#Japan Package Tours from Mumbai

[tokyotravelbureau]

Japan Package Tours from Mumbai

Japan, a land of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and cutting-edge technology, has always been a top travel destination. Whether you're enchanted by the historic temples, bustling cities, or stunning landscapes, Japan offers something for every traveler. For those in Mumbai looking to explore the wonders of Japan, Tokyo Travel Bureau provides exclusive Japan package tours from Mumbai, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey.

Why Choose Tokyo Travel Bureau?

Tokyo Travel Bureau is a trusted name in the travel industry, known for its meticulously planned tours and customer-centric approach. Here's why travelers from Mumbai prefer booking their Japan tours with them:

Customized Itineraries: Tokyo Travel Bureau offers tailor-made itineraries that cater to the preferences and interests of every traveler.

Affordable Packages: They offer a variety of packages ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious tours, all of which include flights, accommodations, guided tours, and more.

Expert Guides: All tours are accompanied by knowledgeable and experienced guides who ensure that you get the most out of your visit.

Seamless Travel Experience: From booking flights to securing accommodation and transportation, Tokyo Travel Bureau takes care of every detail.

Popular Japan Package Tours from Mumbai

Tokyo Travel Bureau offers a variety of Japan package tours that cater to different types of travelers. Here are some of the most popular options:

The Classic Japan Tour

This package is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience the best of Japan in one trip. The tour includes stops in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

The Cultural Heritage Tour

If you’re someone who enjoys history and culture, this tour focuses on Japan’s ancient traditions and heritage, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Nature & Adventure Tour

For nature lovers, this tour covers Japan's scenic landscapes, including Mount Fuji, Hakone National Park, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto.

The Modern Japan Tour

For tech enthusiasts and modern culture fans, this tour focuses on contemporary Japan, including Tokyo’s electric town Akihabara and Shibuya Crossing.

What to Expect from Japan Package Tours by Tokyo Travel Bureau

Traveling from Mumbai to Japan is a major journey, and Tokyo Travel Bureau ensures that your experience is smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free. Here's what you can expect:

Comprehensive Inclusions: Round-trip flights, accommodations, meals, airport transfers, entrance fees, and English-speaking guides.

Flexible Scheduling: Various tour durations and customizable itineraries are available.

Group and Private Tours: Choose between group tours or private, personalized tours.

24/7 Support: Assistance with travel arrangements and support throughout your trip.

How to Book Your Japan Package Tour from Mumbai

Booking a Japan package tour with Tokyo Travel Bureau is simple and straightforward. Visit their official website or contact their customer service team at +91-9818601809 for personalized assistance.

Conclusion

Traveling to Japan from Mumbai has never been easier, thanks to Tokyo Travel Bureau. Their exclusive Japan package tours from Mumbai provide a perfect blend of cultural, modern, and natural experiences. Ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime? Book your Japan package tour with Tokyo Travel Bureau today!

[garudtravels]

Luxury Tour Packages in Navi Mumbai

Explore the World in Style with Garud Travels: Your Gateway to Luxury Tour Packages

Welcome to Garud Travels, your premier destination for luxurious travel experiences. Located in the heart of Belapur, Navi Mumbai, we specialize in curating unforgettable journeys that combine opulence with exploration. Whether you dream of wandering through ancient cities, relaxing on pristine beaches, or embarking on thrilling adventures, Garud Travels is here to turn your travel fantasies into reality.

Why Choose Garud Travels?

At Garud Travels, we understand that discerning travelers seek more than just a vacation; they crave immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression. Here's why we stand out:

Exquisite Luxury: Our tour packages are meticulously crafted to deliver unparalleled luxury at every turn. From lavish accommodations to exclusive amenities, we spare no expense in ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.

Bespoke Itineraries: We believe that every traveler is unique, which is why we tailor our itineraries to suit your preferences and interests. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, culinary delights, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, we'll create a personalized journey that exceeds your expectations.

Expert Guidance: With years of experience in the travel industry, our team of seasoned professionals is committed to providing you with expert guidance every step of the way. From destination recommendations to insider tips, we're here to make your travel experience seamless and stress-free.

Our Luxury Tour Packages:

Explore the world in style with our handpicked selection of luxury tour packages. Here's a glimpse of what we offer:

Exotic Escapes: Embark on a journey to exotic locales around the globe, from the sun-kissed beaches of Bali to the majestic landscapes of Iceland. Indulge in unparalleled luxury as you discover the beauty and diversity of our planet.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of destinations like India, Japan, and Italy. From exploring ancient ruins to attending traditional festivals, our cultural immersion tours offer a deeper understanding of the world's diverse cultures.

Adventure Expeditions: For thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, our adventure expeditions promise an exhilarating experience like no other. Whether you're trekking through the Himalayas, diving in the Great Barrier Reef, or embarking on a safari in Africa, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Contact Us:

Ready to embark on your next luxury travel adventure? Get in touch with us today to start planning your dream getaway. Visit us at our office in Belapur, Navi Mumbai, or reach out to us via phone or email. Let Garud Travels redefine the way you experience the world.

[travelupdatesbyflamingotravels]

Embark on a captivating journey through the Land of the Rising Sun with Flamingo Travels’ Japan Tour Packages. Japan tourism unfolds a rich tapestry of ancient traditions, cutting-edge technology, and serene landscapes.

Begin your exploration in Tokyo, a metropolis where ultramodern skyscrapers stand alongside historic temples and bustling markets. Discover Kyoto’s timeless beauty, with its iconic geishas, intricately designed gardens, and historic tea houses. In Osaka, indulge in gastronomic delights and experience the vibrant street life.

Flamingo Travels’ Japan Tour Packages ensure a seamless discovery of Japan’s cultural treasures. From the serene temples of Nikko to the historic Hiroshima Peace Memorial, each itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the country’s diverse heritage.

[hobipaint]

Sunshine, Inc. - Masterlist [hiatus]

summary: Every trip for Hoseok is the same. Show them around, take pictures, let them eat, souvenirs, back home. It's easy to smile while doing this, but over the years, he's been on the same route - travelling the world the same way, chasing the sun in one direction. It's only obvious that his awe has reduced. To his surprise, though, there's someone who can rival his disinterest - you.

↳ pairing : hoseok x female reader

↳ genres: fluff, angst, world tour! au

↳ disclaimers: mild cursing, discussions of mental health. warnings will be given at the beginning for each chapter.

a/n: hey there, you! this fic is currently on hiatus because I have once again been thrown on the loop de loop called exams. chapters are currently in work, but I have big ideas and even bigger drafts rn so idk when its going to come back. till then, please be patient! thank you so much for being here 💞

• Destinations:

Hey there!

Welcome to Sunshine, Inc.!

Here, we give you the list of cities for our world tour package we call Strands of Colours™. In this tour, there'll be fun, adventures, food, and maybe, some romance?

Any conditions about the travel will be mentioned alongside the cities as we travel - so rest assured as our capable team takes care of your travels.

We hope you have a wonderful trip, and thank you for choosing Sunshine, Inc.!

teaser

• We begin with our pick up from Los Angeles - in case you're from outside LA, we can arrange for pickups from there as well. No biggie. Your necessary flight details shall be emailed to you with utmost attention paid to your preferences. Just sit back and relax; envision yourself in the flight that will begin your trip.

here is the mood you'll want in this city!

• We head on to London, the capital of the United Kingdoms, home to the Brits. Here, our tour guides shall take you along with locals to showcase the finest sights in a city that holds thousands of years of history. Lose yourself amidst the flowers that line the city's numerous parks, feel like royalty near Birmingham, and of course - try the London Eye!

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Next up: the French capital, Paris. Singles and couples, prepare yourself for the abundance of romance that is carefully sprinkled in the air of the city of love. Trace years of French history with heritage walks lined through the heart of the city- including a visit to the majestic Louvre. Our local guides shall also showcase to you how to experience a true Parisian experience, comme les français.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Welcome to the city that holds the legacy of European football, Madrid! Tingle your party sense in the hubbub of Madrid's active nightlife, with evening strolls that show the beauty of the Spanish city. Find peace in the day with the cooling gardens and fountains of the Buen Retiro Park and the Crystal Park. Find various flavours hidden in the delicious streetfood of the city, different from the rest of the world - a truly unique experience.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• A city rich with history, welcome to Berlin. Our local guides shall take you back through numerous pages of the city's story, the good and bad, pleasing your senses with architectural beauties like Brandenburg Gate or Reichstag. Watch the numerous memorials of the wars this city has faced, and wonder at the beauty and peace of the city today. All while being accompanied by the best in German food.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• After all the heat, we take you to the coolness of Zurich, Switzerland. Let us take you through one of the most luxurious cities in the world, at the foot of the Alps and home to Lake Zurich. Its numerous art galleries and museums will be sure to be of your fancy, and of course, loads of Swiss chocolate will be available for you!

