COVID-19 has changed our lives. Quintessentially, there isn’t a single industry out there that has not been affected. At Yuyiii, we are closely seeing how travel has changed and how rural weekend getaways will still be favored for a visit against International Travel.

Although the times are uncertain, our founder, Nidhi Sharma is beating all the odds to revive the travel industry in India in her own way. And here’s an interview of hers on Yuyiii and the way for luxury that was featured by Co-Founders Town. Check it out:

Do read this feature, it was originally published by the team of Co-Founders Town:

There used to be a time in the not so distant past—when the hotels spread all over your Instagram feed were touting luxury amenities like Frette sheets, movie theatres, and their perennially full Michelin-star restaurants.

Fast forward some months and the travel & tourism business especially is on its knees worldwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Country borders are sealed. Cities are at stand-still. Flights are grounded. Cruise ships are docked in harbours. Trains are stationary. Buses are not plying. Hotels are shut. Restaurants are shuttered. No one knows when the fury of the virus will abate; no vaccine is in sight; people are cloistered in their homes. Social distancing is the new mantra. Masks and gloves are the new safety accoutrements. And no one is even thinking of a holiday, let alone planning for one.

Nidhi Sharma, the founder of Yuyiii, talks about how much has the travel industry being affected, presents insights into the world of luxury travel, and shares what could the world after COVID-19 might look like for the travel industry!

The way we travel and the flavour of Travel has been through a paradigm shift.

In India, Travel has come a long way from Religious Travel, Travel to meet family members or for Weddings and other Family occasions to Pure Leisure. That in itself had the seed of the growth of Luxury Travel.

While the Travel & Tourism sector contributes about 10% to the national GDP, approx. 95% of that contribution today comes from Leisure Travel. Travel has been successful in attracting a significant part of the consumer wallet.

It has evolved from ‘touristy’ sightseeing to several Travellers maturing over the last decade having their own taste of travel. They travel for ‘Me’ time or ‘Quality Time’. This is the new class of Luxury Travellers who don’t mind spending Rs 10,000 per Night for great properties which pamper them and make them feel good.

Growing Disposable Incomes & Aspirations, Rise of Social Media and the Millennial generation who love to spend more than the previous generations and leverage Travel Loans as well, have all contributed to the demand of Luxury Travel.

Supply-side got a boost from the development of new Destinations and Luxurious Standalone Properties. Luxury travel market became larger than just 5-star branded Hotel chains, more than just lavish rooms to rooms with splendid views or exotic locations.

For example: IHCL today has several brands like Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta and The Gateway catering to different needs of Leisure Travellers.

Several trends helped shape up the new face of Travel:

The Travel and Tourism Industry as we all know was the worst hit and it was all of a sudden. Hilton celebrated its 100th year just 6 months ago and within a few months of that, it had to furlough more than 60% of its 4.3 Lakh workforce according to a Phocuswire report.

“The travel and tourism industry provided 87.5 million jobs and accounted for 12.75% of the total jobs created in the country in 2019” – as per the Grant Thornton India Report of June 2020. For such an important and large industry, numbers like losses of Rs 15,000 crores in March and April alone of this year are very grim along with a CII estimate of around 2 Crore job losses.

But there are glimmers of hope streaming in from countries which have reopened. After China’s lockdown relaxations, domestic tourists took trips with enthusiasm in the 5 days of Holiday owing to May day.

50 million Trips in the first two days alone with a revenue of $1.38 billion. These are great numbers when tourist attractions had a capping on the number of Tourists to 30% of total capacity.

Few Marriott properties in the Resort destinations of China welcomed an occupancy rate as high as 70% around Labour Day. Numbers released by Sedona Chamber of Commerce show occupancy rates as high as 91% on the Memorial Day Weekend in the US.

Road to recovery might take a year or two because it will be a while for some vaccine to come out and Inbound and Outbound tourist numbers to be the same as pre-COVID. Domestic Trips will be the forerunners to Recovery. 26 Million Indians took International Trips in 2018. A large number of these Tourists will also look to explore India in 2020 and 2021.

To be very frank, no one knows when and how soon due to the number of uncertainties. But Travel will not go away, it’s part of the innate Human nature to explore. Lockdown has been very taxing.

Remote work blurred lines between personal and professional hours. Household duties and no recreation has taken a toll. Post lockdown if we look at recreation options, people might still hesitate for visiting malls or friends but a Road trip to a Safe property will work.

For this to happen, states need to come to a conclusion on how to keep their borders open without significant quarantine time needed and Hotels have to be prepared to host Guests with comprehensive Safety and Hygiene measures. We expect a significant pent up demand to arise around September.

Just how Airport security changed forever post 9/11, there will be new norms in the Hospitality Industry. Technology will play a key role in this transformation. Safety & Hygiene Standardizations and Certifications by prominent Bodies like National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH), DNV GL Business Assurance, Bureau Veritas etc. will be significant in winning Guest confidence.

