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New Schengen Visa rules: Know changes in travel, insurance trends; senior citizens visiting Europe shoots up by 100%

New Schengen Visa rules have resulted in a doubling of Europe-bound senior citizens, a survey by insurance broker Policybazaar.com revealed. The new Schengen Visa rules, announced on April 18, have also spurred significant changes in travel insurance trends over the past few days, including a 3-4 per cent surge in users who booked travel insurance policies, as per the Policybazaar survey. Travellers to Schengen destinations aged 70 and above have doubled compared with last year's figures. A significant rise in travellers declaring pre-existing diseases was also noted. The most sought-after add-ons for travel insurance included coverage for baggage or loss of belongings, trip cancellation, adventure sports coverage, and pre-existing disease (PED) coverage, as per the report. Manas Kapoor, business head of Travel Insurance at Policybazaar.com, pointed out a surge among Europe-bound travellers who booked long-term travel insurance, after the new visa rules came into effect. The survey noted a 3-4 per cent surge in users who booked travel insurance policies for travels that exceeded 45 days in April 2024. “This trend is expected to rise further due to the relaxed visa norms," Manas Kapoor pointed out. In the upcoming summer season, 82 per cent of Indian travellers to European countries will be visiting popular destinations like France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, and Spain, according to the survey. The survey found a 15 per cent rise in travellers to Europe who declared pre-existing conditions including Diabetes and Hypertension, compared with last year's figures. But a 40% plunge was recorded in number of travellers buying travel insurance products in Euros. The new Schengen visa regime entails a stark departure from previous rules. Previously, Indians who wished to travel to one or more European countries were granted Schengen visas for a maximum of three months. Under the new regime, Indians will be granted Schengen visas for two years, thus facilitating their entry to any of the 29 European countries multiple times. This two-year validity is further extendable by 5 years under the ‘cascade regime’. This means Indian tourists can travel and stay in any of these European countries as visa-free nationals for a longer period.

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Venice implements day-trip entry fee to tackle overtourism; when it is starting and how much

Starting this week, Venice will be introducing a pioneering initiative: charging day trippers for entry, a first of its kind globally. This measure is aimed at addressing the challenges posed by mass tourism, which has been inundating the city and straining its infrastructure. By implementing entry fees, Venice hopes to alleviate the pressure and preserve its unique heritage and environment for future generations. Starting this Thursday, which is a public holiday in Italy, day visitors to Venice will be required to purchase a five-euro (EUR 5) ticket for entry. This marks the first time such a fee will be implemented, and inspectors will be conducting spot checks at various key points within the UNESCO World Heritage site to ensure compliance. The measure aims to manage the influx of tourists and alleviate the strain on Venice's infrastructure caused by mass tourism. Venice, celebrated as one of the world's top tourist destinations, welcomed a staggering 3.2 million overnight visitors to its historic center in 2022, a number that far surpasses its resident population of just 50,000. In addition to these overnight guests, tens of thousands more flock to the city for the day, often arriving via cruise ships, to marvel at iconic sights such as St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge. However, the influx of day trippers has contributed to overcrowding in Venice's narrow streets and popular attractions, causing strain on the city's infrastructure and impacting the quality of life for residents. To address this issue, the introduction of entry tickets aims to encourage day trippers to visit during quieter periods, spreading out tourist activity and alleviating the pressure on Venice's historic center. From May to July, entry tickets will only be required on 29 busy days, especially on the weekends. This phased approach aims to manage tourist influx during peak periods while allowing visitors to enjoy Venice during quieter times. However, the scheme is being closely watched as tourist destinations worldwide grapple with surging numbers of visitors. While tourism brings economic benefits to these areas, it also presents challenges, including overcrowding, environmental degradation, and strain on local resources. Venice's initiative reflects a broader concern about striking a balance between tourism's economic benefits and its potential negative impacts on communities and natural heritage. By implementing measures like entry tickets, cities like Venice seek to protect their cultural and environmental treasures while ensuring a sustainable tourism industry for future generations. Last year, UNESCO warned of the possibility of placing Venice on its list of heritage sites in danger due to issues such as mass tourism and rising water levels caused by climate change. The city narrowly avoided this designation after local authorities agreed to implement a new ticketing system. The idea of ticketing had been discussed for some time but was repeatedly postponed due to concerns about its potential impact on tourist revenue and freedom of movement. How will it be done? Venice's mayor has assured that the new ticketing system will be implemented with minimal disruption, emphasizing "very soft controls" and ensuring there are no queues. Contrary to speculation, there will be no barriers or turnstiles installed in the streets. Instead, controllers will be stationed at key entrances, such as the Santa Lucia train station, conducting spot checks on visitors. Tourists found without a ticket will be encouraged to purchase one upon arrival with assistance from local operators. However, there’s also the possibility of being fined an amount between 50-300 euros. The "Venice Access Fee" applies solely to day tourists visiting the old town between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm, with exemptions for hotel guests, children under 14, and people with disabilities. Currently, there is no limit on the number of tickets available, which can be obtained as a QR code from the website https://cda.ve.it/en/ and are distributed daily.

