Serene Journeys

23/04/2024

AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY AWAITS! Act fast! 🚀

A golden chance has presented itself with the sudden availability of a single seat. This remarkable opening is a result of an unforeseen medical emergency. If you're still on the fence, imagine an awe-inspiring expedition on a luxurious train inspired by the elegance of the 1920s Pullman, as it winds its way through the magnificent Andes. Savour your favorite drinks / Pisco sour & indulge in a gourmet lunch while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Picture yourself embarking on this incredible journey from the historic Inca capital of Cusco to the enchanting shores of Lake Titicaca in Puno.

Prepare yourself for an array of incredible activities that await you! If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email or phone. We can’t wait to welcome you in Lima, Peru!


Robindro Saikhom

Immerse yourself through the colorful Peruvian Andes.

09/02/2024

Planning a trip to ?
Get ready for an exciting change starting from February 14, 2024 - the Bali Tourist Levy. International visitors will now be required to pay a one-time fee of IDR150,000 (USD 10) per entry. This levy applies to both adults and children, ensuring a fair and inclusive travel experience for everyone.

To make your journey hassle-free, you can conveniently settle the levy in advance through the Love Bali website or App. Simply visit https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id and make your payment. Once the payment is complete, you will receive a QR code via email. Remember to store this QR code on your smartphone or print a copy, as it will be scanned at checkpoints in Bali Airport and seaports.

Note that individual online payments are currently required, and family payments are not supported at this time. However, if you prefer, you can also pay the levy upon your arrival at the airport in Bali.

Embrace this new initiative and contribute to the preservation and enhancement of Bali's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Shall we plan your to the island of Bali?

26/01/2024

Just returned from an incredible week in Cabo San Lucas, staying at the Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All-Inclusive Golf & Spa. This stunning coastal destination, located at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, is known for its breathtaking desert landscapes, pristine beaches, and majestic mountains. While Cabo sometimes receives criticism for its abundance of hotels and perceived lack of cultural authenticity, I strongly disagree with these notions.

As travelers, it is important to recognize that every destination has its positives and negatives. Our responsibility is to highlight the beauty of the place we visit, embrace adventure, immerse ourselves in the local culture, and show respect for the people who call it home.

Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, the two main towns in the area, are just a short 30-minute drive apart. Each town offers its own distinct attractions, including delicious food, rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and artistic treasures. Exploring the downtown areas, with their maze-like alleys, is a fun and exciting experience. Whether it's snorkeling, whale watching, deep-sea fishing, golfing, or indulging in farm-to-table dining, Cabo has something for everyone.

HE and HIM had an amazing time celebrating and we are already planning our next visit. Beyond all the indulgence in food, shopping, and drinks, our most memorable experience was the incredible deep-sea fishing adventure.

Until we meet again, Hasta Pronto!

VisitMexico VisitMexico VisitMexico Grand Fiesta Americana Robindro Saikhom

26/01/2024

Celebrate the 75th Republic Day with joy and pride, my fellow Indians! Let us unite to build a brighter, more resilient, and harmonious India. Together, we can create a nation that embraces diversity, fosters inclusivity, and promotes tolerance. Here's to a remarkable journey towards a stronger and more prosperous India!

04/01/2024

Some advice from Robindro Saikhom, the founder of Serene Journeys - Let's make this New Year 2024 and all the years to come, the years of adventure! 😊

We are thrilled to announce that our Peru tour, scheduled from March 8-17, 2024, is now available online. You can refer to the link below to view the detailed itinerary.

https://sjourneys11.wordpress.com/2024/01/03/peru-small-group-tour/

During this 10-day tour, we will immerse ourselves in the architectural, cultural, and culinary delights of Peru. We'll meander through the vibrant streets of Lima, explore the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, and discover the enchanting towns of Cusco, Arequipa, Puno, and Lake Titicaca.