Strategic partnerships like Hospitality Insurance Companies to help with the medical cover of the Guests could become a norm. Accor’s ALLSAFE Label, Marriott’s Global Cleanliness Council and Hilton’s tie-ups with RB which manufactures Lysol and Mayo Clinic are mirrors into the extreme care and meticulous implementations of new cleanliness measures.

Overall measures like UV disinfection technologies for Luggage, Hospital grade cleaning agents for sanitization of High touch points like door handles, elevator buttons, light control panels, Masks and Gloves, Social Distancing training of Staff, Hand Sanitizer stations, Contactless Technology and QR codes for automation of processes like Check-In, Check-Outs and Dining, Digital Payments, Disposable Menus and Cutlery will be very common place at least in the renowned Hotel brands. OTAs could put up a new filter and rating on the sanitization to help guests shortlist better.

Travellers will read reviews more in conjunction with safety and hygiene of the Property. Wellness Travel could see an impetus as people have woken up to the holy trinity of Mind, Body and Spirit. Also, new Properties under construction could see a new kind of architecture which allows better social distancing

Trips that guests perceive as safer will be in trend like Weekend Trips via Road which allows them to sit in the safety of their car and go to a property at a drivable distance. Travellers might increase their frequency of trips in a year and take shorter trips rather than one long trip. Indians who would keep aside a few lakhs for that one landmark international trip every year could use that to explore domestic destinations in 2020 and 2021.

Preference will be for Luxury Brands and Hotel Brands which demonstrate implementation of stringent safety and cleanliness standards. Brands which have strong 360 degree communication channels will win more number of Guests as just implementing standards and not communicating it to Guests will not help in re-instilling Guest confidence.

Guests will need more consultation-based approach to book initially and a direct online booking on OTAs with no human intervention may take longer to revive. Small to mid-size Properties in remote areas which have less than 15 rooms like Individual Cottages with large open spaces and new hygiene measures adopted will also see recovery sooner.

Hotels will need to come up with new and flexible cancellation policies and options like Open Bookings which allow paying now but travelling later can also become popular. Players like Airbnb can see a jump in Monthly rental kind of bookings owing to the flexibility that professionals will get with remote booking. So, an IT professional from Bangalore might consider working from his hometown or peaceful destination like Coorg and pay less in monthly rent.

Employee Safety and Guest safety should be the primary focus. This interval of time should be used to evaluate, frame and implement comprehensive safety & sanitization measures.

A lot of synergy can be derived with collaborations. Importance of Strong, Effective and 360 degree communication using all channels to help Guests understand that they will be well taken care of will not be overrated.

As many processes as possible should be digitized to enable contactless approach. Also, making sure that the cost doesn’t increase too much before Revenues.

Yuyiii’s journey has been beautiful. It started from my own travel experiences around 10-12 years ago.

I was a Showhost with a TV channel called StarCJ – joint venture between Star group and South Korea’s leading CJO. It was an upcoming premium lifestyle home-shopping channel and along with the joy of hosting shows ‘LIVE’ and selling a variety of brands like Satya Paul, Tanishq, Lenovo, Vichy etc, I got the financial freedom and some time to explore.

Touristy destinations took away the romance of travel for me and I started researching places away from the run-of-the-mill destinations, lesser-explored and more authentic. OTAs would list hundreds of properties in the known touristy destinations and even the filters could not help in finalizing the property meant for their taste. Photos of the properties were either photoshopped to show unreal stuff or were too low in quality.

Like I remember a property in Fagu, Himanchal Pradesh at 9000 ft. with a revolving restaurant and a 360 unhindered view of the Himalayas. But their website and photos didn’t match their standards at all. I took a bet and booked the property. I have somehow had intuitive powers in discovering such goldmines .

On reaching there, I was the only guest along with Rocky from the NDTV Goodtimes show ‘Highway on My Plate’. There was another time when I booked a Family run Orchard Stay with an actual Treehouse which also swayed a little bit with the breeze and a 180 deg view of the Himalayas. It was spacious, spick and span at a very affordable Tariff of Rs 3500 per night in Katrain, a village 17 Kms from the main town of Kullu.

It has an orchard land of plum, apples and cherries. Breakfast had a plate of freshly plucked cherries from the garden and parathas with the lovely kids who had red apple cheeks and were absolutely adorable.

But how would other Travellers discover these gorgeous properties? Videos are a powerful medium too and help us dream about travel.

At the same time give better clarity than Photos but were perceived as very expensive and Hotel owners lacked the knack of making apt Travel videos. Tripadvisor reviews helped but a lot of times the Traveller disparity in their ways of travel caused confusion. Like some traveller reviewing a Corbett property as poor because they didn’t spot a tiger in the safari or a poor photo uploaded by a Traveller with a crumpled bed sheet and empty plastic bottles strewn in the room.

