{"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=\"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_3ae5e245-c422-433c-b464-7434f891eda2\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_ef123704d96d273c58549f46c70ca2e0\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/wyndham-garden-udaipur-bhuwana\/3ae5e245-c422-433c-b464-7434f891eda2\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana\" 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\/czjuqvlrxo35x40z9963e.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/czjuqvlrxo35x40z9963e.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/czjuqvlrxo35x40z9963e.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/czjuqvlrxo35x40z9963e.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/czjuqvlrxo35x40z9963e.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/czjuqvlrxo35x40z9963e.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana, 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\">Wyndham Garden Udaipur Bhuwana<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Enjoy a range of recreational amenities, including a 24-hour health club, an outdoor pool, and a steam room. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.<\/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\">$1,361<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_9b26df13-d2e6-4333-8711-4093f81330ec\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_dca827838692135842d22fd49e576b98\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/chunda-shikar-oudi\/9b26df13-d2e6-4333-8711-4093f81330ec\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Chunda Shikar Oudi\" 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\/fm5yefl8rbfalu5eu9u.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/fm5yefl8rbfalu5eu9u.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/fm5yefl8rbfalu5eu9u.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/fm5yefl8rbfalu5eu9u.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/fm5yefl8rbfalu5eu9u.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/fm5yefl8rbfalu5eu9u.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Chunda Shikar Oudi, 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\">Chunda Shikar Oudi<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Nestled in Udaipur, India, Chunda Shikar Oudi is a heritage-inspired hotel built primarily from rough-hewn stone, offering a secluded retreat with grand architecture. The property features an infinity pool with views of the lake and surrounding hills, complemented by a garden and outdoor lounge areas with stone flooring and comfortable seating. Guests can enjoy a hot tub, fitness center, and activities such as fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and skiing. For convenience, the hotel provides a 24-hour front desk with concierge service, airport transfers, shuttle service, and free Wi-Fi throughout. Additional services include laundry, dry cleaning, and a salon. The hotel is wheelchair accessible and offers facilities for disabled guests, along with pet-friendly options.\n\nThe hotel offers a variety of dining options including on-site restaurants, a coffee shop, and a poolside bar. Guests can enjoy room service, BBQ facilities, and a shared kitchen for preparing their own meals. Happy hour is also available.\n\nRooms and suites at Chunda Shikar Oudi are designed for comfort, with some featuring a separate living room and a balcony or terrace. Accommodations include amenities such as air conditioning, linen service, a mini-bar, refrigerator, and instant coffee. Select rooms offer in-room entertainment with a television and daily newspaper. Bathrooms in certain rooms are equipped with a hair dryer, toiletries, and bathrobes. The Two-Bedroom Villa spans 465 sqm with mountain views, while Suite rooms are 100 sqm, also with mountain views. The Villa Family room offers nature views.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"no_price\">Select dates<\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_39c805a2-ac03-4026-b9b6-0b4bb5c94e7b\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_1c21599306806a10eae9c8a0c418617c\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/storii-by-itc-hotels-akanni-naina-tikkar\/39c805a2-ac03-4026-b9b6-0b4bb5c94e7b\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Storii By ITC Hotels Akanni Naina Tikkar\" 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\/e0fi8ndc6bxwrdv5gd3k.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/e0fi8ndc6bxwrdv5gd3k.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/e0fi8ndc6bxwrdv5gd3k.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/e0fi8ndc6bxwrdv5gd3k.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/e0fi8ndc6bxwrdv5gd3k.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/e0fi8ndc6bxwrdv5gd3k.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Storii By ITC Hotels Akanni Naina Tikkar, Pachhad, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Pachhad, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Storii By ITC Hotels Akanni Naina Tikkar<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. You&#039;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including an outdoor pool and a fitness center.<\/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\">$1,030<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_05100e3a-9fe6-41b0-affd-ac76e0e923fc\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_523b519559704b2d675071f55d4d8215\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/shangri-la-eros-new-delhi\/05100e3a-9fe6-41b0-affd-ac76e0e923fc\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi\" 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\/ucc7msdol36ylkg3pl8.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/ucc7msdol36ylkg3pl8.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/ucc7msdol36ylkg3pl8.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/ucc7msdol36ylkg3pl8.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/ucc7msdol36ylkg3pl8.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/ucc7msdol36ylkg3pl8.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi, New Delhi, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>New Delhi, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. If you&#039;re looking for recreational opportunities, you&#039;ll find a 24-hour health club, an outdoor pool, and a sauna. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).<\/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\">$958<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_ddf6ce54-5248-44f5-9f7e-4b66ac84c213\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_489c29f39939ff989fd3308b8b4da46c\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/taj-club-house\/ddf6ce54-5248-44f5-9f7e-4b66ac84c213\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Taj Club House\" 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\/jdksc0mv2za1mg2v3u5.