Travel News

World Tourism Day 2020: Travel with precautions once the borders open

As Covid-19 pandemic has hit tourism industry the hardest, World Tourism Day 2020 is an opportunity to stand together and re-build a better future for all of us. We pen-down the following beautiful Countries, with their three must do things. 

Thailand

A road trip in Thailand, self-driving is one segment that will now be the first choice of most of the travellers as it gives you the freedom to design your itinerary and assures safety in the current situations. Driving around from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai, or Bangkok to Phetchabun, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai or Mae Hong Son, or Bangkok to Kanchanaburi.

Another activity would be Diving into the sea after a long break. Thailand, located in the heart of South Asia, offers miles of tropical beaches, exhilarating cultural experiences, and fantastic marine and reef life for underwater enthusiasts.

You can also enjoy some lip-smacking Thai food at SHA certified restaurants, which follow the COVD-19 safety guidelines.

Ms.-Cholada-Siddhivarn-Director-Tourism-Authority-of-Thailand-Mumbai-Office-681x1024
by Ms. Cholada Siddhivarn, Director Tourism Authority of Thailand (Mumbai Office)

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an incredibly walkable city with diverse and interesting neighborhoods – simply step out the door and explore the more than 3,000 outdoor murals, public art and incredible urban parks. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to our nation’s oldest, continually operating indoor farmers market, Reading Terminal Market, to enjoy fresh meats and cheeses, baked goods, confections and the famous Philadelphia Cheesesteak. Finally, no holiday is complete without retail-therapy so enjoy tax-free shopping on clothes and shoes at one of Philadelphia’s independent boutiques or popular large retailers, such as Macy’s department store.

Gregg_Caren_Head_Shot
by Mr. Gregg Caren, President & CEO, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau

Czech Republic

Discover Jizera Mountains in LiberecThe Jizera Mountains, located at Liberec city is an incomparable terrain and also natural and historical attraction. On your next trip to the Czech Republic, don’t forget to add Jizera mountains in your itinerary, these Mountains will simply take your breath away with their scattered peaks, forests of spruce and beech, tall cliffs, picture-perfect valleys, mountain villages and countless chapels, churches and cottages.

Plzeň beer experiences – It’s no secret that as far as per capita beer consumption is concerned, the Czechs occupy top spot in the world. The reputation of Czech beer has reached every continent, but it’s only in the Plzeň district that you can experience the real deal. From the centuries-old traditional breweries to the beer spas, this hidden gem, provides visitors some of the most extravagant beer experiences in the country.

Explore Tábor – an ideal medieval city – The founders of Tábor, who were supporters of the Czech Hussite reform movement, built it with the determination to create a new commonwealth that rejected human laws and was governed only by the law of God. During your journey in Tabor, visit the museum in the Old Town Hall, one of the most important Gothic buildings in the Czech Republic. Near the town hall you can climb the top of the local church tower, where you will have a wonderful view of the entire historical heart of the city followed by a visit to the former castle of Kotnov with its circular tower.

New Zealand

Doubtful Sound, FiordlandImmerse yourself in the vast and untouched wilderness of Doubtful Sound, the second largest fjord in Fiordland National Park. Explore the spectacular scenery in a variety of ways such as tours, overnight scenic cruises, horse treks, kayaking and rafting. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away.

Whale Watch Kaikoura, Christchurch and Canterbury – Kaikoura is a small seaside town on the east coast of the South Island, and is one of the New Zealand’s leading nature tourism destinations. Whale Watch Kaikoura is dedicated to providing a quality whale watching experience while respecting and carefully managing the use of a rare natural resource. Whale Watch is a local community trust that belongs to the Māori people of Kaikoura, who operate in partnership with their affiliated tribal people – the Ngai Tahu.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, Christchurch and Canterbury – Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand, helped Sir Edmund Hillary to develop his climbing skills in preparation for the conquest of Everest. Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is home of the highest mountains and the longest glaciers. It is alpine in the purest sense – with skyscraping peaks, glaciers and permanent snow fields, all set under a star-studded sky. Visitors can discover the lower reaches of New Zealand’s highest mountain – on an easy 10km or 3-hour return walk on the Hooker Valley track. Highlights include the Tasman Glacier Lake filled with picturesque icebergs, the glacier terminal, three swing bridges and, on a clear day, amazing views of Aoraki/Mount Cook/ They can also zip across the surface of the lake in custom-made boats. 

Mr. Steven Dixon, Tourism New Zealand’s Regional Trade Marketing Manager, Asia
by Mr. Steven Dixon, Tourism New Zealand’s Regional Trade Marketing Manager, Asia

Jamaica

Relaxing ride down a river on a Bamboo Raft is one of Jamaica’s most iconic activities and is perfect for lovers with time to spare. Experience being steered lazily down the picturesque Martha Brae River on an authentic bamboo raft for two surrounded by lush tropical paradise for blissful relaxation.

Take a night cruise on the Luminous Lagoon and witness the most spectacular wonder. Phosphorescent waters reveal the outline of fish and streaks of light as they swim around.

Witness nature adventures as you hike to the Reach Falls in Port Antonio for a blend of adrenaline rush, lush green scenery, a waterfall cascading into a refreshing emerald pool and a hidden cave. A trip into the Blue Mountains in Kingston reveals a dreamy and majestic ambience where couples can feel hidden from the rest of the world.