#Schengen Visa for Sri Lankans

[denvertravelideas]

Schengen Visa For Sri Lankans

The Schengen Visa is a travel document that allows individuals to visit any or all of the 26 Schengen Area countries in Europe. For Sri Lankans, obtaining a Schengen Visa opens up a world of travel opportunities, facilitating exploration, tourism, business ventures, and educational pursuits across the European continent.

Importance of Schengen Visa for Sri Lankans

For Sri Lankans, the Schengen Visa holds immense significance due to its flexibility and broad access it provides to the European Union member states. Whether it's embarking on a leisurely European vacation, attending business meetings, or pursuing higher education, the Schengen Visa simplifies travel logistics and eliminates the need for multiple visas for different countries within the Schengen Area.

Types of Schengen Visas

Sri Lankans can apply for various types of Schengen Visas tailored to their specific travel purposes:

Tourist Visa: For individuals planning leisure trips, sightseeing, and exploring European culture.

Business Visa: Catering to entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors for business-related activities.

Student Visa: Enabling Sri Lankan students to pursue educational opportunities in European universities and institutions.

Requirements for Schengen Visa Application

Before applying for a Schengen Visa, Sri Lankans need to ensure they have all necessary documents in order. These typically include:

Completed application form

Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity

Recent passport-sized photographs

Detailed travel itinerary

Proof of accommodation arrangements

Travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation

Proof of financial means to support the trip

Visa Application Process

Sri Lankans can apply for a Schengen Visa through the respective embassy or consulate of the country they intend to visit within the Schengen Area. The process involves:

Scheduling an appointment

Submitting required documents

Paying the visa fee

Attending an interview (if necessary)

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

Visa rejection can be disheartening, but common reasons include incomplete documentation, insufficient funds, lack of travel insurance, or suspicion of fraudulent intent. It's essential for Sri Lankans to carefully prepare their application and address any concerns raised by the authorities.

Tips for a Successful Visa Application

To enhance the chances of visa approval, Sri Lankans should:

Provide accurate and complete information

Submit all required documents in the prescribed format

Demonstrate genuine intent and purpose of travel

Maintain transparency and honesty throughout the application process

Costs Associated with Schengen Visa Application

The costs of applying for a Schengen Visa may vary depending on the type of visa, country of application, and additional services opted for, such as expedited processing or courier services. It's advisable for Sri Lankans to budget accordingly and be prepared for any associated expenses.

Duration of Schengen Visa Validity

A Schengen Visa typically allows entry and stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, the validity and duration of stay may vary based on the visa type and individual circumstances. Sri Lankans should check their visa for specific details regarding validity dates and permitted duration of stay.

Extending a Schengen Visa

In certain circumstances, it may be possible to extend a Schengen Visa while staying in the Schengen Area. Sri Lankans seeking an extension should consult the relevant immigration authorities well in advance of the visa expiry date and provide valid reasons for the extension request.

Benefits of Schengen Visa for Sri Lankans

The Schengen Visa offers numerous advantages for Sri Lankans, including:

Simplified travel arrangements within the Schengen Area

Access to diverse cultural, historical, and scenic attractions

Opportunities for business networking and collaboration

Enhanced educational and career prospects through international exposure

Challenges Faced by Sri Lankans in Obtaining Schengen Visa

Despite the benefits, Sri Lankans may encounter challenges in obtaining a Schengen Visa, such as:

Stringent visa requirements and documentation procedures

Limited visa quota allocations for certain countries

Language barriers and cultural differences during the application process

How to Improve Visa Approval Chances

To overcome challenges and increase the likelihood of visa approval, Sri Lankans can:

Seek professional assistance from visa consultants or agencies

Thoroughly research visa requirements and guidelines

Prepare a compelling visa application with relevant supporting documents

Maintain clear communication with embassy or consulate officials throughout the process

Testimonials of Sri Lankans who Successfully Obtained Schengen Visas

Numerous Sri Lankans have shared their success stories of obtaining Schengen Visas, highlighting the seamless travel experiences and enriching opportunities they've enjoyed in Europe. Their testimonials serve as inspiration and guidance for fellow Sri Lankans navigating the visa application process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Schengen Visa opens doors to unparalleled travel experiences and opportunities for Sri Lankans seeking to explore Europe. By understanding the visa requirements, preparing diligently, and approaching the application process with confidence, Sri Lankans can embark on memorable journeys and fulfill their aspirations abroad.

FAQs

Can Sri Lankans apply for a Schengen Visa online?

No, Sri Lankans must submit their visa applications in person at the embassy or consulate of the respective Schengen Area country they plan to visit.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Schengen Visa applicants from Sri Lanka?

Yes, travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation is a mandatory requirement for Schengen Visa applicants from Sri Lanka.

How long does it take to process a Schengen Visa for Sri Lankans?

The processing time for a Schengen Visa application varies depending on the embassy or consulate and individual circumstances but generally takes around 15 days.

Can Sri Lankans visit multiple Schengen countries with a single visa?

Yes, Sri Lankans holding a valid Schengen Visa can travel to and visit multiple Schengen countries during the visa's validity period.

What should Sri Lankans do if their Schengen Visa application is rejected?

If a Schengen Visa application is rejected, Sri Lankans can appeal the decision or reapply after addressing any deficiencies in their application.

[saniya054]

Do you have vacation plans in Europe ? The Schengen visa for Sri Lankan is the key to hassle-free travel and sightseeing across several European countries!

[cricketdirectuk]

A fan of the beautiful game!

By Rex Clementine

When you are young if  you like cricket, you dream of playing for your country. But, only a handful can go onto achieve that rare milestone. So what do you do if you are  not good enough to represent your country? Well, there are other ways and means to follow your dream. Some take up coaching, some take up other roles like physiotherapist, trainer and so on which enables you to be part of a cricketing set up. For those who don’t fit into managerial roles, there are opportunities like umpires, curators, ground staff, and scorers.

If none of that interest you, then you can think of journalism. A profession that gives you the best seat to watch the game and bump into greats of the game like Virat Kohli, Ben Stokes and Pat Cummins.

If you win his trust, sometimes you will be tolerated to stand next to the great Shane Warne and enjoy a smoke. If you have been in the trade for long enough, John Wright will send you a text message to meet him for a beer. The problem is it never ends with one beer. When in  Christchurch, he will be your chauffer driving you around the city. Once there was a visit to the local gun shop to purchase bullets to scare away rabbits who destroy his farm. First time in life when you hold a gun, there are chills going down your spine. You also wonder how a sweet chap like Wright can be brutal when it comes to looking after his property.

Trust is very important in this game and if you had earned that trust, Sanath Jayasuriya in middle of a game in Nottingham will text you from the Manager’s phone asking you to go to the train station and buy him a return ticket to London that night.

For the 2006 tour of UK and Netherlands, Jayasuriya had been flown in as a replacement. Since he wasn’t in the original squad, he had got only his British visa but not the Schengen Visa. He was held up at the airport while rest of the team went through immigration. The officer then looked at him and said, ‘Listen, I  can’t let you go without the Schengen Visa. But then, they are all coming to see you and without you the games would mean nothing. So, you are good to go.’ Not often you can go through Gatwick without a Schengen Visa, unless of course you are Sanath Jayasuriya. The fan in you will see unique moments like that if you spend enough time watching the sport.

Five years later, again on a tour of UK, Kumar Sangakkara had been invited to deliver the Cowdrey Lecture. When asked for a pass to attend the speech, the MCC head of Communications turned you down saying there’s no free seats available. But the person provides a counteroffer, there are tickets available for GBP 120 though. So, if you want you can buy that from the ticket office. You get cold feet and all your enthusiasm goes away as 120 GBP is half of your monthly salary. But there are other ways to get around this delicate issue. The President of MCC that year in 2011 was late Christopher Martin Jenkins, bless him. He was a fine cricket writer and needs no introduction. All it took was a mail to the man known as CMJ. A free pass was at your feet in less than 30 minutes.

