An exotic international destination that can be reached in less than a day hits the spot differently. Here are top six countries with balmy weather, unique experiences, simple visa requirements, negligible language barriers, and short-haul flights perfect for upcoming holiday season.
Thailand
Indians can never fall out of love for Thailand. A 4-hour flight away, with many options from major Indian cities to Bangkok and Phuket, the country offers an e-Visa-on-Arrival for Indian citizens. English is widely spoken by tour guides, hotel staff, even local vendors, making it easy for Indian tourists to navigate. Indian rupees can be exchanged at most major banks and money exchange centres. While ATMs and exchange desks at Thai airports offer this service on the go, it comes with a significant surcharge. For a luxurious vacation with immersive culinary experiences, consider Phulay Bay, A Ritz Carlton Reserve, a hidden retreat in Krabi. Enjoy sumptuous Thai and seafood fare under the watchful eye of Michelin-starred Executive Chef Christian Herrgesell, or explore nearby Hong Island, where the famous Hangover II was shot. The resort can be reached by a 45-minute speedboat or helicopter ride.
Average Flight Duration: 3-4 hours
Visa: Visa-on-Arrival (15 days validity)
Seychelles
Seychelles, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, is a great holiday destination for Indians. With a direct Air Seychelles flight from Mumbai to Mahé, it is visa-free and easily accessible. Other airlines like Air India, IndiGo, Emirates, Ethiopian, and Qatar Airways also offer connecting flights from different hubs in India. While the official languages is Seychellois Creole, English is widely spoken, so language is no barrier. Travellers can exchange Indian Rupees for Seychellois Rupees at authorised counters. Carrying cash in small denominations is better as not all local establishments accept cards. Seychelles’ 115 islands – Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, Aldabra Atoll and Desroches Island – offer island hopping adventures, world-class water-based activities, underwater experiences and breathtaking scenery.
Average Flight Duration: 4 hours
Visa: None for Indians
Vietnam
Vietnam is also one of the more proximate destinations to India with Vietnam Airlines and VietJet offering direct or one-stop flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc. You can apply for an e-Visa online and receive it within four working days. English is spoken in Vietnam, and it’s best to hire a guide or day tours with reputed companies. India currency can be exchanged for Vietnamese Dong at banks, airports, and authorised jewellery stores. Beyond the tourist traps, Vietnam has a lot to offer, especially the coastal towns of Mui Ne and Nha Trang that enjoy 300 days of sun. If you stay at an all-inclusive hotel such as The Anam Vietnam, you can enjoy world-class cuisine and visit the historical vestiges of the Champa Kingdom, like the centuries-old city of Phan Thiet and its Hamu Lithit community, which has an Indian connection. Adventure seekers can enjoy a desert safari in the white and red dunes, visit the fairy stream, and even a fish sauce museum.
Average Flight Duration: 4.5 hours
Visa: Visa-on-Arrival (30 days validity)
Oman
Oman is an exotic holiday destination in the GCC region with incredible attractions and unique experiences. Its capital, Muscat, is a gem for travellers seeking a culturally immersive vacation. Famous for its vibrant souq and seafood, Muscat is also a great place for rock climbing, trekking, dolphin spotting, and indulging in Omani hospitality at clifftop resorts overlooking the Guld of Oman like Shangri-La Muscat. This resort’s private beach is one of the five turtle nesting sites in Oman. One can witness more than 100 endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles and their hatchlings returning to the sea between February and September. You can also join hands with the hotel’s Turtle Ranger to protect their nests. Oman offers an eVisa for Indian citizens, which can be applied for online with minimal documents requirements and are issued within five business days. Oman Air, Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo offer direct flights to Muscat from Indian cities. English is widely spoken in Oman, and Indian rupees can be exchanged for Omani rials at standardised rates at airports, money exchange companies, banks, and hotels.
Average Flight Duration: 3 hours
Visa: e-Visa application (30 days validity)
Mauritius
Mauritius, a tropical paradise with diverse cultures and stunning natural attractions, offers a hassle-free visa-on-arrival process for Indian travellers. Multiple airlines, such as Vistara, IndiGo, Air Mauritius, Air Seychelles, and Emirates, connect India to this captivating island nation. A wonderful accommodation option is the beachfront The Residence Mauritius, which blends modernity and tradition seamlessly. In addition to traditional Creole meals, sandbank barbecue hosted by the hotel’s chef and water-based activities, there are several noteworthy places to explore, including Sancho Island, Riviere des Galets Beach, Black River Gorges, Gris Gris, and Vanilla Nature Park. A visit to Chamarel is highly recommended to marvel at the multi-coloured dunes. Mauritian rupees can be obtained by exchanging Indian rupees at the airport, money exchange centres, travel agencies and banks. Certified tour guides, hotel staff, and local hosts are well-versed in English. Hindi, one of the languages brought by Indian migrants in the early 1800s, is widely spoken in Mauritius, making it convenient for Indian visitors.
Average Flight Duration: 6-7 hours
Visa: Visa-on-Arrival (60 days validity)
Qatar
Qatar, the safest country in the world ranked by Numbeo, is a vibrant desert peninsula with stunning coastline, cultural experiences, museums, galleries, global hotel chains and a great lineup of sun, sea, and sand activities. With a range of world-class hotels, restaurants, beaches and a modern vibe, the country offers the best of the Middle East. Visa-on-arrival for Indians (its visa application has been made simple on the Hayya platform) and direct flights make this GCC country is a hotspot for families, friends, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Bollywood has a strong influence on the culture, so encounters with Hindi-speaking locals are common. Indian currency can be easily exchanged at airports, malls, and souqs.
Average Flight Duration: 3-5 hours
Visa: Visa-on-Arrival (30 days validity)
