I’m superbly excited about my upcoming Anglo-Irish vacation, that will cover a largely enchanting landscape. Starting from the modern wonder of a city adorning the banks of Thames, chasing feathers down the Clyde in Glasgow and finally embarking upon a wild eachtraíochta along the West Atlantic coast of boisterous Ireland. As rosy as it sounds, the planning process in itself wasn’t entirely smooth-sailing. I’ve never traveled outside of India on my own, I’m a recently employed, unmarried guy (yes, 2years is still ‘recent’), I demonstrate no inclination towards pursuing further education and by all means, qualify for a ‘potential long-term immigrant’ as far as UK border control is concerned. A meticulous application process, however ensured I bagged my Tourist UK visa without setbacks of any kind. Want to know how I planned my application process? [Read: Simple Guide for a Tourist UK Visa]
We live in strange times where tourism helps dissolve boundaries and growing security/economic concerns dictate stringent foreign policy on immigration. Visas for some of the developed countries in the world aren’t the easiest to avail, especially if you hail from developing countries like India. For instance, I’ve always wanted to travel to Iran, a country that offers visa on arrival for travelers from several countries, but not India.
Unfortunately, India’s visa & immigration policies also leave a lot to be desired for. Here’s an interesting stat I recently came across:
In a recently published list of nationalities that can avail visa free access, India ranks 74th with 52 countries offering a friendly embrace to Indian passports as compared to 173 countries out of 219 for Finland which ranks 1st on this list.
That, honestly is a staggering statistic for people considering fresh lives as perennial travelers. Admittedly, as your travel footprint becomes more defined and you collect more stamps across your passport, immigration becomes easier to clear – but for beginners, entry in itself can be a huge factor . For the benefit of those that are new and want to find their feet with exploring more welcoming lands, we’ve put together 5 wonderful, visa friendly destinations for the offbeat Indian traveler.
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Take Me to Those Destinations Pretty-Please!
5. Bhutan
Picture: Gadling.com
It is amazing that a nation as tranquil and calm as Bhutan can exist bang in the center of the chaotic Indian sub-continent. For decades, the nation has been known as one of the happiest nations in the world and is amongst the most sought-after Himalayan locations in western circles. Despite the raging demand, the Himalayan mountain kingdom is restrictive with tourism. The inspirational Pico Iyer famously mentions in his book, Falling off the Map, as one of the world’s remotest places. Bhutan requires foreign tourists to pay for their entire holiday in advance & travel on a pre-issued tourist visa.
Indian citizens, however, can boast of a rare privilege – a permit for two weeks is issued on producing a valid Indian passport or a voter’s identity card.
Bhutan is renowned for its distinct Buddhist culture. Pilgrims and wanderers far from the west come to this land, hoping to scale the Tiger’s Nest, in search of peace and answers. Spend time exploring the local lifestyle and arts – there’s a whole variety of them. At other times, sit for hours, admiring the touching enormity of the Himalayan range.
3. Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago
Photo Courtesy: TheAmazingPics.com
The region consisting of the Caribbean Sea, its islands (some surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and some bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean), and the surrounding coasts is collectively known as the Caribbean, and is amongst the most exotic cultures in the world. Historically, all of the tiny nationalities in these archipelagos have been colonies of one European superpower or the other. In contemporary times though, the easygoing culture, delicious cuisine and unique music, besides its countless exotic beaches, put the Caribbean Islands at the top of infinite travel bucket-lists.
Two of the largest independent countries in this cluster are Jamaica, and the twin island state of Trinidad & Tobago. Indian tourists do not require a visa for entry into the state of Jamaica and can stay on producing a passport valid for six months and sufficient proof of funds and onward travel, for a period up to 14 days. The Republic of Trinidad & Tobago goes one level better, allowing Indian tourists to enter without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days (anybody tempted to take a working holiday here? I know I am)
4. British Virgin Islands
Photo Courtesy: CharterExpert.com
They are titled so, because they are largely so – virgin. Most people are unaware of this self-governing overseas British territory lying half a hemisphere away from homeland Britain in the Caribbean waters. Consisting of 60+ islands & keys, out of which about 43 are uninhabited, the British Virgin Islands are a brilliant exotic location for Indian travelers to explore – they can avail a 31 day visa-free stay. If you’re feeling luxurious and have a fortune to fall upon, explore the islands on a cruise ship, with countless operators happy to offer a wide range of services from the US as well as nearby US Virgin Islands.
Photo Courtesy: Coldwellbankerbvi.com
There exist no direct flights from India to BVI, but then that’s not really prejudice – almost no country in the world offers direct flights to the islands, since the Beef Island airport doesn’t support large carriers.
With the countless number of blue flag beaches on these islands, there’s countless avenues for boating, fishing, sailing, scuba diving, surfing, wind & kite surfing, water-boarding and a whole host of water-based adventures. After a long, refreshing day in the water, come out and feast on some of the yummiest seafood in the world.
2. Seychelles
Photo Courtesy: Geo.Fr
In the laidback waters of the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of East Africa, lie the tranquil group of islands known as the Seychelles islands. Known for its serene beaches and exotic cuisine, this is a great destination for those seeking a tan by the beach and have an appetite for an array of sea-food tasting. Travelers of all nationalities require no visa for entry to the Seychelles Islands; a valid passport, proof of accommodation and supporting funds is all you need. Travelers need a ‘visitor permit’ which is granted on arrival and is valid for 1 month, extendable for periods of 3 months at a time and maximum of 1 year in total.
Seychelles has some of the best beaches around. Anse Lazio (Praslin), Beau Vallon (Mahé) and Petite Anse (La Digue) to name a few. Pack a picnic, put on those swimming trunks (or better still, a bikini), bring out a hammock, and laze away to glory!
1. Micronesia
Scattered in the desolate expanse of the western Pacific, about 3200 miles southwest of the Hawaii Islands, lie the little known islands collectively known as the Federated States of Micronesia. Comprising of 4 major archipelagos including the Marshall Islands (probably the most famous) and thousands of scattered volcanic islands, Micronesia is a haven for travellers seeking remote cultures or off-beat experiences away from the hubbub of tourist-infested destinations. Indian tourists do not require a visa to clear immigration at any of the four international airports in Micronesia.
Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk and Yap the four unique island states are often grouped together under the singular banner of FSM, and touted as sharing similar cultures and traditions. In truth, the only element they share in common is their combined history of oppression & occupation under multiple colonial powers.
Kosrae is possibly the most beautiful island of the lot. A pacific paradise, the island shuts down completely on a Sunday, giving way to a day-full of Church ceremonies characterized by community singing & dancing.
Pohnpei continues retains its traditional system of clans, titles & chiefs and is a wonderful opportunity to experience a whole new culture. Similarly, Yap is considered the most resistant of the lot to western influence and retains its ancient customs, culture, architecture as well as its amusing stone money – all of which leads to a very vibrant setup.
Chuuk is a wreck-diving paradise. Wrecks and treasures from the WWII are found a plenty. It’s underwater WWII museum is touted as one of the world’s ultimate aquatic experiences.
There’s a goldmine of exotic beaches, coral reefs, atolls, diving and snorkeling spots to take advantage off. At other times, one might simply be satisfied with soaking in the excellent Oceania cuisine and experiencing this remote, unique lifestyle.
Have you traveled to places that do not require a visa? Do you know other visa friendly destinations? Please mention your picks in the comments below
Also Read:
Simple Guide for a Tourist UK Visa
5 Best Road Trip Routes in India
3 Exotic Summer Destinations in India
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