Who does not love to travel? New places, cultures, cuisines and people take one’s excitement to a new high. International travels have a different charm and thrill. However, with thrills and fun, come the burdens of additional planning that may feel daunting. I am particularly referring to time-consuming visa processes.
Fortunately, there are some countries that Indians can visit without a visa. Surprised? But it’s true. You just need to pack your bags and set out on a journey to explore these foreign lands. As international travel gets easier for Indians in these countries, I am sure you will come back with funnier and more unforgettable memories.
Mauritius
Those shining beaches in Mauritius promise a stylish yet soothing holiday. When in Mauritius, explore the beaches, lagoons and reefs. Don’t forget to enjoy street food. Visit Chamarel to witness the bewitching colour palette on the uneven volcanic surface. Take time out for a visit to L’Aventure Du Sucre. It is a world-famous sugar museum having its own sugarcane fields.
Hong Kong
Pubs, markets, restaurants, shopping malls, glittering skyline and plenty of entertainment make Hong Kong a favourite spot worth a visit. It seems the country refuses to sleep even at night and is always buzzing with activities. Indians need to fill up an online form ahead of their visit. Truly speaking, the procedure is as funny as taking part in a Facebook quiz.
When in Hong Kong, make sure to visit the iconic Disneyland Hong Kong. Don’t give a miss to Lantau Island either.
Hong Kong is a shoppers’ paradise. Visit Temple Street Market and Ladies’ Market; I bet you will be left in high spirits!
Fiji
Fiji with 333 sun-baked and surreal islands is nestled in the South Pacific and is close to New Zealand and Australia. The island tops every traveller’s bucket list. The quintessential island houses Kula Eco Park, which you must visit for an exciting encounter with rich flora and fauna. If you don’t mind your adrenaline getting high, try jet skiing or snorkelling at Denarau Island which is also a picture-perfect beauty.
Nepal
The land of Buddha is an off-beat destination for mountain lovers! The country is fascinating for its sublime beauty, rich cultural heritage and imposing religious structures. Nepal, nestled in the lap of the great Himalayas, will leave your speechless with its panoramic wonders. The land also offers exciting activities for adventure junkies. The country houses the famous Pashupatinath Temple, a Hindu religious site, and Boudhanath stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cook Islands
Love scuba-diving and snorkelling? This time, look beyond Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Many of you may not have heard about Cook Islands but it is a wonderful destination for those who love the sea and adrenalin-pumping water activities. Located in the South Pacific, Cook Islands comprise a group of 15 islands that are scattered over a huge area, and politically linked to New Zealand. However, it is still a visa-free country for Indians.
Go straight to the Aitutaki Lagoon; you will enjoy a one-of-a-kind beach experience. Also visit One Foot Island, travellers’ favourite. Drop in the Muri Night Market for some of the most famous local foods.
Ecuador
Jungle safari on mind? One of the best, visa-free places to visit is Ecuador. Explore the dense forests of the Amazon and experience a visit to the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands. Also, make sure not to miss Andean Highlands.
Ecuador is tucked away in the northwestern South America, between Peru and Columbia. A bus or taxi ride will take you to the equator i.e. the middle of the world. I would also suggest that you should visit Galapagos Islands. It is famous as Charles Darwin developed his world-renowned theories of evolution here.
Jamaica
This Caribbean island has some of the most beautiful reef-lined beaches in the world. The lush rainforests beckon travellers for some unforgettable adventures. Also, adventure lovers must not miss a visit to the Dum’s River Falls in Ocho Rios. Blue Mountains National Park, famous for its flavoursome coffee, also offers a breath-taking hike up the hills.
Bhutan
Bhutan, known as the world’s happiest county, is seated at the eastern edge of the majestic Himalayas. The picturesque monasteries, the lush green valleys and the stupefying forts (dzongs) will give you goosebumps.
Your Bhutan visit will remain incomplete without exploring Paro Dzong, an epitome of architectural brilliance. Dig deep into some popular Bhutanese cuisines, especially the Ema Datsi that uses ample cheese and chillies – it’s mount watering! Thimpu, the capital city of Bhutan, is too charming to forget. Also, visit the famous Taktsang Monastery. The calm and quaint ambience is perfect for a spiritual experience.
Macau
Macau is proudly called the Las Vegas of Asia. The country is most famous for casino games. These games are indulgent and so, I would like to put you on high alert! Experience the thrill of betting but don’t get addicted to it. Rather enjoy time in Taipa Villa or explore the roadside buildings which show fascinating inspirations from Chinese and Portuguese architectural styles. Macau was a Portuguese colony. This historical fact explains why the delicious Portuguese egg tart is so famous here.
Samoa
How many of you have heard the name? I know only a few! The country exhibits a bewitching collage of mountains and reef-bordered beaches that house snow-white waterfalls and gorgeous gorges. Just imagine you can feast your eyes on all these without a visa. Enjoy snorkelling at Lalomanu Beach or experience a thrilling dive into the famous Togitogiga Waterfall.
While in Samoa, don’t miss the locals raising infant turtles at the Satoalepai Turtle Sanctuary in Savai’i
