How to safeguard your money while travelling



If you are the kind who's always travelling -be it for fun or work, it is always important to travel smart. It's even more prudent to remember certain things to protect your money and other valuables while on the go
While you are all set to start your trip with your bags and all essentials packed, remember to not miss out on the most important thing -your money and other valuables. There are many travellers who have been duped of their precious possessions while travelling.Here are a few things that you should remember to manage your money while you are out holidaying.

CARRY A TRAVEL CARD

Tour operator Dhaval Modi says, “Instead of taking cash with you, it is always great to carry a travel card.Buy a card of the amount that you wish to spend on the vacation.“ There are options of getting a recharge done if you run out of money . For the same, it is best to purchase a travel card from the bank that you have an account in.

LIGHTEN YOUR WALLET

While leaving for your holiday, always make sure that you are not carrying too much cash with you. Just carry as much as you would require on the flighttrain or once you reach your destination. For the things that you need to buy or for other payments, use your debit or credit card.

INFORM YOUR BANK AND CREDIT CARD COMPANIES

If you are going on an extended holiday and preferably abroad, it is always good to inform your bank or the credit card company of your travel plans.This way if you end up losing your card while travelling, they will be able to block your card.

Prasad Shreshtha, manager of a private bank, says, “We always encourage our customers to inform us before they go on a vacation. If there's any theft while travelling, we immediately block the card of the customer and help out with an alternate id that they can access to withdraw money .“

WATCH OUT FOR BOGUS ATMS

No matter how much money one takes, one may always fall short of cash while travelling. To ensure that your money is safe, do not access ATM machines of banks that you are not aware of. Always look out for machines of the bank that you have an account in.

DO NOT ACCESS NETBANKING FROM PUBLIC COMPUTERS

There can be times when you would require to transact money online.Carry your laptop with you. Do not access a public computer in the hotel that you are staying in or a cyber café.Your details can be easily hacked by someone. Also, if it is absolutely necessary for you to access a public computer, change the password every time you access the bank site.

Prakiti Nandy, an advertising professional says, “I was holidaying with my family in Singapore a year back. I did not know much about travel cards and would only access netbanking. It so happened that on one such occasion, I did not have much cash on me and had to access the resort's computer to transact some money . After I got back to India, I realised that someone had transferred `15,000 to an unknown account. I informed the bank and the cyber cell about it and I got my money back after a fortnight.“

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHILE TRAVELLING

Never let anyone know of your ATM pin or netbanking password. This also includes the several calls that you might get from the customer care of your bank.

At any point of time if you feel that you have run short of money, it is always best to visit a money transfer and ask a friend or a relative to transfer some money to you which you can refund it to them later.

There are many countries where you will find a few nationalised banks. It is always better to withdraw your money from the ATM machines of such banks. However, remember to verify the details of the bank beforehand.

If someone in a different country offers to exchange your currency with theirs, do not accept the cash. It might just be a way to fool and give you fake cash in exchange for actual money .

A PRECIOUS GIFT THAT STAYS FOREVER



There's nothing like giving a gift, regardless of whether it is expected or not. But nothing makes the cut as does a solitaire -it is a thoughtful and immensely meaningful gift. No matter what the occasion -anniversary , birthdays or a special celebration and no matter who the special person is, you can never go wrong with a solitaire. New-age jewellers like CaratLane are changing the way solitaires are being bought. They have a selection of over 1,50,000 solitaires in classic round or other enticing fancy shapes like Emerald, Princess and Cushion. It gives you a plethora of solitaires to choose from in various shapes and sizes and more importantly , they have something to fit every budget.

CaratLane's StreamLaneTM system, just-in-time inventory model and lean supply chain helps them keep costs low and offer solitaires at prices that are up to 25 per cent lower than regular retail jewellers.No wonder, then, that CaratLane offers a Best Price Guarantee on its solitaires. What's more? You can consult their experts on how to select the perfect solitaire -one that suits your taste and fits your budget.

As part of The Rock Fest -a limited period offer -CaratLane is extending a never before offer of five per cent off plus an additional five per cent cashback on solitaires*. With an easy returns and lifetime exchange policy on all jewellery and solitaires, CaratLane is the place where beauty meets true value.

Now open at Viviana Mall, Thane.

(07045009500).

For a free `Try At Home', call +91-9940400002 or 1800-102-0103 (toll-free).

http://www.caratlane.com

A JEWELLERY COLLECTION WITH EXQUISITE DESIGNS AND SKILLED CRAFTSMANSHIP



Gehna Jewellers has recently intro duced a rose gold collection, which has received an encouraging response from buyers. The collection, aptly named Blush, comprises enticing earrings, rings, bracelets and bangles to lure even the most conservative jewellery buyer. Rose gold is more discreet than yellow or white gold, brings warmth to the creation and marries well with coloured stones. It is for those looking for some change as well as for those who already have enough yellow gold.

