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International Travel Debit Card: Check Top Cards To Elevate Your Travel And Luxury Experience

Like credit cards, several providers offer international debit cards that are especially useful for people who go overseas regularly. These international debit cards have benefits including travel discounts, lounge access, incremental reward points on foreign purchases, and other relevant elements. You might be able to get a cheap forex markup and cash withdrawal cost from some of these as well. ICICI Mastercard World Debit Card: It lets cardholders receive a variety of unique discounts and benefits from partner retailers. The cardholder is entitled to a maximum of two complimentary visits each quarter to chosen domestic and international airport lounges. Users are also provided with gratis personal accident insurance and air accident coverage. The card also includes zero liability protection, which protects cardholders against unauthorised purchases or losses, as well as theft or misplacement. SBI International Debit Cards: SBI’s Global International Contactless Debit Card lets you withdraw cash from anywhere in the world. The debit card can be used to buy items and earn SBI Rewardz points. Customers would receive two SBI Rewardz points for every Rs 200 spent on dining, shopping, petrol, online payments, or travel bookings. Also, the rewards you receive on your birthday will be doubled. This debit can be utilised for more than 52 lakh merchant outlets in India and over 30 million worldwide. IndusInd World Exclusive Debit Card: The debit card provides two free passes every quarter to chosen domestic and international airport lounges. IndusInd has teamed with BookMyShow to offer movie and event tickets in a buy-one, get-one-free deal. Each quarter, the cardholder receives three complimentary tickets valued up to Rs 500. This debit card does not incur any cross-country markup fees. SBM World Elite Metal Debit Card: This card provides exceptional benefits suited to ultra-affluent customers, such as complimentary Taj Epicure membership, unrestricted airport lounge access, and privileged access to elite premium hotels, resorts, and Michelin-starred restaurants. The primary cardholder will save $1,000 (about Rs 83,000) on private jet reservations. Surprisingly, his debit card incurs no cross-country markup fees. Canara Bank Platinum Debit Card: It is intended for the bank’s NRE/NRO customers. The cardholder is eligible for a maximum of two complimentary visits each quarter to chosen domestic and international airport lounges. It also provides complimentary Rs 8 lakh aviation accident insurance and luggage insurance. The point-of-sale (POS) transaction limit for merchant outlets is Rs 5 lakh, while the cash withdrawal restriction is Rs 1 lakh each day. YES Private Debit Card: It offers a variety of features and benefits to ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs), including affluent professionals and entrepreneurs, in areas such as travel, wellness, and lifestyle. The most notable features are a 24-hour lifestyle concierge who manages extraordinary experiences such as private jets, airport limousines, chauffeured car services, e-gift vouchers from Oberoi Hotels and Resorts that can be obtained during booking, dining and spa experiences at select properties, and unlimited access to domestic and international airport lounges.

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Tamil Nadu To Launch Online Trekking Atlas For All Your Adventure Needs

Tamil Nadu's forest department is about to make your trekking adventures a whole lot easier. They're launching a brand new initiative – The Online Trekking Trail Atlas. This user-friendly online platform will be your one-stop shop for exploring the state's diverse trekking trails. The Online Trekking Trail Atlas will feature over 40 carefully curated trails, ranging from easy family strolls to challenging expeditions. Each trail will come with detailed information, including distance and difficulty level, clear travel instructions, description of the terrain and sights as well as availability of food and water. The online atlas won't just tell you where to go, it will show you as well. The website, which is scheduled to be launched in July, will have high-quality photos showcasing the beauty of each trail and informative videos giving you a sneak peek of the trekking experience. The project, budgeted at ₹4 crore, has involved collaboration with local communities, with reports suggesting involvement of over 400 guides from local tribes. This focus on local participation aims to promote responsible tourism practices and empower communities living near the trekking routes. About Trekking In Tamil Nadu- Back in 2018, Tamil Nadu had shut down all its trekking routes after a Kurangani Hills forest fire had claimed the lives of 23 trekkers and other civilians. And now, after 6 years, Supriya Sahu, the Additional Chief Secretary of Environment Climate Change & Forests Tamil Nadu took to X to announce that the government was restarting 40 safe trekking routes in the state, which will be booked online. As per reports, some of the popular routes that will be reopened to travellers include a jungle trail in the Siruvani Hills, the Parsonsvally-Mukurthi hut trek in Nilgiris, Topslip-Pandaravarai in Pollachi, Sembukarai-Perumalmudi in Coimbatore and Vattakanal-Vellagavi in Kodaikanal.

