Many of India’s other major airports are also named after leaders and prominent people including:

Indira Gandhi International Airport – Delhi

Chhattrapati Shivaji Airport – Mumbai

Subhash Chandra Bose Airport – Kolkata

Anna International Airport – Chennai

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport – Hyderabad

Other notable candidates considered for Bangalore International Airport’s name change were Tipu Sultan, Kittur Chennamma and Guru Basavanna.

“This new codeshare relationship will give our customers extra options and easier access to India while enjoying the excellent service British Airways has to offer,” said Kenji Hashimoto, American’s Vice President – Strategic Alliances. “Adding convenience for our joint customers is one of our primary goals and our network is able to grow because of this new codeshare agreement.”

Find flights to India on American Airlines at Vayama: International Travel Solved.

#AAwithBAtoIN

The hotel is noted for it’s claim as the only Mamallapuram beach resort, a true fact unless you factor in the numerous competitors just outside the city limits. There are many more luxurious, higher quality choices along the sandy shores which stretch from Mamallapuram to Chennai, but only Hotel Sea Breeze is within walking distance of the city’s notable tourist destinations like Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas.

Don’t expect a hearty welcome at the front desk, rather a curt listing of the hotel policies by the owner who may be having a lifetime’s worth of bad days. The good news is check-in is the only time you’ll need to pass through the lobby before check-out. Two levels of guest rooms scattered among several buildings encircle a decent size in-ground pool surrounded by palm trees. Upper level rooms enjoy better views of Sea Breeze’s property and even glimpses of the ocean. Open air seating areas, complete with plastic chairs and a table for each room, are sectioned off by low railing walls. This area works best as a place for drying laundry or swimsuits more than a source of conversation between neighboring rooms. It’s a nice touch that fits well at this beach resort.

Sand and salt are an unfortunate side effect for most seaside hotels. Guest rooms bordering on shabby chic are a result of these two criminals albeit not anything that deters from a comfortable stay; though western facility bathrooms complete with full time running water could use more housekeeping attention. Solo to family travelers will find ample luggage space to spread out. Generous size beds and a small seating area still don’t take up all the square footage allotted each room. Views from backside windows are nothing to awe at, but then again, the main attraction is the beach.

A long walkway stretching the length of the property dead-ends on a bluff overlooking Bay of Bengal. Hotel Sea Breeze couldn’t be better located for thrill seekers as 6 foot and higher waves crash into shore just steps from this bluff. A wide swath of sandy beach begins at the hotel’s backside, hugging the ocean northward as far as the eye can see. Amazingly the beach is void of tourists through most times of the day. A few locals who use a public area nearby, mostly surfers skimming the mighty waves, and beach walkers in exercise mode.

The famous Shore Temple lies adjacent the hotel property, accessible via a back way locals are somewhat reluctant to show as it circumvents the entry fee collected at the main entrance. The proper way to reach the temple is along the dusty maze like roads leading past endless shopping stalls and open air cafes. Shoppers can browse the gift shop (located near the hotel pool) stocked with everything from religious deities to jewelry. Nothing is particularly unique, everything is gorgeous, and the shopkeeper will not take no for an answer. Enter at your own risk.

Breakfast included in room tariffs at Hotel Sea Breeze is an exercise in frustration and futility. Early risers are stuck either waiting for a meager buffet service to start or settle for coffee under the cabana dining area. Hotel staff struggle to keep refreshing serving trays as hungry guests deplete any offerings as quickly as the buffet opens. A few independent cafes unlock their doors after sunrise, mostly chai stalls with limited food offerings. After breakfast Mamallapuram becomes a foodies paradise. Skip the hotel offerings in lieu of fresh seafood restaurants scattered among the city.

Poolside lounging is where Hotel Sea Breeze really shines. Staffed by attendants, guests merely show their room key for access. Grab a cushion and towel before finding a spot to relax among the mixture of tourists from around the world. Drinks and food are available but no WiFi. No horns. No alarms. Just ocean waves and sweat dripping off tanned bodies.

Consider supporting Full Stop India by booking your stay at See Breeze through hotels.fullstopindia.com.

Daily flights (except Saturday) on a 70 seat, CRJ-700 airplane, depart Delhi at 5:20 AM. After a 30 minute stopover in Bhubaneswar, passengers will land in Port Blair at 9:35 AM. The return flight will leave Port Blair at 10:05 AM, stopover at Bhubaneswar for 30 minutes, and arrive back in Delhi at 2:20 PM.

Air India states a variety of fares are available on the new service, including special promotional fares. Travel by air to Port Blair was previously only possible via flights from Kolkata and Chennai.

Tucked into a corner of the fort property in which cement has replaced any blade of natural life, the church surrounds itself within a cocoon of greenery. Initial construction began in 1678, ending two years later. But it wasn’t until 1701 when the tower was added, and another 9 years (1710) that the steeple was completed. Come 1795, the spire was finally affixed. Close eyes can catch the multiple architectural styles that somehow blend together in a rather understated manner.

