Latest news with #EuropeanTravelCommission
The Independent
4 days ago
- The Independent
The best mountain breaks in Europe to escape blistering summer heatwaves
While sunshine is - arguably - crucial for a successful summer holiday, its intensity is now reaching critical limits. Over recent years, temperatures have steadily climbed to unbearable levels, rendering many traditional beach destinations 'no-go zones' throughout July and August. Summer 2024 was Europe 's hottest on record, with land temperatures a stark 1.54°C above the 1991-2020 average. Already this year, Spain and Portugal have registered unprecedented highs of 46°C for June. For those who'd prefer not to burn like a sausage on a grill, finding an alternative holiday option is a priority. According to a recent report from the European Travel Commission, holidaymakers are now seeking milder destinations. Europe's mountains are an obvious choice. Heidi is one of several ski companies now offering summer breaks at higher altitudes at 20 resorts across Austria, Slovenia, Poland, Italy and France. 'We genuinely believe people are happier and healthier from spending time in the mountains, come winter or summer. While mountain resorts have cooler temperatures than the most popular hot spots in the Med, they still offer plenty of summer sunshine and swimming opportunities,' says the company's co-founder, Marcus Blunt. Here are a few of the refreshing above-sea-level breaks where it's possible to soak up sunshine and swim in freshwater lakes. Lake Bohinj, Slovenia Average summer temperature: 25°C Celebrated by Lonely Planet as one of the best wild swimming spots in Europe, Lake Bohinj promises refreshingly clear waters and mighty mountain views of the Julian Alps. Located in a glacial valley 500metres above sea level in the Triglav National Park, it's a relaxing base for hikes reached by a cable car. Explore the rapids, waterfalls and imagination-bending rock formations of the Mostnica Canyon and look out for signs of lynx, bears and wolves. Wind down at Hotel Bohinj, close to the lake, where a wellness centre features a Finnish and Turkish sauna. How: A four-night B&B stay costs from at £1,195 per person sharing, including three evening meals, flights to Ljubljana and transfers. Visit Alta Badia, Italy Average summer temperature: 18°C There are more than 400km of signposted trails in this area of the Dolomites, at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,250 metres, accessible by more cable cars than ever this summer. An Alta Badia Summer Card (€90/£77 per adult, €63/£54 for those aged 8-16, and free of charge for under eights) gives access to the lifts and it's also possible to sign up for guided hikes at the tourist board. A 40-minute hike from the Gardenacia cable car, the Gardenacia refuge offers bargain stays from €65/£56pp per room, with an onsite sauna available for an additional cost. Spend any saved pennies on gourmet meals and one of the region's famous dining huts. How: Visit Carinthia, Austria Average summer temperature: 28°C For several centuries, travellers have retreated to the shores of Lake Wörthersee in Carinthia to cool off during the heat of summer. A grand dame of the Austrian Riviera, former 17th century castle Schloss Velden now operates as a luxury hotel surrounded by elegant, landscaped gardens. A private beach gives access to the lake and motorboat rides depart from the hotel's own marina. From the lake's midpoint, it's possible to see the mountain borders with Italy to the west and Slovenia to the south. Find even more respite from the heat with a visit to Kranzelbinder gem store and fossil museum in nearby Portschach, which has an underground sensory crystal room. How: Stays at Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden start from £330 per night (two sharing), including breakfast. Visit . Average summer temperature: 18-22°C Montenegro's UNESCO-listed Durmitor National Park presents a pristine alpine sanctuary near Žabljak, the Balkans' highest town. Glacier-carved lakes, dramatic limestone peaks, and dense pine forests offer cool refuge from the Mediterranean heat. Adventure seekers can swim in the Black Lake, or experience world-class white-water rafting through the Tara River Canyon – Europe's deepest gorge. The park's 18 glittering glacial lakes, known as 'mountain eyes' are a magnet for photographers. Discover the Upper Engadine Valley's botanical treasures on an alpine adventure among fragrant Arolla pine and larch forests. Based in Pontresina, 1,800 meters above sea level, join expert botanist guides for hikes through wildflower meadows bursting with endemic alpine species like edelweiss and gentian. This sun-splashed south-west-facing terrace at Val Bernina's foot offers perfect conditions for diverse flora. There are also chances to encounter Alpine marmots and ibex along the way. Take a ride on the UNESCO-listed Albula Bernina Railway, one of the world's most scenic train routes, to soak it all in.