And what a night that turned out to be. Sanga got a standing ovation from the august gathering at Lord’s as he delivered a stunning speech off the cuff. Vijaya Malalasekara, a Cambridge blue and a former President of Sri Lanka Cricket was in tears. So were many of us, proud Sri Lankans.

When Sanga was new to the international circuit, he was a poor keeper. He once went and told coach Dav Whatmore that he wanted to leave practice early. Whatmore inquired why. Sanga said, ‘My mum is not keeping well.’ Without batting an eyelid Whatmore replied, ‘Your mum also.’

You also bump into leading politicians who are cricket lovers when you travel around the world. John Major and Ed Miliband frequent cricket grounds in England and at times you can discus cricket with them over a cup of tea. Then there’s John Howard of Australia, who calls himself a ‘cricket tragic’.

Once when the Sri Lankan team was in Australia they had visited the opposition dressing room after the game as it was the custom. Word went around that the Prime Minister of Australia was going to come over to greet the teams. The Sri Lankans were on their feet to greet the PM. As Howard entered the dressing room, someone shouted at him. “Hey John, how are ya. Come mate, come. Have a beer mate.’  That was Matthew Hayden. He  was in his underpants. The Sri Lankans were in shock. Chaminda Vaas mumbled to Rumesh Kaluwitharana, ‘imagine this happening in our country!’

Once Julia Gillard, another Aussie PM invited the Sri Lankans for tea at her Canberra residence. The press were invited too. As the Prime Minister moved about greeting the players she stopped at a fast bowler and asked, ‘How are you keeping.’ Our man replied, ‘I am not a wicketkeeper, I am a fast bowler.’

Imran Khan was Prime minister of Pakistan when Sri Lanka toured the country in 2019. Team Manager Ashantha de Mel sent word that he wanted to meet the Premier. They had been rivals in 1980s. They were called up to Islamabad and a few from the press accompanied some members of the team. Some officials of the World Bank were at his office to discuss a loan for Pakistan. They had to wait as Imran greeted his Sri Lankans friends. Imran was a man who got his priorities right.

Touring Pakistan poses a few challenges. If you are not staying in a five star hotel, you have got to go to the reception and order alcohol which will be delivered to you the next day. You have  to fill a form. The first question asked in that form is, ‘The drunkard’s name’. And the second question, ‘The drunkard’s father’s name’. You don’t feel having a drink after filling those first two questions.

Pakistan also gives you some exciting moments beyond the cricket field. The Sri Lankan team bus was shot at during their tour of 2009. The ground was cordoned off as the injured players were treated by medical staff before being airlifted to an airbase. Nobody was allowed in. Usually, the Sri Lankan passport is not well recognized around the world. But for once, when you went up to the elite forces guarding the ground and showed them your passport and said you are from Sri Lanka, you were allowed to go in. Then from there on, all the news organizations around the world be it BBC, CNN, SKY, NDTV, Reuters, they all depended on what you are saying from the ground.

So, if you are not good enough to represent your country in cricket, don’t feel disappointed. There are many ways to follow the beautiful game. The fan in you deserves it.

[zoohyena3-blog]

Is Is A Good Time To Buy A Property In Cyprus?

Is Is A Good Time To Buy A Property In Cyprus?

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Content

Cyprus

Golden Visa Cyprus-- Citizenship

Citizenship By Investment Cyprus

Realty Financial Investment Cyprus

Cyprus From EUR1,025,000.

Cyprus From EUR850,000.

Cyprus

How can I settle in Cyprus?

Second of all, you need to apply for a social insurance number to secure employment in Cyprus. Within the next three months, you must submit an application for a residence permit to the Civil Registry and Migration Department. A permanent residence permit should take 6–8 months to arrive.

According to the Cyprus Ministry of Inside, the fast-track treatment is analyzed and it results to a positive response within 2 months, as long as you meet the demands as well as preconditions. There is a second choice to obtain a permanent residence permit, under more flexible prerequisites and also needs, but it takes 6-12 months to be checked out and give an outcome, plus it is tough to be provided.

Golden Visa Cyprus-- Citizenship

How strong is Cyprus passport?

Those who are renting long-term can expect to pay around 450 euros and up for the same type of apartment or house, and around 550 euros for a two bedroom place. This is the rate for Limassol. Renting Property For sale in Cyprus in Paphos, Larnaca and Nicosia will cost you a lot less.

The biggest non-EU teams are Filipinos, Russians, Sri Lankans and Vietnamese. There are an approximated 20-- 25,000 undocumented travelers from 3rd countries additionally residing in the Republic, though migrant rights groups contest these figures. The group changes in society have actually resulted in some racist cases, as well as the formation of the charity KISA in response. According to Area 8 of Annex D of the Treaty of Facility of the Republic of Cyprus, obtaining an international passport does not automatically suggest the loss of the Cypriot citizenship.

Citizenship By Financial Investment Cyprus

Nonetheless by having the Schengen Visa you will be able to access any type of Schengen participant state without the need to request visa per of the participant state independently. For that reason you will save time, money as well as various other related expenses beside the aggravation of the procedures. The Schengen Visa is a site visitor visa and also is issued to persons that need to obtain a visa prior to getting in Europe e.g. non-European people. The typical period of consideration of files takes around 2-3 months, although delays take place approximately six months. The business has to confirm the repayment of all tax obligations as well as social settlements in advance to put on the Ministry of Labour in Cyprus.

Property Investment Cyprus

According to EU law, people of the European Union have the right to visa-free travel as well as to function as well as live in any type of nation of the Union, including Cyprus. The demographic personality of Northern Cyprus transformed after the Turkish invasion in 1974 as well as especially during the last 10-- 15 years.

Cyprus From EUR1,025,000.

Though the treatment can use up to one year, there is at the same time no limitation on using the property, as well as in the not likely event that approval is not given, the customer can re-apply, and also anyway has 17 years in which to market the property. Importation of automobile to Cyprus will be subject to compliance, it is likely that obligation and tax will use. Provided that you have possessed as well as utilized your car for a minimum of 6 months before transfer, you may import it when taking up residency in Cyprus. Having Cypriot Twin Citizenship is related to a number of advantages, including visa-free travel to over 150 nations and also liberty to live, work and also do company. Library of Congress, you can make an application for citizenship after five years of residency.

Nonetheless, the nation does not need you to be present or reside in Cyprus.

Members of the same household - but submitting separate applications - might pool their resources provided that the complete amount of the residence/house covers the amount of EUR 500,000 for each and every applicant.

A financier as well as other reliant relative-- partner, small youngsters (under age 18) as well as economically reliant grown-up kids (pupils under age 28) obtain citizenship of the Republic of Cyprus.

If their Kid already obtained Cyprus Citizenship, parents can also get Cyprus Citizenship by acquiring a residence for a minimum EUR500,000.

The five-year duration can be reduced to two if you are of Mexican descent, are married to a Mexican for two years, or have actually contributed to the country's society, looks, culture, art or science in any way. For a country that makes use of Gross National Joy Index to gauge its success, Bhutan's citizenship provisions are not exactly simple. According to the Bhutan Citizenship Act, 1985, to be birthed a citizen, both your moms and dads must be Bhutanese. If either of your parents is a citizen of Bhutan, you have to live there for 15 years before looking for naturalized citizenship. In all various other instances, you can only apply after living there for 20 years, given you comply with a collection of strict policies.

How much is Cyprus visa fee?

Cyprus - Poverty and wealth. The people of the Greek zone are among the most affluent in the world. According to the World Bank's Development Report, Cyprus is ranked 16th in terms of per capita income adjusted for purchasing power. In 1988 per capita income was US$15,500, according to the CIA World Factbook .

