4 Places to Visit in December in India

As the snow covers the hills in the North and the beaches of the South are drenched in sunshine, India welcomes the best season to travel in the country. With December marked with a string of holidays, it is certainly the best time to pack your bags and head for an adventurous journey.

The difficult part though is to select your destination. Here is a list of places that will make your job easier.

4 Places You Must Visit in December

1. Goa: To begin with, there is no specific time to visit Goa. You are going enjoy it as much in summer as you will in winter. But things do get wilder in December as Christmas and New Year approach. It literally turns into the ‘Las Vegas of India’. Fireworks and trance music, with the sand tickling your toes, is the perfect way to ring in the New Year. In December, Goa also observes the Feast of Saint Francis Xavier, which is another reason to visit the place. While you are there, don’t forget to shop at the Saturday Night Market in Arpora.
2. Alappuzha, Kerala: While Goa is normally crowded during December, Alappuzha is a calm place that offers peace. It is the perfect destination for those who love nature. Kerala is known for its backwaters and tranquillity, and Alappuzha offers you both. In December, Alappuzha celebrates a 10-day festival, Mullackal Chirap, which offers you a chance to experience the culture of the region. However, even before you make those domestic flight ticket bookings, book your stay on a houseboat.
3. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir: If there is heaven in India, it is in Srinagar. This place will welcome you with scenes similar to those you see in Bollywood films. In December, the place is covered in snow and temperatures drop below zero. Be a part of the Gulmarg Snow Festival that takes place just 56 kilometres from Srinagar.
4. Udaipur, Rajasthan: November and December are considered to be the best months to visit Udaipur, since the temperature in the City of Lakes is on the lower side. The city is home to many exciting tourist destinations, such as the Lake Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Monsoon Palace and Jag Mandir. You can also be a part of the Shilpgram Arts and Crafts Festival right here.

Since all these places see lower temperatures during December, make sure you pack accordingly and get your domestic flight ticket bookings in advance to get the lowest airfare.

Best Places to Visit in India during Winter

Winter is fast approaching and it is about time you check out the best flight deals and offers in India, and get a respite from your hectic daily schedule. December is that awesome month when we eagerly wait for Santa’s goodies, and welcome the New Year with excitement. Here are some amazing places that you should visit in the month of December to add to all that excitement.

Spectacular Places to Visit in Winter

1.      Kerala – Gods Own Country

There need be no doubt that all those wonderful things you have heard or read about Kerala don’t even come close to the true beauty of this South Western state. You name it and Kerala has it. Beaches for sand lovers, hills stations for mountain lovers, wildlife sanctuaries for nature lovers, this beautiful state carves a special place in everyone’s heart. After you’re done chilling and sight-seeing for the day, you can pamper yourself with a relaxing and therapeutic massage and rejuvenate yourself for the next adventure.

2.      Auli (Uttarakhand)

Calling all adventure lovers! Located on the Himalayan mountains of Uttarakhand, Auli is known for its snow-capped mountains, cold, sweet winds and vast blue skies. It is nature’s powerful doze of picturesque beauty. Renowned for its skiing festivals, adventure junkies are sure to have the time of their lives right here. Don’t know how to ski? Don’t worry. There are lots of skiing coaches who can teach you the tricks in no time.

3.      Pondicherry

Officially known as Puducherry, Pondicherry is known for its beautiful French colonies, diverse culture, delicious sea food, and a vibrant atmosphere. The climate is pleasant throughout the year, and the breathtaking scenery will leave you spellbound for sure! It is a wonderful place to party, or simply stroll on the beach for some tropical fun. If you still more to go, you can take a road trip to Bangalore or Chennai. The route is simply mind blowing!

4.      Goa

Goa is a perfect mix of adventure, leisure and nature. The beach shacks are mostly filled with both foreigners and Indians swaying to upbeat electronic music and completely enjoying the moment. The delicious seafood, vibrant atmosphere, tropical climate, party vibes, and the wildly popular Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Festival, Sunburn Festival, should be enough reasons for you to explore the beautiful and electrifying facets of Goa.

Don't forget to check out the best flight deals and offers in India, so that you can save on travel and use the extra cash for some added fun.

