Generally many Indians plan to travel even in the winter season and many of them plan to travel across the seven seas to America. This requires a tourist visa. The wait for Indians to get a US tourist visa has exceeded four hundred days and in one city it has reached almost 500 days.
This wait for US tourist visa may frustrate many Indian tourists, but a report claims that Indian tourists do not face any stress in getting US visa. Even if it is not found, it does not matter, now they are looking for other options also. These options are in relation to holiday destinations.
According to media reports, due to long wait for American tourist visa, many tourists from Hyderabad, India are now turning to other countries for their holidays. Travel agents say interest has increased in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and European favorites such as Portugal, France and Spain. Demand has also increased from visa-free countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand and UAE.
40 percent increase in bookings for these countries
According to media reports from countries such as Australia, South Africa and France in the past few days, “America has always been a favorite destination for families, especially during the winter holidays, because the weather is nice and many parents come with their children. Let’s travel.” A 40 percent increase in bookings has been seen within months. At the same time, for budget travelers, popular options like Dubai, Thailand and Azerbaijan top the list.
According to a media report, “These destinations offer affordable packages, often with travel and accommodation starting as low as Rs. Starting at less than Rs 1 lakh and they are ideal for last minute plans due to their availability and cost-effectiveness.
Impact on travel industry
Delays in US visas have also affected the travel industry. Agents reported a 70 percent drop in revenue from US-bound bookings. “Although the delay is challenging, we have encouraged people to explore new places and cultures,” said Abdul Majeed Fahim, president of AP and TG chapter of the Travel Agents Federation of India.