With these realizations coming in, I was excited to start work and offer a platform to many Travellers like me who wanted to Discover new destinations and great Properties with Nonphotoshopped Images and Videos plus In-depth Travel expert reviews. Yuyiii’s empanelled Travel experts travel to each property and give their honest review on 25 parameters and highlight important things like Room lights are dim, so the stay may not be apt for a reading holiday.

We launched last year and raised an angel round in June 2019 with two very inspiring and supportive angel investors. Yuyiii received love from travellers and within a few months we could clock great booking volumes with more than 4500 registered users. Our Travellers and Property partners love us for World-class Videos produced by the Yuyiii Team which also feature interviews and stories of heroes from the properties.

Sharing Two such Property Videos.

1. Property Overview of a Treehouse Property in Wayanad

2. Owner Story of a Property in Rajasthan

We used the Lockdown period to integrate Voice Technology by SlangLabs for our esteemed Guests and are very excited that Yuyiii is now one of India’s first online platforms to have this technology which is Voice to function and not just simple translation of Voice to text.

We are reading the situation week-on-week and in close communication with our Partner Properties . Yuyiii is known for its content and communication capabilities. We understand the Tonality and Sensitivity needed for our segment of Evolved travelers in form of text, images and videos.

Our videos are inspiring and informational and strike a chord with the travelers. We plan to extend this expertise to a lot of our Partner brands so that they can use all their energies in implementing the new SOPs and guidelines released by MoHFW and we can help them in communicating this to the Guests.

Having crystal clear clarity on why you want to be an entrepreneur will add meaning.

Primary motto to earn a lot of money quickly or it looks cool are wrong reasons and will not help you sustain. Ideas are dime a dozen but execution is the key.

This journey will test you, break you and there are no shortcuts. Only when you love the process as much as the final achievement of goals, giving up will not be an option. Please have great mentors and coaches. Build a great team who will stand by you when times are tough.

Yuyiii is lucky to have such team members to look at silver linings in this crisis. If you are true to your purpose, this journey will be the most enthralling and enriching one!

The first thing that we want to do after the lockdown is eased down is to travel. We hear you! And that’s why we have already looked up at all the possible options for Nature Weekend Getaways, Luxury Resorts near Mumbai, Safe and Sanitized Getaways Near Mumbai.

What if we say that there is some silver lining to this dark cloud? Because as you know, MHA guidelines for travel have been declared. Therefore, although international travel plans might be on a back burner, local travel in India is something that many travelers are looking forward to, whether with the family or all solo!

That’s why, we have handpicked a few choicest destinations, getaways near Mumbai. So if you are eagerly waiting for going for a weekend getaway after lockdown, our recommendations are here to nudge you:

Photo by Nitish Kadam on Unsplash

Thankfully, there are many weekend getaways near Mumbai that are safe to visit after the lockdown. As they are surrounded by nature, safe and have getaways near Mumbai that are safe, sanitized and social distancing proof, it would be fine to visit them.

From beach till mountain weekend getaways near Mumbai, we got you covered! Read more:

Beaches and rains. What could ever be a better combination? A hub for pilgrims and tourists alike, Ganpatipule is a rare town to remain untouched by commercialization. And trust us, this town looks incredible during monsoon. The town derives its name due to the discovery of an idol of the Hindu Lord Ganesha discovered 1600 years ago. And just like its rich history, its beaches are one of its kind. So, bucket list it for monsoon then?


Head to this Safe, Sanitized Weekend Getaway in Ganapatipule to visit after Corona Lockdown: Getaways near Mumbai

Picture Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Wai is one of the most underrated jewels of Maharashtra. Most importantly, it is near Mumbai as well as Pune, Wai is a paradise of its own. Its tranquil lakes, modest homes, vast farmlands grow on you. Also, you get to see a line of umpteen strawberry, gooseberry farms there. Wai is surrounded by mountains and is also home to a soothing home-eco stay that would be ideal nature weekend getaway to visit after the lockdown eases.

Head to this Safe, Sanitized Weekend Getaway in Ganapatipule to visit after Corona Lockdown: Getaways Near Mumbai

Shendi blooms in monsoon. It rests amongst the Sahyadris. Most importantly, Shendi enchants travelers with its picturesque lakes and gushing waterfalls. Indeed, it is a small, modest village. However, it is blessed by River Ganga. That is why it always stays clean, peaceful, and lush green. So, take a trip to Shendi this monsoon and have the time of your life.

