Delta Airlines- A Legacy in Itself

Talk America and you cannot stop thinking about the Statue of Liberty, New York City, Donal Trump and Delta Airlines. Delta Air is synonymous to all air travel in America, and there is no surprise as to why. This major American airline, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, operates an exclusive network of domestic and international flights alike.

This carrier, along with its other subsidiaries soar through 319 destinations in over 54 countries and across 6 continents; with over 5400 flights daily. Its remarkable services and extensive fleet have helped Delta Air remain an ace in the race, since decades. It’s clear why it is the oldest airline still operational in the States. The sixth oldest airline by foundation date has sure set benchmarks in the minds of its guests in more ways than one. Its subsidiaries include Air France-KLM, Alitalia, Korean Air, China Eastern Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia.

If this wasn’t reason enough, read on as to why you should choose Delta Airlines as your travel partner:

1. Delta Comfort+: The seats are installed on all aircraft featuring 34-36 inches of pitch and fifty percent more recline as compared to other standard seats.
2. SkyBonus: Starting November 2001, a SkyBonus program was enforced, aiming at small to medium businesses spending between $5000-500000 on their annual travel. The businesses can earn points and use them towards free travel, upgrades and sky miles. And the best part yet? While enrolled businesses are able to earn points towards free travel, the traveling passenger is still eligible to earn SkyMiles. Isn’t that just what a double dose of happiness looks like?
3. Complementary Comforts: This airline provides you with complimentary wine, beer, and spirits on the flight; along with premium snacks and premium entertainment via the Delta Studio. Members can upgrade from the main cabin to the comfort + for free, whilst other guests can upgrade using SkyMiles or nominal charges.
4. Environmental Initiative: An airline that is as green as it is red and blue. This airline was awarded and acknowledged for its Design for Environment program called PreKote which is all about a friendlier and a more sensitive way of dealing with the environment. The airline replaced its non-hexavalent chromium paint on its aircraft with a friendlier one that replaced the hazardous chemicals formerly used. PreKote also reduces water usage by two-thirds and reduces waste water treatment. The airline has mastered the art of saving money by lessening the time taken to paint each aircraft. With time savings up to 8-10%, it’s estimated to save more than $1 million annually.

We don’t see a reason why you shouldn’t partner with an airliner that not only aims to look after you, but also your future generations.

Incredible India: A Place for Every Traveller

No two of us are alike, neither are our travel delights. Nonetheless, living in a magnificent country like India provides a place for everyone, to explore and satiate our wanderlust; And with amazing domestic flight offers provided by travel agencies, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t. Here are four ideal destinations for four types of travellers. Browse through the list to find out more:

Goa for the Party Animals
Goa is synonymous to an exhilarating night life. Enjoy the dark sea while slow dancing in the beach shacks or go fanatic over the hip-hop beats in a club. Better still, dress your party in fancy robes with a cruise setting. These cruises are often accompanied with mellifluous loud music. You can also upgrade your cruise party to a luxurious yacht, for a memorable date-night.

Best places for partying:

• For Shacks- Curlie’s beach shack near Little Anjuna beach
• For Clubs- Café Mambo, River Front Bistro or Club Cabana
• For Party Cruises- Mandovi River, Panjim

Ladakh for the Night Owls
Some cherish the bright sunrise and some go gaga over the wide night sky. If you fall in the latter group, Ladakh is your paradise. Jaw dropping bare landscapes, unblemished mountains, calm mesmerizing lakes and a clear starry sky; Ladakh is the answer to all stargazing dreams.

Best places for stargazing:

• Nubra Valley
• Pangong Tso

Andaman for the Aqua Lovers
If you are an admirer of marine life or a panicky swimmer looking to overcome his fears, Andaman is your playing ground. Dive in the deep waters, explore the coral grounds and enjoy a range of water sport activities, like scuba diving, undersea walking, jet skiing, glass bottom boating, snorkelling, etc.