Euronews
6 days ago
- Euronews
Shoulder season travel surges as Europeans seek quieter holidays
European travellers are increasingly planning to go to offbeat destinations over traditional tourist favourites, while still remaining within the continent, according to new research from the European Travel Commission (ETC). 77 per cent of Europeans intend to take at least one trip between June and November this year, according to the ETC's latest report. Among these, the overwhelming majority, at 91 per cent, plan to travel within the continent. The boom in low-cost, short-haul airlines, better connections and routes, as well as ongoing geopolitical uncertainty outside Europe, especially in the Middle East, have all contributed to this shift. The Mediterranean continues to be the most popular region, with 13 per cent of European travellers choosing Spain. 10 per cent plan to visit Italy, with 8 per cent opting for France and 6 per cent going to Greece. Only 8 per cent of European tourists revealed that they were thinking of travelling outside of the continent within these six months. The research surveyed travellers across the UK, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, France and Spain. Shoulder seasons attract more Europeans Along with shunning crowded tourist hubs, a rising number of Europeans also want to travel during shoulder seasons, which are the months between peak and off-peak travel, usually spring and autumn, such as September. Although peak summer months such as July and August are still seeing strong demand, with each chosen by 25 per cent of travellers, September follows closely behind at 22 per cent. This is mainly because this less busy time of year brings fewer tourists, milder weather, more flexibility with work schedules and cheaper prices for top destinations. In many places, shoulder seasons offer quiet luxury and cultural experiences for older travellers, while also having adventure activities to attract younger tourists. Older Europeans want to travel the most Europeans aged 55 and above accounted for the strongest travel demand in the coming months, with 82 per cent planning trips, closely followed by 79 per cent of Europeans aged 45-54. 78 per cent of those aged 35-44 also intended to travel between June and November this year. On the other hand, only 66 per cent of younger travellers aged 18-24 were planning to travel, mainly because of time and financial constraints. However, despite economic volatility, 62 per cent of Europeans still intended to keep spending the same on travel during these six months, with 22 per cent likely to spend even more. The majority of Europeans planned to shell out between €1,500 and €2,000 per person per trip in this period. Accommodation expenses tend to take up the majority of travel budgets, at 32 per cent, with food and drink accounting for 24 per cent, although this differs based on age group. While travellers above 45 are more likely to spend on quality dining and comfort, under 35s look for shopping, activities, lifestyle upgrades and wellness experiences while travelling. 'Our latest data shows that, even amid shifting economic and social realities, Europeans are not willing to compromise on travel,' Miguel Sanz, president of ETC, said in a press release. Travellers are more conscious about overtourism With several well-known European destinations such as Santorini, Rome, Venice and Barcelona already struggling with overtourism, more European travellers are now making a conscious effort to find under-the-radar spots. 55 per cent of travellers are actively looking for niche places for their upcoming trips, an increase from 48 per cent in spring this year. 11 per cent of travellers also revealed that picking a less crowded spot was now their main priority. Sanz noted: 'Destinations should take advantage of this trend by promoting less crowded, off-the-beaten-track experiences, particularly during shoulder months, and by enhancing their sustainable marketing efforts aimed at European travellers.' Car travel saw a surge in popularity as well, with 32 per cent of travellers choosing it to better access remote destinations. However, air travel was still the most popular mode of transport, accounting for 53 per cent of travellers, primarily due to its value for money and speed.
