Arun Bagaria, Co-Founder, TravClan shares insights on the top happening destinations, both domestic and international, to explore this festive season

People have been fond of travel since ancient times. Explorers, merchants, wanderers seeking peace and so on, no matter what one’s pursuit was, travel was always on the cards. The last year and a half has been tough for travel lovers. However, now that the opportunity to explore the world is again available, there is no way anyone is going to stay home throughout the festive season. While there is never a dearth of domestic as well as international destinations to explore, there are certain clear favourites which dominate the travel landscape. 

Favourite domestic travel destinations

During the Indian festive season 2021 (1st October to 30th November), here are the top three domestic destinations which have emerged as the favourites among the travel community.

Goa – Almost everybody wants to go to Goa at least once in their lifetime. After a long stay at home, the festive season 2021 is a perfect time to watch magnificent sunsets, the play of waves, the greenery and of course party hard in India’s premier beach destination. (Travellers to the state need to have a COVID-19 negative report not older than 72 hours from the time of arrival. However, those who carry proof of having taken both doses of the medicines more than 15 days prior to their arrival in the state, don’t have any such restrictions).

Manali – Mountains are love and Manali is one destination which is blessed with perhaps the most diverse and spectacular mountain landscape that you can find anywhere on the planet. From pristine forests to alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains to alpine lakes and high-altitude deserts, Manali is the gateway for everything and is a perennial favourite among travellers. And this festive season is proving this to the hill (hilt we mean). (No restrictions apart from the need to download Arogya Setu app).

Darjeeling – For those who wish to enjoy views of snow-capped mountains in a place that is breathtakingly beautiful but not too cold, Darjeeling is an ideal choice. Rolling hills, heritage toy train and exquisite tea gardens, and a famous sunrise to look forward to, Darjeeling is a real darling for travellers. (Negative RT-PCR test report not older than 72 hours, Arogya Setu app and online declaration on Sandhane app of the state government necessary).

International recommendations

More than 25 million Indian travellers went to foreign lands in 2019, and the recent surge in vaccination, as well as relaxation of COVID-19 regulations, now makes it possible for people to pack their bags and fly out of the country. While Dubai, London and Paris will garner maximum footfall even in the festive season and New Year time, we have compiled an appealing and exciting array of international destinations that is simply irresistible. Take a look.

St Petersburg, Russia – Home to former Imperial Russian Family, the Shuvalov Palace I St Petersburg has the world’s most exquisite and elaborate collection of Faberge eggs. There are plenty of magnificent Christmas markets, museums and snowy landscapes to enjoy an offbeat and exciting vacation. You also get high-speed train connectivity to Moscow which has numerous iconic places such as the Kremlin and Red Square etc. (COVID-19 negative report not less than 72 hours older needed)

Northern Lights in Norway – For the true romantics at heart who have grown up watching Disney movies, the Northern Lights offer a once-in-a-lifetime visual treat. If the aurora borealis doesn’t blow your mind, then nothing ever can. (No restrictions for travellers possessing certificate of complete vaccination)

Ski resorts in French Alps – There is probably no better place than the heart of Mont Blanc to celebrate the festive season in the Alpine landscape. Enjoy traditional winter sports, picturesque villages, and mountain views and ski on the slopes, there is plenty to shop, and enjoy for the whole family. (Only a self-declaration form and proof of having completed both doses of vaccine more than 7 days before arrival in France)

Snorkelling in Maldives – Another all-time favourite travel destination, Maldives is now open to all. If snow and cold climate doesn’t charm you then white sand beaches of Maldives surely will. You can lounge around in the sun or go snorkelling with the turtles, there is no limit to fun in Maldives. COVID-19 negative report not less than 72 hours older needed)

How to plan the Trip and Things to Keep in Mind

A good travel agent is your best bet to plan a trip irrespective of the destination. The pandemic might have ebbed, but even with the low count and vaccination support, the rules and regulations remain dynamic and subject to changes. That’s where outdated info on travel portals and package offerings might not be as good an option as directly using the services of a travel agent and enjoying a personalized experience with easy support and guidance for your travel. Travel agents are now being seen as the trustworthy friends who know the destinations inside-out and will offer you the best information and updated support. Unless you are someone ready to sacrifice comfort and peace of mind in a bid to save some money, a good travel agent is the best option for you. Even if you don’t know a travel agent personally, go ahead and take a look at a good travel marketplace online, and you are likely to find the right service provider for your dream trip. Go ahead and enjoy the festive holidays!