After 2 years of lockdowns, Covid waves, scares, trauma and grief, 2022 is the year when Indians are finally breaking their shackles and travelling again. As per latest data release by the Bureau of Immigration(BoI), more than 1.8 crore Indians travelled outside the country between January 2022 and November 2022, which is a 137% jump over 2021. Almost 40% of those who went abroad were travelling for tourism purposes.
If you are also intending to give wings to your dreams of foreign travel, here are some of the most popular overseas destinations from India.
1. Thailand
Thailand has always been one of the most popular budget destinations from India. Whether you want to head to Bangkok and Pattaya for their parties and nightlife, or Phuket and Krabi for diving, snorkeling and island hopping through pristine blue green waters, or head to some of the lesser explored cultural destinations...Thailand has everything to offer a traveller.
Flights: There are direct flights to Bangkok and Phuket from major Indian cities.
Visa: On Arrival or prior
Covid Restrictions: Thailand has recently removed all restrictions of covid vaccination for travel.
2. Vietnam
Over the last few years, Vietnam is quietly but steadily gaining reputation as a popular holiday destination. While it was quite well known among backpackers and offbeat travellers, Vietjet's recent low cost direct flights from India to various cities in Vietnam have made it one of the top choices for an overseas holiday. Some of the best places to visit in Vietnam include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Mokong Delta and the UNESCO World Heritage sight of Halong Bay.
Flights: There are direct Vietjet flights from Delhi to Hanoi, Ho CHi Minh City and Phu Quoc. Direct flights have also been launched from Mumbai.
Visa: Prior E-visa
Covid Restrictions: No restrictions regarding quarantine or prior testing or vaccination. Travel insurance with minimum coverage of $10000 is required.
3. Maldives
If you are feeling blue, travel to Maldives. It will show you all the different shades of blue. This archipelago houses some of the world's best coral reefs, and offers world class hospitality and amenities. Laze on the beach, or swim with sharks....live in a luxurious over water bungalow in a private island, or head over to one of the local islands for a budget friendly but comfortable stay...it's all up to you. Whatever you choose, you'll definitely be blinded by the beauty of Maldives.
Flights: There are direct flights to Male from major Indian cities
Visa: Tourist visa on arrival
Covid Restrictions: No restrictions regarding quarantine or prior testing or vaccination.
4. Oman
Oman is a beautiful and safe destination to visit in the middle east. Awe inspiring desert scenes, beautiful wadis, rugged mountains and reverential mosques await you in this country. Some of the best places to visit include Muscat, Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands, Nizwa, Al Daymaniyat Islands.
Flights: There are direct flights to Muscat from major Indian cities
Visa: Prior e-visa
Covid Restrictions: No restrictions regarding quarantine or prior testing or vaccination.
5. Singapore
Singapore offers travellers an amazing mix of urban comfort and natural beauty. This island state has some of the most iconic man made structures, including the world's tallest indoor waterfall. Some of the must visit places in Singapore are the Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Zoo, Singapore Night Safari, Clarke Quay, etc. Sentosa Island is the best place for some high-octane adventure sports lazing by the beach or entertainment at Universal Studios.
Flights: There are direct flights to Singapore from major Indian cities
Visa: Prior visa
Covid Restrictions: Vaccination certificate for at least 2 doese(for those above age 12 years) or pre-departure covid test taken 2 days before departure.
6. Seychelles
Seychelles is a gem in the Indian Ocean, often overshadowed by the more illustrious Mauritius. Formed by over 100 islands, it is famous for its boundless natural beauty and picture-perfect beaches. Spend time in Praslin, go cycling in La digue, try out a range of water sports and mouthwatering creole cuisine here.
Flights: There is a direct Air Seychelles flight to Seychelles from Mumbai once a week.
Visa: Visa on Arrival
Covid Restrictions: No Covid restrictions from Dec 1, 2022
7. UAE
Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the most popular tourist destinations in the UAE are on the wishlist of almost every traveller. The iconic structures of Dubai such as Burj Khalifa, Subai Frame, Atlantis the Palm and many more, are out of the world and like a fantasy to visit. Dubai offers excellent Desert Safaris, Cruises on the Dubai Marina, Gardens, Parks, Aquarium, Outlandish malls, beaches, amusement parks and lots more.
Flights: There are direct flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah from major Indian cities
Visa: Prior Visa
Covid Restrictions: No Covid restrictions regarding quarantine, covid test or vaccination.