The holders of the Irreversible home license have to not operate in Cyprus. Therefore, they ought to make Affidavits that they are not going to engage in any type of professional activity in Cyprus. Please note that any type of revenue from returns in a Cyprus Firm, of the candidates, shall not be considered as an infraction of the requirement (of not taking part in any expert activity in Cyprus). When a non EU Participant acquires a property for himself as well as his household of EUR300.000 and also even more, his application for Permanent House, visa Group F will be analyzed favourably. There are some various techniques to accomplish this yet you have to satisfy some particular prerequisites.

If you have a home authorization or long-term residency, you are not enabled to benefit an employer. So, if you have business skills, you might intend to take into consideration starting your own business.

This makes it possible for foreign nationals to obtain long-term residency or citizenship through financial investment in physicals; a really enticing possibility when you take into consideration that property costs on the island get on the up, making a residence below a sound investment. click here to learn more about Property in Cyprus to function will certainly remain the very same up until the end of the application duration (end of 2020) if there is a deal. Make certain to request a residence permit, permanent residency or citizenship standing relying on your eligibility prior to 31 December 2020. Under the typical means if someone wants to go into a number of countries in Europe he will be qualified to experience visa applications to the related countries to gain a gain access to in each one of them.

How can I get permanent residence permit in Cyprus?

According to recent studies, which rank the world's most powerful passports, Cyprus travel documents were cited as among the most powerful in the world, with Cyprus passport holders being able to travel to over 140 counties without visa.

Nonetheless, one may voluntarily relinquish it, provided that he or she "has acquired the age of 21 years (or is a woman that has been wed) and is not of unhealthy mind and additionally possesses the citizenship or citizenship of another country". To be a Canadian person, the law states that you must reside in the nation for a total amount of 1,095 days out of the five-year duration before you can use as well as additionally have an irreversible resident condition. Other than that, within the 5 years, you need to additionally fulfill three years of individual revenue tax filing commitments. Understanding the country's background and also culture is additionally a vital requisite throughout the application interviews.

Can I study and work in Cyprus?

Work And Study In Cyprus Students are allowed to work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours weekly. One can recover the cost of living and also the tuition fees with utmost ease. Part time work is allowed after six months' settlement period.

Nonetheless, there is an EU sequence regulation that enables foreign nationals to choose, with their will, for the succession legislation of their nation of race to use on their death, as opposed to that of their country of house. Take professional guidance initially to establish what would function best for your household and also heirs. It is anticipated that the business will certainly use Cypriots or Europeans for this group.

It therefore takes into consideration these Turkish immigrants to be "prohibited inhabitants" and does not include them in the population approximates for the whole island released by the Republic of Cyprus Statistical Solution. Large market modifications have actually been caused since 1964 by the activities of peoples throughout the island and also the later influx of inhabitants from Turkey to Northern Cyprus. According to the 2011 Census there are 170,383 non-citizens residing in Cyprus, of whom 106,270 are EU residents as well as 64,113 are from third countries. The largest EU groups by race are Greeks, British, Romanians and also Bulgarians.

You have to also take an oath of obligation to the king, country and also individuals of Bhutan. The country reserves the right to deny your application for naturalization anytime for any kind of factor. Those thinking about getting citizenship from a European Union member state-- and hence can live and also work throughout the bloc-- will certainly pay a whole lot more cash. Malta supplies citizenship to those who invest $1.2 million, typically after 12 months.

The treatment for enrollment of the staff member adheres to the basic stipulations of the work treatments of employees of companies in Cyprus. European legislation on freedom of movement makes it possible for EU residents to freely live as well as function in any kind of EU country.

For dual that amount, Cyprus concerns citizenship within 3 to 6 months. Purchasing citizenship isn't necessarily extra pricey than getting residency. In the Caribbean islands Antigua and also Barbuda, Grenada, St. Kitts and also Nevis, and St. Lucia, citizenship can be bought from between $100,000 to $150,000. Citizenship in these islands uses visa-free traveling to greater than 130 locations. In doing so, the Federal government aims to shield UK citizens and their family members that have currently developed their life in Cyprus at the time of the UK's withdrawal from the EU, under the Withdrawal Arrangement.

How many hours student can work in Cyprus?

Legally, an International student in Cyprus is only allowed to work for 20 hours a week. During the holiday season, you can work up to 36 to 40 hours a week. The per-hour salary is usually 5 Euro.

[adityatodi]

Cảm ơn Vietnam

Sunday, May 26, 2019

I came scrambling to Vietnam having just finished my packing and wrapping up my apartment last minute, and I leave in an even more eventful way. My preponed flight is at 10:25am via Cathay Pacific. I leave the AirBnB around 7:15am and the Grab drops me to the aiport by 7:50am. I have been concerned about my luggage since I was allowed 40kg from the US and now am just allowed 30kg for my flight to Kathmandu. The night before I stuff my school bag with the heaviest of books and hope it will not be a problem. However, as I get to the aiport greater concerns lie ahead. I get to the check-in counter and handover my passport and visa to the woman at the desk. After punching in a few words, she calls her manager. She tells me her system is down. I wait. After about 5 minutes of waiting the manager returns and says that I cannot travel on this flight since I require a visa to transit in Hong Kong. WTF. This can not be happening. As a holder of Nepali passport, usually when I’m traveling a new route I look up the visa requirements in advance, but it is almost rarely that I require a transit visa for within airport transfer. I remember I had traveled Cathay Pacific back in college and did not require a visa. I tell this to the agent and manager. They ask me to move aside and the manager then shows me a thick book of visa guidelines which states that passengers transiting via Hong Kong do not require a visa except for if you happen to be from Afghanistan, Syria, Nepal and a handful more countries were listed. I insist that I have traveled Cathay before and do not require a visa. The manager then hands over the case to her senior. While the transition is taking place I quickly pull up my phone to look for the requirements. One of the unofficial travel link that says I do not require a visa for less than 24 hours and I show this to this new manager, Ms. Hoa. This buys me some time, but I know not much. Anything not on the official website will not be accepted as proof. I find the Hong Kong consulate official website which does state that a transit visa is required and one must be attained before traveling and the processing time is 4 weeks. F***. This is not a good sign. I do some more looking around and I find a Cathay Pacific link. I open the link and carefully read it. It states that no transit visa is required, except if you happen to be from certain countries. However, there is an exception to this exception for Bangladeshis, Nepalese, Sri Lankan and Pakistani passport holders. There is a certain criteria that needs to be met to transit without a visa (TWOV). I go down this list of four criterias: must arrive into Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific or Cathay Dragon, transit should be less that 12 hours, do not leave the airport transit area and have a valid visa for Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of South Korea, United Kingdom, Schengen States or the USA. Phew—there is hope. I do indeed meet all these four criteria. I show this link to the manager. Hmmm—she looks convinced. I tell her it’s on the official Cathay Pacific website. There is hope that has reignited. May be I can get on the flight. She starts corresponding on her computer. After a few minutes she tells me this might not be possible since the flight is not Cathay Pacific as it is operated by Vietnam Airlines. WTF. I tell her that I booked the flight through Cathay Pacific and the flight has a CX codeshare. Of course this is Cathay Pacific. Whom Cathay partners to operate the airline with is not my concern. I find myself become frustrated, raising my voice slightly higher and feeling helpless. I have already spent money changing my tickets once, but besides the financial concern is the concern of how the hell do I get back to my country. There are limited flights that go there—perhaps I will need to fly to a Middle East country and then fly back. The other viable option is booking a flight through China, which has a 13 over layover in Guangzhou or another which has 3 stops. None of these options look too good. I try to remain patient though. I realize that I can not alienate my only true ally in this airport and that ally for now is this woman, Ms. Hoa, probably in her early 40s with short greying hair. I ask her to please correspond with Cathay and figure this out. One suggestion she gives is that there is a flight from Hanoi to Hong Kong that is operated by Cathay Pacific in the evening. Perhaps I can take the flight. I think about it and quickly realize that will not be a viable option. The only flight from Hong Kong to Kathmandu is at 5pm the next day, thus the second criteria of transit of less than 12 hours listed on the TWOV will not apply. Time is running out. The flight will be taking off in about an hour. For the first time in my life, I am truly glad that I came early. Often times when I get to the airport early I think perhaps I could have left later, that I could have gotten extra sleep. But not today. Today I am grateful for the lesson my father taught me---make sure you go early, especially at a new airport. I took his advice and it has come so handy today. There is still hope.