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• When in Rome, do as the Romans do! Let our guides show you around this marvelous city and its beauty that transcends generations. Enjoy popular attractions like the Colosseum and the Spanish steps, and the Italian grace that lines the cobbled pathways of the city. Also, visit the Vatican city, just a 15 minute walk from the heart of Rome.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Get a feel of the Ancient Greeks in Athens while walking through its streets, aeons of power and tradition shining in its history. See the Greek architectures that are the fame of this city, interspersed with its bustling night life and modern lifestyle. There are surprises hidden in around every corner in this city - showcased to you through customized tour packages that you can choose.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Where Europe meets Asia, welcome to Istanbul! Experience the archaic yet modern vibe of the city, its colourful architecture and its leisurely pace. Visit the historic Silk Market, the beginning of the Silk Route; also, don't forget to join us while visiting the famed Spice Bazaar, Bursa and the other exciting destinations in this one-of-a-kind city.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• An ultra modern city, Dubai has proven itself as one of the most indulgent, glamorous and progressive cities in the world. Home to marvels like the Burj Khalifa, Atlantis, while showcasing the beauty of the deserts surrounding the city - let yourself soak the opulence of this city while navigating its multiple shopping areas; all the help of our guides, of course.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

•The city that never sleeps, Mumbai is sure to awaken all your senses. The Gateway of India, this city will give you a chance to see all of its cultures mingle in one place. Watch the life of the city through its numerous theatres and galleries. Experience the hubbub of one of the most populated cities in the world along with its savoury street food with the help of our guides.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Next, we visit Shanghai, the modern yet quaint capital of China. Take walks around the Bund and its 52 unique buildings, or visit the Yu Garden and the Jade Buddha temple. Soak yourself in classical Chinese art at the Shanghai Cultural Museum and more places - all carefully planned for you by our guides.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Right in time for the cherry blossoms, Seoul will lead us to a spring fairyland that is filled with the natural beauty of the mountains surrounding it. The city also houses massive markets that boast of sumptuous street food and vibrant clothing, and tourist attractions like the Seoul Tower - don't miss out on any!

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• An ultra-modern city, Tokyo boasts of multiple museums, festivals, internationally appreciated cuisine and sports clubs. This city is also rich in music and theater, with rock and pop concerts, dramas, musicals and symphony orchestras. The city also forms a base to explore all of Japan - pieces of which shall be showcased to you on this tour.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Bangkok is a fascinating city: crowded, noisy, colourful and exciting. There are wonderful, ancient temples and sites, and modern malls that boast of high fashion lined in their shops. The tour shall also be including a visit to Phuket, as a getaway - be sure to be there!!

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

•Home to the Merlion, Singapore has been well known as a tourist destination for decades now. The city's simplicity in transport and beautiful architecture have made it a favourite, and the variance in attractions - from the Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Zoo to Orchard Road and Clarke Quay - makes it a wonderful place to visit. We'll make sure that you don't miss out on any!!

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• Bali - the name of the city itself brings thoughts of tropical airs, sizzling peanuts, roaring mopeds and the gentle gamelan music. This city is hailed as one of the most popular tourist islands in the Indonesian archipelago, and with all good reasons only. Come and explore more about this island along with us in an all new style.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

• The oldest of Australian cities, Sydney brings about a wonderful mingling of chic modern styles and energetic adventure. The city is home to famous destinations like the Opera House, and is packed with activities for everyone to give a try! Make sure you don't miss out on any while travelling with us.

here is the mood you'll want for this city!

•Finally, we make the trip back home to LA, where you'll be dropped back to your homes. We hope you will enjoy the your with us, and keep travelling with Sunshine, Inc. Thank you for your time!!

a/n: this is the masterlist for Sunshine, Inc. clicking on the cities will lead you to the chapter for that particular city -if it is confusing, feel free to leave a comment about the same! Thank you for reading 💞💞 Also, if you want to be added to the taglist you can leave a comment or ask for the same! love, hazel 🤗

[pravasichhokro]

Water Water everywhere but…...

In the present times of COVID 19 pandemic, one of the many guidelines at health centers and by medical practitioners is to drink at least 1 to 1.5 liters of water, warm if one can get. This triggered my memories and experience with drinking water.

In school going days of 1950s and 1960s, I used to drink tap water everywhere and whenever I got thirsty.

I often travelled on long journeys of approximately 24 hrs by train in summers to go to my maternal uncle’s town (Karad, Maharashtra from Ahmedabad, Gujarat). All along the route, we drank water from taps of the railway stations. We boys brought the same water in bottles or lota for the women- mother and sisters- who travelled with us.

At our residence at Ahmedabad, water was scarce as tap water was limited to 1 to 2 hrs in a day and we depended on hand pump to bring up water. Despite it, the water was ok to drink without filtration but sometimes stored in earthen pots to cool during summer months. As children, we played outdoor games and whenever thirsty, we went to anybody’s house and asked for water to drink.

In those days, we did not mind drinking water from a tap while standing but nowadays they insist that we should sit and drink!

In Gujarat and Maharashtra, it is customary to offer water to every guest and now I can appreciate the importance of that custom.

When I joined BITS, Pilani in 1967, on the train journey of 24 hrs we drank water from taps on the numerous stations which we passed. I do not recollect having carried a water bottle. This continued for five years till we passed out of BITS on both way journeys.

In the first semester at BITS, Pilani, my three best friends (roommate and neighbours) were down with jaundice, one after another. I was spared by the grace of God. Each was hospitalized for a week or so and then they decided to go home for recouping as the Malayali nurses were not so attractive at the hospital.

During this period, I got a valuable tip from the compounder of our health clinic on the campus that in BITS Pilani, one can eat anything and any amount (Hogg) but must drink a lot of water after each meal. Water of Pilani, though subsoil, was the key to good health. I followed it up and most of my friends did so. As a result, there were no major illnesses thereafter. In Pilani, we always drank tap water except outside the mess. There was a cooler in summer months, but water quality was same.

While working in Delhi in 1970s, I used to buy cold water for Paise 5 from the hand cart during summer and I am sure it was ordinary water.

I was fortunate to make a trip to France and UK in 1979 as a member of a team from Engineers India Ltd (EIL). On that tour, we drank more table wine than water as water was expensive. Also carbonated or sparkling water was popular to our disbelief.

I stayed in Bombay in the late 80’s and the overhead tanks provided water to the flats and that too for a limited period. I faintly recall that in 1980s we started filtering this water for kitchen and drinking use, especially in monsoon months to remove fine dust particles. Most used a stationary candle filter of two compartments- upper and lower.

At most of construction sites which I had to visit as project in charge, drinking water was from unknown source but it was still not bottled.

I lived in Pune before going to Japan in 1990’s and we still continued ordinary filtration of tap water. In Japan like many developed countries, tap water was potable but the water management was very elaborate and expensive for the residents. Water supply was from one pipe, but effluent (waste) water was segregated in three different categories 1) water from kitchen 2) water from bathroom and wash basin 3) water from WC. Kitchen effluent was treated and sent to non-civil use. Bath water was treated and fully recycled. WC waste was treated and probably used for irrigation or gardening. There were four meters and I paid for each consumption and effluent stream.

I came across a contradictory custom in Japan. In the residences/homes, Japanese would invariably drink warm water or preferably drink Japanese tea-Ocha or Miso soup-with warm water available from an electric kettle 24x7. In contradiction, the dine in restaurants (Red Lobster) would serve water with lot of ice without asking (like the custom in India). We had to ask for water without ice.

My Japanese boss would stick to beer or scotch with chilled soda and he avoided ice cubes when in India. When I asked him the reason, he mentioned that he was not sure of the quality of water used to make ice cubes. He also told me that families of Japanese staff of Sumitomo in Mumbai washed vegetables bought from Crawford market with bottled water-Bisleri.

I spent a few years in Muscat, Oman in the late 1990’s. The tap water came from the desalination plant, but the potable water had to be from a packaged jar or PET bottle. This water came for desert streams called WADI.