As an exclusive highlight, we'll embark on the Perurail Titicaca, a luxurious train journeying through the breathtaking landscapes between Cusco and Puno. This unforgettable experience will last approximately ten and a half hours, where you can enjoy a delectable 3-course gourmet lunch accompanied by traditional live music and dance. And of course, don't forget to sip on a refreshing pisco sour as you marvel at the beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

The booking is now open, and with a limited number of seats available for just 10 travelers, we encourage you to secure your spot soon. To ensure smooth arrangements, especially for domestic flights and trains, we will be closing the booking on January 31st, 2024.

We can't wait to welcome you on board for this incredible journey.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to email us or schedule a virtual free consultation via FaceTime.

Once again, let's make this year the year of exploration and discovery. Wishing you Happy Trails!

❤️🇵🇪

10-Day/09-Night small group tour to Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley of the Incas, Puno & Lake Titicaca. DAY 1 | Lima | 8th Mar, Fri Arrive at Lima Airport. A transportation servic…

14/12/2023

What if I told you that we have an amazing opportunity to visit together with Robindro Saikhom ? 🇵🇪✈️

I am thrilled to announce that in March 2024, Serene Journeys will be organizing our very first small group trip to Peru.

📆 Save the Date: March 9 - 16, 2024
🌟 Destination: Peru
🚌 Travel Style: Small Group Adventure

Peru is a country that will captivate your heart with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and fascinating history. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu to the colorful streets of Cusco, every moment in Peru is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

This tour is open to everyone, including our LGBTQ+ friendly travelers. We believe in creating a safe and inclusive space for all our adventurers.

I can't disclose all the details just yet, but if you're as excited as I am and want to be part of this incredible journey, simply email us and we will provide you with a comprehensive program.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, this trip will be an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, new friendships, and memorable moments.

So, mark your calendars, start dreaming about the wonders of Peru, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! So excited to see you soon and embark on this exciting journey together!

12/11/2023

Happy Deepavali to all my fellow wanderers and adventurers!

May this festival of lights ignite a sense of exploration, discovery, and new beginnings in your hearts. As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let's remember to embrace diverse cultures, forge new connections, and spread love wherever our journeys take us.

23/10/2023

Extremely impressed with the grandeur of Encalm Privé at T3 Encalm Hospitality. Next time you fly from Delhi International Airport, you already know where to go for an exceptional experience.

29/09/2023

Well-written and emphasizes the importance of appreciating and not taking any aspect of leisure travel for granted.

“Leisure travel is luxury. There are different tiers to this luxury, from the basic hostels and happy hours of backpacker travel all the way up to the private islands and the first-class comforts, but all of it, every single bit of it, is a luxury.

You can never take this stuff for granted.”

Ben Groundwater - Travel Writer

Luxury is an economy-class seat on a plane. One that’s going to land in a different city from the one in which it took off.

23/09/2023

With a simple request, the talented chef effortlessly whipped up a delectable arugula salad & grilled baramumdi for us. Their culinary prowess and willingness to accommodate our desires have truly been exceptional. They have gone above and beyond, adjusting the menu and satisfying our cravings with their scrumptious creations.

Thank you team Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Yala at Resplendent Ceylon - Relais & Châteaux.

21/09/2023

As I embark on a routine journey in a tuk tuk, I find myself immersed in the vibrant tapestry of local life. With joyful expressions and graceful poses, the residents become unwitting subjects, offering me the perfect frames to capture their candid moments. I am but a mere spectator, blessed with the opportunity to witness their genuine happiness.

08/09/2023

The boys are up, with a heart full of excitement & a mind ready for exploration. We are ready to embrace the wonders of . Wishing you all a delightful weekend!

Love from Bujera Fort ❤️- with Kevin Conley Robindro Saikhom Richard Hanlon


For all travel related queries, please email us at [email protected]

23/08/2023

Circa 2017. 📍Jim Corbett National Park.

Embracing the raw beauty of nature as I wake up in the wilderness. The gentle kiss of morning light through the sunroof is truly magical! The crisp air fills my lungs, and I feel so alive in this untamed paradise. There's something so humbling about being surrounded by towering trees and the soothing sounds of chirping birds.