Best places for aqua adventures:

• Wandoor Beach-Port Blair for swimming, coral sighting, snorkelling and scuba diving
• Radhanagar Beach-Havelock Island for snorkelling and scuba diving
• Ross and Smith Island Beach for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving
• Lalaji Bay Beach, Long Island for skinny-dipping

Rishikesh for the Yoga Enthusiasts

If yoga is your way to a better life, Rishikesh is your temple; Unwind in a therapeutic Himalayan setting. Popularly known as the capital of yoga, the place offers a yoga centre, school or ashram at every corner of the city. You’ll be easily able to find an efficient mentor and a group of like-minded people, everywhere you go.

Best places for a yoga retreat:

• Rishikesh Nath Yogshala
• World Peace Yoga School
• Om Shanti Om Yoga School
• Gyan Yog Breath

World Peace Yoga School

Best Indian Airlines to Book Your Next Flight

If you are discerning about booking tickets for your upcoming summer trip, it is best to go with an Indian airline. Flying with a domestic airline offers you lowest fares, gives you more options in terms of destination coverage and promotes the country’s economy. We list here some of the best contenders in Indian aviation industry today:

image credits: http://bit.ly/2qD3WIQ

IndiGo
Commencing operations since April 2006, Indigo is one of the largest Indian airlines. The airline is headquartered in Gurgaon—Haryana, and has its primary hub at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. Booking an Indigo flight means that you get adequate air travel service at a very cheap fare, as it is a low-cost airline.

image credits: http://bit.ly/2qDggIV

Vistara
Also based in Gurgaon, Vistara is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines. Although the airline is fairly new, commencing operations since January 2015, it has gained tremendous popularity and trust in the past years. It was the first to offer premium economy seats on domestic routes in India, raising the par for all other airlines.

image credits: http://bit.ly/2qDgEaq

Air India
The flag carrier airline of India, Air India has been an important part of our country’s aviation industry since 1946. Founded by J.R.D. Tata, it is headquartered in New Delhi. It operates flights to domestic destinations through its subsidiaries—Air India Express and Alliance Air.

image credits: http://bit.ly/2qDiV5t

Jet Airways
Based in Mumbai, Jet Airways is one of the largest Indian airlines. It has been operating since 1993 and has its hub at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. The airline enjoys an alliance with Etihad Partners for its international operations.

image credits: http://bit.ly/2qD7wT5

SpiceJet
Like IndiGo, SpiceJet is also a low-cost airline headquartered in Gurgaon—Haryana. Founded in 2005, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi serves as its primary hub. The airline was awarded India’s Most Reputed Domestic Private Airline in 2016.

Compare the fares across different Indian airlines, check if it flies to your desired destination and reserve your seats at the earliest. It’s time for a holiday!

Smart Travel Hacks You Need to Know for Summer Vacations

For most of us, a summer vacation is the only getaway we enjoy in a year. We plan for it, Save for it, and look forward to it. To ensure that your only getaway isn’t ruined by wrong planning, we have listed down a few travel hacks.

Don’t let an overpriced ticket, a lost bag, or a bad sunburn, ruin your trip. Read on!

Booking hacks:

Since you are planning a travel, we are assuming you have already saved a lot of money. How about we give you tips to cut down on your travel budget?

• Book flight tickets at least 3 to 4 months in advance to avoid last minute surge.

• Book flight tickets online instead of travel agent to cut down on unnecessary expenses.

• Set online price alerts to get your hands on the best cheap flights

• If you are ready to give up on luxury, fly with a low cost airline. Such airlines are known to offer cheap international flight

Packing hacks:

These will save you from carrying that extra load on your trip. Read on!

• Roll clothes instead of folding them. This saves a lot of space in the suitcase.

• You can also cube pair of outfits together. It makes unpacking easier.

• Wrap your shoes in a shower cap to prevent them from touching your clean clothes.

Safety hacks:

Do not end up in legal troubles. Bailing you out may cost a fortune. Follow the below safety hacks.

• Call your credit/debit card company before you travel internationally so that you have access to financial transactions abroad.

• Keep a digital copy of all important documents such as passport, visa, identity proof etc.