5 Ultimate Indian Destinations to Explore with Your Friends

India is blessed with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. The Indian Himalayan range, which span ten states, is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. Enjoy the scenic beauty of this gigantic range by taking domestic flights in India to the most amazing holiday destinations. Here are five spectacular locations that you should not miss, whether you are a nature enthusiast, an animal lover or are into adrenaline-pumping adventure sports.

5 Spectacular Destinations in India

1)      Ladakh

Ladakh is the largest province in Jammu and Kashmir and stretches from the Kunlun mountain range to the Great Himalayas. Ladakh is a high-altitude desert, and offers amazing views of barren cliffs and plateaus. This destination is popular among adventure sport enthusiasts and those who love to ride motorbikes amidst natural beauty. Photographers from across the world visit Ladakh to capture its breathtaking views. Activities like kayaking, yak safari and camel safari add to the thrill.

2)      Kashmir

The valley between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal mountain range is known as the paradise of India. Snowcapped mountains and alpine forests make for the perfect scenic views. One can also stay in a houseboat to experience the best of natural beauty. A trip to Kashmir is a divine and soulful experience, awakening both the hermit and adventurer in you.

3)      Sikkim

This amazing hill station is bordered by Nepal to the west, China to the north, Bhutan to the east and West Bengal to the south. It is indeed an experience of heaven on earth and frequented by nature lovers. You can also enjoy trekking, river rafting and yak safari here, and don’t forget to take selfies at the hilltops.

4)      Kalimpong

For travelers who love heights, Kalimpong is among the best choice of destinations. Located at an average elevation of 1,250 meters, Kalimpong is a hill station in West Bengal. The natural beauty is both calming and thrilling, and is a complete stress buster. Adventurous activities include hiking, river rafting and trekking.

5)      Kufri

A small hill station snuggled near Shimla, Kufri is known for its breathtaking ski tracks. For sport lovers, this destination also offers go-karting past the most amazing landscapes. The Himalayan Nature Park, the Indira Tourist Park and the Himalayan Wild Life Zoo are must visits.

With affordable domestic airlines in India, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to scenic holiday destinations.

Checklist for a Solo Traveler

Travelling alone is becoming more and more common. While the idea might still scare some, the number of solo travelers is constantly increasing. Lower travel costs are a primary reason for this, and solo traveler stories only encourage novices to do the same.

Want to take the road solo? Hold on to our checklist or success mantras when traveling alone for complete peace of mind!

Preparing for travel

1. Boring but important- make a copy of your documents. Take a photo or scan your important documents. You can email them to yourself, or send them to someone you trust. Or both. In this way, in case of loss, you will always have a copy.
2. Purchase a local SIM card - If you are traveling for a long time, it may be worth investing in a local SIM card. One, you will be more easily reachable, and on the other hand, it will allow you to keep your social networks up to date!
3. Download useful applications
   google.com
    - some applications are very useful when traveling. A translator for example, or local emergency numbers.
4. Equip yourself with a GPS - For when you can’t access maps online. If you rent a car, look at the cost of renting a GPS. For more than a week, it may be much cheaper to buy your own device.
5. Learn a few words about the language - You do not need to know complicated phrases, a few words (Please, thank you, yes, no ...) can suffice to make yourself understood. Language is also a good indicator of the people and their culture. And it does not matter if your accent is appalling, on the contrary, it will certainly make the locals smile who will then be tempted to teach you the correct pronunciation!
6. Lie sometimes - Everyone does not need to know that you are traveling alone. Tell them that you are going to join your friends or husband / wife. In some countries, it may be helpful to have a fake wedding ring to wear in case.

To travel safely

1. Inquire before you leave on the risks potentially associated with your destination. There are obviously some countries and regions of the world or you risk big if you're not a seasoned adventurer. The foreign affairs ministry website's are a very good indicator.
2. Become familiar with a person in your hotel, generally the ones that arrange for you, as they it helps for them to know where they can find you in case something happens.
3. Trust your instincts, avoid places that make you uncomfortable or the ones about which you have a bad feeling.
4. Portray confidence and avoid sounding like a tourist who does not really know his or her way around. Scammers know how to spot their target, learn to outsmart their instinct.
5. Use secure lockers for valuables, important documents that many hotels provide. Pay particular attention to your identity papers.