The ring featured herein is a glorious cocktail ring, showcasing glamour and understated glitter from every angle. Round white diamonds embedded in a bed of rose gold and a princess cut white diamond in the centre speak of designing brilliance and unmatched craftsmanship. It is your goto for a night out, cocktail party or wedding celebration.

The appeal of rose gold lies in the fact that it is flattering to most skin tones -a youthful-seeming blush is highlighted, or perhaps induced, by rose gold -the shade has spread to fashion, accessories and beauty . Recently revived by international iconic jewellers, the colour formerly known as salmon, is making waves globally .

Where: Gehna Jewellers, Turner Road, Bandra.

Call: 02261201234.

Follow the brand on Twitter and Instagram @GehnaJewellers1

Perfecting your pearlies





It's popularly said that a woman's true beauty lies within her smile. And that's exactly what Dr Suhas Lele, the official Smile Care Expert of the popular fbb Femina Miss India 2016 pageant, believes in, too. He practices extensively in the field of Appearance-Related Dentistry and has sculpted the smiles of many in his long career. Dr Lele is said to be the first fellow and accredited member of the Dento Facial Aesthetics Academy and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry respectively. He has been associated with the Miss India pageant over the years; this has enabled a synergy between him and the finalists, making it easier working with them. Coupled with his artistic mind and the effective man-hours he puts in, Dr Lele helps the finalists flash their perfect pearlies every year.This year, he has laid the magic of composite resins technology to help India's representative to the Miss World dazzle everyone with her smile. “I wish Miss India all the best for the Miss World title,“ he says.
Where: 307, 3rd Floor, Royal Plaza, Besides Dr Batra, Above Hotel China Gate, Before Infinity Mall, New Link Road, Andheri (W).
Call: 022 26354585.
http://www.smilesbydrlele.com

IMPECCABLY CRAFTED JEWELLERY INSPIRED BY THE AWADH ERA





Zoya, the chain of exquisite diamond boutiques from the House of Tata, unveils its imperial compendium -`Awadh'

Zoya's new collection `Awadh' celebrates the rich iconography of a kingdom, that under the fostering care of the Nawabs in the 19th century , came to epitomise all that was magnificent, refined and cosmopolitan -from the literary milieu of the epoch, to music, painting, art and architecture. HYPNOTIC LOOPS EARRING
These hoop earrings have been designed using the intricate double sided technique of kundan setting, which requires skilled artistry. One side is embellished with dazzling polkis, while on the other side vivacious turquoise adds to its beauty , giving the wearer different looks in the same piece.
RUMI DARWAZA NECKLACE
The silhouette of this necklace is contemporary , using tradi tional Indian techniques in pure gold and uncut dia monds. It is flexible through careful linking after each polki piece, showcasing a unique understanding between the designer with modern think ing and the expertise of mature craftsmen.
KATHAK DANCERS FLOWING LEHENGA NECKLACE
Captured in this gorgeous necklace with green, blue and turquoise enam el, fine diamonds and polki, is the charming essence of Zardozi on a Kathak dancer's lehenga. This piece has an amalgamation of numerous techniques that is complex to combine and flawlessly integrate together in an aesthetical manner.
CELESTIAL KITES BANGLE
This glorious bracelet is crafted in the image of vibrant celestial kites spotted from afar, as polkis elegantly spread across the curved surface. The intricacy, colours and patterns are executed by expert engravers and enamelling artists. The craftsmanship is challenging owing to the curved surface of the bangle, making it a masterpiece.
DAZZLING CHANDELIER INSPIRED EARRINGS
Inspired by glittering chandeliers, this pair is adorned with polki setting on an exceptional 3-Dimensional surface. The designer and craftsmen have vigilantly and painstakingly constructed this piece, exuding an unforgettable statement.
This monsoon, Zoya will conduct personalised and complimentary jewellery care and maintenance sessions from June 18 to 30. For details, contact or visit the store.
Where: Zoya, 369, Linking Road, Khar (W).
Call: 022 2648 8577.
http://www.zoya.in

5 GAMES YOU CAN PLAY ON YOUR SHAADI



Indian weddings are a week-long affair.

From mehendi, haldi and sangeet to the actual day of the wedding followed by reception, families are always engrossed in the rituals. To add fun to the entire proceedings and make your wedding a more personal affair, we suggest you organise some interesting games. So move over antakshari and dance face-offs. Try these unique games, instead.