I do not recall when we started using UV filtration in Pune and buying drinking water from outside when travelling or visiting. Probably in the mid1990s.

My daughter mentioned that while in school in Japan (early1990s) and University in Australia (early 2000) she never carried any drinking water. But in India she carried a bottle of water as there was no way she would be drinking water from a tap!

In the last ten years or so, we have started using RO Green Aqua guard filter and it throws out rejects to the tune of 40 percent. Anywhere outside, we demand bottled water (wrongly called mineral water) or at least Aqua guard filtered water.

I have experienced the potable water being supplied at taps in developed countries like Canada. I believe that the water is heavily treated with chemicals and does have an adverse effect on the skin and hair. Many Indian women complain of their hair falling or becoming very rough after a head bath in these countries. Finally, it boils down to “what is the quality of water that is potable?” Also, such heavily treated water loses its natural taste which we find in streams in the hills or Himalayas or Alps or Rocky Mountains.

It is reported that the first distillery/brewery of Mohan Meakins was established at Solan, near Shimla purely to take advantage of the natural stream water. Cool climate added to its advantage.

In conclusion, I can say that, in India, most population- urban or rural – is getting the water for daily use (washing and potable) from the same source over the past couple of decades. The sources are river, dam, its reservoir, and canals (mostly irrigation schemes), lakes and wells including bore wells. Over the years, the population has exploded and there is more migration to cities. The new settlements of people in areas near dams and lakes or rivers have introduced pollution to the sources of water. Earlier these sources delivered almost pure water but now the same sources deliver impure water. We, in India, waste the rare resource of water instead of managing it as a priceless commodity. Israel experts have opined that India should be able meet its needs with 10 percent of the water available, but we have water shortage and water supply cuts in many cities in summer months when water is most needed.

It is also a fact the younger generation and the foreigners who visit India have lower immunity and hence must be careful in choosing drinking water quality.

It is time (may be already late) that we, in India, wake up to the importance of water as a scarce resource and manage it prudently.

[saiorgseo]

shirdi tour package from bangalore

Claimed miracles

 Sai Baba's disciples and devotees claim that he performed many miracles such as bilocation, levitation, mindreading, materialisation, exorcisms, making the river Yamuna, entering a state of Samadhi at will, lighting lamps with water, removing his limbs or intestines and sticking them  back to  his body (khandana yoga), curing the incurably sick, appearing beaten when  shirdi tour package from bangalore  another was beaten, preventing a mosque from falling down on people, and helping  his devotees in a miraculous way. He also gave Darshan (vision) to people in the form of Sri Rama, Krishna, Vithoba, Shiva and many other gods depending on the faith of devotees.

 According to his followers he appeared to them in dreams and gave them advice. His devotees have documented many stories.

 On 15 April 2010, in Wellington's Lower Hutt Suburb, Wainuiomata in New Zealand, a Sri Lankan Christian Developer was developing a new Subdivision, in his 10 acres of land.

 While digging the field, a Digger found a solid object, about 6 to7 feet under the ground.

 He stopped digging immediately and lifted this object out of the ground.

 The Developer, on seeing that this solid object was the Statue of some Deity, halted further digging and got the Statue cleaned.

 He then called a Hindu Priest to  identify the Deity, as he himself was not sure about it.

 The Statue roughly 2 feet tall, happened to be of Shirdi Sai Baba in a sitting posture.

 Soon, water started coming out from the place where the digger had found Baba's Statue and slowly it turned into a small pond.

 Hence, Baba's Statue was put on a small wooden pallet and now rests floating in the pond, at the same place.

 Also, apparently the Developer has decided to leave this particular spot untouched and re-develop another area.

 In various religions

 Hinduism

 During Sai Baba's life, the Hindu saint Anandanath of Yewala declared Sai Baba to be a "spiritual diamond." Another saint, Gangagir, also called him a "jewel." Sri Beedkar Maharaj greatly revered Sai Baba, and in 1873, when he met him he bestowed the title Jagad guru upon him. Sai  shirdi tour package from bangalore  Baba was  also greatly respected by Vasudevananda Saraswati (known as Tembye Swami). He was also revered by a group of Shaivic yogis, to which he belonged, known as the Nath-Panchayat.

 According to B.V. Narasimhaswami, a posthumous follower who was widely praised as Sai Baba's apostle, many Hindus regarded Sai Baba as a Muslim. This attitude was prevalent up to 1954 even among some of his devotees in Shirdi.

 Zoroastrianism

 Sai Baba was revered by prominent Zoroastrians such as Nanabhoy Palkhivala and Homi Bhabha, and has been cited as the Zoroastrians' most popular non-Zoroastrian religious figure.

 Meher Baba, who was born into a Zoroastrian family, met Sai Baba once, during World War I, in December 1915. Meher Baba was a youngster named Merwan Sheriar Irani, when he met Sai Baba for a  few minutes  during one of Sai Baba's processions in Shirdi. This event is considered as the most significant in Meher  Baba's life. Shri Sai Satcharita (Sai Baba's life story), makes no mention of Meher Baba. But in Lord Meher, the life story of Meher Baba, there are numerous references to Sai Baba.

 Meher Baba credited his Avataric advent to Upasni, Sai Baba, and three other Perfect Masters: Hazrat Babajan, Hazrat Tajuddin Baba, and Narayan Maharaj. He declared Sai Baba to be a Qutub-e-Irshad (the highest of the five Qutubs, a "Master of the Universe" in the spiritual hierarchy).

 In culture

 Sacred art and architecture

 There are many Sai Baba temples in India. There are also temples located in countries outside India, including in the United States, Netherlands, Kenya, Benin, Cuba,Canada, Pakistan, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan. In the mosque in Shirdi, in which Sai Baba lived, there is a life-size portrait of him by Shama Rao Jaykar, an artist from Mumbai. Numerous monuments  and statues depicting Sai Baba, which serve a religious function, have been made. One of them, made of marble by a sculptor named Balaji Vasant Talim, is in the Samadhi Mandir in Shirdi where Sai Baba was buried.

 shirdi tour package from bangalore

[charllieeldridge]

Top 10 Cheapest Countries To Visit This Year

As the year comes to a close, every travel lover starts planning their trips for the next year. As we all know, the cheaper the destination, the longer you can afford to stay – or the better your travel lifestyle can be while visiting. In some countries, $45 / night barely affords you a hostel dorm bed, while in others that can pay for a luxury villa!

In Canggu, Bali in Indonesia, you can get a 2 bedroom private pool villa for $50 / night, while when visiting Japan that same $50 barely affords a double bed on the floor of a small room.

This year is sure to be an amazing year for travellers and if you’re already planning your travels for the new year, then this post is for you. Some of these countries are cheaper now than ever, largely due to drops in their local currency on the global market, or due to a recent lack of tourism.

We would never write a post to revel in low prices at the cost of economic struggle, but by visiting these places independently now, you can not only enjoy better prices for yourself but also help the local businesses and people along the way.

See Also: Best Places To Visit in January

Here are the top 10 cheapest countries to travel this year:

Indonesia

White sand beaches, world-class surfing, the best scuba diving in the world and some of the most picturesque jungle and rice paddy scenery, Indonesia is without a doubt one of our favourite countries on Earth.

UPDATE  NOVEMBER 2019: We just came back from a trip to Raja Ampat in Indonesia and while it’s the one place in the country that isn’t overly cheap, it’s definitely worth a visit. This archipelago is known to be one of the top 3 best dive locations in the world and there are some relatively inexpensive accommodation options when you consider that you get full board and diving included in most room rates. Even if you’re on a budget, if you have time, don’t miss Raja Ampat!

Currently, Indonesia is one of the most affordable places that we know about. 1 US dollar will get you around 14,500 rupiah, which is 1,000 more rupiah than in 2018. Six years ago you’d only get 9,050 rupiah to the dollar.

As I said in the opening paragraphs of this post, Indonesia offers incredible value for accommodation, food and transport. Here you can get beautiful guest house rooms, often set in pool villas, for as little as $20 / night.

You can eat delicious seafood meals and millennial classics like “smashed avo on toast” for around $3 and you can rent a motorbike here for just a couple of dollars per day (cars are around $15 / day).

The only thing that’s not of great value is alcohol. Indonesia has placed a pretty heavy tax on imported booze, so a low-quality bottle of imported wine will cost around $20, while a drinkable local wine is still $13 – $15. Bintang beer is nothing to write home about, but it’s affordable at around $1.50 – $3 at a beach bar or restaurant and imported beer is around twice the price.

