{"id":13032,"date":"2024-03-19T08:58:41","date_gmt":"2024-03-18T21:58:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/?p=13032"},"modified":"2026-07-02T16:47:02","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T06:47:02","slug":"signature-series-india-with-matt-preston-and-gary-mehigan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/signature-series-india-with-matt-preston-and-gary-mehigan\/","title":{"rendered":"Signature Series Insider: Matt Preston &#038; Gary Mehigan on Our New India Foodie Tour"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Discover the extraordinary flavours of India with former MasterChef Australia judges Gary Mehigan and Matt Preston, co-creators of Luxury Escapes&#8217; second Signature Series foodie tour.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re into food, there\u2019s no place in the world like India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s a perennial favourite of Matt Preston and Gary Mehigan, and after a decade on Channel 10\u2019s <em>MasterChef Australia<\/em>, the duo now lend their culinary expertise to Luxury Escapes\u2019 <a href=\"http:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/tour\/tour-404a4f7b-fc9d-4d62-9143-4ce10b80df12\/9d-signature-series-foodie-tour-india-base\">second-ever Signature Series Tour<\/a>. This once-in-a-lifetime, 9-day journey whisks you from pavement to palace and back again, crossing India\u2019s Golden Triangle in search of the country\u2019s best cuisine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hungry to talk all things India, we sat down with Matt and Gary to chat about their biggest surprises and favourite moments in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Read on for more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LE: What kind of travellers will love this tour and itinerary?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM: <\/strong>India will be an adventure, and for first timers [it can be] a little overwhelming. Both Matt and I have been many times, we love the country, and of course the cuisine in all its marvellous diversity. So, the short answer is: regardless of what kind of traveller you are, we\u2019ve got you covered. We can\u2019t wait to introduce you to some magnificent restaurants, dishes and flavours that we hope will blow your mind \u2026 no experience required!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP: <\/strong>If you love history, if you love good food, if you love a little luxury, if you love things to get occasionally a little more gritty\u2026 this is the tour for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_TahMahal_02-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Taj Mahal as the sun is beginning to set - Luxury Escapes\" class=\"wp-image-13049\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_TahMahal_02-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_TahMahal_02-350x197.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_TahMahal_02-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_TahMahal_02-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_TahMahal_02-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_TahMahal_02.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Taj Mahal: a spectacular highlight of any India escape.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do travellers need to be experts in Indian food to get the most out of it [the tour]?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM: <\/strong>No, absolutely not. We\u2019ve put together a delicious itinerary of markets, street food experiences, cooking classes and great restaurants so you can soak up the very best of what the \u2018Golden Triangle\u2019 has to offer. If anything, it may turn what you think you know about Indian food on its head!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP: <\/strong>No prior knowledge of Indian food is required \u2013 just a healthy appetite!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"videowrapper\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Signature Series_India_Teaser_16x9\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/922758296?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LE: <\/strong><strong>What would you say to people nervous about travelling to India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP:<\/strong> Without the right advice and team planning your trip, India can be a confronting experience. We want you to see the real heart of the country, but then be able to recuperate in the lap of luxury. You will be looked after.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM:<\/strong> India can be chaotic as much as it is colourful and awe-inspiring. Dealing with the crowds, the traffic, and the street food are all on the list of travellers&#8217; concerns. Our advice is to approach your trip with an open mind and heart. Avoid judging what you see, and let it flow through you: the history, the culture, the colour and mouth-watering cuisine will open your eyes to this wonderful country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_CafeLota_2-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"A delicious thali at New Delhi's Cafe Lohta - Luxury Escapes\" class=\"wp-image-13050\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_CafeLota_2-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_CafeLota_2-1-350x197.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_CafeLota_2-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_CafeLota_2-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_CafeLota_2-1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_CafeLota_2-1.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A delicious thali, or royal platter, at New Delhi&#8217;s Cafe Lohta.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LE: If you had to pick one dish that encapsulates everything you love about the country, what would it be?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM:<\/strong> When you take this trip with us to India, you\u2019ll begin to understand that this is an impossible question to answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP:<\/strong> That\u2019s like asking me to pick a dish that encapsulates Europe! Indian cuisine can differ radically across the sub-continent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM: <\/strong>It\u2019s impossible. The diversity of India\u2019s cuisines is incredible, and from one end of the country to the other unrecognisable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP:<\/strong> If we are talking about the Punjabi post-Partition food of Delhi, it would be butter chicken or dal makani; for the Mughlai court of Agra it would be a Qorma or white Shahi Korma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM:<\/strong> If I was to pick anything that tends to be universally loved maybe it would be a little cup of hot masala chai!