Head to this Safe, Sanitized Weekend Getaway in Shendi to visit after Corona Lockdown: Getaways near Mumbai

Hear the brave tales of Maratha in the backdrop of rains at Saswad. “Every inch of Saswad soil has a chapter of history written on it!” – Babasaheb Purandare. On the banks of the Karha river, Saswad dazzles travelers. Its greenery pacifies your soul. Most importantly, its rich history was home to several Buddhist monasteries and temples and the homeland for the first Peshwa from the Bhat family. If you have watched Tumbad and marveled at the ancient doors and locks withstanding the rains, you can see some of them in Saswad! You got all the right reasons to visit it in monsoon, no?

Head to this Safe, Sanitized Weekend Getaway in Saswad to visit after Corona Lockdown: Getaways near Mumbai

Mulshi is magical in monsoon. Because it is located by the sight of the mesmerizing Mulshi Dam. From there you can see the dance of clouds over the tense skies. Under the veil of the majestic Sahyadri mountains, the tranquil waters of the Mulshi dam offer travelers a respite. This village truly charges you up with its views. Whether from Pune or Mumbai, this place deserves your visit, every monsoon.

Head to this Safe, Sanitized Weekend Getaway in Mulshi to visit after Corona Lockdown: Getaways near Mumbai

“It is always the same with the mountains. Once you have lived with them for any length of time, you belong to them. There is no escape.”

-Ruskin Bond

Uttarakhand is nature’s treasure trove. And that’s why weekend getaways in Uttarakhand always buzz our minds. This stunning land of hill stations, wildlife parks, pahadi food invites you even in your sleep. Most importantly, the weekend getaways in Uttarakhand rekindle the love for travel in you.

Be it for a weekend break or a summer vacation, the weekend getaways from Delhi in Uttarakhand rekindle the joy of finding peace in the lap of nature.

Photo by Vivek Sharma on Unsplash

The weekend getaways of Uttarakhand are popular across the traveller community just like the hidden gems of Maharashtra. You get to enjoy the ever so enchanting embrace of nature there. But, you might think it would be great to visit in Summer. However, for a die-hard traveler, one reason is just enough to visit Uttarakhand! We got you, right?

For all the right reasons, Uttarakhand is perfect for a family getaway. Moreover, like weekend getaways from Delhi in Uttarakhand as well, it is easily reachable. But most importantly, because of its amazing backdrop of mountains and delish Pahadi food, you simply cannot have enough of Uttarakhand!

So, if you are already on toes because of the mountain view and romanticism of Uttarakhand, then do check out these mountain view resorts in Uttarakhand that are safe, deeply sanitized, and maintain social distancing:

This mountain view resort is luxury personified! It is perfect for solo travelers as well as families and couples. With an enchanting view of mountains, nature trails, it takes away stress and peps you up for life. You never really need an excuse to visit this stay!

What is great about this stay? The backdrop of magnificent mountains there is absolutely unmissable. You are a mountain lover or not, this stay will make you forget all your love for them!

Why should you visit it? To breathe in some fresh air and rejuvenate. Rooms are very spacious with Sit-outs/Balconies. Also, the touristy crowded places like Nainital are accessible but a little away from it. So, you feel the pause and peace better. The decadent wood-fire food served there makes you fall in love with slow-meals all over again and rekindles the love for small joys in your soul. 

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this stay: Weekend Getaway in Uttarakhand

Did you always wonder about living is handmade home? Well, this soulful stay in Nathuakhan will fulfill that dream of yours. This mountain view stay is absolutely perfect for you to meet your true self. Also, for bird watching, rural indulgence, and nature, we can recommend going there more than this! The handmade home, carefully designed by placing stone after stone wins you over. It makes you believe in the small joys of life and simple pahadi life. Also, the cherry on the cake there is the tutelage of mountains. You see them everywhere from this mountain view stay.

What is great about this stay? Lined up with the choicest flowers, views of majestic mountains, and walls made from handpicked stones, this stay is all Zen and comfort in one go. Whether for a solo soul searching sessions, intimate getaways with your loved one, or a family getaway, this mountain view stay is perfect for all of it.

Why should you visit it? Be inspired to speak with Chetan, the owner on how he made this Homestay dream come true for him and many other Travellers like you! If you have kids along, the bird watching and nature trails there by the mountains will keep you joyful.

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4/5

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this stay: Weekend Getaway in Uttarakhand

For the love of royalty, this stay is a must-visit! This mountain view stay was previously the residence of Princess Reena Kumari. This boutique mountain view hotel still exudes luxury, class, and beauty of the good old days.  Princess Reenam Kumariji personally looked after the renovation and was so meticulous that she gave this six years before opening it to Travellers. So be prepared to see a lot of authentic heritage structures, luxury, and attention to detail.

What is great about this stay? Its interiors are tasteful, refined and the decadent food there makes you feel like you are from a royal household.

