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News18
20-07-2025
- News18
Top 10 Safest And Amazing Countries For Indians To Travel Abroad In 2025
Be it chasing the aurora borealis, diving into cultural festivals or unveiling the secrets of modern metropolis, these destinations assure lovely days Safety comes first while exploring a new destination and exposing oneself to a culture unfamiliar with. One can truly enjoy their vacation when roaming and wandering fear-free in both crowded and isolated locations, apart from creating magical moments in hotels or resorts with loved ones and even in solitude. In a diverse world with myriad choices, several countries offer the perfect combination of security, adventure, and hospitality. From the calm valleys to the tech-feisty cities, Ankush Nischal, Founder, Travgreen, shares a list of 10 safest and most beautiful countries for Indians to explore in 2025. Often rated as one of the safest countries in the world, New Zealand provides the perfect environment to spend time with friends, your beloved partner, or your family. Having a genuinely low crime rate, friendly local people, and an efficient public infrastructure guarantees a worry-free travelling experience. From the breathtaking views of Queenstown or Milford Sound to Maori culture and world-class wineries, New Zealand is truly a dream come true. 2. Japan – Tradition Meets Technological Marvel 3. Switzerland – The Epitome of Peace and Luxury Jungfraujoch, Glacier Express, Swiss chocolates, scenic mountain railways, and a lot more, Switzerland remains a beauty with postcard landscapes, political neutrality, and almost zero crime. Whether skiing in the Alps is your calling, wandering through the cobbled streets of Lucerne, or cruising Lake Geneva, it is all about safety and service excellence. Its efficient public transport and multilingual populace are added conveniences for Indian tourists. 4. Singapore – A Global City Close to Home The Asian spirit remains at the center of Singapore's culture, coupled with great Western efficiency. Explore Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, Marina Bay Sands, shopping at Orchard Road, and Night Safari with a very strict law enforcement system, cleanliness, and especially the hi-tech safety monitoring systems. Singapore provides one of the safest experiences anywhere in the city. English is spoken widely; hence, Indian tourists find it easy to navigate. It indeed remains a paradise for any food lover, with both street food and fine dining on offer. 5. Austria – Classical Charm and Alpine Beauty Austria not only captivates with its beauty but also ranks high with respect to safety, health care, and public services. Places like Vienna, Salzburg, alpine villages, and the Danube River carry old-world charm with imperial architecture and musical legacy. The efficient transport system of the state, coupled with the tranquil environment, being higher in rank on public safety, makes it an extremely attractive destination for any Indian. 6. Australia – Safe Adventures and Urban Cool The land down under, with her laid-back charm, her diverse cities, wildlife safaris, surfing and diving experiences, and warm-hearted people, asks for a repeat visit from every Indian traveller. Due to very strict safety standards, especially pertaining to natural parks and beaches, tourists can rest assured of their safety. Being home to the Great Barrier Reef, cosmopolitan Sydney and Melbourne, Australia brings forth attractions for every kind of traveller. 7. Norway – Serenity in the Land of the Midnight Sun Considered one of the safest countries in the world, Norway has a low crime rate and strong community spirit. Spectacular fjords, the Northern Lights, and Viking history attract nature and history enthusiasts. Such a Nordic jewel offers a lot to explore solo, with a higher comfort level experienced by women. Norway allows them to fall in love with its scenic beauty. 8. Sweden – Modernity with a Touch of Tranquillity Owing to its safety, innovation, and beautiful natural setting, Sweden will remain one of the favourite destinations for Indians in 2025, with Vasa Museum, Gamla Stan (Old Town), archipelago tours, and Arctic Circle adventures. Stockholm is a city of intellect and environmentally friendly ideals, full of memories from the past, and although Sweden is all about countryside delights, hiking, lake retreats, and even ice hotels. Swedish people are nice and happy to help foreign tourists. 9. UAE – Luxury, Culture, and Modern Marvels UAE is famous among Indians and a place that you must visit. There are too many attractions to list, including the adrenaline rush-driven desert safari, diving in the world's deepest swimming pool, and not to forget shopping at Global Village. This destination is a powerhouse for all things glam! UAE is almost like Las Vegas, which is complemented with desert safaris, private islands, Michelin-starred restaurants, and so much more that you will wish to extend your stay here. With its high safety standards, multicultural atmosphere, and proximity to India, the UAE is perfect for luxury holidays. Stringent laws and well-maintained public areas ensure a secure environment for travellers. 