Maiden International Travel? Think Beyond Bangkok and Bali

I know, I know - Flights are cheap, visa process is non-existent and cheap, and there are multiple flights from your city to Bangkok and Bali. But do you really want to recreate those pictures that you have seen multiple times on your Instagram feed taken by your friends?

It's 2023 and now is the time to do something new. A little research on the internet can take you places. So put a pause on the Look East policy and take a Central stand.

Yes, I am talking about Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Caucuses. There are many fascinating countries between India and Europe that might not have caught your attention, but are now easily accessible via flights and offer easy visa to Indians. Let's look at some of the many lucrative destinations here:

1. Kazakhstan

This year, Kazakhstan joined the list of the countries that allow visa free entry to Indians. If you are visiting Kazakhstan for 14 days for tourism, you do not need to get a visa. The country is geographically large and spread with beauty all over. The terrains vary from golden deserts to lofty mountains, and verdant valleys to turquoise lakes. Flights from Delhi to Shymkent are cheap and and a return journey, if planned well, costs Rs 20,000 . From Shymkent, you can take incredibly inexpensive flights to other gorgeous parts of Kazakhstan.

2. Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is an important historical country as the centre of Persian empire and the cradle of Zoroastrian faith. Though a country predominantly following Islam, the country is way liberal when it comes to drinking and dressing, and follows a democratic way of governance. Baku is getting popular as a party city and offers a night-life often compared to Dubai's. You can get an E-Visa to Azerbaijan in an easy online process that does not require to declare any pre-bookings or bank statements. The visa is processed within 3-4 days. Flights to Baku are economical, and cost between 25-30k for a return journey. You can also take a one-way ticket to Azerbaijan and take another flight to Kazakhstan or Georgia. Get your Azerbaijan E-Visa here.

3. Georgia

At the base of Caucuses mountains, Georgia lies at the meeting point of Asia and Europe. Often seen culturally as a more European than Asian country, this country is slowly getting popular amongst Indian travelers who stay in Dubai. Flights to Tbilsi from Dubai are cheap and pretty economical even from India. A return flight from Delhi to Georgia costs between 22-28k. You can get an E-Visa to Georgia online in an easy process that requires you to submit your stamped bank account details. However, the process is quick and you can expect your E-Visa to be cleared in 4 days. Get your E-Visa to Georgia here.

Have you been to any of the above countries? Share your experience here.