Why should you visit it? For soaking the pristine beauty of Nainital, annals of royalty and art, head to this regal stay without a doubt. You would feel like a royal at this stay, with even little things like the linen being of top quality. As one of the most regal resorts in Uttarakhand, it definitely deserves your visit! Also, it is one of the safe Weekend Resorts from Delhi after Corona Lockdown that can be visited by you!

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 5/5

Visit this Safe Weekend Resort from Delhi after Corona Lockdown: Weekend Getaway in Uttarakhand

Cozy cottage stay, wooden architecture, spacious balconies with the Himalayan peaks in sign on a clear sky day by the side of greenery — if it sounds like a scene in your dream, we would want you to wake up at this stay and actually experience it! 

What is great about this stay? Both for its inherent simplicity and comfort, this offbeat property at Shitlakhet seems like a stay created for die-hard indie tourism and nature lovers. Truly a rare Forest Stay in Uttarakhand, very well maintained. One of the very few Forests which is still intact and not commercialized.

Why should you visit it? Bird watching, nature trails, and exploration of plantations will keep a true blue traveler as you busy there. Spacious balconies with each room and unobstructed Himalayan Views are the highlight there.

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this stay: Weekend Getaway in Uttarakhand

Looking for that ideal mountain stay away from all that hustle-bustle? Your search will end at this stunning Mountain View stay in Ramgarh. Along with that, the gushing river, a valley nearby shall bring you close to mother nature. Especially for artists, their minimalistic decor overlooking the hills shall prove to be that much-needed inspiration.

What is great about this stay? Really tired of your routine in the city? Want to connect with yourself and your partner/family again? This place is perfect for that! The only mountain resort where each room has a projector screen and a home theater system. So you have your Balcony to the mornings and evenings to be lost in the mountain view and rest of the day for some entertainment, food, conversations, and sleep. Since you are travelling post COVID, you may not be allowed to visit tourist attractions. Hence, this property will give you the fresh air and home comfort sliced with Luxury.

Why should you visit it? This place’s quintessential “pahadi” hospitality and decadent desi food will refresh you from the word go! 

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 5/5 

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this stay: Weekend Getaway in Uttarakhand

“You need a village, if only for the pleasure of leaving it. A village means that you are not alone, knowing that in the people, the trees, the earth, there is something that belongs to you, waiting for you when you are not there.”

– Cesare Pavese

The soul of India lives in its villages. Gandhiji was so right about it! You feel all rejuvenated as soon as you see a village. Quintessentially, some of the best road trips happen on the way to villages. After all, they are still so pristine and pollution-free!

Because travel has changed because of COVID-19 lockdown. Although you might have had to cancel those international trips, slow travel in India now would give that much-needed freedom after lockdown. So, once the final unlock is announced, do plan of the best road trips of your life to these safe, deeply sanitized, hygienic rural stays near Mumbai:

Photo by Pinakeen Bhatt on Unsplash

Mumbai and Pune, thankfully are surrounded by some of the most stunning towns and villages. Trust us, you do not need any excuses to go there. Especially when you are dying to experience one of the best road trips of your life, right? So, just in time with a potential unlock, here’s us presenting you some of the safest rural stays near Mumbai that you might consider to take a road trip to:

Love road trips? Love rural stays? This Ratnagiri stay is ideal for you then! Quintessentially cocooned as a rural homestay, it makes your time there absolutely memorable. Additionally, architecture wise, the essence of this homestay is pristinely local and homegrown. Medha, an architect, owner of this rural stay has respected that tradition. You would find the cottages of this homestay made up of the same stones. The walls of the cottages subtly show the shine of red laterite stones. Not to mention, it is cleaned around the clock with deep sanitizers. Therefore, you stay there would be safe and social distancing proof as this rural stay is spacious and spread out.

Does it all seem very Spartan? Fret not! You are served simple yet decadent, piping hot Konkanstha Brahmin food. Red rice, dal, modak — all of that is cooked in a homely way from fresh organic produce just for you at this homestay in Ratnagiri, 250 kilometers from Pune! Ain’t that a reason to keep going back to that place?

What is great about this stay? It is not just a resort. Or a hotel. It is managed by an architect, Medha and her mother. That’s why this stay would be your home away from home. Their hospitality is very homely. Also, with comforting tents, till the hospitality of the local staff, this secluded stay rejuvenates you! But, most importantly, for us, the delish spread of authentic Maharashtrian food was the show-stealer. Homely hospitality, cleanliness, and safety at a stay away from the hustle of Mumbai make you yearn to go there again and again.

Why should you visit it? Do you want to disconnect from the city? Please visit this stay then! Also, the architecture there is very indie, uplifting and so are the interiors. Moreover, your kids, better half and even friends will have a great time there in the lap of nature and homely warmth! Furthermore, there are 5 beaches around Ratnagiri. Aare Ware, the beach near this stay is truly virgin. Most importantly, the coastal road winding through the mountains to reach there is stunning. So, post the COVID19 lockdown, make plans to visit it soon.