It's moments like these that remind me of the simple joys in life, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Grateful for this peaceful awakening and for the chance to reconnect with Mother Nature 🌿💛

©️📸 Serene Journeys
🌏🔗👉🏻 https://www.serenejourneys.co

14/07/2023

Fun stuff in the office, curating some exciting trips… Have you planned your holiday to South & Southeast Asia yet?

Happy Friyay!

03/07/2023

Meet our team 😜

Robindro Saikhom

26/06/2023

Celebrating the opening of in New Delhi, the U.S. Embassy India & H.E. Ambassador Eric Garcetti hosted the + business networking reception at Depot48.

As a gay owned business, was fortunate enough to be invited to the event joining together LGBTQ community, friends and allies to celebrate the tremendous progress that has been made in India as well as be dedicated to the challenges that still lie ahead.

Ambassador Garcetti gave inspiring remarks comparing the human rights struggle here to the abolition of slavery, women’s rights movement, and other periods in history where important accomplishments in human rights were achieved that at the time seemed to take forever, but those pages did ultimately turn! And so shall the page of equal human rights for all people turn here in India.

16/06/2023

Here goes a glimpse of where we are headed next weekend. Exploring yet another secret eco-luxury boutique hotel somewhere in Goa, a destination in itself…. more soon.

Please DON’T ask for free OR direct contact information when there is no intention of using our service. Understand we spend our time & energy in doing all the research so when your time comes to travel, we can curate a wonderful, comfortable & memorable holiday for you at an even greater value.

Love to stay here??? Drop us an email and we will be happy to curate your perfect Serene Journey. 😊😊

Robin Saikhom

09/06/2023

YOU MUST BE KIDDING ME!!!… you simply CANNOT afford NOT to join our exclusive Southeast Asia tour this November 2023 so long as you have 22 days on your hands! 😛.

And if you do, we still have few spots available and would surely love to welcome you aboard to explore “The Four Kingdoms of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia”. If you don’t have that much time, we can design a more condensed version of the tour.

We will be covering 9 fascinating locations beginning with Bangkok. Some of the highlights of our time in Bangkok will be exploring the world’s largest weekend market and a tasting tour of 200-year-old Chinatown.

As we move on to Chiang Mai, we will spend a day with rescued elephants in their natural habitat where you will walk with them, feed them, bathe them and learn all about these amazing gentle giants. We will also be embarking on a culinary journey of age-old family recipes of the Lanna people in a traditional Lanna home.

We are definitely not skipping the most photographed and spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls in Luang Prabang. Don’t forget your swimsuit for a dip. Of course, when in Lao you must enjoy a Laotian culinary journey.

Did anyone mention food? Vietnamese Pho in Hanoi is also on the program after which we shall go on one of the most scenic cruises in the world – Halong Bay where you will view chocolate drop mountains sitting atop tranquil, smooth waters in this bit of the South China Sea. At Halong Bay you will also have the opportunity to visit a bat cave carved into the mountains and go kayaking if you so desire.

Then there’s a most scenic train ride scheduled from Hue to Danang…travel like a local… experience the country’s beauty from mountain passes to coastal villages and rural rice paddies as the train glides across the tracks.

The journey ends with a visit to the Angkor Archeological Park and its famous centerpiece
Angkor Wat, which is visually, architecturally, and artistically breathtaking. The largest religious monument in the world many times the size of Vatican City…one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia, if not the world.

But if all this doesn’t suit your schedule, we’ll be doing it again next year in November 2024… LOL! And in the meantime, we’ll be offering an amazing journey throughout India (details to follow).

So, what are you waiting for? Drop us an email at [email protected] OR DM us for detailed itinerary and quote. Your host Mark looks forward to welcoming and escorting you to our SE Asian paradise.

