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Paris’s Eiffel Tower ticket price increased by 20 percent to meet the maintenance cost

In a bid to meet the maintenance cost, the Eiffel Tower in Paris has increased its ticket price. This gorgeous 330 m tall monument is among the world's most visited monuments and attracts millions every year. But sadly the cost of maintaining the tower has gone up to unprecedented heights, which lead to recent adjustments in ticket prices So now those visiting Eiffel Tower in Paris, will have to pay €35 (INR 3,127) for admission, marking a 20% increase from the previous €29.10 (INR 2,600) fee. This price hike applies across all ticket types and is intended to stabilise the financial health of the Société d'Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), the public entity managing the iconic landmark. The decision comes amidst financial turbulence created by long shutdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted SETE's revenue streams. The tower's closure in February due to a labor dispute underscored deeper economic challenges. Unionized staff halted operations earlier in December 2023, coinciding with the centenary of Gustave Eiffel's death. Despite these issues, the Eiffel Tower continues to attract global tourists. In 2023, the monument welcomed a record 6.3 million visitors, the highest since 2015. However, SETE, predominantly owned by the City of Paris, faced a staggering financial shortfall, with revenues plummeting fourfold to €25 million in 2020 compared to €99 million the previous year. Compounding financial pressures are escalating maintenance costs, exceeding €130 million, created by delays in critical refurbishment projects. Originally, Gustave Eiffel mandated the tower's repainting every seven years to preserve its structural integrity. However, the 20th repainting cycle commenced in 2020, eleven years overdue, due to funding and logistical challenges. As SETE and Paris City Hall face these challenges, the recent price hike aims to aid financial resilience while ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at this enduring symbol of engineering prowess and artistic grandeur. Also, Paris is all set to host Paris Olympics 2024. The 2024 Summer Olympics, formally titled the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad and widely referred to as Paris 2024, are set to be held as a global multi-sport event from July 26 to August 11.

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This European country is the best Schengen alternative for Indian passport holders; know all details

For Indian passport holders facing Schengen visa delays this summer, Georgia emerges as an easier alternative for a holiday destination, provided an e-visa application is processed successfully through patience and strategic timing. Georgia attracts travellers for its seamless visa process for those holding Schengen or Japan visas, and has direct flights from Delhi. Georgia, straddling both Europe and Asia, offers a unique experience distinct from both continents. This former Soviet republic is both a revelation and a mystery to travellers opting to explore beyond Europe or Southeast Asia. Indian passport holders can enter Georgia visa-free if they possess a valid Schengen or Japan visa. For others, an e-visa can be obtained through the Georgian Government’s immigration portal. The e-visa application process, although seemingly straightforward, requires patience due to frequent errors at the payment gateway stage. After overcoming the initial application hurdle, applicants need to dedicate sufficient time for the visa to process, considering the high rejection rate of 72%. Applicants usually receive a revert within five working days, and in case of rejection, a new application can be started within ten days. You can also book a low-cost airline that offers direct flights from Delhi to Tbilisi three times a week. Upon landing at Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport, Indian travellers may feel apprehensive given reports of seemingly arbitrary deportations of Indians. However, passing through immigration with a Schengen or Japan visa generally ensures a smooth journey. Once out of the airport, the crisp Tbilisi air greets travellers, with temperatures markedly cooler than in Delhi. The city centre is only a 25 min drive from the airport and is easily accessible. Tbilisi is known for its hilly landscapes, historic old town, and key landmarks such as the Freedom Square and Shota Rustaveli Avenue. Throughout Tbilisi, travellers encounter warm, hospitable locals. A short drive from the capital leads to the Jvari Monastery, situated atop the 653 m Jvari mount. From here, visitors can view the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers and overlook Mtskheta, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Iberia. In Georgia, wine holds a significant cultural and historical value. The Kakheti region houses ancient vineyards and is recognized as the birthplace of winemaking, with early evidence dating back 8,000 years. The qvevri, an earthen pot used to store wine underground, was invented here, maintaining the wine's flavour unlike previous storage methods in animal-leather cases. In short, Georgia has endless options to keep you occupied, and is affordable too. Tbilisi, the capital, serves as a primary tourist destination due to its accessibility and extensive attractions. Batumi, located on the Black Sea coast, is another popular spot, known for the moving metal sculptures of star-crossed lovers Ali and Nino. Other notable destinations in Georgia include Kutaisi, the ski resort Mestia, the 'City of Love' Sighnaghi, the renowned wine region Kakheti, and Mtskheta. The Georgian Military Highway offers a picturesque route through Kazbegi National Park, showcasing the Caucasus Mountains’ beauty. For Indian travellers, Georgia requires an e-visa unless holding a US, UK, Schengen, or Japan visa for visa-free entry. E-visa applications take five days to process, and due to high rejection rates, ample time should be allocated for potential reapplications. Each application costs 20 USD plus a service fee. May to June and September to October are ideal months to visit Georgia, avoiding extreme summer heat and winter cold.