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 5/5

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this safe, deeply sanitized, social distancing proof stay: Know More!

This stay in the dreamy town of Wai. It reminds you that the simple joys of life cost you nothing! It will make you cherish going there as one of the best road trips of your life. That’s why go on a family weekend getaway there to enjoy a delish farm to table Maharashtrian meal and connect with Mother Nature. The golden wheat farms, gooseberry, and strawberry field there will grow on your heart and you would live a piece of your soul at this place — it is that rejuvenating, we say! Also, the staff and the owners there take the utmost care to make your stay safe, hygienic, and social distancing proof.

What is great about this stay? The dreamy tents there are outsourced from Rajasthan. They are luxurious. Also very comfortable. And only a few of them are available in Maharashtra. You get to stay in lush green surroundings in the sleepy village of Wai and indulge in your peace. The tents and also the rooms there are spaced out. Also, as they are surrounded by greenery, staying there would be a great detox for you after the COVID-19 lockdown.

Why should you visit it? To enjoy farm-fresh food there. They grow local grains and vegetables like cabbage, brinjals, etc and also exotic fruits like gooseberry, strawberry in their farms. Your kids, the family would have a great time here because of the same! You can stay assured of your stay there – it would be safe and social distancing proof.

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this safe, deeply sanitized, social distancing proof stay: Know More!

Almost like a slice of peace in the middle of a valley, this countryside stay soothes your heart. Each room there lets you enjoy the views of the mountains, valleys by the pool. Most importantly, they also grow veggies like broccoli, beetroot, carrots, cabbage, brinjals, tomatoes and more there to serve you nothing but the best. Go there with your kids or for those special occasions and experience life like never before!

What is great about this stay? It is located in one of the pristine areas of Panchgani. Most importantly, every room there offers never seen and experienced views of majestic Maharashtra. Moreover, the soothing architecture and organic veggies served fresh, make your stay one of its kind.

Why should visit it? You will experience the true beauty of Panchgani. Almost of the 1980s and 1990s. Also, the farm-fresh food there is the highlight of this. Most importantly, this rural stay is spacious. Your stay there would be very secured as everything there is deeply sanitized.

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay:  4.5/5

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this safe, deeply sanitized, social distancing proof stay: Know More!

Karjat is very nearby Mumbai and Pune. So, you can really think about going there post the COVID 19 lockdown. Interestingly, it would be an ideal weekend getaway for your family. Especially relevant is heading on one of the best road trips to this farm stay. Guess what, it is owned Ramanand Sagar’s family. And that’s why the aesthetics of this place are absolutely mesmerizing.

What is great about this stay? Quintessentially, this farm stay offers the best views of Karjat! Moreover, the sweet silences of this stay will appeal to your sensibilities. Also, it is engulfed by nature. That’s why you can hear your silence here. So, rest assured of the fact that social distancing, hygiene, and safety would be of utmost importance there.

Why should you visit it? Do you want to breathe some fresh air? Go this farm stay then! Most importantly, this picturesque Farm Stay is just an hour or two away from Mumbai and will be deeply sanitized. Also, they have maintained a nursery there. So, you actually get to unwind in the lap of nature as well as luxury. Moreover, it is one of the first Farm to Table concept Farm Stay near Mumbai. Therefore, head there soon. Mainly after the unlock. You will enjoy a comforting, luxurious, and safe stay there.

Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

Check the detailed review, photos, and videos for this safe, deeply sanitized, social distancing proof stay: Know More!

“Nature will bear the closest inspection. She invites us to lay our eye level with her smallest leaf, and take an insect view of its plain.”

-Henry David Thoreau

Nature is one of the best therapists in the world! Sometimes, while ruminating, I wonder what would we all do without Nature? Where could we go to find refuge? Where could we recharge? How would we gain consciousness of our being? That’s why I always keep looking for reasons to visit nature weekend getaways almost every month. But then, COVID-19 happened! Though travel will change now, especially after COVID-19 lockdown. However, every cloud has a silver lining. Thankfully, there are nature weekend getaways that you could visit without any worries. As these nature weekend getaways are also home to clean weekend getaways near Mumbai, clean luxury resorts, you can visit them without any worries of the world.

Rejoice in the lap of Nature after COVID-19 lockdown. Check out our handpicked recommendations for wonderful nature weekend getaways near Mumbai and Pune that would soothe you to the core:

Wai is one of the most underrated jewels of Maharashtra. Most importantly, it is near Mumbai as well as Pune, Wai is a paradise of its own. Its tranquil lakes, modest homes, vast farmlands grow on you. Also, you get to see a line of umpteen strawberry, gooseberry farms there. Wai is surrounded by mountains and is also home to a soothing home-eco stay that would be ideal nature weekend getaway to visit after the lockdown eases.

