TRAVEL PLANNING
If you test positive for COVID, can you still travel?
With variants KP.2, KP.3, and LB.1 surging, the CDC advises isolation if symptomatic, testing kits, masks, and medications for July 4 travelers. Vicki Sowards suggests Paxlovid for high-risk groups. U.S. citizens no longer need vaccine proof/tests. Adhere to physical distancing, good hygiene, and updated vaccines to curb rising hospitalizations and deaths. Follow CDC guidelines for safe travel.
Is it a good idea to get a personal loan for travel?
IndusInd Bank's instant personal loans for travel offer competitive rates, higher loan amounts, flexible tenures, and instant approval. Manageable EMIs, an EMI calculator, and quick access for emergencies aid financing. The versatile loan covers all travel needs, improves credit scores with punctual repayments, supports last-minute plans, and ensures financial health, making vacations stress-free and memorable.
My first trip to Norway, with AI as a guide
The biggest drawback was the absence of phone apps for Mindtrip and Vacay, which led the author to rely on ChatGPT's basic AI assistant when they needed on-the-spot guidance. Mindtrip, they have since learned, is planning to debut an app in September. Still, there were times when the author desperately craved the human touch. Before setting out on a trip, they always contact friends and colleagues for recommendations.
Indians up their game on foreign vacations with luxury hotels, formula 1 drives and epic train rides
Indians are driving luxury travel in the Asia-Pacific region, with 89% of them planning to spend more in the next 12 months. This is according to a report released Monday by Marriott International on high networth travellers in the Asia Pacific.
89% Indian high net worth travellers planning to spend more in next 12 months: Report
The Luxury Group by Marriott International's report highlights growing trends in luxury travel across Asia Pacific, driven by high-net-worth (HNW) travelers. Key findings include a significant increase in travel spending, especially among Indians (89%), with 74% preferring to travel within Asia Pacific. Culinary experiences are a top priority for 88% of travelers, and celebrations account for 25% of planned holidays
Rohit Sharma and co stuck in Barbados as Hurricane Beryl disrupts travel plans for team India
The Indian cricket team's return home has been delayed by Hurricane Beryl. Led by Rohit Sharma, the team recently won the T20 World Cup. The hurricane, classified as a Category 4 storm, has prompted the Bridgetown airport to plan for an evening shutdown. Consequently, the team's travel plans have been disrupted, and arrangements for a charter flight are underway.
Why it feels like everyone in the world is heading to Japan right now
Tourism in Japan is booming like never before, with a historic collapse of the yen making travel cheaper. Over 14.5 million visitors arrived in the first five months of 2024, a 70% increase from last year. The weak yen has made everything from dining to hotel stays more affordable.
US proposes plan to scrap additional security checks for Indians at transit points
US and India collaborate to enhance aviation safety through streamlined security processes, improved passenger flow, and ongoing information exchange. The one-stop security concept offers benefits like enhanced safety, reduced costs, and shorter connection times, emphasizing proactive risk mitigation and continuous safety improvements.
Travel Insurance: What you need to know before you plan your next international trip
Travel insurance provides coverage for travel risks, including medical support, flight cancellations, and emergency evacuation. It is not always mandatory but advisable for international travel. Policies include trip-wise insurance and group travel insurance.
Smooth flying: India plans to simplify immigration checks for international trips
The Indian government aims to develop airports as transit hubs for South Asia, incorporating a strategy called the confluence of flights. This allows travelers on connecting flights under the same ticket number, or PNR, to complete customs and immigration checks at their initial departure point and final destination, bypassing intermediary checks during layovers.
Air India introduces new feature, passengers can now lock fares for two days with extra charges
Air India, now under the Tata Group's ownership, has unveiled a new offering called 'Fare Lock' to enhance passenger convenience and flexibility in travel planning. This feature allows customers to reserve a chosen fare for a period of 48 hours, enabling them to solidify their travel plans while retaining the selected fare. With a nominal fee, travelers can now secure their desired fare for two days, streamlining the booking process and providing peace of mind.
Let AI plan your trip!
Bags packed and nowhere to go? Let AI lead the way. Travellers are increasingly using smart technology to plan their perfect holiday!
How a family of four unlocked the secrets of Switzerland: 25+ cities, 11 days, Rs 90,000!
A family from India shares their budget-friendly European vacation in Switzerland, highlighting the Swiss Travel Pass as a key to savings and convenience. They utilized free travel for children, museum entry, and discounted excursions, making the pass cost-effective. The family's travel hacks included using the SBB app, embracing public transport, and exploring lesser-known destinations like Gstaad and Mürren. Lessons learned emphasize planning, using public transport, and exploring beyond tourist spots for budget adventurers.
What holiday plans? Indians tripping on last-minute rush
Indian travellers are increasingly opting for last-minute bookings for both domestic and international destinations due to factors like more visa-free options, lower average age of travellers, rising disposable incomes and availability of spontaneous booking choices.
High airfares remain a challenge, says Thomas Cook India's Madhavan Menon
Thomas Cook India's Executive Chairman Madhavan Menon highlighted high airfares and limited airline capacity as significant challenges affecting both leisure and business travelers in India. Despite an increase in scheduled flights, the demand-supply constraints are expected to ease only in the long term with the introduction of new aircraft. Menon outlined the company's plans to expand its physical network through owned and franchise outlets and enhance its digital presence.
Indians' Europe travel plans in limbo this summer over Schengen visa slot shortage
Indians planning to visit the Schengen Area this summer are facing challenges in securing appointment slots for Schengen visas, leading to frustration and travel disruptions, as reported by Schengen News. Both applicants and travel agents have expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation, with some stating that appointments are unavailable until summer for most Schengen member states. Particularly for Germany and Italy, the earliest available appointment dates are in July, hindering travel plans for Indians aiming to visit the Schengen Area in June or July.
A taste of Europe trip at half the cost: How to plan Kazakhstan or Georgia or Azerbaijan or Uzbekistan or Kyrgyzstan trip for Rs. 1 lakh
A clutch of countries in the south of Caucasus and Central Asia provide a whiff of Europe without snapping your budget. Within sniffing distance of Europe and straddling the Eurasian cusp, these are perfect destinations as they combine unsurpassed natural beauty with cultural overdose. Detailed budget and itinerary for Kazakhstan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan trips this summer. Happy holidays!
Mother's Day wanderlust: Travel tips for senior women exploring the world solo
As Mother's Day approaches, it's a perfect time to honor the influential women in our lives. Beyond traditional gifts, it's an opportunity for senior women to embark on solo adventures. Here are five travel tips for them: Start with short trips to familiar places, do thorough research on destinations and logistics, consider joining group tours for companionship, keep loved ones informed about your travel plans, and prioritize travel insurance for peace of mind.
Sri Lanka extends visa-free access for Indian tourists
Sri Lanka has renewed visa-free entry for tourists from India and six other countries to boost tourism industry recovery post-pandemic and economic crises. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for international travelers, signaling the government's commitment to promoting tourism and creating seamless travel experiences. Online visa application process introduced for security checks.
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