Amid global flight chaos, tourists are turning to Southeast Asia
Amid the Israel-Iran conflict and the rising tensions across the Middle East, and widespread airspace closures, global travel is in turmoil. 'Chaos is an understatement,' say travel agents.
But if you're still unsure about your summer plans, there are a few destinations that remain safe for a short, stress-free getaway. 'Many destinations in East and Southeast Asia such as Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore remain unaffected by the Israel-Iran conflict and continue to be stable options for international travellers,' shares Bharatt Malik, Senior VP, Flights & Hotel Business, Yatra Online.
'Destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore witness increased interest'
Travel operators share that geopolitical uncertainty often brings with it a sense of caution among travellers. And choosing a stable destination has become more important than ever in the current times. Ravi Gosain, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators, tells us, 'Southeast Asia is benefiting from this shift in travel preference. Destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia are seeing increased interest, especially for last-minute bookings and shorthaul vacations.
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These countries offer good connectivity, fewer geopolitical risks, and cost-effective options.'
'For international travellers, preparation is key currently'
Travel decisions during uncertain times are deeply personal, but safety becomes the top Travel decisions during uncertain times are deeply personal, but safety becomes the top priority, say travel aggregators. 'It's important to stay informed by regularly checking airline priority, say travel aggregators. 'It's important to stay informed by regularly checking airline notifications, government advisories, and news updates related to one's destination or transit notifications, government advisories, and news updates related to one's destination or transit routes.
Consulting with trusted travel agents can also help one get a clearer picture of the ground routes. Consulting with trusted travel agents can also help one get a clearer picture of the ground situation and available options. We strongly recommend choosing activities/experiences and situation and available options. We strongly recommend choosing activities/experiences and stays that allow easy modifications or cancellations, so you're not caught off guard by any laststays that allow easy modifications or cancellations, so you're not caught off guard by any lastminute changes.
minute changes. Always carry essential documents, both digital and physical copies , and keep , and keep emergency contacts handy,' explains Hari. emergency contacts handy,' explains Hari.
Invest in
travel insurance
Travel insurance is often overlooked, but in unpredictable times, comprehensive coverage is essential. 'Given the current geopolitical tensions, international travellers are advised to plan their trips with added caution. Investing in comprehensive travel insurance that covers unforeseen disruptions is highly recommended,' advises Bharatt Malik. 'Travel insurance offers protection not just for emergencies, but also for everyday travel hiccups like an activity getting cancelled or a booking falling through,' adds Hari Ganapathy, Cofounder, Pickyourtrail.
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