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The oldest beach on Earth was likely from this state of India

There is no denying the fact that scientists and researchers play a crucial role in deciphering many of our planet's evolutionary puzzles. Among these mysteries is the origin of beaches and landmasses, a topic that has continually evolved over time.As per a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences by a team of Indian, Australian, and South African scientists, the first continents on Earth emerged approximately 3.2 billion years ago. This finding contradicts previous studies that suggested continents appeared only 2.5 billion years ago. What's particularly intriguing is the claim by researchers that the world's first beach might have arisen in the Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, India. Lead scientist Priyadarshi Chowdhury from Monash University in Australia focused on studying sedimentary rocks from the Singhbhum craton (a stable part of a continental crust). By analysing the chemical structure of zircon grains within these ancient rocks, dating back 3.1 billion years, the team inferred their origins from rivers and oceans, suggesting the presence of continental land at that time. They concluded that the Singhbhum craton rose above sea level approximately 3.3 to 3.2 billion years ago, possibly marking one of Earth's oldest beaches. According to reports, evidence was found in the form of sandstones in Singhbhum, bearing geological signatures of ancient beaches dating back 3.2 billion years. Contrary to the widely held belief that plate tectonics drove landmass formation, the study suggests that magma injections from Earth's depths played a significant role in creating the first continents in this region. The scientists explained in their study, "While debated, it's broadly agreed upon that continents began emerging above sea level nearly 2.5 billion years ago due to plate tectonics. Here, we integrate the igneous and sedimentary history of Archean cratons to demonstrate that stable continental landmasses started to emerge 3.3 to 3.2 billion years ago, over 700 million years earlier than previously thought." This groundbreaking research pushes back the timeline for continental formation by 700 million years, offering deeper insights into Earth's evolution and its relationship with the atmosphere and oceans, crucial in the context of ongoing climate change challenges. Until now, the prevailing understanding placed the age of continents at around 2.5 billion years. However, this recent study by scientists from India, Australia, and South Africa suggests an earlier emergence by approximately 700 million years. The lead scientist published these findings in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlighting that the first continents indeed formed nearly 3.2 billion years ago, with evidence discovered in Jharkhand, India.

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From Kanatal to Chitkul, 5 offbeat hill stations in North India to beat the heat

North India has some of the most beautiful hill stations that offer a serene escape from the sweltering summer heat. However, to get respite from the summer heat, people have been thronging popular hill destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Nainital, turning them overcrowded. In this case, it’s wise to turn toward the offbeat hill stations that also provide a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty. To sort this for you, here are five hidden gems in North India where you can enjoy a peaceful retreat and beat the heat. Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh Chitkul is the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the Kinnaur district at an altitude of 3,450 m, Chitkul offers breathtaking views of the Baspa River and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The village is known for its rustic charm, wooden houses, and vibrant apple orchards. The temperature remains cool throughout the year, making it an ideal summer getaway. Hiking, exploring local temples, and savoring fresh trout are some of the activities you can indulge in here. Shoja, Himachal Pradesh Tucked away in the Seraj Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Shoja is a small village that promises an enchanting escape. Located at an altitude of 2,692 m, this lesser-known hill station is surrounded by dense forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron. The serene environment, coupled with panoramic views of the Himalayas, makes Shoja a perfect spot for nature lovers and peace seekers. A visit to the nearby Jalori Pass and Serolsar Lake is a must. The area is also great for bird watching and short treks. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand Munsiyari is a charming hill station located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Situated at an elevation of 2,298 m, Munsiyari offers spectacular views of the Panchachuli peaks. This offbeat destination is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts, with popular treks leading to Milam Glacier, Ralam Glacier, and Nanda Devi Temple. The cool climate, lush green landscapes, and rich cultural heritage of the local tribes add to the allure of Munsiyari. Kanatal, Uttarakhand Kanatal, a quaint village in Uttarakhand, is a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Located at an altitude of 2,590 m, Kanatal is surrounded by apple orchards, pine forests, and meadows. The pleasant weather and serene environment make it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Adventure activities like camping, trekking, and rappelling are popular among visitors. Kausani, Uttarakhand Kausani, a picturesque hill station in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, is known for its stunning vistas of the Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks. Situated at an altitude of 1,890 m, Kausani features cool climate and lush green tea gardens, which make it a perfect summer retreat. Explore the Anasakti Ashram, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, and the Baijnath Temple complex, which boasts intricate stone carvings. The serene atmosphere and natural beauty of Kausani offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