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Lack of senior pilots threatens airlines’ profitability: Sky One

The shortage of senior pilots poses a significant challenge for India’s civil aviation sector, potentially impacting operations, fleet expansion plans, and profitability, according to Jaideep Mirchandani, Chairman, Sky One. On World Pilots Day, Mirchandani highlighted the looming challenges if the demand-supply gap in pilots widens further. Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) 2024 projects a quadrupling of South Asia’s aviation fleet over the next 20 years, with India’s aviation sector driving much of this growth. The region is expected to require 37,000 pilots and 38,000 maintenance technicians in the next two decades. However, with many senior pilots nearing retirement, there’s a pressing need to recruit and train the next generation of aviators. Currently, 38% of the civil aviation industry pilot pool is over 50 years old, indicating a wave of retirements in the next decade. Mirchandani warns that the potential pilot shortage could hinder airlines’ ability to meet rising travel demand, maintain flight schedules, and execute fleet expansion plans, affecting profitability. While there have been discussions about extending the retirement age for commercial pilots beyond 65, Mirchandani suggests that improving pay scales, offering increased incentives, addressing pilot fatigue, and encouraging more women to join the sector would be more sustainable solutions. Training also presents a challenge, with the path to becoming a senior pilot requiring significant time and resources. Mirchandani emphasises the need for more airlines to partner with pilot training institutes to address this issue. The Civil Aviation Ministry has taken steps to establish more flying schools across India to train commercial pilots, with the Airports Authority of India awarding Flying Training Organization (FTO) slots and issuing Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPLs). However, Mirchandani stresses the importance of FTOs focusing on quality training, safety standards, fairness in exams, and strict surveillance to nurture the next generation of Indian aviators. Mirchandani’s Pier Seven Aviation academy is offering advanced flight simulator training to aspiring pilots, aiming to contribute to the development of skilled aviators for the future of India’s aviation sector.

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Hong Kong launches one-day unlimited ride bus pass for travellers

KMB rolls out single-day unlimited ride bus pass for tourists Travellers can purchase the all-day pass via KMB’s ‘App1933’ mobile application. Alternatively, the pass is also available at any of the 19 designated sales points across the city including the airport, Lok Ma Chau bus station, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge bus terminus. To purchase the pass, look for the ‘eCoin’ section on the app. Travellers need to enter the first four digits of their passport number to complete the transaction process. Then, simply activate the pass, which will be available for use within 24 hours. Show the QR code on the app upon boarding. Passengers can pay with electronic payment methods such as VISA, MasterCard, AlipayHK, Alipay, WeChat Pay, BoC Pay and UnionPay. Those who purchase the pass in person at any of the sales points must present a valid passport to the staff. Then, they will receive a card with a 16-digit activation code. Enter the code into the KMB app to activate the pass. Hong Kong visitor arrivals increase by 40 per cent As of March 2024, the number of visitor arrivals to Hong Kong was about 3.4 million, a 40 per cent yearly increase. In total, about 11.23 million travellers have visited the city in the first quarter of the year. This is great news for the tourism industry, which hopes that the visitor numbers will return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year. With attractive initiatives and campaigns such as the new Temple Street Night Market and the monthly fireworks, now is the best time to travel to Hong Kong.