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Top travel trade shows around the world to attend this week for global travel industry leaders and professionals

July 2024 is set to be an exciting month for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, with several significant travel events scheduled to take place across Asia and beyond. These events are essential for professionals in the tourism and travel sectors, providing opportunities for networking, learning, and discovering the latest trends and innovations. In this article, Travel And Tour World will explore four major travel trade MICE events: ILTM Asia Pacific, Indonesia Aero Summit, Travel Meet Asia, and the Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit. These events promise to offer valuable insights and connections for anyone involved in international travel, global travel news, and the tourism industry. ILTM Asia Pacific: A Premier Tourism Event- The International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Asia Pacific is one of the most prestigious events in the tourism industry, scheduled from July 1-4, 2024, at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. This travel event is a must-attend for professionals in the luxury travel sector, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking and business growth. ILTM Asia Pacific brings together high-end travel brands, luxury hotels, and travel advisors from around the globe. Attendees can expect to meet with top-tier buyers and decision-makers, gaining insights into the latest trends in luxury travel and tourism. The event will feature exclusive appointments, educational sessions, and networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections and drive business success. Indonesia Aero Summit: A Key Event for the Aviation Industry- The Indonesia Aero Summit 2024, scheduled for July 2-3, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia, is a significant event for the aviation industry. This MICE event will gather aviation professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from around the world to explore the latest trends, innovations, and developments in the sector. As a hub for global travel news and advancements, the Indonesia Aero Summit will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions. Attendees will gain insights into sustainable aviation practices, regulatory changes, and technological advancements shaping the future of international travel. The event will also highlight the vital role of aviation in promoting tourism and travel, both in Indonesia and globally. Travel Meet Asia: A Road Show for Tourism Professionals- Travel Meet Asia is a dynamic road show scheduled for July 3-4, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia. This travel event is designed to connect tourism professionals, travel agents, and industry stakeholders, providing a platform for networking and business development. Travel Meet Asia offers a series of interactive sessions, one-on-one meetings, and networking opportunities. Attendees can expect to discover new travel products, services, and destinations while building valuable business relationships. The road show will cover various topics, including travel news, tourism trends, and strategies for enhancing the travel experience. Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit: Focusing on Responsible Travel- The Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit, taking place from July 3-6, 2024, in León, Guanajuato, is dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices. This tourism event brings together professionals and organizations committed to making a positive impact on the travel industry and the communities they serve. The MICE travel summit will feature a range of sessions focused on sustainable tourism practices, social responsibility, and community engagement. Attendees will learn about innovative strategies for promoting eco-friendly travel, supporting local economies, and preserving cultural heritage. The trade event aims to inspire and empower participants to implement sustainable practices in their own operations and contribute to the overall well-being of the tourism industry. Why MICE Travel Trade Events Are Very Important to Global Industry Professionals ? Attending these travel and tourism events in July 2024 offers numerous benefits for professionals in the MICE industry, tourism, and travel sectors: Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, decision-makers, and peers from around the globe. These events provide a platform for building new relationships and strengthening existing ones. Knowledge Sharing: Gain insights from expert speakers and panelists who will share their experiences, challenges, and success stories in the travel and tourism industry. Learn about the latest trends, innovations, and best practices. Business Growth: Discover new products, services, and solutions that can enhance your business operations and customer experience. Engage in one-on-one meetings and interactive sessions to explore potential partnerships and collaborations. Educational Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops designed to provide practical knowledge and skills. These sessions will cover a range of topics, from sustainable tourism practices to regulatory compliance, ensuring that attendees leave with actionable insights.

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IMD issues alerts as Mumbai braces for intensified rainfall

The India Meteorology Department (IMD) has forecasted intensified rainfall for Mumbai and surrounding regions in the upcoming week. A yellow alert has been issued for Sunday, indicating expectations of moderate to heavy rainfall, followed by an orange alert for Monday, signalling the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rains. IMD officials attribute this anticipated intensification to the strengthening of westerly winds and the formation of a trough along the west coast, which create favourable conditions for substantial rainfall across the area. Alongside Mumbai, IMD has also issued orange alerts for Ratnagiri, Raigad, and Sindhudurg districts, indicating a similar forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Thane and Palghar districts have been placed under yellow alert status for the next five days, suggesting potential moderate to heavy rainfall patterns during this period. Precautions to take during heavy rainfall: Regularly monitor weather updates and advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and local authorities. Stay tuned to reliable sources of information such as weather apps, news channels, and official websites. Steer clear of areas prone to flooding and waterlogging, such as underpasses, low-lying streets, and areas near rivers or drains. These areas can quickly become hazardous during heavy rainfall, posing risks of drowning and accidents. Avoid unnecessary travel and outdoor activities during heavy rainfall. If travel is unavoidable, choose safer routes known to be less prone to flooding and keep emergency contacts handy. Also to keep in mind – adhere to safety guidelines and instructions issued by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) or local authorities. Excessive rainfall in Mumbai is a recurring challenge during the monsoon season, often leading to widespread flooding and disruptions. The city's geographic location and coastal climate make it vulnerable to intense rainstorms, made worse by factors such as rapid urbanisation and inadequate drainage systems. Each year, heavy downpours overwhelm infrastructure, causing waterlogging in low-lying areas and traffic congestion across the city. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and local authorities work tirelessly to mitigate the impact, yet the unpredictability of monsoon patterns continues to pose significant challenges for residents and urban planners alike. Efforts to improve drainage, upgrade flood management systems, and raise public awareness about safety precautions during heavy rains remain crucial in Mumbai's ongoing battle against excessive rainfall.