27/05/2023

Scouting Sri Lanka continues and here we have yet another hidden gem in the middle of Colombo. Former Victorian style residence of a wealthy Sheikh, the property boasts 11 spacious, well appointed suites, expert staff, 5 star restaurant and bar, pool and fitness center. Right in the heart of Colombo’s popular Park Street area.

Sri Lanka has cornered the market in properties small in number of rooms but massive in terms of quality and service.

Hospitality at its finest.

Come explore Sri Lanka through our eyes. For more information, email us at [email protected]

©️📸

25/05/2023

Whoah! Let’s make bath time great again.

I love beautiful bathrooms, and could not resist posting this classic tub, centerpiece of the outdoor bathroom at by Edwards Collection.

A glass of my favorite 🍷🍾, soaking in the waves of soothing classical creations from Bach / Debussy, plumeria scent permeating the sea air…

What is your dream bath?

©️📸 Robin Saikhom

13/05/2023

Where to find us 📍

Mark

03/05/2023

We kick-started our trip in a rather drab, dated Business class section on SriLankan Airlines. But they had champagne, we had a short check-in line, expedited immigration and security so all in all well worth it.

We are staying at the beautiful Villa blue lotus in Minuwangoda, a small town about 25 mins from Negombo and just 10 mins from the airport. The owner and our hostess, Ms. Barbara Teasdale, a world-renowned interior designer, has built this beautiful 5-bedroom villa surrounding a pool in traditional Sri Lankan design with built-in contemporary luxury.

Our day started well. We had Sri Lankan Pittu and fresh watermelon juice for breakfast. Then we went for a stroll to visit the temple site being prepared for the Vesak festival on 5th May. The skies opened up on our walk so it turned out to be a wet one, but never fear we didn’t melt! Along the way we made some new friends in the village.

It’s been raining here, so we are just going to chill before embarking on a night out in Colombo. More tomorrow….

Mark Robin

27/04/2023

bound again! This time for a month or maybe a little less or maybe a little more. We don’t have a plan. We want to wander. But we know what we want. We are starting from Negombo and diving in… We love anything to everything local, from food, culture, arts, crafts to ………..

If you know or have had any experiences / places we should not miss while in Sri Lanka, please do suggest. Super excited! It’s happening. We can’t wait to uncover Serene Sri Lanka. This place is going to be our 2024 feature destination with some exclusive, specially curated travel plans. Ayubowan!

Mark & Robin

18/04/2023

Underrated by some, we think a visit to ancient Ayutthaya (about an hour and a half drive from Bangkok) is a must! The best way to reach this 1920-acre island is to travel one way by car and one way by boat cruising the Chaophraya River. Alternatively, you drive both ways and enjoy a traditional lunch rice barge cruise on the river while there.

Designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the historic city of Ayutthaya, founded in 1350, was the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom following the Sukhothai period and preceding Bangkok as the capital of Siam. It flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries, during which time it grew to be one of the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan urban areas and a center of global diplomacy.

The city was attacked and razed by the Burmese army in 1767 who burned the city to the ground and forced the inhabitants to abandon the city. The city was never rebuilt in the same location and remains known today as an extensive archaeological site. The ruins include the second longest reclining Buddha in Thailand (after Wat Pho).

Bangkok became the capital of Siam in 1782, when General Chao Phraya Chakkri, the founder of the ruling Chakkri dynasty, assumed the throne as Rama I and moved the court from the west to the east bank of the Chao Phraya River.

Ayuthaya makes for a very easy day trip, and we have the perfect curated program in store for you.

Mark & Robin

31/03/2023

Meet your host, Mark Hesemann, who is ready to take you on an experiential 21-days sojourn to the Four Kingdoms of Southeast Asia starting from Thailand, journeying on to Laos, Vietnam, & Cambodia.

The detailed itinerary and quote are now available on request. If you are interested to join this exotic expedition in November 2 - 22, in the future, or just want to know more about our upcoming odysseys, please message us your name and email so we can send you details. You can also write to us at [email protected] (NOT com) for all queries.

Happy Travels! 😊 ✈️