Out of all the countries we’ve travelled to and kept track of our budgets, Indonesia is definitely amongst the top 3 best value for money, and with a stronger dollar / weaker rupiah, this has never been truer than it is today. Don’t miss the islands of Raja Ampat, Bali, Sumatra, Sumbawa, Lombok, Gili Islands, Flores, Komodo National Park, Alor…and more!

*Note: Due to a (somewhat) active Mount Agung volcano on Bali island, there are some incredible hotel deals right now. Not only can you save money on accommodation, but you will be helping out the locals who rely on tourism. Check out Booking.com to see the current deals on hotels, guesthouses, resorts, etc., and click here to keep an eye on the status of the volcano.

Mexico

A diverse and delicious (albeit not very healthy) cuisine, friendly local people, world-class beaches, all the amenities you could hope for and an intoxicating vibe make Mexico a place that we return to time and time again. It’s one of our favourite countries to travel to and one of the few destinations where we could see ourselves living long-term. There are so many incredible places to visit in Mexico, and things to do that you could spend years here and not see it all.

Mexico is extremely affordable these days thanks to a struggling peso added to an already low cost of living. At the time of writing, the US dollar is at 19.6 pesos which is incredible. When we travelled here back in 2014, the dollar was at 12.8 pesos and even then we thought it was good value for money.

UPDATE NOVEMBER 2019:  The peso is still hovering just over 19 pesos and makes Mexico a very cheap place to travel. Consider visiting the less expensive states like Oaxaca and Puebla to save some extra cash and book some nice places on Airbnb to save money. 

Today the country is theoretically 49% cheaper because of the currency conversion to the USD (and many other currencies including CAD).

If you want to really save money while visiting Mexico, avoid coming here during peak season (November – March) when accommodation prices can skyrocket (especially in December) and many of the best places are booked out.

No matter when you come, Mexico will shock you with its great value. Tacos for 30 cents each, a kilo of fresh prawns from the fish market for $3, Coronas with a slice of lime for $1.50 and strong margaritas served to you while your feet are buried in the sand for just $1 each. You’ll find affordable internal flights with Viva Aerobus and Aeromexico, and cheap long-distance bus rides.

On top of the great prices for food and booze bought in restaurants and bars, Mexico has many shops that North Americans love, like Sams Club, Costco in the major cities, and one that not everyone loves, Walmart.

On top of these institutions, Mexico also has its own brand of grocery stores like La Comer and Soriana. Purchasing your own groceries and cooking for yourself is a great way to save money (and make a healthy meal) as the food in the grocery stores here is very affordable.

See More of Our Mexico Posts Here:

Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta – Top 20 Things You Won’t Want to Miss

Backpacking Mexico: Top 8 Reasons to Travel Mexico 

Mexico – The Best Digital Nomad Spot for North Americans

Things To Do in Cabo San Lucas

Best Places to Visit in Mexico – Don’t Miss These 12 Spots

Things To Do in Mexico – Top 51 List Of The Best

☞ Click here to compare prices and see reviews on the best accommodations in Mexico

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India

Oh yes, whether you love it or hate it, and even if you do love it you probably also hate it, India is one of the most exhilarating travel destinations on earth. Chaotic and tranquil. Pristine and filthy. Friendly and furious. Free and frustrating. India is the epitome of all the oxymoronic experiences that make travel so amazing.

While India is likely the most exciting and bewildering place to travel, it’s also probably the cheapest. Thanks to the Indian Rupee currently trading at 70 rupees to the dollar – which is 6 rupees more per dollar than you would have received in 2018 – India is likely the best place to travel if you want to stretch your dollars, euros or pounds.

Last time we were in India, I purchased the cheapest (yet filling) meal I’ve ever had while travelling. 20 cents bought me a pile of puris (fluffy fried bread) and two different types of curries served to me from a street cart. The meal was delicious and completely filled me up… amazing.

While the cost of that meal was exceptionally low, we often ate all you can eat thali meals for as little as $1.50 and drank fresh lime juice squeezed on the street for 15 cents a glass. We had free accommodation in ashrams (it doesn’t get much cheaper than that) and when paying for our hotels, we had decent but basic double rooms for around $3 per night.

Depending on what class of train and bus you take, getting around India can be unbelievably affordable, with a train from Mumbai to Kolkata covering 1,968 km and taking over 30 hours costs just $11!

See More of Our India Posts Here:

Budget Backpacking Guide to India

Guide to Transportation in India

Top Tips For Preparing for a Trip to India

Click here to compare prices on accommodation options in India with Booking.com

Click here to learn more about tours available around India

Colombia

After backpacking Colombia in late 2016, it quickly set itself amongst our favourite countries we’ve ever been to. Friendly people, incredibly pristine and lush jungles, stunning Spanish colonial cities and breathtaking beaches, Colombia is a traveller’s dream.

The Colombian peso saw a massive drop in recent years which unfortunately isn’t good for local economies and Colombians looking to travel, but it does give budget travellers an added incentive to visit this incredible country.

We met a couple in Medellin who decided to move to Colombia to retire in 2014. Since their arrival the peso went from 1,800 to the US dollar, all the way to 3,350, an incredible 88% drop, essentially giving their retirement a massive boost.

Luckily the peso has started to stabilize again slightly and at the time of writing it’s sitting at around 3,300 pesos to the US dollar. This means that everything in Colombia is a great value for travellers. Whether you’re visiting with a dollar, pound, euro, yen or yuan, Colombia is a better deal now than it’s ever been.

UPDATE NOVEMBER 2019: The Colombian peso took another small dive in July of 2019 bringing it from 3,200 to 3,400 per USD. This means that Colombia is even cheaper than before and makes it an excellent option for those looking to visit cheap countries in 2020 and beyond.

We were eating delicious seafood meals on the beach for just a few dollars, beautiful Spanish style guest houses only cost around $30 / night and you can enjoy scuba diving in the Caribbean here for as little as $24 / dive when buying a 10 dive package.

There are endless amazing things to do in Colombia, which can seem a bit overwhelming at times. Why not have a local plan a cool trip for you?! Click here to learn more.

We stayed in some of the best hostels we’ve ever seen in Colombia, with rooftop pools, funky bars and luxurious rooms (one even had a jacuzzi in it). The cost of tours and experiences is also excellent in Colombia. We highly recommend doing the 4 day Ciudad Perdida trek and a coffee tour in Salento (the latter is only $2).

See Also: 21 Things To Do in Cartagena

Cuba

If you’re looking for a cheap destination to visit in the Caribbean, then Cuba tops the list! You can travel here on an all-inclusive, but if you choose to travel to Cuba independently, you’ll have a far richer experience and it’ll cost you less. For cheap countries, Cuba is one of your best bets.

Stunning beaches, a unique Caribbean and Spanish vibe, tasty cooking (contrary to belief), friendly people and incredible landscapes, Cuba is a diverse country that needs to be on your list. For Americans, it’s possible to travel to Cuba if you travel under one of the allowed categories. People To People is what most people choose to travel under. But, it’s still a confusing process for our American friends.

You’ll need to build an itinerary containing activities that meet the criteria for People To People category — or get help from local experts to plan a legal trip (5% discount for Goats On The Road readers!).

Music on the Streets of Trinidad

We spent a month backpacking Cuba and it was a highlight of all our travel experiences. Meeting the Cuban people, dancing in the streets, lazing on virtually empty beaches, partying in Havana and hiking to tobacco farms were our most memorable moments.

Cuba’s currency is the CUC or the CUP. In general, you’ll use CUC (which is pegged to the US Dollar) for your accommodation, food at tourist restaurants, cocktails & beer, activities & excursions, car & scooter rentals, and the Viazul bus. CUP is used for smaller items such as fruit and veg from local vendors, the local bus and some peso food shops.

1 USD = 1 CUC

1 USD = 25 CUP

Staying in casa particulares with the local families is what Cuba is all about. This is the best way to meet the people and enjoy an authentic experience. However, Airbnb is cropping up in the country and there are some great places online. Casas will cost $20 – $30 / night for two people, discounts for 1 person (and oftentimes it includes breakfast), while hotels cost $25 / night up to $180+.

Airbnb is a great way to save money, even when visiting the cheapest countries in the world! If you would rather book an apartment or stay with a host on Airbnb, why not get an Airbnb discount while you’re at it? Make sure you use our special $55 Airbnb Coupon Code and save money on your trip.