Safe, sanitized Monsoon Weekend Resort in Ganapatipule to visit after Corona Lockdown: Know More!

Beaches and rains. What could ever be a better combination? A hub for pilgrims and tourists alike, Ganpatipule is a rare town to remain untouched by commercialization. And trust us, this town looks incredible during monsoon. The town derives its name due to the discovery of an idol of the Hindu Lord Ganesha discovered 1600 years ago. And just like its rich history, its beaches are one of its kind. So, bucket list it for monsoon then?

Safe, sanitized Monsoon Weekend Resort in Ganapatipule to visit after Corona Lockdown: Know More!

Shendi blooms in monsoon. It rests amongst the Sahyadris. Most importantly, Shendi enchants travelers with its picturesque lakes and gushing waterfalls. Indeed, it is a small, modest village. However, it is blessed by River Ganga. That is why it always stays clean, peaceful, and lush green. So, take a trip to Shendi this monsoon and have the time of your life.

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Hear the brave tales of Maratha in the backdrop of rains at Saswad. “Every inch of Saswad soil has a chapter of history written on it!” – Babasaheb Purandare. On the banks of the Karha river, Saswad dazzles travelers. Its greenery pacifies your soul. Most importantly, its rich history was home to several Buddhist monasteries and temples and the homeland for the first Peshwa from the Bhat family. If you have watched Tumbad and marveled at the ancient doors and locks withstanding the rains, you can see some of them in Saswad! You got all the right reasons to visit it in monsoon, no?

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Mulshi is magical in monsoon. Because it is located by the sight of the mesmerizing Mulshi Dam. From there you can see the dance of clouds over the tense skies. Under the veil of the majestic Sahyadri mountains, the tranquil waters of the Mulshi dam offer travelers a respite. This village truly charges you up with its views. Whether from Pune or Mumbai, this place deserves your visit, every monsoon.

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Travel has undoubtedly changed. Blame it on COVID-19 as much as you want but we all saw it coming someway or the other. Mother Nature needed this pause and it helped us all to ponder on our priorities. However, things are slowly getting back on track with the guidelines of MHA for hotels, travel. Owing to the same, many hidden gems of Yuyiii, have already started putting their SOPs in place. This would ensure that as a guest, you are welcomed at a safe, hygienic, and social distancing proof premises at all these deeply sanitized weekend getaways.

Check out our hand-picked stays, epic monsoon stays, weekend getaways near Mumbai and Pune, Safe and Sanitised Resort Near Mumbai/Pune, Resorts Near Mumbai/Pune which are equipped to follow all MHA guidelines for hotels to ensure that you have the best experience there:

Whether you wish to travel just near about Mumbai or Pune, rest assured to find some of the most luxurious deeply sanitized weekend getaways near your home. From farm stays, rural getaways to boutique hotels, we have handpicked a plethora of weekend getaway destinations for you! Do check them and we hope you have a great time at the one that meets your sensibilities:

Want to relax at the beach without being constantly worried about the crowd? This secluded family resort at Kihim would be an ideal choice for you then! Make your way to this rejuvenating beach stay and one of the coziest family resorts near Mumbai then! With the best of indoor and outdoor leisure line-up, you could peacefully unwind with your clan here.

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What is great about this stay? It is located at a stone’s throw distance from the Kihim beach. With a swimming pool, in-house restaurant, and luxurious rooms, it is great for family reunions, get-togethers. Moreover, they have a deep eye for hygiene and sanitization there. So, you would be able to spend great downtime with your family without any worries there.

Why should visit it? If you are bored of Alibaug and even if not, this Kihim stay offers a different beach experience and perfect space to keep your guard down. Visit it to rejuvenate by the sea and feel recharged after a demanding lockdown.

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Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

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Always wanted to experience treehouse? While there are a few awesome ones are in Himanchal or Kerala. But, treehouses in Maharashtra or around Mumbai are a rarity and this stay is one of them! Surrounded by picturesque trees wherever you see, the newly made cottages at this pacifying resort are one of its kind.

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What is great about this stay? The treehouses there will make you relive your childhood. The expanse and spaciousness of this stay open up your soul. Go there to truly unwind. Moreover, it is surrounded by greenery. Won’t that take all your stress away? Timely sanitization is done there along with deep cleaning and maintenance.

Why should visit it? Because it is an ideal weekend getaway near Mumbai and Pune. They employ local staff there to create a responsible eco-system for tourism and guests. That’s why you would be in safe premises without worrying about crowds or bad maintenance.

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Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

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Imagine living in a glass-walled cottage with a breathtaking view of the valley, hills and the sublime nature! Sounds like a dream? Wait till you head to this Boutique Hill Resort in Panchgani. The indie and luxurious architecture of this stay grows on you like never before. If you are looking for that perfect surprise for your loved ones, take them here and let them revel in joy and gratitude! It is located away from the commercial and crowded areas of Panchgani. Hence, you would be safe.