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LE: How do you think street food differs from Vietnam to India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP: <\/strong>Massively &#8211; but also it differs from city to city in each country. Vietnam street food tends to use more fresh raw vegetables than the rich stew, chutneys, tandoor-cooked meats and bread-based snacks of Delhi. In the Golden Triangle, sweets are an art form!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM: <\/strong>Both are wonderful and for different reasons. Vietnamese food is fresh, colourful, aromatic, sweet, sour, salty funky and juicy. India\u2019s is all of the above but layered with complexity. The endless expression of spice, and the vigour and energy around the sellers and buyers, [is] mesmerising.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP: <\/strong>Obviously, the very different history, heritage, ingredients and palates make a fresh clean pho loaded with herbs and beansprouts very different from the perfect samosa or stuffed naan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_Bukhara_03-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"At Bukhara, tandoor cuisine is at its most theatrical - Luxury Escapes\" class=\"wp-image-13051\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_Bukhara_03-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_Bukhara_03-350x197.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_Bukhara_03-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_Bukhara_03-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_Bukhara_03-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_Bukhara_03.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bukhara: tandoor cuisine at its most theatrical.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LE: How are you guys with spicy food? Do you expect things to get hot on this trip?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP:<\/strong> It\u2019s a common misconception that Indian food is all about heat \u2013 I\u2019ve had far hotter dishes far more often in Thailand. I\u2019m happy with some heat but I like this tempered, so it doesn\u2019t drown out the subtleties of the spicing\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM:<\/strong> It\u2019s important to make the distinction between spicy and the heat from chilli. Indians are the masters of spice, from subtle and alluring to fiery and fabulous. We will experience it all and guarantee when you get home nothing will taste quite as good ever again!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LE: This is the second time you&#8217;ve partnered with Luxury Escapes. What brought you back to Signature Series?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM:<\/strong> Every holiday I\u2019ve ever taken is always centred around food. [\u2026] Signature Series allows us to share our passion with like-minded people. Carefully curated and organised so you can enjoy the very best of each destination we visit. What could be better?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP:<\/strong> I love to travel to eat as much as I love watching others enjoy that experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LE:<\/strong> <strong>One final question. What makes India the ultimate foodie destination?<\/strong>&nbsp;<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GM:<\/strong> I said to Matt the other day, \u2018Is it just me or does every photo of India we took on our research trip ooze a certain richness and colour?\u2019 He agreed. The food, people, culture and history all intertwined to create magic like nowhere else on earth\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>MP:<\/strong> Nowhere is the ultimate foodie destination! Everywhere is the ultimate food destination. Ask me again after this suite of Signature Tours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"lux_UI lux_offer_carousel\">\n\t\n\t<h3>Discover India<\/h3>\t\n\t<section class=\"splide lux_offer_carousel_feed\" aria-label=\"Luxury Escapes: Discover India\">\n\t\n\t\t<div class=\"splide__arrows\">\n\t\t<button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button>\n\t\t<button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t<div class=\"splide__track\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide__list\">\n\t\t\t\n<div id=\"offer_0cd0b50b-85d7-480d-abea-8ee48b4dd2b2\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_196148aa85d6f6af5485eb59edc27294\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/the-lalit-mumbai\/0cd0b50b-85d7-480d-abea-8ee48b4dd2b2\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"The LaLiT Mumbai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/g3q1vdecjk5ckgmy5la.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/g3q1vdecjk5ckgmy5la.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/g3q1vdecjk5ckgmy5la.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/g3q1vdecjk5ckgmy5la.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/g3q1vdecjk5ckgmy5la.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/g3q1vdecjk5ckgmy5la.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"The LaLiT Mumbai, Mumbai, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Mumbai, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The LaLiT Mumbai<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You can take advantage of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool, a steam room, and a 24-hour fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include wireless internet access (surcharge), concierge services, and gift shops\/newsstands.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$528<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_87678bcb-3fc5-4868-b3ec-0d931ce8847c\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_7281ae1d25173783dea9190221d532cd\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/the-leela-palace-udaipur\/87678bcb-3fc5-4868-b3ec-0d931ce8847c\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"The Leela Palace Udaipur\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/bhhbl66wdn9sqpc5ltjl.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/bhhbl66wdn9sqpc5ltjl.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/bhhbl66wdn9sqpc5ltjl.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/bhhbl66wdn9sqpc5ltjl.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/bhhbl66wdn9sqpc5ltjl.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/bhhbl66wdn9sqpc5ltjl.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"The Leela Palace Udaipur, Udaipur, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Udaipur, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Leela Palace Udaipur<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. If you&#8217;re looking for recreational opportunities, you&#8217;ll find an outdoor pool and a fitness center. This Art Deco hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops\/newsstands.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$2,146<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_88fad083-3ba5-4d69-a1d5-a737aa183ef2\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_fb89582a3f781d3a9adf2b9167026acf\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/daspalla-hyderabad\/88fad083-3ba5-4d69-a1d5-a737aa183ef2\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Daspalla Hyderabad\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/53cccayx1cjcddck734.