TRAVEL SPECIAL .....Bid farewell to visa blues!

Bid farewell to visa blues!

Plan a last minute trip to a destination that offers Visa on Arrival

A ROMANTIC OUTING

UNLOCK THE NEXT LEVEL OF ROMANCE AND ADVENTURE

Region: Seychelles

Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.—Albert Einstein. Seychelles stands true to this adage. Tropical white beaches, lush vegetation, and constant high temperatures make the Seychelles a dream destination. This archipelago, consisting of over 100 islands, promises an unforgettable experiences. Watch the sun go down on the island of Mahé, on Petite Anse; enjoy a meal served on the shallow sea bed, with your feet soaked in water; stroll along with tortoise walking around in La Digue. Apart from the diverse marine life, Seychelles also offers a unique plant life.

Visa Requirement:

Seychelles visa for Indians can be obtained on arrival for free for a maximum stay of 30 days provided holding an onward or return ticket and funds.

NATURE NURTURES

TREKKING THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT

Region: Nepal

For those trekking enthusiasts who put their interest on the New Year resolutions list, it is perfect time to make a trip to Nepal to cover the Annapurna Circuit. The course allows you to walk through the world's deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge with Annapurna I rising to 8091 m to the east and the 8167-m-tall Dhaulagiri towering towards the west. The circuit doesn’t just allow you to savour fabulous mountain views but also offers an opportunity to get acquainted with the diverse Nepalese culture and enjoy the region’s delicious cuisine. The route passes through Manang, Jomsom and the Muktinath region set against the magnificent backdrop of the Himalayas. For those looking for less intimidating options, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Nagarkot-Dhulikhel Trekking, Shivapuri Hill Trek are some of the easy treks that you can enjoy.

Visa Requirement: As per Indo-Nepal agreement, indian citizens don't need to produce a passport or visa.

A WILD ENCOUNTER

STROLL WITH THE BIG CATS

Region: Mauritius

Depending on the traveller's choice, Mauritius could be restful or eventful. So that your trip falls in the latter, tap your wild side by taking a stroll with the big cats. You can enjoy this unique encounter at the Casela Nature Park, which allows you to meet, touch and walk with the lions. Fret not, for you will be guided by a professional to observe these and take pictures of these magnificent beasts in calm surroundings. Watch them fight, play and climb trees; you can also stroke their soft fur. Besides, a trip to Mauritius ensures you beat the harsh winters to enjoy some sunshine. Another thrilling and adrenaline-packed activity to try in Mauritius is zip lining. The island has some of the longest zipline courses in the world.

Visa Requirement: Visa on Arrival is available for a stay of maximum 60 days. Additionally, a sponsorship letter, and sufficient funds for expenses during their stay, a confirmed booking of the accommodation in Mauritius and a return flight are the required requisite.

MAGNIFICENT LANDSCAPES

EXPLORE THE EXQUISITE WILDERNESS

Region: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Floating in the Dead Sea is definitely one of the top experiences in Jordan that cannot be missed. That’s not all. It's solid outdoor infrastructure, awe-inspiring variety of natural areas beg visitors to get out of their vehicles and into the wilderness. Those adventure lovers will love canyoning and taking a dip in some of Jordan's water filled gorges. Here's taking a look at a few options:

WADI HIDAN: 

Along the King's Highway next to Madaba lies Wadi Hidan—a 9km-long canyon that can also be undertake in a half by beginners. For those completing the hike, a waterfall plunging down to 50-meters, offers a rewarding sight. With natural pools of water, gorges and greenery, there are several areas to enjoy abseiling. 

WADI KARAK: 

At Wadi Al Karak, waterfalls and stately cliffs are a plenty. Situated close to Dead Sea, the shallow creek is easy to navigate, with few areas to go abseiling from.

WADI ZARQA MAEEN: 

A larger wadi in the area, two major waterfalls cascading up to 30 - 40 meters sit at the beginning of the trail. The other half of the trail offers pools with a decent depth to enjoy plunging in and swimming.

Visa Requirement: Jordan offers a two weeks Visa on Arrival for a fee. A traveller needs to show a certain sum of money to cover stay and an onward ticket for the next destination. If you are entering and exiting from Aqaba, along with the Red Sea, a month long visa is granted for free.

Compiled by Shireen Kanchwala

ETTR14DEC17