The Advertiser
6 days ago
- The Advertiser
Horizons narrow for ill-at-ease US travellers
This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to It was hard not to feel for the American couple seated behind us in the long-tail boat off the Thai coast. A chatty Englishman was doing his best to strike up a conversation and it was immediately apparent they wanted none of it, especially when he asked where they were from. We could sense their self-consciousness as they muttered their answer. The Englishman said he'd love to go there but it would be avoiding the US for another four years "because of what's been happening". The quiet Americans fell silent. They might have been naturally reticent about answering questions from a complete stranger. Or embarrassed by the never-ending drama of the White House reality TV show. Or Trump supporters, tired of defending their president. We'll never know. But during their moment of awkwardness it occurred to me that being an American abroad these days would be challenging when so much of the world is appalled by the behaviour of Donald Trump and the sycophants gathered around him - and people you meet are not afraid to tell you so. That could partly explain the 7 per cent decline in Americans planning to travel to Europe this northern summer, as reported by the European Travel Commission. While the ETC said concern about the cost of travel during a period of economic uncertainty was a factor, "worries about being negatively perceived overseas under Trump's confrontational foreign policy" also played a role. The ETC found Americans from Democrat-leaning states were more comfortable about travelling to Europe than those from Republican parts of the country. And it's not just Europe. An Ipsos Consumer Tracker survey published in May found that 27 per cent of Americans report they have international travel plans in the works for summer 2025 compared to 34 per cent last year. And if Americans are dialling back their international travel plans, the rest of the world is giving the US a wide berth as well. Canada leads the pack when it comes to avoiding its querulous southern neighbour. It normally accounts for the largest number of visitors to the US during the northern summer. Last year, 20 million Canadians visited. This year, the number of border crossings by car is down by a third and visits by air are also tanking. Britons and Germans are also turning their backs on the US as a destination. Australians are also thinking twice about US trips. Last year, the US was our fifth most popular destination; this year it's slipped to seventh position. The unfavourable exchange rate no doubt weighs heavily but stories about heavy-handed treatment at the border haven't helped either. The self-imposed isolation the US is undergoing is regrettable, undermining the long-held notion that travel broadens the mind. I wonder where those two Americans in the long-tail boat are now. And whether their minds were broadened by their experiences in a foreign land, where smiling is good manners and respect ingrained. Hopefully, they shared those values when they got home. HAVE YOUR SAY: Would you be embarrassed if you were an American travelling overseas in 2025? Do you know any Americans who feel shame at the direction their country is taking? And if you're one of Echidna's handful of American readers, have you changed your international travel plans? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - Nationals leader David Littleproud has revealed he is "definitely" willing to flip the party's support for a 2050 net-zero emissions target as he accuses the renewable rollout of "tearing families apart" across regional communities. - The Albanese government is seeking to expand the powers of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to kick MPs out of the chamber if they misbehave and reduce the number of questions Coalition members get during question time. - A group of right-wing senators who turned their backs during an Acknowledgement of Country inside the Federal Parliament have been sharply criticised. THEY SAID IT: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." - Saint Augustine YOU SAID IT: There are compelling arguments to lower the voting age to 16. But there are also compelling reasons not to. Mark supports the idea: "The young adults of today do inherit the outcomes of government policy; they do work and pay taxes, they tend to care more about the environment on balance than older people, they tend to care more about love and issues like the treatment of refugees. If they get it right then it has the potential to make change in the political landscape." Not Murray, who suggests: "If they honestly want to improve politics they should raise the voting age to 30." Patricia writes: "A massive yes to civics education, although I prefer the term involvement. Having campaigned for community independents, I have seen the enthusiasm of people who realise they can become part of the political process. Even one-off community action, writing to or meeting with local representatives is a learning and empowering experience. People shouldn't feel that they can tick a box, walk away then complain about issues and do nothing." "When the question of voting at 16 was raised with my kids, the 18- and 10-year-old opposed it vehemently because 'they don't know enough' and the 16-year-old thought she would like to be able to vote, but 'not everyone else because they're idiots'," writes Wendy. This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to It was hard not to feel for the American couple seated behind us in the long-tail boat off the Thai coast. A chatty Englishman was doing his best to strike up a conversation and it was immediately apparent they wanted none of it, especially when he asked where they were from. We could sense their self-consciousness as they muttered their answer. The Englishman said he'd love to go there but it would be avoiding the US for another four years "because of what's been happening". The quiet Americans fell silent. They might have been naturally reticent about answering questions from a complete stranger. Or embarrassed