A weekday visit to the property at first glance appeared to be a futile exercise in sightseeing. Large brown iron gates were pulled shut until a simple push allowed access into the courtyard. Thick, full, bushy trees line the foundation providing ample shade for those that venture out in the well known sticky heat of Chennai. Pots brimming with colorful plants and flowers are placed throughout the courtyard making an oasis of sorts among the bland, monotone colored buildings of Fort George. An Army officer was as surprised to see me as I was him, sitting on a stone ledge facing toward the property gates. With shoes off and headphones on, he was taking a break from duty.

St Mary’s Church is the first, thus the oldest, Anglican Church in South Asia, named as St. Mary because its origin was laid down on the Annunciation day of the Virgin Mary. Curiously, the church walls are 4 feet thick made of brick and plastered with lime. At the time of construction, the church was deemed the only bomb proof structure of Fort George, a telling sign of the times. Those keen on an inside view need only go around back to find a female volunteer of the church. She may even find you first, beckoning you to come inside for a look. Scam concerns should be left at the gate for her offer is out of loyalty to the church. No need to think about tipping or baksheesh, she’s not interested.

Inside the lights are off but the trademark stained glass windows allow plenty of sunshine to brighten the sanctuary. A narrow main aisle leads your eye to the altar, donated in 1877 by the princess of Tanjore. Exposed electrical wires, ratty carpet and hand mark blackened walls do nothing to detract from the experience. History is well documented by the numerous plaques which seem to cover every open surface as well as a small library of historical books just off the sanctuary. And the real masterpiece…The altar piece, a depiction of the Last Supper, unsigned yet is said to betray obvious signs of the Raphaelite school, and it is supposed that Raphael himself painted the central figures.

Visitors should plan at least an hour to properly photograph the building while leisurely roaming the grounds. Cameras are allowed inside. There is no fee to enter or photography.

Flying into and out of India has never been easier with a plethora of airlines competing for your business. The problem is, with so many airlines offering service Internationally and Domestically, just who does fly to the 5 largest airports in India? Below is a list to help you easily decide which airline(s) works best for your travel plans.

The 5 largest airports of India are as follows:

Delhi (DEL) | Mumbai (BOM) | Kolkata (CCU) | Chennai (MAA) | Bengaluru (BLR)

Updated March 2012

Just 14 kms from Mamallapuram, or 40 kms from Chennai makes the Crocodile Bank an easy excursion for sightseeing when staying in either location. It’s located directly off the main highway running between both cities with a parking lot that requires no more work than to turn from the highway into an open space.

On the hot, sunny day I visited, the air was muggy but already a nice crowd of families and locals were mulling about inside. Past the ticket booth, signs direct you to follow the rectangular property in a clockwise direction. The snake show is immediately to your left marked with a glossy sign just begging you to come in. So I did.

For an additional Rs 10, tourists walk through a narrow pathway that dead ends at the snake pit. Covered earthen pots, numbered in some organized fashion, sit row by row. A snake-catcher stands near open pots replacing and gathering different snakes as needed for the “show”. Irula tribesmen, said to be famed snake-catchers, are responsible for this dog and pony show that was actually quite interesting. Watchers, including myself, huddled against the railing which looked down into a generously sized pit. Not more than 4 feet away was the main podium where our MC wowed the crowd with various facts regarding the male and female cobras standing at attention. Hissing, heavy breathing and a few strikes shook the crowd to attention each time. “Whoa”, the crowd would say in unison. Some ladies turned their heads into their shoulders to keep from viewing the snakes. As the crowd grew, more snakes were brought out to dazzle us. And then like clock work, one of the handlers brought a snake over to a glass jar where he pierced the fangs into a cheesecloth forcing 2 drops of venom to fall below. In short time the show is repeated just as exiting visitors throw money to the MC. Stay as long as you like, there is no pressure from the handlers to exit.

Follow the pathway past marked exhibits of various croc species. The animals are all housed in their natural surroundings in open pools with very little safety blocks obstructing the viewing potential. Several exhibits I walked to allowed me to be within 3 feet of the animals. Had I put my hand in to pet them I might have helped themselves to a light lunch.

Crocodile Bank is well known throughout India for it’s conservation work. One of the famed residents is the gharial, a critically endangered breed that while enormous in size, it’s harmless to humans. Keep walking and you’ll discover hundreds, maybe thousands more reptiles including giant turtles and a separate snake enclosure. Come early to avoid the heat and crowds as families with young kids overrun the place. Outside be prepared for touts aggressively selling odd trinkets. Ice cream and cool drinks are also on sale outside the property gates.

Rs 30 gets you in the door, Rs 15 more for the camera.