45 minutes before departure. Ms. Hoa tells me that she is corresponding with Cathay, but there has been no response from their end. She offers me another option. Vietnam Airlines has a Liability Waiver Form that if I sign will allow me to get on the flight. However, I find it interesting that it is not Ms. Hoa, but her junior who got me to Ms. Hoa who offers this to me. I look at Ms. Hoa and she ignores and continues to look busy on her computer. I tell this woman that I am not going to sign any such waiver. It is the responsibility of Cathay to ensure I get a hassle free pass through Hong Kong. The moment I sign this waiver, any penalty that Vietnam Airlines gets from immigration in Hong Kong will need to be paid by me and if this becomes an immigration issue in Hong Kong, I have waived my right as a legal passenger to the country through Vietnam Airlines. I remember my negotiation class from HKS. If they anchor, make sure you quickly de-anchor. I don’t even read the form and tell them, this is not an option. I am not going to sign any waiver form, please correspond with Cathay. I’m told that if the form is not signed, I may not get a seat on the aircraft that is soon departing. I tell them please continue corresponding with Cathay and let me know what they say. Throughout the episode I try to keep my calm, but also communicate to them the urgency. Having the legal documentation through Cathay’s website has really helped my case. Besides the few exchanges, most of the past hour and a half has been spent in silent agony as I wait. There are things happening on the other side of the desk, but I’m not exactly aware what. Once in a while I check-in to see what’s the message they have gotten.

35 minutes before departure. Ms. Hoa tells me to give me the US Visa documentation so she can send it over to Cathay Pacific. This move brings back hope. Perhaps there is something happening now on the backend.

5 minutes have passed and she says no response from them.

30 minutes before departure. There is a slight smile that appears on Ms. Hoa’s face. She says “okay, okay. Give me”. I ask her, “What?” She says “give me your phone, I will take a picture of the message I just got” Ms. Hoa takes a picture of a message from Hong Kong’s immigration, a certain Ms. Chan which reads “PLS BOARD PAX. PAX IS FULFILLED THE HKG TWOV REQUIREMENT”.

Yes! Yes!

What was moving in extreme slow motion now takes a quick turn. A Vietnam Airlines employee—Ms. Linh, gets me to the front of the check-in desk to get my luggage checked in. The boarding pass to Hong Kong is printed, but I will not yet be receiving the Kathmandu boarding pass. An element of suspense continues.

Ms. Linh tells me to dash to immigration, but before I do that I go back to Ms. Hoa, who is standing there watching over me to make sure I make the flight. I want to give her a big hug, but the stupid check-in desk separates us. All I can do for now is give her a warm handshake for the help she has extended. I once remember reading a story of an old woman who was dying. Her wish for her last meals was to eat from a Chinese take out place she really loved. While she was dying, the son leaves her and drives to this take out place and orders her favorite dish. Through the glass he sees those in the kitchen. Of course none of them know the story behind his order, yet they continue diligently working at a fast pace to get the order ready, as they would for any other order. For the son, every minute matters. They are able to deliver the order and the son drives back and makes it in time to get the food to his mother, before she gradually passes away. The story is a story of how unknowingly, just by doing our jobs to the best of our ability we could be making a huge difference in someone else’s life.

I remembered this story today as I was dashing through immigration and then security and finally made it to the gate. Ms. Hoa was just doing her job, but she was doing it to the best of her ability and that made a damn big difference to me. No job is trivial—whether you’re a cook at a take-out restaurant or an agent at a check-in counter at the airport. I’m filled with immense gratitude for her and the unseen people on the other side who tried to make this work. Perhaps I got lucky today, if it were some other day the story could have had another ending. Not today though. Today is my day and home beckons. My experience also has given me more confidence to deal with unseen circumstances that arise while traveling. In the end, it all works out.

*** The entire episode felt Argo-esque, which is not really how I would have liked to leave the country that I have really enjoyed traveling and has made me feel serene and peaceful. As I sit here in the Hong Kong airport thinking of the last two weeks, I feel grateful for my experience. It is the people who make the country what it is, and almost everyone I have met has been kind. Starting from the hotel staff to our guides and driver all the way till the airport crew. Thank You Vietnam—amongst the numerous memories, I will also fondly remember sitting on the backseat of a motorbike and riding around your cities, the sound of traffic, the sight of people sitting by the street pavement and eating, smell of the humid air and the wind blowing past my face instilling a sense of freedom. Freedom to choose the life I want.

[accuhunt]

Unusual Solo Travel Destinations to Feed Your Adventurous Spirit.

As solo travellers, we often tend to take shelter in the same tried and tested places. The ones that rank high on online lists of “safe countries for solo travel”, which have several hostels to choose from, where tourism has made it imperative for locals to speak English and where the presence of other travellers puts us in our comfort zone. Over my solo explorations in the past seven years though, I’ve found that such places often tend to stifle our adventurous spirit. The same spirit that originally made us want to go it alone.

Looking back, my most cherished solo travel memories were made in unusual, offbeat places – and while putting together this post, I’ve considered the following parameters:

The locals aren’t saturated with tourism: Despite being an introvert, I found it relatively easy to have authentic interactions and make local friends in these places.

There’s plenty to do alone, even on a budget: Although this is very subjective and based on personal preferences, these are places where I found plenty to do using public transport and on a moderate budget.

A general feeling of safety: It’s important to keep our wits about us anywhere we go or live, but I never felt particularly unsafe in these places.

If you plan to travel solo but can’t decide where to go, consider my favorite (offbeat) solo travel destinations:

Julian Alps, Slovenia

Best solo travel destination for: Mountains and solitude

Postcard living in the Slovenian Alps.

Although as solo travellers, we’re spoilt for choice in Europe, the one country that really stole my heart is Slovenia. Like every other traveller, I first landed up in Ljubljana – an artsy capital city with incredible vegan food (hello, Barberella Arkade Bistro) – and Lake Bled – a sore disappointment given how commercial it’s become. But further into the Slovenian Alps, I was captivated by the dreamy mountains and valleys, loved hiking and cycling by myself, and ended up staying with Slovenian hosts so friendly, they invited me for home-cooked meals and drove me to their favorite spots amid the stunning rivers and forests. That special connection was so strong that one week after I left Slovenia, I ended up changing my travel plans and coming back to spend the rest of my Europe trip there!

Solo travel recommendations for Slovenia:

Getting around: Buses connect many parts of the Slovenian Alps to Ljubljana. I mostly hiked, cycled and got rides with my hosts in the mountains.

Visa: Slovenia is part of the Schengen zone; see my tips on how to score a Schengen visa on an Indian passport.

Stay: See all the Airbnbs I loved in Europe (I even slept in a wine barrel in Ljubljana!)

Also read: Easy Ways to Take Awesome Photos of Yourself While When You Travel Solo

Hill country, Sri Lanka

Best solo travel destination for: First international solo trip; nature; vegan food

Mornings at my homestay in Colombo.

I think of Sri Lanka as a saner, smaller, less chaotic version of India – one that is as full of natural beauty yet feels safer and easier to manoeuvre. The capital city of Colombo always puts me in my comfort zone as I sink my feet into the wet shores of the Indian Ocean, feast at accidentally vegan-friendly restaurants and imagine a utopian future for India with lower population, clean streets and better infrastructure. And when I think of the countryside, I can’t stop dreaming of the lush green hills, the train rides along misty tea plantations and rice paddies, the curious locals who become friends with an ice-breaking smile, the forests with indigenous dwellers, wild elephants and big cats, and most of all, of steamed hoppers served with a curry simmered overnight with Sri Lankan spices. Can I go back already?