by the never-ending drama of the White House reality TV show. Or Trump supporters, tired of defending their president. We'll never know. But during their moment of awkwardness it occurred to me that being an American abroad these days would be challenging when so much of the world is appalled by the behaviour of Donald Trump and the sycophants gathered around him - and people you meet are not afraid to tell you so. That could partly explain the 7 per cent decline in Americans planning to travel to Europe this northern summer, as reported by the European Travel Commission. While the ETC said concern about the cost of travel during a period of economic uncertainty was a factor, "worries about being negatively perceived overseas under Trump's confrontational foreign policy" also played a role. The ETC found Americans from Democrat-leaning states were more comfortable about travelling to Europe than those from Republican parts of the country. And it's not just Europe. An Ipsos Consumer Tracker survey published in May found that 27 per cent of Americans report they have international travel plans in the works for summer 2025 compared to 34 per cent last year. And if Americans are dialling back their international travel plans, the rest of the world is giving the US a wide berth as well. Canada leads the pack when it comes to avoiding its querulous southern neighbour. It normally accounts for the largest number of visitors to the US during the northern summer. Last year, 20 million Canadians visited. This year, the number of border crossings by car is down by a third and visits by air are also tanking. Britons and Germans are also turning their backs on the US as a destination. Australians are also thinking twice about US trips. Last year, the US was our fifth most popular destination; this year it's slipped to seventh position. The unfavourable exchange rate no doubt weighs heavily but stories about heavy-handed treatment at the border haven't helped either. The self-imposed isolation the US is undergoing is regrettable, undermining the long-held notion that travel broadens the mind. I wonder where those two Americans in the long-tail boat are now. And whether their minds were broadened by their experiences in a foreign land, where smiling is good manners and respect ingrained. Hopefully, they shared those values when they got home. HAVE YOUR SAY: Would you be embarrassed if you were an American travelling overseas in 2025? Do you know any Americans who feel shame at the direction their country is taking? And if you're one of Echidna's handful of American readers, have you changed your international travel plans? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - Nationals leader David Littleproud has revealed he is "definitely" willing to flip the party's support for a 2050 net-zero emissions target as he accuses the renewable rollout of "tearing families apart" across regional communities. - The Albanese government is seeking to expand the powers of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to kick MPs out of the chamber if they misbehave and reduce the number of questions Coalition members get during question time. - A group of right-wing senators who turned their backs during an Acknowledgement of Country inside the Federal Parliament have been sharply criticised. THEY SAID IT: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." - Saint Augustine YOU SAID IT: There are compelling arguments to lower the voting age to 16. But there are also compelling reasons not to. Mark supports the idea: "The young adults of today do inherit the outcomes of government policy; they do work and pay taxes, they tend to care more about the environment on balance than older people, they tend to care more about love and issues like the treatment of refugees. If they get it right then it has the potential to make change in the political landscape." Not Murray, who suggests: "If they honestly want to improve politics they should raise the voting age to 30." Patricia writes: "A massive yes to civics education, although I prefer the term involvement. Having campaigned for community independents, I have seen the enthusiasm of people who realise they can become part of the political process. Even one-off community action, writing to or meeting with local representatives is a learning and empowering experience. People shouldn't feel that they can tick a box, walk away then complain about issues and do nothing." "When the question of voting at 16 was raised with my kids, the 18- and 10-year-old opposed it vehemently because 'they don't know enough' and the 16-year-old thought she would like to be able to vote, but 'not everyone else because they're idiots'," writes Wendy. This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to It was hard not to feel for the American couple seated behind us in the long-tail boat off the Thai coast. A chatty Englishman was doing his best to strike up a conversation and it was immediately apparent they wanted none of it, especially when he asked where they were from. We could sense their self-consciousness as they muttered their answer. The Englishman said he'd love to go there but it would be avoiding the US for another four years "because of what's been happening". The quiet Americans fell silent. They might have been naturally reticent about answering questions from a complete stranger. Or embarrassed by the never-ending drama of the White House reality TV show. Or Trump supporters, tired of defending their president. We'll never know. But during their moment of awkwardness it occurred to me that being an American abroad these days would be challenging when so much of the world is appalled by the behaviour of Donald Trump and the sycophants gathered around him - and people you meet are not afraid to tell you so. That could partly explain the 7 per cent decline in Americans planning to travel to Europe this northern summer, as reported by the European Travel Commission. While the ETC said concern about the cost of travel during a period of economic uncertainty was a factor, "worries about being negatively perceived overseas under Trump's confrontational