Lighthouse marks the south end of Marina Beach

The seashore of Chennai, the largest city of Tamil Nadu, is home to the 13 km stretch better known as Marina Beach. This local and foreign tourist favorite stands as one of the longest beaches in the world. The iconic destination built in the 1880′s was badly damaged from the 2004 tsunamis.

When I arrived on a beautiful, hot and humid afternoon, activity was all around. Vendors selling cool drinks, ice cream, balloons and more were catering to the crowds of mostly Indian beach goers. Although it’s advised not to swim due to the currents that didn’t deter the large number of kids and adults splashing away in the Bay of Bengal.

Sand leads from the shore a great distance to parking lots and beyond where it finally meets South Beach Road. I had limited time to jump out of the car for some quick snaps but how could I pass up this opportunity to walk to the water? Turns out it took me several minutes walking over the wide berth of beach. Impressive is one word that comes to mind. Marina Beach is tagged as a must see in most guide books; see families frolicking along the beach, young lovers sitting under the shade of trees and kids flying their kites.

Young lovers hide behind a boat

Visitors with more time might look into a self-guided history walk. Many fascinating buildings remain from the British era as well as newer Indian built memorials and statues right along the highway. Pack your trunks, flip flops and sunscreen cause we’re going to the beach!

History Walk

1. Start at Victory War Memorial. This sits at the north end of Kamarajar Salai before turning into Rajaji Salai. The memorial is known today in memory of World War II soldiers but originally was built to commemorate the victory of the Allied Armies of World War I.

2. Move south to Anna Park. The memorial and burial of CN Annadurai, the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu lies here.

3. Continue south to the commemorative garden called MGR Samadhi. MGR represents MG Ramachandran, a popular Tamil film star for which the park was built in honor.

Look around this area for food vendors, gift sellers and on Sundays, the local market.

4. The Indo-Saracenic Madras University lies on the opposite side of the beach. Large red brick buildings are the landmark to look for. This is one of the oldest universities in India, founded in 1857.

5. Considered an architectural marvel, next door marks the Senate House. In 1879, this building became the main offices for the Madras University.

6. Chepauk Palace. Originally built in 1768, the architect of the Senate House, Robert Chisholm, added the extensions we see today. The palace is now home to government offices and behind is Chepauk Stadium, home to Chennai’s well known cricket ground.

7. Continue south. Founded in 1840, and noted for being the first institution in South India for higher education, Presidency College is situated to the left of the water.

8. Opposite the College, visitors enjoy the newly added aquarium and swimming pool.

9. Along the roadside sits several statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Kannagi, Thiruvalluvar, Sir Thomas Munro, Kamarajar, Avvaiyar, Thanthai Periyar and finally Triumph of Labour. Created by renowned painter and sculpture Debi Prasad Roy Chowdhary, 1959.

10. Continue south to Annie Besant Road, turn right (West). After a short distance is the Ice House. Built in the 1840′s, the circular building housed ice imported from the US. Until recently it existed as a women’s hostel but now is open as a gallery.

11. Back to South Beach Road, turn south, opposite side of beach, Madras College for Women. Originally opened in 1914 as Queen Mary’s College, this was Chennai’s first women’s college.

12. From the College you can view the more recently built red and white striped lighthouse. This rather dull looking building stands 48m above sea level, open to visitors from 2 -4 PM daily.

You’ve done it! Now grab some ice cream and watch the street entertainment.

Waiters dressed in traditional kurtas (baby blue) scurried around the crisp white interior. Customers come for the food but the owners have made a smart choice in contrasting the light blue uniforms against the white walls and floors as a visual treat. Rasam’s veg menu covers an extensive range of styles from various breads to noodles, biranyi, and the usual Indian food staples such as palak paneer. In typical Indian fashion meals come served in copper vessels which aid in retaining heat. Also a nice touch were the banana leaf covered plates. But I can’t forget to mention the fried crisps that arrived before the meal. Hot, just slightly greasy direct from the fryer and oh so good.

Both dishes were not quite as expected but their taste was superb. My relaxed attention while ordering resulted in similar, heavy carb loaded dishes which left us full after a few spoonfuls. Leaving food to waste is not a common event at my meals so I was thrilled when the waiter offered us a doggy bag for the remainders. He gladly swept the food away and returned with each dish held in a separate plastic container enclosed in a handle bag. That was a first for me- doggy bags in India.

Cost Rs 920 ($20.50) Located on the second floor of Hotel Sabari.

The brief questionnaire will ask multiple questions regarding your stay, your purpose for traveling (tourist, business), and locations. India has 1 Embassy in New Delhi and 4 US Consulates located in Mumbai/Bombay, Kolkata/Calcutta, Chennai/Madras and Hyderabad. Your profile will be matched, and trip details sent, to the nearest Consulate. In case of emergency, loss of passport or natural disaster, you can turn to the US Embassy/Consulate for help.

Be sure to have your passport handy when registering as you’ll need to provide this information. The service is free to all US citizens.

Register and read more about registering with the Department of State.