The cost of food in the restaurants in Cuba really depends on which city you’re in, and which restaurant you are at. But in general, expect to spend between $5 – $10 for a filling meal. We recommend dining at least 1 night at your casa as they cook some amazing traditional food! Cocktails are about $2 – $3 at a bar.  Now, if you were to eat “peso food”, you would spend about $1 for a small meal.

Activities can be fairly cheap in Cuba as well, with chilling out on beaches and wandering around the stunning and bustling streets costing you nothing. Museum visits, caving, horseback riding and other tours will cost between $5 – $30. The cost of Cuba is incredibly affordable, making it one of the cheapest countries to visit.

Bulgaria

Back to the truly great value destinations for the year, Bulgaria is probably the cheapest country we’ve been to in Europe. With gorgeous old towns, phenomenal wine, lovely coastline and super friendly and ailak (relaxed) people, Bulgaria is also one of our favourites in the region.

While the country has offered great value to travellers for decades, a recent dip in the Bulgarian Lev on the global market, means that Bulgaria is an even better value now than it was just a few years ago.

When we visited Bulgaria in 2016 we were blown away by the incredible value we got for our dollars. On one occasion, Dariece, myself and a friend sat in a restaurant bar for over 5 hours. We ate a massive platter of meat, veggies and bread and drank copious amounts of wine.

When the bill finally came, we thought there was a mistake, or we were misreading it in our double vision. That night we paid under $30 for that bill and we still don’t know how. The great deals continued as we travelled around Bulgaria, with lovely hostel rooms in 200-year-old buildings costing just $20 per night and bottles of wine at restaurants rarely breaking the $8 mark.

If you want to visit Europe, experience history, meet really cool people and taste some of the world’s best wine while never breaking the bank, Bulgaria should be on your travel wish list this year. This is definitely one of the cheapest European countries.

South Africa

One of the most adventure packed and naturally blessed countries on Earth, this list wouldn’t be complete without our favourite country in Africa. South Africa offers visitors too much to see in any trip under 6 months. With a rugged and stunning coastline, incredible wildlife, extremely friendly people, tasty Indi-afro fusion food, decent roads and great prices, you really can’t beat SA.

We believe that this country on the south tip of the continent is the perfect beginner’s stepping stone into the more chaotic and rustic travel of other countries in the region. South Africa is relatively easy to travel, especially if you rent your own car (highly recommended).

What makes South Africa so affordable in 2019 is the cost of the rand. While it’s not trading as well as it was at the beginning of 2016, at 14.4 rand to the USD, a trip to South Africa is 14% cheaper than last year when it was 12.6 rand to the US dollar.

UPDATE NOVEMBER 2019: South Africa has had some more speed bumps in its road to stability lately and while most locals will tell you it’s still safe to travel there, it’s worth checking travel warnings before you go. There have been some significant displays of prejudice and violence there recently. While these incidents are largely focused on certain groups of people and wouldn’t likely affect travellers, it’s important that you’re aware of the situation on the ground before visiting. While we normally believe that these warnings are overexaggerated, it’s worth checking travel.state.gov for South Africa.

When we were last there in 2011, we received just 6.7 rand to the dollar, but everything was still great value.

We paid $40 / night for lovely double rooms, around $7 / meal and just $10 to enter some amazing national parks. Take into consideration the current 53% discount based on the currency devaluation and these all become incredibly affordable in 2019, even considering the rate of inflation since 2011.

Turkey

Possibly the most liberal of the countries in this area, Turkey attracts visitors with one of the most exciting and beautiful capital cities on Earth, Istanbul. Plus, this country offers a blissfully alluring Mediterranean coastline, amazingly friendly people (especially in the east) and an intoxicating Islamic culture and architecture.

The value for dollar in Turkey has always been great, but with the Turkish Lira dropping from 1.28 to the US dollar in 2010 to the current 5.27 today, the home of the former Ottoman empire is essentially 75% better value than it was 10 years ago. 2019 is the cheapest time to visit Turkey as the Lira has hit a 10 year low.

Every time we visit Turkey we are amazed by the value for money found here. You can eat delicious meals of traditional Turkish food for $5. Portions here are often so massive that you could share a meal and that cost. Tasty kebabs are just a couple of dollars on the street and you can get lovely guest house rooms here for under $20 / night (more in the major cities).

One of the costs that does add up in Turkey is the cost of visiting mosques. Many of the best ones in Istanbul for example, cost as much as $10 to enter. If you’re on a tight budget, consider only visiting a couple of paid mosques and try to find some others that you can enter for free.

Thailand

We have to include the land of smiles on this list of cheap travel destinations for 2019. Thailand has always been one of our favourite countries in the world and the budget backpacker that still resides deep inside our souls rejoices every time we return. There are numerous places to visit in Thailand – whether you want National Parks, jungles, cities or islands, there’s a place in Thailand for you.

The Thai Baht, although it has seen some dips and spikes, doesn’t make the country especially cheaper than it has been in the past few years, but that doesn’t matter. Thailand simply offers some of the best value for money you can find anywhere on earth.

Lovely guest houses and beach huts right on the sand for as little as $15 / night, spicy and mouth-watering Thai dishes for under $2 a plate, and scuba diving for under $20 a dive makes Thailand a constant competitor as one of the cheapest countries in the world.

When we first visited in 2008 we were amazed to find budget (albeit extremely basic rooms) for under $10 and when we returned this year on a higher budget, we couldn’t believe the luxury, 2 bedroom private pool villa we were able to afford for just $1,500 / month ($50/night!).

Your biggest expense when travelling in Thailand (depending on where you’re coming from) will likely be your flight, but once there you can enjoy an incredibly low cost of living and the warmth of the local people who have made this place famous.

See Also:

Things To Do in Bangkok

Cost Of Living in Thailand 

Things To Do in Pai

Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Places To Visit in Thailand 

Greece

If this list was in the order of most beautiful and best value for money, Greece would no doubt be near the top. It’s amazing how a place so beautiful, set right in the Mediterranean, can be so affordable.

Greece has been on the Euro since the start of 2002, so while there has been a 16% devaluation of the Euro in recent years, Greece was always affordable, but perhaps never as much as it is today. What likely contributes to this is the unfortunate struggles that the Greek economy has seen in recent years and the influx of refugees. So perhaps Greece more than any country on this list can benefit from more tourism.

With such great value, Greece is the perfect place for 2019. We rented a beautiful, modern, 550 sq ft studio apartment with a view of the sea for under $20 / night on Zakynthos Island. We also had another 2 level, 1 bedroom apartment with a pool near the south coast of Santorini for under $20.

Greek food is incredibly delicious and you can usually get tasty seafood meals in restaurants for under $8. On top of the already great value, Greek restaurant owners and chefs have a habit of offering their patrons freebies, like free wine, appetizers and desserts. Whenever you’re leaving a traditional Greek restaurant in Greece, you’ll be fat and full and so will your wallet.

On top of good food and accommodation value, activities in Greece are typically priced well too. We did a free honey bee tour, an olive oil tour and tasting for $35, a half-day cycle tour for $24, an amazing cooking class with unlimited booze and food for $65 and winery visits and tastings for under $5.

We also rented our own boat on the island of Corfu and drove it from bay to bay for an entire day. This cost us $95 plus gas, which isn’t overly “cheap” but considering Sea-Doos and Jet Skis typically rent for around $50 / hour, we thought this was an amazing deal for both of us to enjoy a full day out on the water.

All-in-all, Greece is definitely one of the cheap European countries to visit and it offers some of the best value for money in all of Europe. Considering its location on the map and the level of quality you find here, it also competes as one of the best value travel destinations on earth.

See Also:

Places To Visit In Greece

Best Beaches in Greece

5 Day Travel Guide to Kefalonia

Things To Do in Chios

5 Day Travel Guide to Lesvos

Things To Do in Athens

Bonus! Argentina

Whether you’re into culture and history, nature and landscapes, lakes and fishing, or cities and wine, Argentina has something for you…and right now it’s one of the cheapest countries to visit.

Since Argentina is such a vast country, with a wide variety of landscapes and regions, it can be visited year round.

Argentina is known for being one of the top fly fishing destinations in the world. If you’re an angler, fly fishing season in the Lake District of Patagonia is best in January & February due to the warm weather, and ability to fish all waters during this time.