Solo travel recommendations for Sri Lanka:

Getting there: Sri Lankan Airlines flies direct from multiple cities in India.

Visa: Sri Lanka offers online ETA, which serves as the Sri Lanka tourist visa for Indians. See details here.

Stay: For a luxurious stay, Cinnamon Hotels has branches in Colombo and Kandy. Check out my fav Airbnbs across Sri Lanka if you’re on a budget.

Do: See my list of incredible ways to experience Sri Lanka.

Also read: Travelling Abroad First Time? 10 Questions on Your Mind

Kumaon, Uttarakhand, India

Best solo travel destination for: Nature and the slow life

Hiking in the deodar forests of Uttarakhand.

On some of my earliest solo explorations in India, the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand taught me so much about solo travel. In Peora and Nathuakhan, I learnt to hike alone, put my faith in nature and accept random acts of kindness from strangers. Walking across Himalayan villages in Kumaon, I learnt to embrace the slow life philosophy of locals – sometimes out of choice, sometimes out of circumstance. In Binsar, I learnt of the man-forest conflict and in Sarmoli, I grasped how a small group of committed women can transform their lives and those of many others.

I don’t think I could have enjoyed mere sightseeing in the Kumaon Himalayas. The terraced mountain farms, the pristine lakes, the scented pine forests and the lush valleys are stunning, no doubt. But it’s only when I learnt to club them with a slice of local living, that I truly fell in love.

Solo travel recommendations for Kumaon, Uttarakhand:

Getting there: Take the Shatabdi from Delhi to Haldwani, and a shared taxi thereafter. You can also fly to Pantnagar but shared rides are harder to find there.

Stay: All the homestays in my list of awe-inspiring hideouts to tune out of life and tune into the mountains in Uttarakhand.

Transport: Shared taxis, state buses, hitchhiking. Ask your hosts for advice.

Also read: How I Conquer My Solo Travel Fears

Ecuador

Best solo travel destination for: Experienced solo travellers; hiking; culture

Crazy beautiful hikes in Ecuador.

Hiking alone in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador is definitely one of my most cherished solo travel memories – especially when I throw in my time with an indigenous Quichua family and the jaw-dropping beauty of the rugged Andean trails, forests, lakes, valleys, canyons and ridges. Despite spending a month slowly exploring the country – partly by myself, partly with a friend – I feel like I never really got my closure and can’t wait to go back  someday.

Solo travel recommendations for Ecuador:

Visa: Indian passport holders get visa-free access to Ecuador with a valid and used US visa.

Stay: I loved staying at family-run Airbnbs across Ecuador, and at Black Sheep Inn in the Andes.

Transport: Public buses connect most of the country.

Learn Spanish: Speaking Spanish is essential to travel in Ecuador.

Also read: What it’s Like to Travel Solo When You’re in a Relationship

Mauritius

Best solo travel destination for: Nature and beaches – if you don’t mind being surrounded by lovestruck couples!

Black River Gorges in Mauritius.

It’s one thing to read that Mauritius is popular with honeymoon couples, quite another to land on this beautiful island and constantly be badgered with questions of why you chose to travel there alone. But once I learnt to humour the questions, I fell in love with the many faces of the island – hiking in the rugged wilderness above Port Louis and in the Black River Gorges National Park, riding my bike along swaying sugarcane fields, chatting with Indo-Mauritian fishermen and farmers, revelling in the stunning sunrises and sunsets, checking out the craft beer and street food scene, sleeping on a rooftop under the stars, and snorkelling to explore the stunning underwater beauty of the Indian Ocean. I wouldn’t pick it as my first solo travel destination, but I’d certainly go when I’m ready for some sea, sand and solitude.

Solo travel recommendations for Mauritius:

Visa: Mauritius offers visa on arrival for Indian passport holders.

Stay: Check out my list of incredible eco-conscious accommodations in Mauritius – that are not honeymoon resorts

Adventure sports: See my self-crafted Mauritius adventure sports map!

Getting around: Although renting a car is the only option for long distances, I was pretty happy covering short ones on my rented scooter and bicycle.

Also read: Solo Travel: To Go or Not To Go?

Cuba

Best solo travel destination for: Experienced solo travellers; architecture; culture

The colors of La Habana.

As someone who can’t imagine staying offline for long periods of time, I didn’t know if I’d enjoy exploring Cuba solo. Turned out, the fascinating history, isolated culture, striking natural beauty and endearing locals made me forget all about the internet – even though it could be accessed in public parks! The best thing I did in La Habana (Havana) was sign up for a private “go with the flow” afternoon with Cuban Adventures and spend 3 hours with a young guide who grew up in Cuba – drinking daiquiri, catching a football game, learning about the Afro-Cuban religion, spotting incredible murals and sculptures as we wandered around the by-lanes of Havana and talked candidly about Cuba’s eventful history. 

In an attempt at offbeat and meaningful travel, I also landed up volunteering briefly at a coral reef restoration project run by IOI Adventures in a remote village in Isla de la Juventud. Along with locals from the village and a fellow volunteer, I picked up plastic trash from the ocean floor, saw how corals were being regrown, patrolled a deserted beach for turtle hatching, snorkelled above stunning reefs and pledged to further cut out single-use plastic from my life. 

Solo travel recommendations for Cuba:

Visa: Indian passport holders can enter Cuba with a tourist card.

Internet: Wifi cards are available for purchase at ETECSA (telecom) shops across the country, and wifi can be accessed at many public parks.

Stay: I stayed at Casa Particulares (private homestays) across Cuba – some through Airbnb, some through local reference – and loved interacting with local families.

Transport: Buses and shared taxis connect most places across Cuba; homestay hosts can arrange both with some advance notice.

Also read: How I’m Financially Sustaining My Digital Nomad Lifestyle

Odisha, India

Best solo travel destination for: Mature solo travellers; culture-seekers

Sunset in the eastern ghats.

I only spent a couple weeks in Odisha, quite nervous about exploring the state for the first time. But I quickly fell in love with everything – the local food (easy to veganise), the warm people, the stunning and diverse natural beauty and the intriguing tribal way of life. I did long journeys on state buses, took an overnight train, explored small villages on a bicycle, and felt safe in the company of those I met along the way.

I say Odisha is for experienced solo travellers though, because travel infrastructure is limited, the regular tourist circuit isn’t geared towards solo travel and it takes some ‘jugaad’ (think hitchhiking pillion on a motorbike) to get off the beaten path if you travel alone and don’t have a car. I’ll be writing a detailed post about my travels in Odisha soon!

Solo travel recommendations for Odisha:

Stay: I enjoyed staying at Kila Dalijoda along the eastern ghats and Chandoori Sai in the Koraput region. And loved my time at Desia Ecolodge, where thanks to my host and now friend Bubu, I was able to experience the fascinating tribal culture of Koraput in an intimate and respectful way.

Public transport: I got around by buses and trains, and although the quality is pretty much the same as the rest of India, I found the locals to be helpful and friendly, and didn’t feel unsafe.

Also read: How to Plan Your First Solo Trip

The United Kingdom

Best solo travel destination for: First solo trip; cities; hiking

Hiking in the Lake District.

Though not the most friendly on the wallet, England and Scotland are some of the easiest places to navigate without having to get familiar with a foreign language, with plenty to explore for offbeat travellers. I spent my days in Aberdeen and Edinburgh walking everywhere, checking out old churches, urban parks, edgy neighborhoods and hipster cafes. Renting a car or joining a group tour is necessary to explore much of the countryside, but I found that the Lake District was a beautiful exception – the town of Keswick is accessible by train and bus, and is a great base for incredible hikes in the surrounding Cumbrian Mountains.

