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Budget airlines best symbol of Indian boom: Time

May 15, 2006 18:45 IST

A flight on one of India's budget airlines offers the best opportunity to view the country's economic boom.

For those in quest of something like best-for-the-soul experience in an Asian red-light district, Lahore's Heera Mandi has more than to offer than just cheap sex.

Ever heard of divine tavern? Visit one in Singapore.

In its latest issue, Time Asia has uncovered what it calls the region's best stimuli and sustenance for the soul, body and mind.

A journey in a low-cost airline, the magazine says in its annual special report on the Best of Asia, is something that is the best for the mind!

"If you suspect that India's economic boom is only benefiting the country's rich, then book yourself a flight on one of India's budget airlines and take a look at your fellow passengers. There's a high likelihood that some of them are flying for the first time in their lives," it says.

A ticket on India's budget airlines has made flying -- once the preserve of the rich -- an affordable reality, even for lower middle class Indians, it says.

"Their discovery of air travel puts India's aviation sector among the world's fastest growing."

Ever thought of seeking a soulful experience while being surrounded by gaudily dressed prostitutes? The magazine has discovered one such haunt -- a 17th century haveli turned into a four-storeyed gallery and restaurant in Lahore's Heera Mandi.

The decor of Cooco's Den and Cafe could be called bordello kitsch were it not 300 years old, Time says.

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