Where do they go to Heal, Create, and Recharge?
Five iconic South Asian women reveal their favorite travel destinations — from Hawaii to the Himalayas — and how each place fuels their growth and creativity.
South Asian women in the spotlight are now inspiring global travel dreams, not just gracing red carpets. Five powerhouse celebrities — Mindy Kaling, Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, Mahira Khan, and Anushka Sharma — use travel for escape, rejuvenation, and personal growth.
Their travel styles reveal who they are beyond the glam: mothers, dreamers, wellness seekers, cultural connectors, and global storytellers.
Mindy Kaling – Escaping to Hawaii’s Island Bliss
Favorite Destination: Hawaii, USA
Why: Mindy Kaling finds paradise in Hawaii. She often visits with her two young children to escape LA’s fast pace and embrace slower living. Born to Indian immigrants, Mindy faced academic pressure in her early life. But in Hawaii, she unwinds, enjoying the sand and ocean air. “It’s one of the few places where I feel fully present,” she has said. Beyond the beaches, she loves island hikes and local cuisine, supporting small businesses along the way. Her approach to solo parenting while traveling inspires many working moms.
Snapshot of Hawaii: Each island offers unique charm — from Maui’s resorts to Big Island’s volcanic trails and Kauai’s hidden waterfalls. The culture thrives on aloha spirit, blending relaxation with ecological richness.
Deepika Padukone – Parisian Elegance and Riviera Romance
Favorite Destination: France — Paris and the French Riviera
Why: For Deepika Padukone, France is both a creative and emotional touchstone. She grew up balancing sports and strict routines before hitting the big time in Bollywood. Now, she finds artistic expression in Paris’ culture and the French Riviera’s glamor. France allows Deepika to merge her passions for fashion and film. Attending Paris Fashion Week or walking Cannes’ red carpet, she embodies poise rooted in discipline. Yet, it’s the quiet moments — sipping coffee or watching sunsets — that truly energize her. She says being in France helps her tune into her senses. “There’s so much beauty in how the French live — it’s elegant but grounded.”
Snapshot of France: Paris attracts art, fashion, and philosophy. The French Riviera boasts coastal glam, scenic drives, and lavender fields. It’s a haven for dreamers and creatives.
Alia Bhatt – Finding Comfort in London’s Cultural Heart
Favorite Destination: London, United Kingdom
Why: Alia Bhatt, known for her emotional range, loves London, where she owns a home in Covent Garden. She often escapes to spend time with her sister, writer Shaheen Bhatt. While raised in Mumbai’s film industry, London offers Alia anonymity and space. “I can walk for hours, write in cafés, or just sit in the park reading,” she shared. She also studied acting there, forming a special bond with the city. Her visits involve more than leisure. Alia immerses herself in theater, indie cinema, and workshops to sharpen her craft.
Snapshot of Covent Garden: Historic cobblestone streets meet lively markets and performances. From Shakespeare at the Globe to boutique shopping, it blends history and modern creativity.
Mahira Khan – Dubai’s Glamour Meets Home Away from Home
Favorite Destination: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Why: Mahira Khan, one of Pakistan’s top actresses, feels at home in Dubai. Whether attending fashion events or hosting cultural dialogues, she bridges East and West. Dubai offers her freedom and familiarity — a cosmopolitan place where she connects to her roots. Raised in Karachi and educated in LA, Mahira views Dubai as a mix of tradition and innovation. As an advocate for women’s representation in media, Mahira meets creatives during her Dubai stays. It’s not just leisure; it’s a source of inspiration.
Snapshot of Dubai: Home to the tallest tower and desert getaways, Dubai blends luxury with legacy. It’s a multicultural hub with strong South Asian roots, ideal for glamorous escapes and cultural moments.
Anushka Sharma – The Soulful Serenity of the Himalayas
Favorite Destination: The Himalayas, India
Why: For Anushka Sharma, the Himalayas offer stillness and spiritual renewal. Though often seen on film sets, she is deeply introspective. The mountains provide space for reflection and mindfulness. Anushka, raised in a military family, has always loved nature. She often retreats to the hills with her husband, cricketer Virat Kohli. “The mountains give me clarity. It’s like everything unimportant just melts away,” she wrote. In the Himalayas, Anushka practices yoga, explores temples, and reconnects with traditions. It’s not merely a vacation — it’s a ritual of self-discovery.
Snapshot of the Himalayas: This region stretches from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, rich in mysticism and beauty. Monasteries and high-altitude villages are perfect for personal transformation.
More Than Just Getaways: Travel as a Mirror for Growth
For these influential South Asian women, travel is more than a vacation — it reflects who they are. Each destination, chosen with care, becomes a part of their story. From tropical beaches to alpine peaks, these travel diaries remind us that to find ourselves, we sometimes must go far away. These women travel in style, but their journeys transcend typical glam. They redefine what it means to escape. For them, travel is not a luxury; it’s essential.