Solo travel recommendations for the UK:

Visa: Apply for a UK visa at VFS UK; the regular tourist visa takes atleast 14 working days, sometimes longer, so give yourself plenty of time.

Stay: Find bed and breakfasts, and old country hotels across Britain, on booking.com. If you’re not signed up yet, register with my referral to get 10$ off your first stay.

Also read: Autumn, Adventure and Artful Living in Aberdeeshire, Scotland

Guatemala

Best solo travel destination for: Mature solo travellers; rugged beauty; cultural immersion

Hate saying goodbye to Guatemala.

I’ve perhaps never been as nervous embarking on a solo adventure as I was boarding my flight to Guatemala – my first time in Central America. But those solo travel fears were soon dispelled in the quaint town of Antigua, in the home of a Mayan family in an obscure town where I learnt Spanish and by the stupendous beauty of Lake Atitlan. I’ve been so intrigued by what survives of the Mayan culture and so delighted by the basic staple food (beans, rice, plantains, cacao, avocados) that I’ve been back for long periods twice since. I recommend Guatemala for experienced solo travellers because you must learn some Spanish to get by, know when to trust your gut, and figure out the country once you go beyond the worn-out tourist trail.

Solo travel recommendations for Guatemala:

Visa: Indian passport holders get visa-free access to Guatemala with a valid and used US visa.

Stay: Check out my fav Airbnbs across Central America.

Transport: The popular tourist spots in Guatemala are connected by shuttles, while other places are accessible by bus.

Learn Spanish: Learning Spanish is a must while travelling in Guatemala; very few locals are able to understand English. I learnt Spanish at the pretty remote Bio Itza School in the village of San Jose, and then again from private Mayan tutor Rebeca along Lake Atitlan.

Also read: What Solo Travel Has Taught Me About the World – And Myself

Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India

Best solo travel destination for: First solo trip; mountains; going off the grid; volunteering

The stark beauty of Spiti.

The Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh is where my love affair with solo travel began. I still remember my first lonely night in a shabby room in Shimla with some clarity. I had no idea what I was doing, why I was travelling alone, what it was going lead to. But all those questions were dispelled as we drove along winding roads to arrive in one of the most spectacular and fascinating regions of India. Back in 2011, Spiti was a trip of firsts for me – volunteer traveling, hitch-hiking, sleeping under the Milky Way and learning about sustainable tourism. My time volunteering with Spiti Ecosphere impacted me so deeply that I decided to quit my corporate job soon after and began charting a different life for myself.

Solo travel recommendations for Spiti, Himachal Pradesh:

Getting there: Take the overnight HPTDC Volvo bus from Delhi to Manali, spend a night or two to acclimatise, then take a shared taxi to Kaza.

Traveling in Spiti: I highly recommend traveling with Spiti Ecosphere – their “life as a local” trip is one I want to try myself. You can also base yourself in Kaza for a while and volunteer with them.

The “I Love Spiti” campaign: Last year, I partnered with Spiti Ecosphere and fellow volunteers to launch “I Love Spiti” – a campaign against plastic bottled water in Spiti. Consider volunteering in Spiti to take this campaign to the next level!

Also read: Solo Travel Moments That Left Me Scared Shitless

Bahrain

Best solo travel destination for: Experienced solo travellers; culture

With a local friend in Bahrain.

Many countries in the Middle East are shrouded in controversy and oppression, and having heard horror stories from close friends, I’d probably avoid many of them, especially as a solo female traveller. Bahrain (and Oman and Jordan) are exceptions though – some of the more liberal, peaceful ones in the region. I didn’t travel solo in Jordan and I’m yet to explore Oman, but Bahrain has occupied a warm space in my heart since I travelled there a few years ago. Public transport is non-existent and taxis expensive, so I ended up hitch-hiking with the friendliest souls, hanging out in trendy shisha cafes, having heart-to-heart conversations with locals and even finding some surprising Indian connections.

Solo travel recommendations for Bahrain:

Visa: Bahrain offers visa on arrival for Indian passport holders.

Stay: I stayed at a hotel, but in retrospect, would choose an Airbnb or guesthouse in or close to the trendy Adliya neighborhood.

Getting around: Getting around within Bahrain without a car is challenging. I managed with walking, hitch-hiking, being driven around with new friends and the rare taxi.

Also read: Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Your Travel Dreams in 2018

North Goa (interiors), India

Best solo travel destination for: First solo trip; vegan food

The sleepy interiors of north Goa.

I’ve never been drawn to the beaches of Goa – often full of boisterous crowds, aggressive drug peddlers and underwhelming food. But the interiors of Goa have continued to delight me for years now, thanks to my earliest discoveries with my Goan hosts Raquel and Roberto. Theirs is not the Goa you read or hear about otherwise – no beaches, no loud parties, alcohol is not the centre of attraction. Theirs is a Goa of sleepy villages, pristine backwaters, lush paddies and the susegad (content) life. One that you have to experience yourself to believe.

Solo travel recommendations for Goa:

Stay: Stay at Cancio’s House for an authentic Goan experience in the interiors of North Goa on a budget.

Do: See my alternative travel guide to Goa, authentic Goan food to try and offbeat ways to experience Goa.

Also read: Offbeat, Incredible and Sustainable: These Travel Companies Are Changing the Way You Experience India

Germany

Best solo travel destination for: Nature; postcard villages; solitude

Postcard villages in Hessen, Germany.

Ever since I got over my misconceptions of Germany on my first Euro trip (no, most Germans are not uptight and the beer’s fab but there’s so much more to the country), I’ve explored several parts of Germany – a lot of it solo. I love the wine traditions along the River Rhine, the Christmas Markets across the country, the forested countryside of Hessen, the waterways of Spreewald, the lost-in-time villages of Southwest Germany and the stellar beauty of the German Alps in Berchtesgaden National Park. Equally, I love the conscious living embraced by many locals, the long train journeys on the Deutsche Bahn (seriously, when will India catch up?) and the fact that I’m never thinking twice about my safety.

Solo travel recommendations for Germany:

Getting there:Lufthansa offers direct flights from India to Munich and Frankfurt.

Visa: Apply for a Schengen visa at VFS Germany in India.

First time to Germany: See my tips to plan your first trip to Germany.

What are some unusual places around the world you’ve travelled solo? Which were your favorites and why?

Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to follow my travels around the world.

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Unusual Solo Travel Destinations to Feed Your Adventurous Spirit. published first on https://airriflelab.tumblr.com

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Unusual Solo Travel Destinations to Feed Your Adventurous Spirit.

As solo travellers, we often tend to take shelter in the same tried and tested places. The ones that rank high on online lists of “safe countries for solo travel”, which have several hostels to choose from, where tourism has made it imperative for locals to speak English and where the presence of other travellers puts us in our comfort zone. Over my solo explorations in the past seven years though, I’ve found that such places often tend to stifle our adventurous spirit. The same spirit that originally made us want to go it alone.

Looking back, my most cherished solo travel memories were made in unusual, offbeat places – and while putting together this post, I’ve considered the following parameters:

The locals aren’t saturated with tourism: Despite being an introvert, I found it relatively easy to have authentic interactions and make local friends in these places.

There’s plenty to do alone, even on a budget: Although this is very subjective and based on personal preferences, these are places where I found plenty to do using public transport and on a moderate budget.

A general feeling of safety: It’s important to keep our wits about us anywhere we go or live, but I never felt particularly unsafe in these places.

If you plan to travel solo but can’t decide where to go, consider my favorite (offbeat) solo travel destinations:

Slovenian Alps, Slovenia

Best solo travel destination for: Mountains and solitude

Postcard living in the Slovenian Alps.