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/53cccayx1cjcddck734.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/53cccayx1cjcddck734.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/53cccayx1cjcddck734.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/53cccayx1cjcddck734.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/53cccayx1cjcddck734.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Daspalla Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Hyderabad, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Daspalla Hyderabad<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You can take advantage of recreational amenities such as a nightclub, a steam room, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and free babysitting. Guests can get around on the shuttle (surcharge), which operates within 5 km.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$369<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_abd6655f-df45-4a4b-b801-a96663640c48\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_c0abeba20f4b2696ca719e6d149ee621\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/taj-agra\/abd6655f-df45-4a4b-b801-a96663640c48\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Taj Agra\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/nhf92k9k1pam52vcmk1g.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/nhf92k9k1pam52vcmk1g.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/nhf92k9k1pam52vcmk1g.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/nhf92k9k1pam52vcmk1g.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/nhf92k9k1pam52vcmk1g.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/nhf92k9k1pam52vcmk1g.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Taj Agra, Agra, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Agra, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Taj Agra<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages and body treatments. If you&#8217;re looking for recreational opportunities, you&#8217;ll find a health club and an outdoor pool. This Art Deco hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services. Guests can catch a ride on the shuttle (surcharge), which operates within 05 km.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$271<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0062y00000BdtW5AAJ\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_ee01697654a7772b2dbce8b0888ddee2\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/the-leela-kovalam-raviz-hotel-kerala-india\/0062y00000BdtW5AAJ\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/8zxfc9q9xf8incpa6cswh.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/8zxfc9q9xf8incpa6cswh.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/8zxfc9q9xf8incpa6cswh.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/8zxfc9q9xf8incpa6cswh.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/8zxfc9q9xf8incpa6cswh.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/8zxfc9q9xf8incpa6cswh.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel, Kerala, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Kerala, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Top-Rated Kerala Clifftop Hideaway with Private Beach &#038; Ocean-View Infinity Pool<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$588<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$514<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$653<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-7%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0062y00000Ed5F3AAJ\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_b77c2ad5660fc448845a400ec3206fb1\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/rajmahal-palace-raas-jaipur-india-asia\/0062y00000Ed5F3AAJ\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/no8s2j6s3hymn0cawb37.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/no8s2j6s3hymn0cawb37.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/no8s2j6s3hymn0cawb37.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/no8s2j6s3hymn0cawb37.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/no8s2j6s3hymn0cawb37.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/no8s2j6s3hymn0cawb37.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur, Jaipur, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Jaipur, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Heritage Jaipur Palace Opulence with Art Deco-Style Swimming Pool<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$1,091<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$969<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$1,341<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-14%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_006RF00000Ib044YAB\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_e54fddd91cfafa822baaa82ec334791c\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/novotel-mumbai-juhu-beach-india-asia\/006RF00000Ib044YAB\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel    \" data-name=\"Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/v2eu61x0mm8p3ul5uft2.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/v2eu61x0mm8p3ul5uft2.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/v2eu61x0mm8p3ul5uft2.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/v2eu61x0mm8p3ul5uft2.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/v2eu61x0mm8p3ul5uft2.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/v2eu61x0mm8p3ul5uft2.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, Mumbai, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Mumbai, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Mumbai Seafront Escape on Juhu Beach with Five Restaurants, Pool &#038; Spa<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">1 night, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$92<\/span><span class=\"type\">total<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_006RF00000HifgxYAB\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_a5455b6f39f17a308c15829e6ef5976b\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/grand-hyatt-goa-india-asia\/006RF00000HifgxYAB\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel    \" data-name=\"Grand Hyatt Goa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/f3rte5fn1ia3y4rrfka4.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/f3rte5fn1ia3y4rrfka4.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/f3rte5fn1ia3y4rrfka4.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/f3rte5fn1ia3y4rrfka4.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/f3rte5fn1ia3y4rrfka4.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/f3rte5fn1ia3y4rrfka4.