For trekkers, the winter months are a good time to hit the mountains of Patagonia. El Chalten in the south is dry and has temperatures around 20°C (68°F), perfect for checking out the peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, exploring waterfalls, drinking beer on patios and much more.

Don’t miss nearby El Calafate and its popular Perito Moreno Glacier, which calves massive chunks of ice every few minutes.

If all of these places to visit in Argentina aren’t enough to spark your interest, maybe the cost will. When we travelled to Argentina in 2017, we received around 18 Argentine Pesos for 1 US Dollar.

According to XE, at the time of writing, the rate is $1 USD = 37.85 Argentine Pesos.

UPDATE NOVEMBER 2019: The conversion rate is now at $1 USD = 55.5 Argentine Pesos. This is an incredible development and easily makes Argentina one of the best value countries to visit in 2020 and beyond. It also means that the economy is struggling so you visiting the country and spending your foreign currency on local businesses could help Argentinians get back on their feet.

This drop in currency means that travelling to Argentina would cost you less than half of what it cost us in 2017. Rooms that were priced at $150 a night, now cost $71. Fantastic dinners of rib eye steaks and Malbec wine which cost us $50 for two people, now go for just $23.

Argentina isn’t known for being one of the cheapest countries to visit, but with the current instability of the peso, you can definitely save some money by visiting now and maybe help the local economy along the way. We highly recommend this South American country.

Where Will You Go?

As the world becomes more connected by budget flights and advanced communication and commerce, many places are becoming more and more expensive to visit with each year that passes. Aside from the cost of flights which have been reduced thanks to budget airlines, travel is typically more expensive now than it has been in the past.

Thankfully, there are still some incredible countries that always offer travellers great value for money. The most exciting countries in the world are often those that are still developing. For visitors, this means low prices but also a better understanding of the world economies and wealth disparities.

We always recommend visiting countries independently so that you’re giving the most amount of money back to the local communities as possible. Rather than always staying in American or European chain resorts, consider locally owned guest houses, hostels and homes.

Instead of joining a foreign-owned tour, consider heading there on your own and hiring guides yourself once you’re in the country. Not only will this likely be much cheaper for you, it will also enrich your experience in the places you visit.

We’ve listed 10 of our favourite budget travel destinations in this article, but the list is by no means exhaustive.

What’s your favourite place to travel on a budget and why? Comment below and start a conversation!

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  The post Top 10 Cheapest Countries To Visit This Year appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Top 10 Cheapest Countries To Visit This Year published first on https://travelaspire.weebly.com/

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Everything about timeshare

Considering the average hotel unit cost per day for a consumer is likely to grow at 4% annually between 2006 and 2015, timeshares may look like good bargains. But with escalating costs of travel, food and local sightseeing, and Indians planning to increase their travel spend by 17% in 2015 for a holiday, is buying a membership to a vacation rental with a lot of fine print to read into, a good deal after all?

If only saying #ChaloNiklo for a weekend trip with friends or an annual family vacation was as easy as it looks in the cab company advert! The holiday season with the Dusshera, Diwali and Christmas season is almost here and is dotted with long weekends that coincide with school vacations. Although the whole idea of booking tickets, making online reservations at hotels etc along with the exorbitant costs looks daunting, the Indian traveler seems to be surging ahead. A research done by UK-based global travel search engine Skyscanner in 2015 revealed that Indian travelers are at the top of rankings of the world’s most experimental travelers. Indians have searched for over 230 different countries around the world till June 2015 and are making plans to visit countries like Ireland, Sweden, Greece, Japan etc. cancel timeshare within 5 days http://www.timesharerelease.com/how-to-cancel-timeshare-after-rescission-period

However, the intrepid Indian travelers are acutely aware of the rising costs of travel, stay, food, sightseeing etc. and decide to do something to be able to take at least three holidays a year, but still not feel the pinch at the end of the year. A Trip Advisor ‘TripBarometer’ study of March 2015 says Indians are increasing their travel spend by 17% this year. In their quest to find a way to pursue their passion, some gravitate towards timeshare vacations, both that offer Indian and international destinations.

What exactly is a timeshare?

In the Indian context, a timeshare is a property – typically a hotel or a luxury resort – in which multiple parties hold rights to use the property, and each sharer/ member is allotted a period of time (about one week, almost the same time every year in a fixed package and one week of their choice in floater package) in which they may use the property. A membership costs about Rs 1 lakh upwards and the annual maintenance costs about Rs 10,000 upwards depending on which package you are with the timeshare company. One can also sell the share to others if they are not keen on holding it. The member, however, holds no claim to ownership of the property. Sterling Holiday Resorts, Club Mahindra, Country Club etc are among the wellknown ones in India.

According to Ramesh Ramanathan, chairman of All India Resort Development Association (AIRDA), the timeshare market has been growing at 20% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the last several years. Increasing transparency and improving consumer satisfaction are among the industry’s priorities, he said in an interview to a national newspaper. timeshare release http://www.timesharerelease.com/

Many travel lovers assume that a membership like this will make their travel plans easier as they already have a list of destinations to choose from and the main cost – the accommodation – has already been paid for. Great thought indeed! Except that in reality, the rooms are not always available at the dates they want. If they want to go for an impromptu holiday, they may or may not get to stay there as it is full. However, there are also travelistas who swear by such packaged holidays that one can take at the same time of the year.

Research revelations

Interestingly, e-Travel Marketing India’s research shows that good holiday deals are an important motivation for customers to go online. About 36% consumers make unplanned trips if offered a discount. According to a 2013 report by Ramakrishna Kongalla, Assistant Professor at Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management, Gwalior, only 0.069% of the travel markets are members of timeshare companies. However, the demand for timeshare products in India is likely to grow at 16% annually from 2006 to 2015 by supply growth of 12% annually over the same period. The average unit cost per day for a consumer is likely to grow at 4% annually between 2006 and 2015 compared to 5-8% for a pure hotel product, he states.

Currently India boasts of about 40 timeshare companies, 80 resorts, 20 lakh memberships. According to AIRDA’s report, the reason why timeshares are yet to catch up is because of steep annual maintenance charges. how to get rid of my westgate timeshare http://www.timesharerelease.com/how-to-get-out-of-a-westgate-timeshare-mortgage

Word of caution

The Timeshare Consumer Association UK, a body that claims to give ‘friendly independent advice from timeshare experts’ mentions it in big font: “Timeshare is not a financial investment”. Definitely an eye-opener who perceive it as an investment, and not as an indulgence! Let’s do the math!

Hotel rates in five-star properties range between Rs 10,000 and Rs 12,000 a day, or Rs 70,000 to Rs 85,000 a week. If a timeshare member pays Rs 2.5 to Rs 3 lakh for a membership and avails of 30 holidays of seven days each for 30 years, the cost falls to Rs 10,000 a week’s holiday in a year, which is a fraction of what you pay otherwise. But how many members manage to take a holiday every year? What are the other costs and catches here?

A call to Club Mahindra revealed that the current packages begin at Rs 3.37 lakh for a family of four and the minimum down payment is Rs 50,550 and a few monthly installments depending on number of years you have opted for to pay the remaining amount. Your membership begins after you meet the minimum payment as specified. The annual maintenance charges are around Rs 13,000 upwards based on the package you have opted for. There is a nominal gift charge of Rs 1,100 if you pass it to a non-family member. The sales manager clarified that the company does not refund the money if you are not happy with it though it can be transferred to a family member without much hassle. And no, one can never look at it as a ‘share’ to make profit from, he added. Although the website says there is cancellation charge of Rs 1,700 if you don’t use your confirmed week, the sales personnel said there is no such ‘fine’.

Still not very sure of it

Kalyani Krishna, a homemaker in Chennai and married to a professor in IIT Chennai, talks of her experience with a timeshare vacation. “We bought Zest Mahindra Holiday Package in 2008, valid for a period of 10 years. We paid Rs 80,000 hoping to take a holiday every year and the agent promised us that the company is on the road to expansion and would be soon coming up with resorts in North and Eastern India. In the first couple of years, we travelled to Kodaikanal and Ooty and loved the experience. The rooms are beautiful, on par with five star hotels. The service is friendly.

Although you enjoy one week stay in the resort without paying anything towards room rent, eating food at the facility and also hiring travel services might cost a bomb. With the company failing to open up new resorts, we are stuck with only five destinations to travel. However, they are prompt in collecting ‘maintenance charges’ every year.