Do not forget to purchase a travel insurance policy. A travel protection plan will ensure that your finances are safe while you are away from home. It will compensate for medical treatments, lost baggage, flight delays/cancellations etc.

Dubai- The Luxurious Emirate

Located on the Persian Gulf coast, Dubai is a part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE is a country comprising of seven smaller emirates.  Dubai is one of these emirates. Considered to be the fastest evolving city, Dubai allows you to experience the luxurious lifestyle from exclusive yacht parties to dinners in the sky. The well-connected transport system makes travel easy. Although you do need a Dubai visa to enter and explore this beautiful emirate, getting one isn’t a tough task.

In order to experience the luxurious lifestyle, there are a number of Dubai packages that you can choose from. These packages allow you to choose from a large variety of options ranging from stay to travel and all the major sightseeing destinations.

Here are some of the top tourist destinations you should visit on your trip to Dubai:

1. The Burj Khalifa: the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world with a total height of 2,722 feet. The building was inaugurated in 2010 under a project known as Downtown Dubai. The decision to build this building was based on an attempt for Dubai to gain international recognition, and it worked! This is a must-visit in your Dubai package.

image source: http://bit.ly/2oux2Mc

2. Jumeirah Beach: The stunning beach lies along Dubai’s beautiful coastline. It offers long stretches of soft white sand to relax and enjoy your day. If you are a guest at any of the hotels such as the Burj Al Arab or the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, you could enjoy private parties and exclusive water sports. If you aren’t a guest at any of these hotels, you may still visit the beach park, or the lively cafes or just lay back and enjoy the wonderful sunset.

image source: http://bit.ly/2ouyYVa

3. Mall of the Emirates: The Mall of the Emirates is a shopping mall based in Dubai, opening its gates in 2005, the mall is home to 630 shopping outlets, over a 100 restaurants and cafes more than 250 flagship stores. In its premises, you would also find the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai.

image source: http://bit.ly/2ouVrRR

4. Dubai Fountain: The Dubai fountain is the world’s second largest choreographed fountain spraying 83,000 litres of water in the air at any given moment. This was also a part of the Downtown Dubai and was officially inaugurated in May 2009.

image source: http://bit.ly/2ouC0IS

How to Plan a Budget Trip to Dubai?

Dubai is an ideal choice for budget travellers. Its geographical connectivity from India and cultural richness attracts a lot of tourists. If you are planning to experience the city’s spectacular shopping offerings, ultramodern architecture and lively nightlife; we have covered the two most significant things that will involve big expense—Flights and Accommodation.

Air India Express, IndiGo and SpiceJet are some of the best and cheapest airline options on this route. You can book flight under Rs. 19,000 and cover the distance between Mumbai to Dubai in less than 3h 30m. For budget accommodation options in Dubai, browse through the list below:

Savoy Central Hotel Apartments
If you are looking for privacy and tranquillity in one place, within a budget, Savoy Central Hotel Apartments should be your best fit. With 154 well-appointed studio rooms, it provides spacious and luxurious accommodation, living up to the lavish name of the city.

Address: Al Rolla Rd, Al Raffa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 393 8000

image source: http://bit.ly/2oLfFrg

Premier Inn Dubai Investments Park Hotel
Offering 304 rooms that cater to solo, couple and family requirements, Premier Inn DIP hotel’s well-equipped accommodation and services will not give you even a single reason to complain. The hotel also provides shuttle bus services for its customers, escorting them to all the major attractions like—Ibn Battuta mall, Dubai metro, beaches and more.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road,Dubai Investment park, Near the Green Community, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 885 0999

image source: http://bit.ly/2oLufPx

Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport
Just two minutes away from the Dubai International Airport, Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport is one of the most convenient accommodation options, available at an affordable rate. With all modern-amenities, a roof-top fitness centre and a large business space for professionals, you wouldn’t wish for anything else.

Address: Airport Road, Dubai International Airport, Near Terminal 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 290 0111

image source: http://bit.ly/2oLzChJ

Marina View Hotel Apartments
Occupying the central location in Dubai Marina, very close to Metro, Tram and the Dubai International Airport; Marina View Hotel Apartments’ smooth connectivity is a major attraction for tourists. Rooms are a budget option here, but if you wish to taste the glamour of luxury, spend a little more and go for the suite. With its gym, steam room and sauna, pool and a restaurant that offers delectable cuisines, you just have to name your idea of a vacation!