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BEST INDIAN DESTINATIONS FOR A FAMILY HOLIDAY THIS SUMMER

Best Indian destinations for a family holiday this summer Summer holidays with family in India are not only a time of bonding, but also for adventure and exploration. It's a time when families come together to create lasting memories and cherish quality time spent away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether it's escaping to the serene hills, lounging on sun-kissed beaches, or delving into the rich cultural heritage of the country, there's something for everyone. Families can embark on thrilling adventures, enjoy leisurely strolls amidst nature, indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant colours and traditions of India. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh Nestled in the Himalayas, Shimla is a charming hill station known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. Families can enjoy leisurely walks on the Mall Road, visit historical landmarks like the Viceregal Lodge, and take excursions to nearby attractions such as Kufri and Mashobra. Manali, Himachal Pradesh Manali offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and meandering rivers. Families can indulge in adventure activities like paragliding, river rafting, and trekking. The town also boasts ancient temples, hot springs, and vibrant markets. Darjeeling, West Bengal Famous for its tea plantations and stunning views of the Himalayas, Darjeeling offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Families can ride the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, visit tea estates, explore Buddhist monasteries, and enjoy panoramic views from Tiger Hill. Gangtok, Sikkim The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, is renowned for its tranquil ambiance, Buddhist monasteries, and breathtaking vistas. Families can visit attractions like Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Adventure enthusiasts can also go trekking or river rafting. Ooty, Tamil Nadu Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a charming hill station in the Nilgiri Hills. Families can explore the Botanical Gardens, take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, visit the picturesque Ooty Lake, and enjoy panoramic views from Doddabetta Peak. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu Situated amidst the Western Ghats, Kodaikanal is blessed with serene lakes, lush forests, and misty valleys. Families can enjoy boating on the Kodaikanal Lake, trekking to scenic viewpoints like Pillar Rocks and Coaker's Walk, and exploring attractions like Bryant Park and the Kurinji Andavar Temple. Munnar, Kerala Munnar is renowned for its sprawling tea estates, misty hills, and abundant wildlife. Families can visit the Tea Museum, enjoy a boat ride in the serene waters of Mattupetty Dam, trek to Echo Point, and explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Nainital, Uttarakhand Surrounded by scenic mountains and dotted with beautiful lakes, Nainital offers a perfect getaway for families. Boating on Naini Lake, visiting the Naina Devi Temple, riding the aerial ropeway to Snow View Point, and exploring Pangot and the Jim Corbett Gurney House are some of the popular activities here. The destination has a range of attractive honeymoon packages to explore while being on a budget. Some popular locations in Maldives that couples can consider are Baa Atoll, Majeedhee Magu, Ari Atoll, etc. Malé, the capital city of the island destination, is popular for its local foods and museums, which couples can explore on a short haul before leaving for the trips to their respective island where they have their stay arranged. Hence, experiencing peaceful beaches, breathtaking activities, stunning modern skylines, and global cuisines and packing a bunch of memories with the better half doesn’t demand to be an expensive affair. The dreamy budget honeymoon destinations are just a few clicks away!

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Explore romance on budget: Top 5 affordable honeymoon destinations outside India

Marriage is a beautiful commitment between two people, celebrated with rituals and festivities. A wedding is not complete without a honeymoon, an unforgettable and beautiful experience that strengthens your bond with your partner. The most cherished time to spend with the better half is a honeymoon, and sure, it must be the best experience that they witness. While the planning can be exciting, keeping the immersive experiences within budgets becomes a bit cumbersome. An economical luxury overseas experience is the best bet to maximize the quality time spent with the partner while also being light on the pockets. (Also read: Venice launches five-euro entry fee for day-trippers to ease the pressure of mass tourism ) Manoj Kumar Tiwari, General Manager, Regency Holidays, shared with HT Lifestyle the top 5 cost-effective international destinations where Indian travellers can plan their idyllic and energy-filled honeymoon. Top 5 cheapest honeymoon destinations outside India 1. Qatar Middle-East remains among the top picks for the Indian honeymoon market, given its proximity and engaging excursions. Qatar, being the most sought-after country in the region, offers the ideal grounds for couples to explore the destination, which is filled with heritage marvels and modern amenities. Doha is known for its busy bazaars, museums, and locales to explore Middle Eastern cuisine and art; couples can venture into the golden deserts to witness the extravagance of the Inland Sea. Equipped with best-in-class water sports, calming beaches, and other luxury-laced activities to explore, tailored experiences make Qatar a top pick for honeymooners. 2. Bangkok A popular South Asian destination frequented by Indian travellers, Bangkok – the capital of Thailand, showcases the country’s culture and adventure and is ideal for couples because of its vibrant nightlife, shopping centres, and more. With its ancient attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, couples can learn about Thai heritage and culture. The mouth-watering street food and rooftop diners, along with the option to even get on a romantic cruise on the Chao Phraya River, make it a top pick for honeymooners from India. 3. Sri Lanka Given its strategic proximity to India, Sri Lanka is a go-to destination for Indians. Sri Lanka’s tourism products have evolved interestingly in the recent past, with quality hospitality and activities developing throughout the country. The island country is home to wildlife, rich heritage, calm beaches, and speciality restaurants promoting local cuisines to give a momentous experience for honeymooners. Some of the popular attractions in Sri Lanka are Udawalawe National Park, Adam’s Peak, Kandy, Negombo, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, Anuradhapura, Bentota, etc., to explore whale and dolphin watching, ancient dagobas, safari adventures, tea plantations, etc. 4. Dubai Yet another Middle-Eastern gem, Dubai remains a top pick for honeymooners for its luxe and extravagant experiences. The cosmopolitan city is lined with innumerable skyscrapers, home to man-made Palm Islands and serves as a shopper’s paradise with the world’s largest shopping mall. Couples can explore the city’s charm with the desert in the surroundings to experience varied activities like desert safari, camel rides, dune bashing, etc.; the luxury yachts in the marina can also be explored for best-in-class luxurious hospitality. Burj Khalifa Lake, Burj Al Arab, etc., are popular attractions which must not be missed by honeymooners. 5. Maldives Honeymoongoers from India have it set in their minds that whenever it comes to spending the dreamy honeymoon, this island destination tops the list. The Maldives has ruled over the honeymoon market in India and the world over popularly for its bespoke hotels and resorts, seaplane experiences, clear waters, tranquillity, and, of course, the marine life and therapeutic water activities.

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