foreign policy" also played a role. The ETC found Americans from Democrat-leaning states were more comfortable about travelling to Europe than those from Republican parts of the country. And it's not just Europe. An Ipsos Consumer Tracker survey published in May found that 27 per cent of Americans report they have international travel plans in the works for summer 2025 compared to 34 per cent last year. And if Americans are dialling back their international travel plans, the rest of the world is giving the US a wide berth as well. Canada leads the pack when it comes to avoiding its querulous southern neighbour. It normally accounts for the largest number of visitors to the US during the northern summer. Last year, 20 million Canadians visited. This year, the number of border crossings by car is down by a third and visits by air are also tanking. Britons and Germans are also turning their backs on the US as a destination. Australians are also thinking twice about US trips. Last year, the US was our fifth most popular destination; this year it's slipped to seventh position. The unfavourable exchange rate no doubt weighs heavily but stories about heavy-handed treatment at the border haven't helped either. The self-imposed isolation the US is undergoing is regrettable, undermining the long-held notion that travel broadens the mind. I wonder where those two Americans in the long-tail boat are now. And whether their minds were broadened by their experiences in a foreign land, where smiling is good manners and respect ingrained. Hopefully, they shared those values when they got home. HAVE YOUR SAY: Would you be embarrassed if you were an American travelling overseas in 2025? Do you know any Americans who feel shame at the direction their country is taking? And if you're one of Echidna's handful of American readers, have you changed your international travel plans? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - Nationals leader David Littleproud has revealed he is "definitely" willing to flip the party's support for a 2050 net-zero emissions target as he accuses the renewable rollout of "tearing families apart" across regional communities. - The Albanese government is seeking to expand the powers of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to kick MPs out of the chamber if they misbehave and reduce the number of questions Coalition members get during question time. - A group of right-wing senators who turned their backs during an Acknowledgement of Country inside the Federal Parliament have been sharply criticised. THEY SAID IT: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." - Saint Augustine YOU SAID IT: There are compelling arguments to lower the voting age to 16. But there are also compelling reasons not to. Mark supports the idea: "The young adults of today do inherit the outcomes of government policy; they do work and pay taxes, they tend to care more about the environment on balance than older people, they tend to care more about love and issues like the treatment of refugees. If they get it right then it has the potential to make change in the political landscape." Not Murray, who suggests: "If they honestly want to improve politics they should raise the voting age to 30." Patricia writes: "A massive yes to civics education, although I prefer the term involvement. Having campaigned for community independents, I have seen the enthusiasm of people who realise they can become part of the political process. Even one-off community action, writing to or meeting with local representatives is a learning and empowering experience. People shouldn't feel that they can tick a box, walk away then complain about issues and do nothing." "When the question of voting at 16 was raised with my kids, the 18- and 10-year-old opposed it vehemently because 'they don't know enough' and the 16-year-old thought she would like to be able to vote, but 'not everyone else because they're idiots'," writes Wendy. This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to It was hard not to feel for the American couple seated behind us in the long-tail boat off the Thai coast. A chatty Englishman was doing his best to strike up a conversation and it was immediately apparent they wanted none of it, especially when he asked where they were from. We could sense their self-consciousness as they muttered their answer. The Englishman said he'd love to go there but it would be avoiding the US for another four years "because of what's been happening". The quiet Americans fell silent. They might have been naturally reticent about answering questions from a complete stranger. Or embarrassed by the never-ending drama of the White House reality TV show. Or Trump supporters, tired of defending their president. We'll never know. But during their moment of awkwardness it occurred to me that being an American abroad these days would be challenging when so much of the world is appalled by the behaviour of Donald Trump and the sycophants gathered around him - and people you meet are not afraid to tell you so. That could partly explain the 7 per cent decline in Americans planning to travel to Europe this northern summer, as reported by the European Travel Commission. While the ETC said concern about the cost of travel during a period of economic uncertainty was a factor, "worries about being negatively perceived overseas under Trump's confrontational foreign policy" also played a role. The ETC found Americans from Democrat-leaning states were more comfortable about travelling to Europe than those from Republican parts of the country. And it's not just Europe. An Ipsos Consumer Tracker survey published in May found that 27 per cent of Americans report they have international travel plans in the works for summer 2025 compared to 34 per cent last year. And if Americans are dialling back their international travel plans, the rest of the world is giving the US a wide berth as well. Canada leads the pack when it comes to avoiding its querulous southern neighbour. It normally accounts for the largest number of visitors to the US during the northern summer. Last year, 20 million Canadians visited. This year, the