this holiday season – fly home and make some precious memories together!
Chhath Puja is a celebration that honors the mighty sun god Lord Surya and is dedicated to the welfare of all people. The two “aragyas” (river water offerings to Lord Surya) that are made during the festival take place as the sun rises and sets. The rising and setting sun evoke a sense of power and awe among the devotees who come to pay respect to Lord Surya.
The festival commences six days after the Festival of Light, Diwali. This year, Chhath Puja will be celebrated on Sunday, October 30th 2022.
History and Legends
The legend associated with Chhath Puja is the story of King Priyavrat, son of First Manu Swayambhu, who had no children, and hence was very distraught by it. He carried out a “yajna” (a ritual sacrifice with a specific objective) for a son in accordance with Maharishis’ (Saptarishis, the seven ancient sages of the Rigveda) instructions. Following this, Queen Malini gave birth to a son, but sadly the child passed away at birth.
The king, as well as the rest of the family, were devastated by this. A figure then suddenly appeared in the skies, identifying herself as the daughter of Lord Brahma, Shashthi Devi, and that she had arrived to answer the king’s prayer. She conveyed to the grieving family that her purpose was to ensure the safety of all children around the world, as well as provide the ability to have children to families that were previously unable to.
Shortly after this, Shashthi Devi blessed the child with a touch of her hand, bringing him back to life. Following this, King Priyavrat was so grateful for the goddess’ act of grace that he vowed to pay eternal worship to her. Since then, the occasion of Chhath Puja became a well-known holiday observed all over the world.
Celebrations and Festivities
The festivities surrounding Chhath Puja include a lot of devotional music. The festival atmosphere is enhanced by the omnipresent sound of “Chhath geet” (prayers). To see the “arghya,” people swarm the banks before dawn while dressed in traditional attire. Cities like Gaya and Patna, for example, have excellent lighting in the morning’s early hours. Everyone adheres to the values of keeping cleanliness and mental purity, attesting to the undeniable sacredness of the festival. It is highly valued when devotees go through the hardships of fasting and renunciation during Chhath Puja.
The festival lasts four days with each day having its own unique traditions, as follows.
Devotees wake early in the morning to offer prasad and pray to the sun god.
First Day (Nahaye Khaye)
At dawn on the first day, worshippers take a holy bath in the Ganga or Yamuna. Along with cleaning their home, they make offerings for the God, which would eventually be consumed by the devotees. In order to shield the mind against the desire towards vengeance, vegetarian food may also be consumed.
Second Day (Kharna)
The second day, the devotees fast and refrain from even sipping water. Kharna means to fast for the whole day. They break this fast at night, and resume the fast until the evening of the third day.
Third Day (Sandyha Arghya)
Devotees decorate the banks of rivers with flowers and offerings on the third day’s nightfall. They embellish a bamboo basket and load it up with rice laddoos, thekua (an Indian cookie), and fruits (sweets). The followers break their fast after this ritual.
Fourth Day (Usha Arghya)
The ‘arghya’ is offered to the rising sun on the last day, and blessings are requested for the children’s happiness. When night falls, devotees break their fast by consuming prasad (a devotional offering made to a god, typically consisting of food that is later shared among devotees, also known as parana). Then, prasad is given to family members and other members of the community.
Did you miss your chance to make it home for Chhath Puja this year? No worries, because there’s still plenty of time to book your flight home for December! Check out our special flight deals and book your flight home today!