In our package, we are entitled to avail the facility only in certain months of the year. The travel timetable we opted for suits my professor husband as it coincides with his vacation. We couldn’t go around much in the last three years due to personal commitments, but we can always carry forward our holiday to the next year. On the brighter side, you can actually transfer your holidays to friends and family. It is a great gifting idea for a newly married couple or to your parents looking for a getaway. If you want to pay less for one week of ‘on par’ five star hotel accommodation every year and relax, these packages work. The trick to save more money is to try out local cuisine and local cabs.”

Suits me fine

Smriti Lamech, a journalist, and her travel- loving family comprising her husband and two children below 12 believes timeshare rentals definitely protect you against inflation. “The properties are by and large well maintained and well staffed. Food and transport are not part of the package and that is made clear when you buy the package. It seems unreasonable to expect more – but then that is the desi consumer for you – unmitigated greed. Food at any resort is expensive because that is what they make their money on. And resorts by definition are outside city limits – how else do you relax in the midst of a forest or on a secluded beach? Obviously one needs to plan in advance like you do for timeshare vacations across the globe. That said, there are often cancellations and we’ve got lucky.” sample letter to cancel timeshare contract http://www.timesharerelease.com/cancel-timeshare-contract-sample-letter-that-works

Ahead of its time

“Timeshare concept is a novel way to enjoy a holiday, especially at a time when Indians are changing their approach towards leisure tourism. However, the biggest challenge is that one has to plan this seven-day holiday almost a year in advance which is simply not possible in the Indian context. Also our vacations are guided by our children’s academic schedules and hence there is overbooking at the destinations. People end up going to places which they hardly know of or because they have paid for the timeshare option and hence don’t want their options to lapse. I think international options are also limited and hence people prefer packaged tours which are well timed, very well packaged and provide greater value for money,” says Ramaswamy, senior manager at a financial services company.

Better deals elsewhere

Suresh Sadagopan, a travel lover and a Certified Finance Planner and Registered Investment Adviser of Ladder7 Financial Advisories, Mumbai, has been holding a membership with a timeshare company since 2007. While he confesses he enjoyed memorable holidays with his wife and child for the initial four or five years, but now he finds that there are better vacation deals one can get online. “The travel market is competitive. Several airline companies are now putting together air travel+ hotel packages (with five stars) at great prices. Even food and local sightseeing is a part of some of these packages and that’s when you feel the pinch of having a timeshare as you are forced to stay there as you’ve already shelled out your fee for the year.” He recently holidayed with a Yatra package and felt the deals were good compared to his timeshare that he still holds.

“Lack of choice is also another factor that puts me off many times. I want to go to Munnar this monsoon but I am left with going to Junagadh only. I find that while my timeshare’s rooms are really well designed with great views and amenities, the resorts don’t give much choice in food. I mean the food is also good, but it is too elaborate and rich. I am not sure I want to eat a buffet at every meal during all the seven days of my stay. I would have liked to eat a simple khichdi and done with. The place I stayed did not provide such simple options.

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Lakes & Rivers In Houston, Texas.

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Unusual Understanding Into Perspectives To Death One Of The Older.

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My Best Travel Recommendations

This is part 3 of a series: Two Years In

My 9 Favorite Cities to Visit So Far

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a beautiful and vibrant European city. The layout of the city is very special, with its canals, small stone streets, and slender houses. There’s lots for a tourist to do - a boat ride in the aforementioned canals, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, Vondelpark, a tour of the famous Red Light District, and even a lazy afternoon at one of the famous “coffee shops”. Although Dutch cuisine isn’t my favorite, we still found plenty of delicious food… the cocktails and small-bites at Tales and Spirits are fantastic, the traditional Indonesian Rijsttafel is a great experience, you’re never far away from some pickled herring, and there’s enough international cuisine to satisfy most palettes.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a prototypical southeast Asian city, with all the skyscrapers, traffic, affordability, and general vibrance that’s characteristic of the region, but without much of the dirtiness and dilapidation that is found in many other southeast Asian capitals. Bangkok has enough temples to keep most tourists busy for a few days, and there are quite a few day trips one can take after that, including Ayuttaha, which is the former capital of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s so much incredible food in Bangkok, from world-famous street food to world-class and (relatively) affordable fine dining. The fine-dining highlight is Gaggan, a “progressive Indian” restaurant which was voted the best restaurant in Asia for four years in a row; other fine-dining standouts include Nahm (probably the spiciest fine-dining in the world) and Issaya Siamese Club. Fine-dining aside, Thai food is a favorite of mine; it’s easy to eat healthily and everything is exceptionally flavorful.

Barcelona

Barcelona is an understandably proud city in the understandably proud Catalonia region. It is a walkable city with pleasant year-round weather and beautiful architecture. This architecture is highlighted by the Gothic Quarter and by the many masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi, the centerpiece of which is La Sagrada Familia, arguably the most beautiful church in the world. If exploring the city isn’t enough, Montserrat, a mountain-top monastery and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Mediterranean coast wine region are both a short drive away. Barcelona also has an exceptional food scene. There are gourmet tapas bars all over the city, serving well-prepared dishes with premium ingredients alongside delicious local wines, at a bargain price. Fine-dining in Barcelona is second-to-none, with many world-class restaurants run by alumni of Ferran Adria’s groundbreaking restaurant El Bulli, including two world-class restaurants started by Ferran’s brother Albert Adria.

Hanoi

Hanoi’s old quarter is one of the most charming old-city areas anywhere, and a welcome respite from the rest of the hyper-urbanized chaos of most Southeast Asian cities. Although there are tourist streets and tourist traps, its relatively easy to steer clear and have a more authentic experience. I recommend starting each day with a bowl or two of street-side pho, while seated on a tiny plastic stool of course, and, at night, I recommend taking a food tour to sample the delicious morsels that hide in Hanoi’s back alleys. While visiting Hanoi, one must set aside one night to stay on a boat on Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places on earth.

London

London is truly a city that has something for everyone. History, monuments, and museums abound, and when you find yourself in need of a break, pop into a local pub (an independent one, not one of the tourist pubs owned by a pub chain) or find a classic establishment for high tea. London has an excellent mid-range dining scene that covers just about every culinary genre, a strong high-end dining scene starring The Ledbury and The Clove Club, and one of the two best cocktail scenes anywhere, comparable to only New York.

Mexico City

Forget any preconceived notions you might have about Mexico City and find time for a visit. Most of the city’s many interesting neighborhoods are as safe as anywhere back home, and the city is easy to explore by foot or by Uber. As you would expect, the food is delicious, plentiful, and inexpensive. There’s also a world-class fine dining scene, highlighted by Pujol, a perennial contender for top restaurant in Latin America and home to a 1500+ day-old mole, presented simply with a newer mole and fresh tortillas.

Moscow

Moscow is a fascinating city, historic and chaotic at every turn. The architecture, unlike that of Saint Petersburg, is straight out the Soviet era, with gargantuan monolithic architectural delights aplenty. Despite what you may think you know about Russian food, the food in Moscow is truly excellent, highlighted by borscht (don’t knock it until you try it in Russia!) and pelmeni. Make sure to catch a performance at the Bolshoi, preferably a four-hour masterpiece of tragic and conflicted romance as is the classic Russian style. Just make sure to leave plenty of time for the truly awful traffic, or, better yet, travel via the luxurious metro system, in which many of the stations are museum-esque monuments to the working people.

Mumbai

Mumbai is the London of Southern Asia - all of the fun and frenzy of India in a western- and business-friendly package. Take a street-food tour or two to safely sample culinary delights from across the country, and/or just visit Swati Snacks for delicious street-style bites in a comfortable and modern casual dining setting. Visit the Elaphanta Caves, a World Heritage Site, as an easy day-trip. Consider splurging by staying at The Taj Palace Hotel, an iconic hotel just steps away from the Gateway of India arch monument.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a hyper-modern jewel of the developed Asian world, a densely populated, meticulously orchestrated tribute to the power of organization, punctuality, and a culture of excellence. Explore the sprawling labyrinthian Shinjuku station by following its underground corridors every which way, sampling from its many food courts, and poking your head into one of the many connected shopping centers, which are quite different from those you’re used to back home. Make sure to check out the basements of the shopping centers to sample even more delicious food. And, by whatever means necessary, make sure to try Japanese soft serve ice cream (probably my favorite dessert anywhere), and make sure to try it at a handful of places to make sure you find some of the really good stuff.