number of border crossings by car is down by a third and visits by air are also tanking. Britons and Germans are also turning their backs on the US as a destination. Australians are also thinking twice about US trips. Last year, the US was our fifth most popular destination; this year it's slipped to seventh position. The unfavourable exchange rate no doubt weighs heavily but stories about heavy-handed treatment at the border haven't helped either. The self-imposed isolation the US is undergoing is regrettable, undermining the long-held notion that travel broadens the mind. I wonder where those two Americans in the long-tail boat are now. And whether their minds were broadened by their experiences in a foreign land, where smiling is good manners and respect ingrained. Hopefully, they shared those values when they got home. HAVE YOUR SAY: Would you be embarrassed if you were an American travelling overseas in 2025? Do you know any Americans who feel shame at the direction their country is taking? And if you're one of Echidna's handful of American readers, have you changed your international travel plans? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - Nationals leader David Littleproud has revealed he is "definitely" willing to flip the party's support for a 2050 net-zero emissions target as he accuses the renewable rollout of "tearing families apart" across regional communities. - The Albanese government is seeking to expand the powers of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to kick MPs out of the chamber if they misbehave and reduce the number of questions Coalition members get during question time. - A group of right-wing senators who turned their backs during an Acknowledgement of Country inside the Federal Parliament have been sharply criticised. THEY SAID IT: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." - Saint Augustine YOU SAID IT: There are compelling arguments to lower the voting age to 16. But there are also compelling reasons not to. Mark supports the idea: "The young adults of today do inherit the outcomes of government policy; they do work and pay taxes, they tend to care more about the environment on balance than older people, they tend to care more about love and issues like the treatment of refugees. If they get it right then it has the potential to make change in the political landscape." Not Murray, who suggests: "If they honestly want to improve politics they should raise the voting age to 30." Patricia writes: "A massive yes to civics education, although I prefer the term involvement. Having campaigned for community independents, I have seen the enthusiasm of people who realise they can become part of the political process. Even one-off community action, writing to or meeting with local representatives is a learning and empowering experience. People shouldn't feel that they can tick a box, walk away then complain about issues and do nothing." "When the question of voting at 16 was raised with my kids, the 18- and 10-year-old opposed it vehemently because 'they don't know enough' and the 16-year-old thought she would like to be able to vote, but 'not everyone else because they're idiots'," writes Wendy.
Arab Times
21-07-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Big News for Indians: Get Longer Stay Visas in Europe — Here's What You Need to Know
KUWAIT, July 21: In a significant shift for global mobility, the Schengen Area, Europe's passport-free travel zone, is beginning to reward good behavior. Frequent, rule-abiding travelers can now receive longer-term, multiple-entry Schengen visas, starting at six months and extending up to five years. The move marks a turning point in how Europe handles visa policy for what officials are calling 'trusted travelers.' Indians Leads the Way with 2-Year Visas Under New 'Cascade' System For Indian it has already been implemented the so-called "cascade visa system" as of April 2025, offering two-year multiple entry visas of 90 days stay per visit to repeat travelers with clean immigration records. Those maintaining good standing may eventually qualify for five-year multi-entry visas, allowing far more flexibility for travel, study, or business within the EU. It's a reward for reliability — and a big win for Indian passport holders tired of repetitive paperwork and unpredictable approvals. What's Behind the Policy Shift? The European Union is aiming to boost tourism, streamline bureaucracy, and encourage smoother business and academic exchanges. Officials note that trust builds over time, and regular travellers with consistent visa histories are now seen as low-risk — and worth fast-tracking. Recent reports from the European Travel Commission show an 18% surge in arrivals from countries where visa rules were relaxed, indicating the strategy may be paying off. Who's Likely to Benefit Next? While Gulf citizens already enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Zone, the latest developments could signal wider benefits for others — particularly nationals in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, where short-stay Schengen visa applications remain high. Key factors likely to influence who gets access next include: High volumes of low-risk travellers Strong trade or diplomatic relations with the EU Active cultural, academic, or diaspora ties across Europe Here is How to Boost Your Chances Travellers hoping to benefit from future relaxations should start building their case now: Check your country's visa status regularly with Schengen states Maintain a clean travel record — no overstays, no violations Use existing short-stay visas responsibly to increase trust Bottom Line: A Window into the Future of Global Travel The EU's new visa flexibility isn't just a bureaucratic update — it's a signal that global travel may soon favour those who travel smart, not just often. With India as a test case, the Schengen zone's evolving approach may soon open the doors wider for millions of non-EU nationals seeking hassle-free European access. And if you're one of the many tired of reapplying every time you want to explore Europe? This could be your ticket to a smoother, longer journey.