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New Zealand tightens visa rules for foreign workers and families

On June 26, 2024, New Zealand implemented changes to its visa regulations that will impact certain foreign workers and their families. The new rules aim to streamline the visa application process and align it more closely with the country's economic and immigration priorities. The key change is that individuals holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, without a clear pathway to residency, can no longer sponsor their partners and dependent children for work, visitor, or student visas in New Zealand. This adjustment brings the AEWV scheme more in line with the previous Essential Skills Work Visa program. However, it's important to note that partners and dependent children can still apply for their own visas, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa or international student visas, as long as they meet the respective criteria. Additionally, the new rules do not impact individuals who already hold visas as partners or dependents, nor do they affect AEWV holders in ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles with established pathways to residency, including the Green List and sector agreements. The New Zealand Government has also confirmed that applications currently in progress for partner or dependent child visas will be assessed under the regulations in place at the time of application, ensuring continuity for affected individuals. If you had already supported your family's visa application before June 26th, 2024, you may still be able to sponsor a visa for your partner or dependent child under certain conditions. This includes situations where they already held a visa based on their relationship with you, or if their work, visitor, or student visa application was in progress before the rule change and was approved afterward. For AEWV holders in ANZSCO skill levels 4 or 5 who earn less than NZD USD 47.41 per hour, you may still be able to sponsor a visa for your partner or dependent children. In order to be able to sponsor a partner of a Worker Work Visa for your partner, you will need to show that you earn at least NZD USD 29.66 per hour, whereas for a child of a Worker Visitor Visa or a Dependent Child Student Visa for your dependent children, you will need to provide a proof of least NZD USD 43,322.76 annually. If your earnings are below NZD USD 29.66 per hour, you may be able to support a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa instead. Additionally, you could sponsor a work visa with open conditions if you earn at least NZD USD 59.32 per hour or if your job is listed on the Green List and you meet the role's specific requirements. These changes are part of a broader effort by the New Zealand government to streamline the visa application process and ensure that it aligns with the country's economic and immigration priorities.

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Change in visa rules in Australia – how will it impact Indians

From July 1, 2024, individuals applying for an Australian student visa must initiate their application process from outside the country, rather than from within Australia. This change affects holders of certain visas, including Visitor and Temporary Graduate visas, who will no longer be permitted to apply for Student visas while residing in Australia. The Australian government emphasizes that it will only consider student visa applications from offshore applicants who demonstrate a genuine intention to pursue studies in Australia. Visitors, Temporary Graduate visa holders, and other specified visa holders currently in Australia are ineligible to apply for Student visas under the new rules. However, student visa applications already lodged within Australia before July 1, 2024, will continue to be processed unaffected by these regulations. Holders of Working Holiday Maker and Work and Holiday visas are also exempt from these changes and will not face any impact on their current visa statuses. Australia's government has clearly stated that temporary graduates should plan to leave the country when their visa expires or explore job opportunities that could lead to employer-sponsored visas or permanent residency if they wish to remain in Australia. According to the recent "Graduates in Limbo" report by the Grattan Institute, 32 percent of Temporary Graduate Visa holders are opting to return to study to extend their stay in Australia beyond their visa's duration. These changes align with additional reforms scheduled for implementation on July 1 for Temporary Graduate visa holders. These reforms include notably shorter post-study work rights, a reduction in age eligibility from 50 to 35 years old, and heightened English language proficiency requirements introduced in March. Prospective students can apply for their Student visa from overseas and travel to Australia while awaiting their visa decision. However, they must possess or be granted a visa that permits entry and stay in Australia during this period. It's important to note that offshore Student visa applicants are ineligible for a Bridging visa to remain in Australia while their application is processed. Under the new regulations, holders of visitor visas are permitted to study for up to three months while their visa is valid. Individuals planning to pursue studies exceeding this period must apply for a Student visa from outside Australia. Certain visa holders in Australia, including Temporary Graduate, Maritime Crew, and Visitor visa subclasses, are now prohibited from applying for a Student visa while within the country. Specifically affected visa types include Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate), Subclass 600 (Visitor), Subclass 601 (Electronic Travel Authority), Subclass 602 (Medical Treatment), Subclass 651 (eVisitor), and Subclass 988 (Maritime Crew). Additionally, holders of Subclass 403 (Temporary Work) under the International Relations (Domestic Worker - Diplomatic or Consular) stream, Subclass 426 (Domestic Worker (Temporary) - Diplomatic or Consular), Subclass 771 (Transit), and Subclass 995 (Diplomatic Temporary - primary visa holders only) are already ineligible to lodge valid Student visa applications while in Australia.

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