Honorable Mention: Berlin, Buenos Aires, Bucharest, Florence, Hong Kong, Kyiv

My 5 Favorite Countries To Visit So Far

Iceland

The land of fire and ice has become a hot spot for tourism, and it’s easy to understand why. The otherworldly beauty of Iceland’s landscapes is nothing short of breathtaking, and one can expect to cross into a new world of landscape and texture every hour on the ring road. Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, and second city, Akureyri, are both charming Scandinavian cities, littered with cute (and expensive) restaurants and bars.

Italy

Italy has a diversity of world-class tourist destinations, each with exceptional and affordable food and wine. Rome is like a living museum, Florence has a wealth of sights and museums, the Emilio-Romania region (Bologna, Parma, Modena) has some of the best food in Italy, Tuscany has Italy’s most famous red wine, Milan is a modern european metropolis with one of the most famous paintings in the world (The Last Supper), Venice is a beautiful if overly touristic town, the Amalfi Coast and Lake Como are charming, and we haven’t even visited Cinque Terre or the Prosecco region yet. Like all of Western Europe, getting around is a breeze thanks to the rail system.

Russia

For us as western tourists, Eastern Europe has been a very interesting place to visit - some parts familiar and some parts new, with a rich and ever-evolving history deeply intertwined with the West’s. Russia is the heart of Eastern Europe, and hosts two world-class cities that each tell parts of the Eastern European story. Saint Petersburg is a beautifully classical European city that, to some extent, serves as a reminder of the conditions that led to the Soviet era. Moscow, on the other hand, has the feeling of a Soviet and post-Soviet city, and is itself beautiful in a very different way. We’re excited to visit Siberia next year to see what the rest of Russia has to offer.

Spain

Spain has so many places to visit, so much great food and wine, and an abundance of fun and unique festivals. Madrid and Barcelona are world-class cities, San Sebastian is a wonderful place to spend a long weekend hopping from Michelin-caliber tapas bar to tapas bar, and, although we haven’t yet visited, Seville and Granada are rumored to be lovely as well.

Thailand

Thailand has a world-class capital (Bangkok), a world-class second-city (Chiang Mai), world-class beaches (Ko Lanta, Ko Samui), and world-class cuisine. No wonder it’s the premier tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

Also worth mentioning: Japan, Mexico

5 Places that Deserve More Visitors

Jordan

Many western tourists don’t consider Jordan due to its proximity to the troubles in the Middle East. Their ignorance can be your gain if you choose to visit since Jordan continues to be a bastion of stability in a turbulent region. The capital Amman is a vibrant Arab capital, with plenty of local restaurants and hookah bars. Jerash is one of the best preserved Roman sights anywhere, Wadi Rum is a special desert landscape which makes for a nice overnight tent stay, and the Dead Sea is an interesting place to go for a quick saline dip. The crown jewel of Jordanian tourism, and one of the most spectacular historical sights anywhere, is Petra, a remarkably well-preserved prehistoric Nabataean city carved out of rock.

Kyiv

A beautiful Eastern European capital reminiscent of Saint Petersburg, Kyiv features beautiful European architecture, Soviet-era monuments, World Heritage historical sites, and a bustling modern atmosphere. If that’s not enough to keep you entertained, make a day trip to Chernobyl and stroll (safely) through the ruins while learning about one of the worst man-made disasters in history. Make sure to try the borscht - it’ll taste so much better than any borscht you’ve had outside of Eastern Europe.

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a quiet, charming Southeast Asian town, and a perfect place to rest and relax. The town is a World Heritage Site littered with golden temples and the beautiful Kuang Si Falls is a short drive away. Laotian food is quite unique; sour is a dominant part of the flavor profile, and jeow, a sour chili paste, features prominently. Because of Laos’s colonial history, delicious French wine is found easily and is quite affordable relative to the rest of the region.

Moldova

The smallest of the former Soviet republics, Moldova is a great place to spend a few days drinking world-class wine, eating delicious food, and learning about the tumultuous history of the region. Moldova has the largest wine caves in the world, built during the Soviet era, and has many world-class wineries including Cricova, which produces excellent sparkling wines at Eastern-European prices. Moldova shares much of its cultural history with Romania, and thus the food is delicious, highlighted (in our opinion) by sarmale, cabbage stuffed with spiced ground meat and rice. Take a day trip to Transnistria, a breakaway region that’s de-facto independent with Russian backing, and visit the capital of Transnistria, Tiraspol, and Bender Fortress, a 16th-century Ottoman fortress.

Tunisia

Tunisia is fairly similar to Morocco, with its medinas and culture, but with far less tourism and therefore far fewer scams and far better food. We stayed in Tunis, Tunisia’s capital and biggest city, but I’ve read that Hammamet is great if you’re looking for a beach vacation on the Mediterranean. Take day trips to El Jem, a large well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, and Sidi Bou Said, a beautiful white and blue city like Chefchaouen or others found scattered around the Mediterranean. Make sure to try the couscous (we had it at Dar El Jeld and Dar Belhadj); it has a wonderful level of spice, unlike its Moroccan counterpart. Over seven years since the 2011 uprisings, Tunisia is quite safe. Walking through the Tunis medina at dark was very eerie, since there was almost no one there and not much light either, but was still vastly preferable to navigating the Fes medina at night, where you’re an easy target for teens looking to extract money from tourists for a few, very necessary, navigation tips.

10 Great Restaurants from Around the World

Fäviken (Northern Sweden, $$$$+) - link

Gaggan (Bangkok, $$$$+) - link

Koks (Faroe Islands, $$$$+) - link

Eleven Madison Park (New York City, $$$$+)

Eleven Madison Park is modern New York cuisine as it should be, served in a classic dining room with personable effortless service. Celeriac cooked in a pig’s bladder was our highlight of the meal, cooked in front of us and bursting with flavor.

Relae (Copenhagen, $$$$)

Relae may not have the prestige or ultra-luxurious price tag of its more famous neighbors, Noma and Geranium, but the kitchen masterfully displays the flavors, textures, and seasonal ingredients that have made New Nordic cuisine so influential.

Rose’s Luxury (Washington DC, $$$)

Rose’s Luxury lived up to its tremendous hype. The kitchen masterfully added ultra-flavorful and exotic flavors to New American classics. They don’t take reservations, but it’s definitely worth lining up for an hour before opening to get a table.

Byblos (Miami, $$$)

Byblos is a fun western-fusion spin on Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. Everything we tried, including the boozy tea service, was spot on.

Dishoom (London, $$)

Dishoom is a trendy Indian restaurant with five locations in London and one in Edinburgh. They service a delicious breakfast with bottomless chai, and an extensive lunch/dinner menu with a fun cocktail list.

Alla Vecchia Bettola (Florence, $$)

Alla Vecchia Bettola is exactly what you want out of a hole-in-the-wall Italian restaurant. The staff doesn’t speak much English, there’s cheap house wine on the table for bottomless consumption, and, most importantly, the house pasta, penne in tomato vodka cream sauce, is to die for.

Tian Tian Chicken Rice (Singapore, $)

Unfortunately we were unable to try Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle, Singapore’s famous Michelin-starred chicken rice hawker stall, but it's hard to imagine it being any better than Tian Tian, another famous stall in Maxwell Food Centre. Despite its white-on-white appearance, the dish is incredibly flavorful, achieving a wonderful harmony between the perfectly-cooked aromatic chicken, the incredibly flavorful steamed rice, and your choice of sauces.

Honorable Mention: Pujol (Mexico City, $$$$), Azurmendi (Basque Country, Spain, $$$$+), Host (Copenhagen, $$$), Tales & Spirits (Amsterdam, $$$), Toyo Eatery (Metro Manila, $$$)

Note: I keep a Google Sheet of our reviews, on a 1-10 scale, of notable restaurants we’ve visited. Feel free to PM me if you’re interested in checking it out.

5 Wine-Producing Destinations that Deserve More Visitors

Loire Valley, France: for a wide range of dry white wines and balanced red wines

Georgia: for dry white and red wines produced using both traditional (the Qvevri fermentation vessel) and modern methods

Greece: for dry white wines, including the funky “retsina” resinated wine

Sicily, Italy: for dry white wines with high minerality

Moldova: for great value on méthode Champenoise wines, dry white and red wines, as well as the largest wine caves in the world

Other Great Stuff from Around the World

I’ve put together a Google Sheet of over 180 things that we’d recommend from around the world: link. I hope this list will be helpful to you and yours when planning your travels!