Although as solo travellers, we’re spoilt for choice in Europe, the one country that really stole my heart is Slovenia. Like every other traveller, I first landed up in Ljubljana – an artsy capital city with incredible vegan food (hello, Barberella Arkade Bistro) – and Lake Bled – a sore disappointment given how commercial it’s become. But further into the Slovenian Alps, I was captivated by the dreamy mountains and valleys, loved hiking and cycling by myself, and ended up staying with Slovenian hosts so friendly, they invited me for home-cooked meals and drove me to their favorite spots amid the stunning rivers and forests. That special connection was so strong that one week after I left Slovenia, I ended up changing my travel plans and coming back to spend the rest of my Europe trip there!

Solo travel recommendations for Slovenia:

Getting around: Buses connect many parts of the Slovenian Alps to Ljubljana. I mostly hiked, cycled and got rides with my hosts in the mountains.

Visa: Slovenia is part of the Schengen zone; see my tips on how to score a Schengen visa on an Indian passport.

Stay: See all the Airbnbs I loved in Europe (I even slept in a wine barrel in Ljubljana!)

Also read: Easy Ways to Take Awesome Photos of Yourself While When You Travel Solo

Sri Lanka

Best solo travel destination for: First international solo trip; nature; vegan food

Mornings at my homestay in Colombo.

I think of Sri Lanka as a saner, smaller, less chaotic version of India – one that is as full of natural beauty yet feels safer and easier to manoeuvre. The capital city of Colombo always puts me in my comfort zone as I sink my feet into the wet shores of the Indian Ocean, feast at accidentally vegan-friendly restaurants and imagine a utopian future for India with lower population, clean streets and better infrastructure. And when I think of the countryside, I can’t stop dreaming of the lush green hills, the train rides along misty tea plantations and rice paddies, the curious locals who become friends with an ice-breaking smile, the forests with indigenous dwellers, wild elephants and big cats, and most of all, of steamed hoppers served with a curry simmered overnight with Sri Lankan spices. Can I go back already?

Solo travel recommendations for Sri Lanka:

Getting there: Sri Lankan Airlines flies direct from multiple cities in India.

Visa: Sri Lanka offers online ETA, which serves as the Sri Lanka tourist visa for Indians. See details here.

Stay: For a luxurious stay, Cinnamon Hotels has branches in Colombo and Kandy. Check out my fav Airbnbs across Sri Lanka if you’re on a budget.

Do: See my list of incredible ways to experience Sri Lanka.

Also read: Travelling Abroad First Time? 10 Questions on Your Mind

Kumaon, Uttarakhand, India

Best solo travel destination for: Nature and the slow life

Hiking in the deodar forests of Uttarakhand.

On some of my earliest solo explorations in India, the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand taught me so much about solo travel. In Peora and Nathuakhan, I learnt to hike alone, put my faith in nature and accept random acts of kindness from strangers. Walking across Himalayan villages in Kumaon, I learnt to embrace the slow life philosophy of locals – sometimes out of choice, sometimes out of circumstance. In Binsar, I learnt of the man-forest conflict and in Sarmoli, I grasped how a small group of committed women can transform their lives and those of many others.

I don’t think I could have enjoyed mere sightseeing in the Kumaon Himalayas. The terraced mountain farms, the pristine lakes, the scented pine forests and the lush valleys are stunning, no doubt. But it’s only when I learnt to club them with a slice of local living, that I truly fell in love.

Solo travel recommendations for Kumaon, Uttarakhand:

Getting there: Take the Shatabdi from Delhi to Haldwani, and a shared taxi thereafter. You can also fly to Pantnagar but shared rides are harder to find there.

Stay: All the homestays in my list of awe-inspiring hideouts to tune out of life and tune into the mountains in Uttarakhand.

Transport: Shared taxis, state buses, hitchhiking. Ask your hosts for advice.

Also read: How I Conquer My Solo Travel Fears

Ecuador

Best solo travel destination for: Experienced solo travellers; hiking; culture

Crazy beautiful hikes in Ecuador.

Hiking alone in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador is definitely one of my most cherished solo travel memories – especially when I throw in my time with an indigenous Quichua family and the jaw-dropping beauty of the rugged Andean trails, forests, lakes, valleys, canyons and ridges. Despite spending a month slowly exploring the country – partly by myself, partly with a friend – I feel like I never really got my closure and can’t wait to go back  someday.

Solo travel recommendations for Ecuador:

Visa: Indian passport holders get visa-free access to Ecuador with a valid and used US visa.

Stay: I loved staying at family-run Airbnbs across Ecuador, and at Black Sheep Inn in the Andes.

Transport: Public buses connect most of the country.

Learn Spanish: Speaking Spanish is essential to travel in Ecuador.

Also read: What it’s Like to Travel Solo When You’re in a Relationship

Mauritius

Best solo travel destination for: Nature and beaches – if you don’t mind being surrounded by lovestruck couples!

Black River Gorges in Mauritius.

It’s one thing to read that Mauritius is popular with honeymoon couples, quite another to land on this beautiful island and constantly be badgered with questions of why you chose to travel there alone. But once I learnt to humour the questions, I fell in love with the many faces of the island – hiking in the rugged wilderness above Port Louis and in the Black River Gorges National Park, riding my bike along swaying sugarcane fields, chatting with Indo-Mauritian fishermen and farmers, revelling in the stunning sunrises and sunsets, checking out the craft beer and street food scene, sleeping on a rooftop under the stars, and snorkelling to explore the stunning underwater beauty of the Indian Ocean. I wouldn’t pick it as my first solo travel destination, but I’d certainly go when I’m ready for some sea, sand and solitude.

Solo travel recommendations for Mauritius:

Visa: Mauritius offers visa on arrival for Indian passport holders.

Stay: Check out my list of incredible eco-conscious accommodations in Mauritius – that are not honeymoon resorts

Adventure sports: See my self-crafted Mauritius adventure sports map!

Getting around: Although renting a car is the only option for long distances, I was pretty happy covering short ones on my rented scooter and bicycle.

Also read: Solo Travel: To Go or Not To Go?

Cuba

Best solo travel destination for: Experienced solo travellers; architecture; culture

The colors of La Habana.

As someone who can’t imagine staying offline for long periods of time, I didn’t know if I’d enjoy exploring Cuba solo. Turned out, the fascinating history, isolated culture, striking natural beauty and endearing locals made me forget all about the internet – even though it could be accessed in public parks! The best thing I did in La Habana (Havana) was sign up for a private “go with the flow” afternoon with Cuban Adventures and spend 3 hours with a young guide who grew up in Cuba – drinking daiquiri, catching a football game, learning about the Afro-Cuban religion, spotting incredible murals and sculptures as we wandered around the by-lanes of Havana and talked candidly about Cuba’s eventful history. 

In an attempt at offbeat and meaningful travel, I also landed up volunteering briefly at a coral reef restoration project run by IOI Adventures in a remote village in Isla de la Juventud. Along with locals from the village and a fellow volunteer, I picked up plastic trash from the ocean floor, saw how corals were being regrown, patrolled a deserted beach for turtle hatching, snorkelled above stunning reefs and pledged to further cut out single-use plastic from my life. 

Solo travel recommendations for Cuba:

Visa: Indian passport holders can enter Cuba with a tourist card.

Internet: Wifi cards are available for purchase at ETECSA (telecom) shops across the country, and wifi can be accessed at many public parks.

Stay: I stayed at Casa Particulares (private homestays) across Cuba – some through Airbnb, some through local reference – and loved interacting with local families.

Transport: Buses and shared taxis connect most places across Cuba; homestay hosts can arrange both with some advance notice.

Also read: How I’m Financially Sustaining My Digital Nomad Lifestyle

Odisha, India

Best solo travel destination for: Mature solo travellers; culture-seekers

Sunset in the eastern ghats.

I only spent a couple weeks in Odisha, quite nervous about exploring the state for the first time. But I quickly fell in love with everything – the local food (easy to veganise), the warm people, the stunning and diverse natural beauty and the intriguing tribal way of life. I did long journeys on state buses, took an overnight train, explored small villages on a bicycle, and felt safe in the company of those I met along the way.