To feel at ease

1. Start by creating routines similar to those you have at home. Eat your breakfast in peace, take your morning jog, go do some shopping.
2. Make every place you visit a temporary home. Decorate with a few familiar objects, unpack your toiletries bag, put your music.
3. Go to the restaurant and bring a book, a travel guide with you, or your journal and write .Do not stay alone in the room on the pretext that you are alone.
4. Become a regular customer of a bar, cafe or any other place frequented. This will give you an attachment point and easy contact with people who work there.

To facilitate meetings

1. Choose fellow travelers who speak your language, they will share your experience of the moment and will be open to discussions.
2. Meet people on travel forums devoted to your destination. They are full of information and you will often find other people leaving at the same time you.
3. Go for guided tours, you will be forced to mix with fellow companions.
4. Offer a coffee only to people in tourist places you frequent. This will allow you to initiate conversation on basic issues such as things to see around. You can also ask local to teach you a few words in their language. The important thing is to realize that you risk nothing, you will not seethem again if you do not wish to.

Don not stress! It'll just get started. Do share your travel experiences in one comment and share this article if you found it useful!

7 Must Know Facts About Dubai Visa

Applying for a Visa can sometimes be a harrowing and confusing experience. The reasons are the many rules that one has to follow and abide with so that you have an easy and happy experience when applying for the Visa. Dubai is no different and here are 7 must know facts to follow while applying for the visa so that you can avoid the disheartening feeling of rejection.

Necessary Documentation

Documents are the most necessary thing while applying for a visa and here is a list of documents that you must submit.

Visa application form filled and signed with the applicant’s photograph affixed on it.

Original passport for verification purpose (valid for 6 months from the date of travel), photocopy of first two pages, last two pages, observation page - if any of the passport and valid travel records - if any.

Original and photocopy of the confirmed journey ticket needs to be attached. The original ticket is for verification purpose.

If invited by any host company in UAE, their Invitation letter is a must.

A No Objection Certificate for female and male applicants below 23 years and students travelling alone from their parents/husband, with their Photo ID.

Photocopy of the host's passport or residence visa.

Applicable visa fees needs to be paid in CASH/DD/CREDIT CARD.

Visa Approval

Tourist Visas of 30 days are single entry and processing takes a minimum of 3-4 working days. The approved visa for online applications will be mailed to the applicant directly.

Validity of Visa

A tourist visa is valid for a 30 days stay and the Visa is valid for 58 days from the date of issue. It is a Short Term Single Entry visa. Otherwise, the validity of the visa varies from 14 days to 90 days.

Overstay Policy

In case of overstay, one has to submit required documents stating the reason for overstay. After the request is submitted, it will take 48 hours for it to close and if the documents are not submitted within 48 hours, then one has to pay penalties to the lieu of 5000 AED per applicant.

Monetary Considerations

The different types of visas require different visa charges. They are Tourist Visa: 582596, hours Visa: 4160, 14 Days Visa: 5825, 90 Days Visa: 12100, Express Tourist Visa: 7195, Express 96 hours Visa: 5530, Express 14 Days Visa: 7195, 90 Days Multi Entry Long Term Visa: 29570 and 30 Days Multi Entry Short Term Visa: 11650. The cancellation charge is 1600. All the amounts given here are in Dubai currency.

Advanced Age Policies

There are some restrictions for those who are above 60 years of age and a Travel Insurance is mandatory for them. Any applicant of the age between 70 – 75 yrs cannot travel alone and must be accompanied with their immediate family member. All applicants above the age limit of 75 cannot be processed. 

Newly Wedded Couple

In case of a newly married couple who are below 23 years of age, no Visa will be issued to them by the UAE authorities.

When applying for a Visa to Dubai, these tips will come in handy for the applicant and ensure that they do not find any trouble in getting the Visa approved.

Know About Five Must Know Facts about Singapore Visa

In the recent years, Singapore has come up as a big tourist destination. The glitz and glamour of the city nation has always been the go to destination for many people. The swanky look and the high standards of living has made the country one of the richest in the world and made it the one place the tourists should visit without much ado. Here are 5 must know facts that you need to know while applying for a tourist visa for Singapore.