Address: Al Marsa Street, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai Marina, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 457 1000

image source: http://bit.ly/2oLzSxd

Travel Insurance: Playing Safe Holi While You Travel

A trip to India is all about treating your senses with wild sounds, amazing colours and exotic smells which surround you by leaving you reeling and gasping for air – not to mention begging for more. In 2017 the Holi Festival will be taking place on March 12, coinciding with the Pooranmashi (or Full Moon). Whether you’re planning on visiting the festival this year or taking a trip in years to come, here’s everything you need to know about the Holi Festival to ensure you have an unforgettable experience.So what is the Holi Festival?Holi is an ancient Hindu celebration that is primarily celebrated throughout South Asia which is often known as the festival of colours (although some people also refer to it as the festival of love) and it is designed to celebrate the arrival of spring and the victory of everything that is good, warm and beautiful over the cold, dark evil.The colour festival is celebrated to mark the death of the ancient demoness Holika. The sister of demon king Hiranyakashipu, Holika was burned in a bonfire in a failed attempt to kill her nephew Prahlada, who was a loyal follower of the Hindu god Vishnu.How is it Celebrated?People spend the night before Holi Festival singing and laughing around the bonfire. They also used to ‘burn’ evil spirits, and some consider the ashes left over from Holi bonfires to be good luck.Next Day it gets as everyone in the town shuts up shop and instead spends the day throwing coloured water and smearing colored powders all over themselves and others.Holi is a favorite festival for travelers and offers a great opportunity to go and have a great time in a foreign land. Remember to leave your expensive gadgets & clothes in the hotel room, and to pack your international travel insurance policy.So Where Can You Celebrate Holi Festival?In India biggest & memorable Holi celebrations takes place. However, you no longer need to travel to the subcontinent to enjoy Holi, as the festival has spread all over the world.So if you are celebrating Holi this year? Let me know the plan on how you celebrate it in the comment box below.

Source: Travel Insurance: Playing Safe Holi While You Travel

Here’s Everything You Wanted to Know about a Defective Return Notice

There may be an occasion when you receive a notice from the Income Tax (IT) Department stating that your tax returns are defective. For many, it’s a time to go down in shock of fear for they don’t know what it is and think the worst.

It’s not. This notice comes under Section 139 (9) of the IT Act. It’s sent when an IT officer considers your returns, defective. There are some reasons as to why the officer came to the conclusion and there are ways as well to rectify the situation.

Some of the reasons why you get this notice?

1. A taxpayer’s name on the PAN card should match the name on the Income Tax Return (ITR) Form or else a defective notice is sent.

 

2. When taxpayers fill the (ITR) form; many make mistakes while filling it up; a spelling error here, an extra number there. Such silly errors lead to many taxpayers receiving a notice under Section 139 (9).

 

3. When taxpayers fill up the forms, they mention all details of tax paid but forget to attach their sources of income; this results in a defective returns notice.

 

4. When a taxpayer maintains profit and loss statements, balance sheets but doesn’t attach them with the ITR; the IT department sends a notice

 

5. If a taxpayer submits ITR-4S even though the total presumptive income under Section 44AD is less than 8% of the gross turnover, a notice is sent. ITR-4 needs to be filed in this situation and not ITR-4S

 

A notice is sent. What now?

Once a taxpayer receives a notice from the IT department, he or she has 15 days to rectify the errors. However, one can write to the local assessing office seeking an extension.

How do you rectify the errors?