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Grand Hyatt Goa, Goa, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Goa, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Grand Hyatt Goa<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Beachfront Goa Oasis near Panjim with Five Restaurants, Two Pools &#038; Luxe Spa<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">1 night, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$123<\/span><span class=\"type\">total<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0062y00000Ed5BQAAZ\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_0cd1d4201c7672795a58214216fe8c4b\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/raas-chhatrasagar-rajasthan-india\/0062y00000Ed5BQAAZ\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"RAAS Chhatrasagar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/v9ma7qv91galf26tgse.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/v9ma7qv91galf26tgse.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/v9ma7qv91galf26tgse.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/v9ma7qv91galf26tgse.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/v9ma7qv91galf26tgse.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/v9ma7qv91galf26tgse.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"RAAS Chhatrasagar, Nimaaj, Rajasthan\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Nimaaj, Rajasthan<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">RAAS Chhatrasagar<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Luxury Lakeside Tents in India with Day Spa, Restaurant &#038; Pool<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 tent from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$839<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$756<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$1,089<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-18%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"offer_x\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_cta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=India&#038;destinationId=le_f033ab37c30201f73f142449d037028d&#038;adults=2&#038;children=none&#038;flexibleWithDate=true&#038;pages=2\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"carousel\" data-name=\"See more escapes\">\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"slide_cta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"cta_tag\">Looking for something else?<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View all<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\t\n\t\t<div class=\"cta\">\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=India&#038;destinationId=le_f033ab37c30201f73f142449d037028d&#038;adults=2&#038;children=none&#038;flexibleWithDate=true&#038;pages=2\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"carousel\" data-name=\"See more escapes\">See more escapes<\/a>\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>After more?<\/strong> Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/vietnam-with-gary-mehigan\/\">Vietnam with MasterChef Australia&#8217;s Gary Mehigan<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the extraordinary flavours of India with former MasterChef Australia judges Gary Mehigan and Matt Preston, co-creators of Luxury Escapes&#8217; second Signature Series foodie tour. If you\u2019re into food, there\u2019s no place in the world like India. It\u2019s a perennial favourite of Matt Preston and Gary Mehigan, and after a decade on Channel 10\u2019s MasterChef [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":13047,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[43,418,14,27,424,380],"tags":[21,12,7],"location":[],"customertype":[],"class_list":["post-13032","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-india","category-asia-tours","category-explore","category-itineraries","category-signature-series","category-tours","tag-arts-culture","tag-bucket-list","tag-food-wine"],"acf":{"enable_partner_branding":false,"brand_name":"","brand_logo_top":null,"brand_logo_footer":null,"brand_snippet":"","brand_website":"","brand_sidebar_banner":null},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_MattandGary_26.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"lux_id":13032,"lux_link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/signature-series-india-with-matt-preston-and-gary-mehigan\/","lux_title":"Signature Series Insider: Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan on Our New India Foodie Tour","lux_excerpt":"Discover the extraordinary flavours of India with former MasterChef Australia judges Gary Mehigan and Matt Preston, co-creators of Luxury Escapes\u2019 second Signature Series foodie tour. If you\u2019re into food, there\u2019s no place in the world like India. It\u2019s a perennial favourite of Matt Preston and Gary Mehigan, and after a decade on Channel 10\u2019s MasterChef [\u2026]","lux_excerpt_trimmed":"Discover the extraordinary flavours of India with former MasterChef Australia judges Gary Mehigan and Matt Preston, co-creators of Luxury Escapes\u2019 second Signature Series foodie tour. If you\u2019re into food, there\u2019s","lux_image_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_MattandGary_26.jpg","lux_image_url_medium":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_MattandGary_26-350x197.jpg","lux_image_url_large":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_MattandGary_26-1024x576.jpg","lux_image_url_square":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_MattandGary_26-500x500.jpg","lux_categories":[{"label":"India","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/destinations\/india\/"},{"label":"Asia Tours","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tours\/asia-tours\/"},{"label":"Explore","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/explore\/"},{"label":"Itineraries","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/itineraries\/"},{"label":"Signature Series","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tours\/signature-series\/"},{"label":"Tours","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tours\/"}],"lux_tags":[{"label":"Arts &amp; Culture","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/arts-culture\/"},{"label":"Bucket List","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/bucket-list\/"},{"label":"Food &amp; Wine","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/food-wine\/"}],"lux_locations":[],"lux_customer_types":[],"lux_read_time":"6 min read","lux_read_time_minutes":6,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13032","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13032"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13032\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":52929,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13032\/revisions\/52929"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13047"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13032"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13032"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13032"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=13032"},{"taxonomy":"customertype","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/customertype?post=13032"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}