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/jdksc0mv2za1mg2v3u5.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/jdksc0mv2za1mg2v3u5.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/jdksc0mv2za1mg2v3u5.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/jdksc0mv2za1mg2v3u5.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/jdksc0mv2za1mg2v3u5.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Taj Club House, Chennai, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Chennai, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Taj Club House<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages. You&#039;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including a nightclub, a sauna, and a 24-hour fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).<\/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\">$427<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_006RF00000HicEXYAZ\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_48bc99dee5c45e059d904765770b61d6\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/grand-hyatt-mumbai-hotel-and-residences-india-asia\/006RF00000HicEXYAZ\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus\" data-name=\"Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel &amp; Residences\" 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\/drp3lhbidsu5v193ogqg.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/drp3lhbidsu5v193ogqg.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/drp3lhbidsu5v193ogqg.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/drp3lhbidsu5v193ogqg.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/drp3lhbidsu5v193ogqg.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/drp3lhbidsu5v193ogqg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel &amp; Residences, Mumbai, 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>Mumbai, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel &amp; Residences<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Contemporary Indian City Break near Mumbai Airport with Six Restaurants &#038; Bars, Swimming Pool &#038; Spa<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">1 night, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$139<\/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\">$128<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_249a3885-c746-4da5-8707-206ce0f63986\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_ce99d84e3cd362960d1ce0308af601fa\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/pharos-hotels\/249a3885-c746-4da5-8707-206ce0f63986\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Pharos Hotels\" 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\/1kfclwgoij8x7qa56nc6.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/1kfclwgoij8x7qa56nc6.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/1kfclwgoij8x7qa56nc6.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/1kfclwgoij8x7qa56nc6.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/1kfclwgoij8x7qa56nc6.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/1kfclwgoij8x7qa56nc6.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Pharos Hotels, Chennai, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Chennai, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Pharos Hotels<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. You&#039;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including an outdoor pool, a steam room, and a fitness center. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services.<\/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\">$309<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_064fd954-44c6-4154-8d1e-37992695245b\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_8ccccd4dbcb5448e085239a8348aad9f\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/le-meridien-goa-calangute\/064fd954-44c6-4154-8d1e-37992695245b\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Le M\u00e9ridien Goa, Calangute\" 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\/ht3gmnpfvr78ezm7x02g.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/ht3gmnpfvr78ezm7x02g.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/ht3gmnpfvr78ezm7x02g.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/ht3gmnpfvr78ezm7x02g.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/ht3gmnpfvr78ezm7x02g.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/ht3gmnpfvr78ezm7x02g.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Le M\u00e9ridien Goa, Calangute, Calangute, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Calangute, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Le M\u00e9ridien Goa, Calangute<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Enjoy a range of recreational amenities, including an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and bicycles to rent. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, wedding services, and tour\/ticket assistance.<\/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\">$726<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_445a19de-1714-4fa1-b701-03bee574a35c\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_e72c704796a29b8fe9cccd1df6063f97\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/taj-coromandel\/445a19de-1714-4fa1-b701-03bee574a35c\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel\" data-name=\"Taj Coromandel\" 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\/xww11dj3tw6rimzxw984.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/xww11dj3tw6rimzxw984.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/xww11dj3tw6rimzxw984.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/xww11dj3tw6rimzxw984.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/xww11dj3tw6rimzxw984.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/xww11dj3tw6rimzxw984.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Taj Coromandel, Chennai, India\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Chennai, India<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Taj Coromandel<\/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 sauna, and a fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include 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\">$672<\/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_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_hide_featured_image":false,"_jetpack_featured_image_duplicate_dismissed":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"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},"lang":"en","translations":{"en":13032,"fr":60856,"de":60859},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/India_MattandGary_26.jpg","pll_sync_post":{},"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}]}}