Documents You Need To Have

Visa applicants for Singapore should hold a passport valid for the next six months, at the time of departure. They should also have an onward or return ticket along with sufficient money to fund their stay in Singapore. For that, they should attach a validated bank statement for the last 6 months. Moreover, they will also have to convince the immigration officer that they have jobs, home, financial assets or family that will make them come back to their home country. If the applicant resides on any other address other than the one mentioned on the passport, two government authorized address proofs with the same address have to be attached. 

First Time Travelers

In case you are a first time traveler to Singapore, then one must attach the income tax papers of the last 3 years along with bank statements of the last 3 months while applying for the visa.

Online Application Only

Starting 1st April 2009, the Singapore High Commission has stopped accepting individual walk-in applications. All the applications will now get submitted through a new electronic visa (e-Visa) application system that facilitates online processing of visas. The applications must be submitted to any of the authorized visa agent and those with approved applications can have the e-Visa printed online by the authorized visa agents. Any local sponsor in Singapore (with a Singpass account) can also submit the application online.

The Singapore Visa Fees for each application is approximately $30 and is non refundable. Payments are accepted through the online mode like Master/ Visa, and both credit and debit card are accepted. The authorized service agents charge extra fees of Rs 300 for every visa application. Normally, the visa gets processed in 1 working day if the application is submitted by a renowned visa agent. 

Multiple Entry Visa

Indian passport holders may apply for a Singapore tourist visa which allows for a stay of a maximum period of 30 days with a validity of 2 years. It is a multiple entry visa which means that in the given visa validity you can travel multiple times and you need not have to re-apply for a Singapore tourist visa.

While there are many facts that get publicized in regard to the Visa application to Singapore, here one can go through five special facts in regard to the Singapore visa application for a happy and easy journey.

4 reasons to visit the spa every month

Going to the spa helps in maintaining skin and hair health, and promotes wellbeing.

Gone are the days when we thought that only the ultra-rich and those with time on their hands went to the spa. Spas used to be thought of as expensive, highly exclusive spaces that only catered to a wealthy clientele. But a spa treatment has now become a necessity rather than a luxury – with our harried, busy lifestyles, we all need a monthly pampering session administered by loving, professional hands!

Do you think a spa session is not necessary for you? Consider these four reasons to go to the spa every month:

1. Reduce stress. Regular trips to the spa help remove the tension and stress from the muscles and joints. Even a simple head massage using aromatherapy oils or a pedicure can remove a lot of stress from the body. The resulting relaxed feeling, followed by a cup of rejuvenating herbal tea or fresh fruit juice, completes the feeling of wellbeing. Massages are important for people who travel a lot for work or keep very late nights.
2. Improve skin and hair health. By massaging, kneading the body and applying packs, oils and masks, the dead skin and surface impurities from the skin and scalp are gently removed. This gives impetus to the skin to repair itself faster and reveal a fresher, radiant layer. Even the hair benefits from the ministrations of an expert who can recommend the best product and treatment for dull, dry, oily or stressed skin and myriad hair problems. Regular spa sessions help the skin glow and keep the hair lustrous.
3. Remove toxins from the body. Spa treatments help the blood circulation and improve the processes of the lymphatic system as well. Thus, toxins are removed faster and the body becomes cleaner and healthier. Additionally, stress and blood pressure are reduced. The body’s natural defences improve as well.
4. Look young for longer. With the blood circulation improved, the skin is able to fight the signs of aging and become suppler. It is also able to heal itself faster, repair damaged cells more rapidly and retain moisture in the tissues for longer. Together, these effects help slow down aging and help you look younger.

Are you looking for good spas in Chennai? Allow us to point you in the direction of the best hotels near Chennai airport, which feature some of the most premium spas in this side of the country. You will go in tired and stressed, and come out looking and feeling refreshed. So if you want to feel 10 years younger, check out the many spas in Chennai and pick a therapy that you need.

5 Travel Movies That will Increase Your Wanderlust

Experiences, good and bad, make you who you are. There is no better teacher in life than travel. However, most of us are unable to take the final step and actually set out of the home due to various responsibilities and even insecurities.