1. Visit the income tax website and login with your credentials
2. Go to the dashboard and click on the ‘My Pending Actions’ Link
3. There will be an option: For your action: Details of Defective Returns. Click on it.
4. You will the see the details of the return: notice date, CPC Reference Number, Status, and Response. Click on Response.
5. Go through the error code, error description, and probable resolution.
6. If you believe the defect mentioned are correct, select ‘YES’ from ‘Do you agree with a defect?’ drop down the list.
7. If you believe the defects mentioned are incorrect, select ‘NO’ from the ‘Do you agree with a defect?’ drop down the list and add you remarks in ‘Assesse Remarks’ box.
8. Choose the ITR form you need, revise it, and don’t forget to select the option ‘In response to a notice under Section 139(9) where the original return filed was a defective return. ’.
9. Enter the CPR number on the notice, date of filing of original return, and acknowledgement number.
10. Complete the ITR form and upload it on the website.

Getting a defective notice from the IT department can be a stressful time. Make sure you don’t face such a moment by consulting H&R Block, one of India’s leading tax preparation companies.

 

iProspect India wins agency of the year “silver” at IAMAI

It is that time of year again when digital agencies across India will be awarded for their creative campaigns. There are a number of companies in India taking the initiative to recognize and acknowledge the work of agencies in digital advertising. One of which is IAMAI. Internet and mobile association of India is a non-profit organization started with the aim of offering online and mobile value added services to businesses as well as consumers. Recently, IAMAI hosted India digital awards. Awards in multiple categories including display, search, email etc. were received by agencies for their splendid work.The highlight of this event was the agency of the year (silver) won by iProspect, the digital agency from Dentsu Aegis network. iProspect India won a total of three awards- 1 gold and 2 silver. Apart from the prestigious agency of the year trophy, iProspect also bagged recognitions for different innovations in the digital marketing industry.Accolades: Gold – For iPump, innovative technology that integrates online and offline. The recognition was for Abbott healthcare in the Omni-channel Campaign Management & Marketing Automation category.Silver- Getting discovered campaign for Apollo Hospitals in the Search Marketing Campaign category.Nominations:Here is the list of some successful nominations for the company.Display campaign:(1) The Smart Display Banner – Max life Insurance(2) Simple Makes Sense – Aegon Life InsuranceSearch Marketing Campaign:(1) Winning the SEO Game – MyntraFounder of iProspect and CEO of DAN Performance group Vivek Bhargava as well as CEO of iProspect India Rubeena Singh both congratulated over 300 employees of iProspect for this accomplishment.The digital marketing industry is gradually taking over the traditional marketing. The reason being an increasing number of individuals spending most of their leisure time online. No wonder agencies are trying hard to bring in innovations, and organizations like IAMAI are recognizing their efforts for the good.For more marketing news India, log on to exchange4media.com.

Source: iProspect India wins agency of the year “silver” at IAMAI

All you need to know about Tax planning

2016 has been a year to remember for all income-earning individuals. While honest taxpayers were delighted by the announcement of demonetization, it came as a shock for tax evaders. The government is continuously taking measures to encourage more and more individuals to pay taxes. Thus, it is important for individuals to understand every aspect of tax planning in detail.

What is tax planning?

Tax planning is basically building of strategies that aim at reducing the amount of taxable income. Tax liabilities can be minimized` through the best use of all the available deductions, allowances as well as exemptions. Tax planning also includes compliance with all the laws and rules set up by Indian income tax department. Filing timely income tax return is one of such law that requires compliance. There is a common misconception that only individuals that fall under the slab of taxable income are required to file tax returns. But, filing income tax return is beneficial for every individual. The return statement acts as a proof of your good credit history. It is easier to avail loans if you present your tax return statement.

The need of tax planning:

Although the amount of tax you pay is the income contributed to the development of the nation, it is difficult for some individuals to give away their hard-earned money to the government. To avoid tax evasion and encourage the habit of saving, the government has allowed a number of exemptions. Under section 80 C of Indian income tax act, an individual is allowed exemption up to the limit of Rs 1, 50,000. Tax saving avenues under this head include PPF, National saving schemes, fixed deposit etc. An efficient planning will help you diversify your income in such a way that it saves taxes as well as provides you with good profit booking opportunities.

How to get started with it?

Appoint a professional tax advisor or take the help of online tax portals. There are a number of private tax portals that offer a range of tax services. From advisory to online filing of tax returns, they will assist you all through the tax planning process.