1. RAISE A TOAST

Those who are not in the sangeet can be a part of this game. While not too common a custom in Indian weddings, you can make the function more interactive by asking your guests to speak about the couple in as few words as possible. A mediator can pass on the mic and ask the guests to speak about the couple, in say , eight words.

2. MAD LIBS

Rather than having your guests congratulate you on the stage or write messages on the gifts, play mad libs with them. Hand over each guest a copy of the form and ask them to fill in the blanks. This way, they write what they mean and you can cherish these messages forever (besides remembering each of them and what they wished for you). Alternatively, you can also jot down a few questions like `Where should we celebrate our six months anniversary?', `Two marriage rules to keep in mind are...' and `What should we name our kids?' and get your guests to answer them.

3. OVERSIZED SNAKES AND LADDERS FOR THE BRIDE AND GROOM

You can make this simple board game a part of your sangeet celebrations. In an open area, make a large-scale version of `snakes and ladders' (make only 50 slots if it gets too much).Anyone who lands on the snake not only steps back but can be asked to make a confession or perform some embarrassing task.

4. KARAOKE

Ditch the antakshari and by a `lucky draw' method, call two members from the bride and groom's end to sing a random song (popular ones, of course). Not only is it a great way to introduce family members to the other, it also makes for a great ice-breaking exercise.

5. WHO'S THAT?

On the day of the reception, you can blindfold either the bride or the groom and ask them to spot their partner.

With music on, make sure all guests, including kids, surround the bride groom. Make note of how quickly each of them takes to figure out their life partner.

Quick guide for a pre-wedding glow



In order to get that elusive pre-wedding glow, brides-to-be need to follow a skin care, diet and exercise regime for at least a few months before the big day . Most brides go through wedding stress and that invariably shows its effect on the skin and hair. Following a routine and some basic tips can take care of it. We spoke to experts and professionals from various fields to come up with a guide that will help you look your best.

OPT FOR A THREE-STEP BEAUTY RITUAL

This is one of the best kept secrets to healthy skin.International make-up professional Daniel Bauer says, “The three-step ritual for perfect skin is what I recommend to all brides to-be including Bollywood's biggest stars. The key to keeping your skin looking healthy, dewy and fresh during your wedding day is to remove your make-up and cleanse away the grime before you go to sleep. Follow your skincare regime with a toning procedure as it tightens the pores and removes deep-seat ed impurities. The final step is to moisturise your skin for a healthy nourished look.“ This simple ritual is undeniably one of the easiest ways to maintain great skin and makes the biggest difference when it comes to bridal skin care.

HAVE NATURAL ANTIOXIDANTS AND NUTRIENTS

What you eat is what you are -the brides should not take this lightly . Having food rich in anti-oxidants can help deal with free-radical damage. Clinical nutritionist Dr Nupur Krishnan says, “Have green cucumber with its skin early morning after brushing. Throughout the day , munch on berries like jamun and cherries, raw mango with skin, ripe mango, and watermelon. If you are addicted to tea or coffee, limit its intake or have it black.“

Banning fried foods, fast food, caffeine and aerated beverages completely, for four months before your wedding will help your skin immensely.

CHOOSE SKIN BRIGHTENING TREATMENTS

Brides and grooms can opt for vitamin C skin brightening mesoporation, states dermatologist Dr Jaishree Sharad.She adds, “Mesoporation is safe and effective and hydrates the skin, too.Photorejuvenation or laser toning can done to achieve radiant skin.However, those with sensitive skin should avoid this.“

LET YOUR SKIN REJUVENATE NATURALLY

Dr Preeti Devnani, who specialises in neurology and sleep medicine, says, “ At east seven to eight hours of undisturbed sleep is extremely important for youthful and radiant skin.“ She explains that while we sleep, our skin regenerates, newer cells are formed and skin elastici ty increases.

KEEP YOUR SKIN HYDRATED

If you want your skin to look supple and youthful, you need to keep it hydrated, state experts. Aesthetician Ritu Tanwar says, “ Apply a hydrating serum on a thoroughly cleansed face before hitting the sack. This lends an unmistakable luminosity to your skin.“

TAKE UP SOME FORM OF EXERCISE DAILY

Exercising every day not only helps in losing weight and toning your body , but also works magic on your skin.When you run or gym, use flush out toxins from the body in the form of sweat.Remember to drink water after exercising.