I say Odisha is for experienced solo travellers though, because travel infrastructure is limited, the regular tourist circuit isn’t geared towards solo travel and it takes some ‘jugaad’ (think hitchhiking pillion on a motorbike) to get off the beaten path if you travel alone and don’t have a car. I’ll be writing a detailed post about my travels in Odisha soon!

Solo travel recommendations for Odisha:

Stay: I enjoyed staying at Kila Dalijoda along the eastern ghats and Chandoori Sai in the Koraput region. And loved my time at Desia Ecolodge, where thanks to my host and now friend Bubu, I was able to experience the fascinating tribal culture of Koraput in an intimate and respectful way.

Public transport: I got around by buses and trains, and although the quality is pretty much the same as the rest of India, I found the locals to be helpful and friendly, and didn’t feel unsafe.

Also read: How to Plan Your First Solo Trip

The United Kingdom

Best solo travel destination for: First solo trip; cities; hiking

Hiking in the Lake District.

Though not the most friendly on the wallet, England and Scotland are some of the easiest places to navigate without having to get familiar with a foreign language, with plenty to explore for offbeat travellers. I spent my days in Aberdeen and Edinburgh walking everywhere, checking out old churches, urban parks, edgy neighborhoods and hipster cafes. Renting a car or joining a group tour is necessary to explore much of the countryside, but I found that the Lake District was a beautiful exception – the town of Keswick is accessible by train and bus, and is a great base for incredible hikes in the surrounding Cumbrian Mountains.

Solo travel recommendations for the UK:

Visa: Apply for a UK visa at VFS UK; the regular tourist visa takes atleast 14 working days, sometimes longer, so give yourself plenty of time.

Stay: Find bed and breakfasts, and old country hotels across Britain, on booking.com. If you’re not signed up yet, register with my referral to get 10$ off your first stay.

Also read: Autumn, Adventure and Artful Living in Aberdeeshire, Scotland

Guatemala

Best solo travel destination for: Mature solo travellers; rugged beauty; cultural immersion

Hate saying goodbye to Guatemala.

I’ve perhaps never been as nervous embarking on a solo adventure as I was boarding my flight to Guatemala – my first time in Central America. But those solo travel fears were soon dispelled in the quaint town of Antigua, in the home of a Mayan family in an obscure town where I learnt Spanish and by the stupendous beauty of Lake Atitlan. I’ve been so intrigued by what survives of the Mayan culture and so delighted by the basic staple food (beans, rice, plantains, cacao, avocados) that I’ve been back for long periods twice since. I recommend Guatemala for experienced solo travellers because you must learn some Spanish to get by, know when to trust your gut, and figure out the country once you go beyond the worn-out tourist trail.

Solo travel recommendations for Guatemala:

Visa: Indian passport holders get visa-free access to Guatemala with a valid and used US visa.

Stay: Check out my fav Airbnbs across Central America.

Transport: The popular tourist spots in Guatemala are connected by shuttles, while other places are accessible by bus.

Learn Spanish: Learning Spanish is a must while travelling in Guatemala; very few locals are able to understand English. I learnt Spanish at the pretty remote Bio Itza School in the village of San Jose, and then again from private Mayan tutor Rebeca along Lake Atitlan.

Also read: What Solo Travel Has Taught Me About the World – And Myself

Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India

Best solo travel destination for: First solo trip; mountains; going off the grid; volunteering

The stark beauty of Spiti.

The Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh is where my love affair with solo travel began. I still remember my first lonely night in a shabby room in Shimla with some clarity. I had no idea what I was doing, why I was travelling alone, what it was going lead to. But all those questions were dispelled as we drove along winding roads to arrive in one of the most spectacular and fascinating regions of India. Back in 2011, Spiti was a trip of firsts for me – volunteer traveling, hitch-hiking, sleeping under the Milky Way and learning about sustainable tourism. My time volunteering with Spiti Ecosphere impacted me so deeply that I decided to quit my corporate job soon after and began charting a different life for myself.

Solo travel recommendations for Spiti, Himachal Pradesh:

Getting there: Take the overnight HPTDC Volvo bus from Delhi to Manali, spend a night or two to acclimatise, then take a shared taxi to Kaza.

Traveling in Spiti: I highly recommend traveling with Spiti Ecosphere – their “life as a local” trip is one I want to try myself. You can also base yourself in Kaza for a while and volunteer with them.

The “I Love Spiti” campaign: Last year, I partnered with Spiti Ecosphere and fellow volunteers to launch “I Love Spiti” – a campaign against plastic bottled water in Spiti. Consider volunteering in Spiti to take this campaign to the next level!

Also read: Solo Travel Moments That Left Me Scared Shitless

Bahrain

Best solo travel destination for: Experienced solo travellers; culture

With a local friend in Bahrain.

Many countries in the Middle East are shrouded in controversy and oppression, and having heard horror stories from close friends, I’d probably avoid many of them, especially as a solo female traveller. Bahrain (and Oman and Jordan) are exceptions though – some of the more liberal, peaceful ones in the region. I didn’t travel solo in Jordan and I’m yet to explore Oman, but Bahrain has occupied a warm space in my heart since I travelled there a few years ago. Public transport is non-existent and taxis expensive, so I ended up hitch-hiking with the friendliest souls, hanging out in trendy shisha cafes, having heart-to-heart conversations with locals and even finding some surprising Indian connections.

Solo travel recommendations for Bahrain:

Visa: Bahrain offers visa on arrival for Indian passport holders.

Stay: I stayed at a hotel, but in retrospect, would choose an Airbnb or guesthouse in or close to the trendy Adliya neighborhood.

Getting around: Getting around within Bahrain without a car is challenging. I managed with walking, hitch-hiking, being driven around with new friends and the rare taxi.

Also read: Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Your Travel Dreams in 2018

North Goa (interiors), India

Best solo travel destination for: First solo trip; vegan food

The sleepy interiors of north Goa.

I’ve never been drawn to the beaches of Goa – often full of boisterous crowds, aggressive drug peddlers and underwhelming food. But the interiors of Goa have continued to delight me for years now, thanks to my earliest discoveries with my Goan hosts Raquel and Roberto. Theirs is not the Goa you read or hear about otherwise – no beaches, no loud parties, alcohol is not the centre of attraction. Theirs is a Goa of sleepy villages, pristine backwaters, lush paddies and the susegad (content) life. One that you have to experience yourself to believe.

Solo travel recommendations for Goa:

Stay: Stay at Cancio’s House for an authentic Goan experience in the interiors of North Goa on a budget.

Do: See my alternative travel guide to Goa, authentic Goan food to try and offbeat ways to experience Goa.

Also read: Offbeat, Incredible and Sustainable: These Travel Companies Are Changing the Way You Experience India

Germany

Best solo travel destination for: Nature; postcard villages; solitude

Postcard villages in Hessen, Germany.

Ever since I got over my misconceptions of Germany on my first Euro trip (no, most Germans are not uptight and the beer’s fab but there’s so much more to the country), I’ve explored several parts of Germany – a lot of it solo. I love the wine traditions along the River Rhine, the Christmas Markets across the country, the forested countryside of Hessen, the waterways of Spreewald, the lost-in-time villages of Southwest Germany and the stellar beauty of the German Alps in Berchtesgaden National Park. Equally, I love the conscious living embraced by many locals, the long train journeys on the Deutsche Bahn (seriously, when will India catch up?) and the fact that I’m never thinking twice about my safety.

Solo travel recommendations for Germany:

Getting there:Lufthansa offers direct flights from India to Munich and Frankfurt.

Visa: Apply for a Schengen visa at VFS Germany in India.

First time to Germany: See my tips to plan your first trip to Germany.

What are some unusual places around the world you’ve travelled solo? Which were your favorites and why?

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Order a copy of my bestselling book, The Shooting Star, on Amazon or Flipkart.

Unusual Solo Travel Destinations to Feed Your Adventurous Spirit. published first on https://airriflelab.tumblr.com

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