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Eastern India’s biggest tourism fair answers all your travel queries

The three-day fest at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra is the 12th edition of the event. The fest is supported by the Union tourism ministry. Bihar, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh are the partner states. Pranav Prakash, regional director east, ministry of tourism, eastern regional office, was present at the opening ceremony on Friday. More than 70 stalls set up by different tour operators were buzzing throughoutthe day. Air travel data show that domestic travel has already shaken off the Covid scare. At the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, the operators said the demand for international trips was also back with a bang. Europe, Egypt and Vietnam were among the sought-after destinations, they said. Soumendu Ghosh, a Dum Dum resident, had come to the venue with his niece, Muskan Singh. “We are planning a family trip to Europe this Puja. We talked to multiple operators. It is good to have many options under one roof,” said Ghosh. Samim Halder, who came with his wife Afsana and two-year-old daughter Suzzain, was also planning to visit Europe in October. “I will take detailed plans from as many operators as possible and then compare them minutely before making the next move. This is going to be our first foreign trip. I have to make sure it is worth every penny,” said Halder, who came from Metiabruz. Every stall had visitors, most of them planning a Puja trip. The operators had pamphlets for customised trips. Mainak Chakraborty, who came from Naktala, loves visiting forests with a group of friends. “We are planning to visit Madhya Pradesh this year, just after the Puja,” said Chakraborty, who visited Kaziranga last summer. “United by a shared goal of promoting tourism and driving economic growth, the diverse group of stakeholders have come together to enhance the overall experience of the visitors and take them to their dream destinations, this Puja vacation,” the organisers said.

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India market ranked on top for Visit Maldives in 2023; roadshow in pipeline this year

Indian travel market was ranked as the best performing market in 2023, the statistics by Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (Visit Maldives) revealed. “India stands out as one of the fastest-growing outbound tourism markets today, and it remains a pivotal market for the Maldives,” added Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and MD of MMPRC. To further boost the travel and help regain the market position for Indian inbound travellers, Visit Maldives and Manta Air, in collaboration with key resorts within the Maldives, have announced the upcoming Explore Maldives Roadshow. The roadshow, set to take place at the Shangri-La Hotel in Bengaluru on June 26, 2024, represents a significant step in strengthening the tourism bond between India and the Maldives. The event also aims to attract more Indian tourists and provide invaluable networking opportunities between Maldivian hospitality industry institutions and the travel industry leaders in India. “This event plays a crucial role in further developing the tourism industry of the Maldives and strengthening our relationship with the Indian travel market. The roadshow aims to promote the Maldives as a top destination to the Indian market, providing a wonderful opportunity for resorts and guesthouses to meet and network with Indian industry leaders, including travel agencies, tour operators, media, and more, to foster meaningful connections,” said Shiuree. “The event will undoubtedly serve as a crucial platform for tourism industry stakeholders to connect with the Indian market and showcase the Maldives as a premier destination, highlighting the unique offerings we are blessed with.” As the travel industry continues to recover and evolve, such initiatives are crucial in driving sustained growth and enriching the travel experiences of tourists from both countries. The roadshow will underscore the Maldives as a premier travel destination, engaging over 150 top travel agents, tour operators, and representatives from both travel and mainstream media in India. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and explore the rich offerings of the Maldives. Highlighting the roadshow’s itinerary, major resort chains such as Universal Resorts, Minor Hotels, NH Collection, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, Sun Siyam Resorts, Villa Hotels & Resorts, PULSE Hotels & Resorts, AAA Hotels & Resorts, Angsana, COMO, RIU and many more resorts and guest houses are already set to participate, promoting and showcasing the appeal of the Maldives through presentations and dynamic networking sessions.

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