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What is great about this stay? The interior and architecture of this stay are very tasteful. A connoisseur like you would love the curtains they have got from Lucknow, furniture from Bali. Even their toothbrush and toiletries are biodegradable and made from wheat rusk. The architecture makes use of the local materials like red stone and wood and it soothes your inner artist.

Why should you visit it? You get a chance to live by the edge of the valley. The walls of the cottages are made up of glass and offer a mesmerizing view of the valley and the hills. Ideal for a romantic getaway, solo indulgence, or a family get together. Also, with spread-out cottages, tents, it would make for a perfect refresher after a long spiritual summer of COVID-19 in 2020.

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Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 5/5

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Hidden as a slice of paradise in the peaceful Panchgani, this stay is all feels and them some more. Great for couples, families and even kids, you could truly unwind with the wilderness and larger than life than Sahyadri ranges here. You could relax in their comfy swiss cottages and soak the splendid views over decadent meals. This one of the most luxurious sanitized weekend getaways near Mumbai that is often visited by celebrities for shoots. Therefore, their hygiene and safety SOPs are unmatchable.

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What is great about this stay? The sweeping valley views, spacious balconies, grand architecture of this stay, makes the visit with your parents, family and friends worth it!

Why should you visit it? You can do star gazing there from the glass building there and also experience the beauty of flora, fauna. It is also visited by many Indian cinema actors, you might just get to meet them as well! Also, the valley views there are pristine and one of its kind. So make sure to head to this sanitized weekend getaway near Mumbai.

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Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

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This stay in the dreamy town of Wai will remind you that the simple joys of life cost you nothing! Go on a family weekend getaway there to enjoy a delish farm to table Maharashtrian meal and connect with Mother Nature. The golden wheat farms, gooseberry and strawberry field there will grow on your heart and you would live a piece of your soul at this place — it is that rejuvenating, we say! They have three room types there and all of them are at a considerable distance from each other.

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What is great about this stay? Their dreamy tents that are outsourced from Rajasthan and one of the very few in Maharashtra and are comfort personified. You get to stay in lush green surroundings in the sleepy village of Wai and indulge in your peace.

Why should you visit it? To enjoy farm-fresh food there. They grow local grains and vegetables like cabbage, brinjals, etc and also exotic fruits like gooseberry, strawberry in their farms. Your kids, the family would have a great time here because of the same! Also, the food there is made as it is made at home. Right from kitchen till dining space, all of it is cleaned and sanitized to give you the best of experience.

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Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

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Bonfire, mocktail by the pool and the choicest of flora around — that’s just a tip of an iceberg of this resort near Mumbai for weekend. You would disconnect with all your worries here. Additionally, palatable meals and outdoor activities would completely refresh you there at Karjat!

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What is great about this stay? Post the COVID19 lockdown and beyond that as well, this farm stay would be an ideal place to visit with your family. Located in the lap of nature, it offers comfort as well as the views that you would have never seen before! You could be an artist, an MNC professional. Or just someone who finds sweetness in silences – this stay will appeal to your sensibilities. It is run by the family of Mr. Ramanand Sagar who created the Ramayana serial and that’s why the aesthetics of this stay are simply out of the world.

Why should you visit it? I feel the lockdown itself is the biggest reason. Won’t you want to breathe some fresh air? This picturesque Farm Stay is just an hour or two away from Mumbai and will be deeply sanitized. They also have maintained a nursery there. So, you actually get to unwind in the lap of nature as well as luxury. Moreover, it is one of the first Farm to Table concept Farm Stay near Mumbai. Ain’t those all attractive reasons enough? So, head there soon!

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Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay: 4.5/5

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Almost like a slice of peace in the middle of a valley, this countryside stay soothes your heart. Each room there lets you enjoy the views of the mountains, valleys by the pool. Like that ain’t enough, they also grow veggies like broccoli, beetroot, carrots, cabbage, brinjals, tomatoes and more there to serve you nothing but the best. Go there with your kids or for those special occasions and experience life like never before!

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What is great about this stay? It is located at one of the most soothing slopes of Panchgani. Every room there offers never seen and experienced views of majestic Maharashtra. The soothing architecture and organic veggies served fresh, make your stay one of its kind. From the upper deck, cottages, they have varied room types that ensure optimum social distancing. Also, the staff there adheres to the SOPs and guidelines of MHA to the T. So, you would get to relax like never before at this safe, deeply sanitized weekend getaway.

Why should visit it? To experience the true beauty of Panchgani of the 1980s and 1990s. Relax with your family and relish meals that are infused with the love of Nature.

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Yuyiii’s Travel Expert Rating for this Stay:  4.5/5

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