The Independent
07-07-2025
- The Independent
The best mountain breaks across Europe to escape blistering summer heatwaves
While sunshine is - arguably - crucial for a successful summer holiday, its intensity is now reaching critical limits. Over recent years, temperatures have steadily climbed to unbearable levels, rendering many traditional beach destinations 'no-go zones' throughout July and August. Summer 2024 was Europe 's hottest on record, with land temperatures a stark 1.54°C above the 1991-2020 average. Already this year, Spain and Portugal have registered unprecedented highs of 46°C for June. For those who'd prefer not to burn like a sausage on a grill, finding an alternative holiday option is a priority. According to a recent report from the European Travel Commission, holidaymakers are now seeking milder destinations. Europe's mountains are an obvious choice. Heidi is one of several ski companies now offering summer breaks at higher altitudes at 20 resorts across Austria, Slovenia, Poland, Italy and France. 'We genuinely believe people are happier and healthier from spending time in the mountains, come winter or summer. While mountain resorts have cooler temperatures than the most popular hot spots in the Med, they still offer plenty of summer sunshine and swimming opportunities,' says the company's co-founder, Marcus Blunt. Here are a few of the refreshing above-sea-level breaks where it's possible to soak up sunshine and swim in freshwater lakes. Lake Bohinj, Slovenia Average summer temperature: 25°C Celebrated by Lonely Planet as one of the best wild swimming spots in Europe, Lake Bohinj promises refreshingly clear waters and mighty mountain views of the Julian Alps. Located in a glacial valley 500metres above sea level in the Triglav National Park, it's a relaxing base for hikes reached by a cable car. Explore the rapids, waterfalls and imagination-bending rock formations of the Mostnica Canyon and look out for signs of lynx, bears and wolves. Wind down at Hotel Bohinj, close to the lake, where a wellness centre features a Finnish and Turkish sauna. How: A four-night B&B stay costs from at £1,195 per person sharing, including three evening meals, flights to Ljubljana and transfers. Visit Alta Badia, Italy Average summer temperature: 18°C There are more than 400km of signposted trails in this area of the Dolomites, at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,250 metres, accessible by more cable cars than ever this summer. An Alta Badia Summer Card (€90/£77 per adult, €63/£54 for those aged 8-16, and free of charge for under eights) gives access to the lifts and it's also possible to sign up for guided hikes at the tourist board. A 40-minute hike from the Gardenacia cable car, the Gardenacia refuge offers bargain stays from €65/£56pp per room, with an onsite sauna available for an additional cost. Spend any saved pennies on gourmet meals and one of the region's famous dining huts. How: Visit Average summer temperature: 28°C For several centuries, travellers have retreated to the shores of Lake Wörthersee in Carinthia to cool off during the heat of summer. A grand dame of the Austrian Riviera, former 17th century castle Schloss Velden now operates as a luxury hotel surrounded by elegant, landscaped gardens. A private beach gives access to the lake and motorboat rides depart from the hotel's own marina. From the lake's midpoint, it's possible to see the mountain borders with Italy to the west and Slovenia to the south. Find even more respite from the heat with a visit to Kranzelbinder gem store and fossil museum in nearby Portschach, which has an underground sensory crystal room. How: Stays at Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden start from £330 per night (two sharing), including breakfast. Visit . Average summer temperature: 18-22°C Montenegro's UNESCO-listed Durmitor National Park presents a pristine alpine sanctuary near Žabljak, the Balkans' highest town. Glacier-carved lakes, dramatic limestone peaks, and dense pine forests offer cool refuge from the Mediterranean heat. Adventure seekers can swim in the Black Lake, or experience world-class white-water rafting through the Tara River Canyon – Europe's deepest gorge. The park's 18 glittering glacial lakes, known as 'mountain eyes' are a magnet for photographers. Discover the Upper Engadine Valley's botanical treasures on an alpine adventure among fragrant Arolla pine and larch forests. Based in Pontresina, 1,800 meters above sea level, join expert botanist guides for hikes through wildflower meadows bursting with endemic alpine species like edelweiss and gentian. This sun-splashed south-west-facing terrace at Val Bernina's foot offers perfect conditions for diverse flora. There are also chances to encounter Alpine marmots and ibex along the way. Take a ride on the UNESCO-listed Albula Bernina Railway, one of the world's most scenic train routes, to soak it all in.