Know your true potential with astro-numerology





Astrologer, numerolo gist and gem-expert Bhavikk Sangghvi says that many people who he comes cross often ask him why they should believe in astrology . “I think it's a good question to ask. Astrology is a study of stars and based on the belief that the position of the planets and stars in the sky influence human life. There is an amazing synchronisation in this universe. Everything is perfectly timed, but due to our karmic amnesia, our conscious minds are not aware of it,“ he says.Can astrology actually change one's destiny?
“Well, altering one's destiny is definitely possible by knowing this science of potentials and probabilities. Your birth chart is basically nothing but a `flash-photo' of the heavens at the time and place of your birth. But only an honest and skilled astrologer can see the positions of the planets and constellations as forming patterns, which relate to potential events in your life,“ adds Bhavikk.
How much of astrology is relevant in this day and age?
In today's dog-eat-dog world, you can't remain watchful 365 days of the year. “Be it a stu dent or business tycoon, everybody wants to know what their destiny has kept for themselves. Horoscopes are not confined up to your career. They can also forecast when will you meet your prince charming and lady love, have a baby or recover from a health issue.But more than anything else, it will help you focus on your strengths and create a positive outlook that provides fresh enthusiasm and energy to face life realistically and move forward,“ he ends.
To book an appointment, SMSWhatsApp: +91 98202-75535.
E-mail: bhavikksangghvi@gmail.com http:www.bhavikksangghvi.com (*Subject discussed is based on the expert's understand ing of the said field)

Dream of a monsoon wedding? You can make it come true


Weddings are always fun, not just for the couple, but for everyone involved in it, too.From the celebrations to the feeling of excitement and the coming together of friends and relatives, everything is worth the experience. If you are one of those who fancies a monsoon wedding and have planned your wedding in the next couple of months, then this is for you. In addition to being extremely romantic, organising a monsoon wedding can be slightly tiresome, as one needs to keep a few concerns in mind.Here are a few ways that will help you realise the rainy-day wedding dream sans any mishaps. From the venue to food and maintaining your health as well as keeping things dry and in order, here are ideas that will make the ceremony beautifully memorable, rather than a disaster...

A RAIN-READY VENUE

Open shaadi venues look ecstatic, since no one can recreate nature as beautifully as it does for itself. Hence, a lot of couples prefer to have their wedding set up at lavish open-air venues like lawns and poolsides.However, the season's thick cloud cover, might make you do a rethink.Worry not, here's what you can do. To enjoy the best of both worlds, opt for a venue with large windows that overlook the outdoors or simply opt for a strong water-resistant shamiyana in a lawn, where you can smell, feel and experience the rains without getting wet. Won't it feel like a fairytale to tie the knot at such a picturesque venue?

UNINTERRUPTED POWER SUPPLY

Weddings mean a great deal of power consumption. Monsoons are known to lead to sudden electrical breakdowns due to bad weather, so make sure you have all the necessary arrangements to tackle a power failure since you wouldn't want a blackout on the most important day of your life. It is very important to have a provision of a generator at the venue. Most monsoon weddings have to be supported by an external power supply.

BE ARMED WITH UMBRELLAS AND RAINWEAR

Ensure your wedding venue is wellequipped to handle the rains. Keep umbrellas and other rain-gear ready, for guests. Try and customise your venue to fit the rain gear in a way that it looks part of the theme. For instance, hang colourful umbrellas, upside down to give it that rainy feel.Even if you are getting married at a closed venue -a lot of weddings involve things like the pheras in an open space -try and make the best of it. For even a small 10-metre distance to your car, make sure you have umbrellas and raincoats handy since you don't want the rain to spoil your make up or clothes.

GET A RAINY SHOOT DONE

Those candid shots where the bride and groom look into each other's eyes and hold hands at some of the most picturesque locations around the city, make things more fun. Get a pre or post wedding photo shoot done, where the two of you are dressed in your wedding wear holding colourful umbrellas and wearing rainy shoes. You can also create romantic moments by kissing in the rain and make it look as dreamy as possible.

KEEP A CHECK ON THE FOOD

Food is something that most us remember from a wedding. In fact, the quality of a function is determined by the food served there. During the monsoon stomach infections are rampant so it is of pivotal importance to look into the quality of food used by the catering service or the hotel. Avoid including dishes that have leafy veggies -like palak paneer, green chicken, hara bhara kebabs, etc -on the menu. Also, do not go for too many seafood items on the menu as this can lead to a lot of stomach infections, too. A good idea is to serve some monsoon special delicacies in live counters like bhuttas, moong dal bhajiyas and onion pakoras along with warm a welcome drink like a kahwa or some really good soup, to start with.