If you do aspire to see the world from a different perspective, here are some travel movies you should watch to motivate yourself. Book Domestic flights online to make the process smooth and simple.

Movies You Should Watch

 

1. Into the Wild

Based on the real-life story of Christopher McCandless, this movie has inspired thousands of people ever since its release in 2007. To watch a top student and athlete give up on all his comfort and possessions to live in the wilderness in Alaska will motivate you to get up off that couch and live the life you always dream about.

2. Baraka

This non-narrative documentary, directed by Ron Fricke, was released in 1992. Although it is an unknown name on the list, the film earned huge critical acclamation. Shot in 24 countries across 6 different continents, it is an exploration of extraordinary people, places and cultures from all across the globe.

3. The Motorcycle Diaries

If the life of Marxist revolutionary Ernesto 'Che' Guevara wasn't inspiring enough already, this movie, released in 2004 and based on one of his early travel experiences, added even more to it. It depicts his eight month long journey, during which he covered a distance of 14,000 km on a motorcycle, along with his friend Alberto Granado.

4. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

Ben Stiller's career has been a tale of extremes. He can be ridiculously funny, as he was in Zoolander, or make you emotional, as he did in The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. He lived the character of Walter Mitty, who is in pursuit of a lost photo for the final issue of Life Magazine and the only way to find it is by retrieving the photographer who can be anywhere in the world. Shot in breathtaking locations of Iceland, his journey is a visual treat.

5. Wild

“I was amazed that what I needed to survive could be carried on my back. And, most surprising of all, that I could carry it.” These words by Cheryl Strayed will surely give you goosebumps, while the rugged and emotional story of a recently divorced woman will inspire you in many ways.

So don't wait, live your life to the fullest and discover the world. The process is simple because you can simply get your flight tickets online.

5 Places You Should Definitely Visit in Kochi

Kochi, the biggest city in Kerala, is a standout amongst the well-known tourist destinations of the state.  Also known as Cochin, Kochi has some spectacular historical sites that won't fail to mesmerize you. Here are some reasons why you should head to this destination.

Some Fun Facts about Kochi

·         Nicolas Conti, a highly popular Italian traveler, wrote in his travel blog, ''China is where you make your money, then Kochi is surely the place to spend it''.

·         English is a widely spoken language in Kochi, despite Malayalam being the official language of Kerala.

·         The International Pepper Exchange at Kochi is responsible for producing almost 90% of the pepper consumed in India!

From stunning beaches to popular museums and shopping arcades, Kochi has surely become one of the hottest destinations for vacationers and travel enthusiasts across the globe! If you're seeking budget-friendly air fares from the National Capital, you'll be delighted to know that on April 14, 2016, Vistara launched Delhi to Kochi flights at extremely economical prices!

5 Amazing Tourist Attractions in Kochi

1. Fort Kochi Beach

Calling all beach lovers! Situated on the western coast of India along the Arabian Sea, Fort Kochi Beach definitely tops the list with its serene atmosphere, pristine waters, Chinese fishing nets, lively carnivals, handicraft emporiums, sumptuous sea food, and most importantly, the ancient fort that represents stellar European architecture.

2. Folklore Museum

Established in 2009 as a non-profit organization, the Folklore Museum at Kochi exudes architectural history. It showcases precious artifacts that bear the trails of Kochi's rich cultural heritage. Some brilliant and captivating stage performances are held at the museum on a daily basis.

3. Lulu Shopping Mall, Edappally

For all shopaholics, the Lulu shopping mall at Kochi is considered as the largest mall in India consisting of 350+ food outlets, numerous retail stores with local as well as international brands, a gigantic kids play area, and a 20-storey five-star hotel managed by JW Marriot Hotels. It is an ideal place to visit with your family or friends. Extravaganza at its best! 

4. Hill Palace Museum

Originally belonging to the erstwhile Maharaja of Kochi, the museum showcases weapons, coins, artifacts, crowns, ornaments, paintings, and sculptures belonging to the erstwhile Cochin royal family. It also has a weapons gallery and horse cart gallery with a prehistoric children's park filled with beautiful flowers and lofty trees.

Do include these amazing places on your itinerary. And if you're travelling from Delhi, do note that Vistara offers Delhi to Kochi flights via Mumbai at prices that won’t burn a hole in your pocket! Book domestic flights tickets and let the travelling begin!

3 overseas vacations for what’s left of 2016

Presenting three quick foreign holiday destinations to visit before the year 2016 gives way to a new year.

The year 2016 will soon end. While it has been eventful enough already, you may want to pack in one last foreign holiday before you welcome 2017. But how are you going to get bookings at such short notice?

Don’t worry – the busy tourist season does not kick in till mid-December in most places around the world, so you can make a quick dash in November and the first two weeks of December. If you are looking for good holiday destinations, we suggest:

1. 1 Cancun, Mexico. Cancun has perfect weather in November. It is both modern and traditional by turns – you can find glitzy hotels and resorts, while the town has perfectly preserved its ancient ruins nearby and its small fishing villages. The beaches here are exquisite and the locals are very friendly with tourists. You can laze around on the sand all day or go for a walk in town.
2. 2 Cairo, Egypt. The land of the mystical pyramids draws very less crowds at the end of the year. The weather is warm and dry, so wear plenty of sunscreen lotion. Also, you can get a good deal on smaller, locally-owned hotels rather than international hotel chains, and you can have a ball visiting the old villages, seeing the Pyramids and shopping in the local markets. Be sure to research their customs and etiquette before you go – the locals will warm up to you even more!
3. 3 Luang Prabang, Laos. Luang Prabang is colourful and warm, with perfect weather despite its reputation for summer storms. You can find excellent accommodation and many types of restaurants here. The food and drinks are extensive and quite excellent, and there are many beautiful sights to see. 

Quick question: What’s the first thing you do after booking your tickets? Do you go shopping, post about your impending holiday on social media, or something else? Let that something else be about taking travel medical insurance. Why? Because your travel health insurance plan will keep you safe and protected on your holiday. It can pay the expenses for unexpected illness while abroad, or partly recompense you for lost baggage or even pay to buy a ticket if your flight is suddenly cancelled. Your travel medical insurance plan will sweeten your foreign holiday further.

Your Complete Guide to Indira Gandhi International Airport

Vistara launched its connecting Srinagar to Mumbai flights via Delhi on April 7, 2016, offering a comfortable journey to passengers at an affordable price. The flight has one stoppage at Delhi's majestic Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), which was named as the #1 airport in the world for two consecutive years in the 25 million to 40 million passenger category.

The airport received an impressive rating of 4.90 on a scale of 5, so you can imagine what you can experience between flights. Since it is one of the busiest airports in South Asia, it is better to have a plan rather than getting lost in the crowd.

Everything You Should Know About IGIA

1. Shopping

If shopping is your thing, then an airport is The place to be. With brands like Mango, Kimaya, Marks & Spencer, Croma and Reebok, it is no less than a mall. What's the best part? You get some of the best wine and chocolates from all across world completely duty free. Terminal 3 also offers a shop and collect facility, where you can shop before departing and get your bags at the airport on arrival, absolutely free of cost.

2. Entertainment

TV screens are installed all around the airport, so whether it is a football derby or an all-important India-Pakistan cricket match, you can watch all the action live at the terminal itself. There are also Plaza Premium lounges at all the departure points, along with video calling facility. In addition, buffets are offered throughout the day and you can also access internet for work at their workstations. You also get free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.

3. Food and Drinks

Thankfully, getting food at an airport terminal is not as difficult as it was for Tom Hanks in The Terminal. There is a Café Coffee Day or a Costa Coffee at almost every turn. The Daredevils Bar at Terminal 3 is the perfect place for sports lovers, and there is also The Good Times Bar on the domestic side. There is a food court if you want to grab a quick bite and the Smokehouse Bar & Café and Ember are good options for a great dining experience.

4. Leisure

If you need some rest, there are seats installed all around the airport. You can also hire sleeping pods from Sams Snooze at My Space at nominal rates. Spa facilities are also available at the lounges on the international departures terminal.

So, before you reach the city of dreams on your flights from Srinagar to Mumbai flight via Delhi