10. South Korea – A Rising Star in Safe Travel South Korea's rise in tourism is paralleled to its excellent safety record and tourist infrastructure. The Indian tourists flock to the country because of its K-pop culture, ancient palaces, street food, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jeju Island, N Seoul Tower, Korean skincare and fashion tours. Metro in Seoul is efficient, citizens are courteous, and technologically advanced utilities serve to make the stay a hassle-free and memorable one. Be it chasing the aurora borealis, diving into cultural festivals or unveiling the secrets of modern metropolis, these destinations assure lovely days without any hindrance to your peace of mind. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 More The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 20, 2025, 16:10 IST News lifestyle » travel Top 10 Safest And Amazing Countries For Indians To Travel Abroad In 2025 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. 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Daily Mirror
20-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
'I saved £300 with little-known train perk that many people don't know about'
MoneyMagpie Editor and financial expert Vicky Parry explains how interrailing can be a cheap way to see Europe – if you know some savvy hacks The European rail networks are brilliant, connecting countries and making it easy to get around the continent. If you've never thought about travelling by train for a holiday (probably put off by your experiences in the UK!) then think again. Rail travel can be one of the most cost-effective ways to see a lot of Europe even in a short space of time. You just need to know a few tips to get started! What is interrailing? The rail networks in Europe offer a pass-type ticket that covers all trains, across all countries (check the website for limitations or restrictions). This means you can travel all around Europe on a single rail ticket, which is much, much cheaper than UK rail travel! Many people go Interrailing because it is a fantastic way to see lots of countries in a short space of time. You can even upgrade for special trains, like the panoramic Glacier Express, to take in amazing landscapes. You can buy tickets for a number of days or weeks. Choose from a continuous pass, which starts from the first date you use it, or a flexi pass, which counts only the dates you travel. Travel off season Travel in winter, spring, and autumn to avoid the highest prices overall. However, while tickets might be cheaper in these seasons, make sure you check accommodation too – some areas will have different peak seasons! That is, the mountainous regions which offer brilliant skiing during colder months, will have a higher demand for accommodation. This pushes up prices – so make sure you do the maths well in advance to check if it will be cheaper for your planned trip. Wait for an interrail sale While Interrail tickets offer amazing value for money at full price, there are frequent deals and sales that can significantly reduce the price. Planning your trip several months in advance will mean you can pick up a discounted ticket when one of these sales rolls around. Top tip: often, the sale means a first class ticket isn't much more than a standard, but gives you access to much better cabins and seat options. Book seat reservations off-peak You don't need a seat reservation for every train. You will need them for the high-speed trains and also if you're on a nightsleeper or overnight train. Make sure you plan these particular trips and book in advance to take advantage of cheaper reservation fees. Maximise night trains When you're travelling on a train overnight, that's a night's accommodation you've saved on! Not all trains offer night services, but they can be useful for the longer parts of your trip – especially if you're not bothered about missing some of the scenery. For example, you might have gone one way during the daytime and been able to see amazing landscapes, but then don't want to see the same on the return leg to your next journey. Check if your interrail ticket covers UK travel This doesn't apply to all trains, but some UK trains will be covered by the Interrail ticket. This can save you a lot of cash getting to and from your initial European destination – even if you are going by air to begin or return from your trip. For example, one of the MoneyMagpie team recently took an Interrail trip and found that their LNER train to and from Kings Cross and York came under the Interrail ticket. This saved them about £300 in UK rail travel – which was almost the entire cost of their first class, two-week Interrail ticket! Research the route well in advance to see if you can take advantage of these opportunities and save a lot of money getting to and from Europe to start and finish your trip. Travel light While there aren't luggage restrictions on trains in the same way as flights, travelling light will save you money when it comes to getting taxis (you won't need a large one), or being able to hop on a flight for your journey home without luggage fees. Travelling light also means you won't need to pay expensive luggage storage fees if you decide to hop off the train for a day's wander around a new city or area. Having a large wheeled suitcase isn't ideal for going around tourist areas, hiking trails, or monuments, so you'd need to store it at a luggage locker. Doing this several times across a couple of weeks quickly racks up the price. Assume you'll need to carry your bag everywhere, all the time. Include a small handbag or foldable backpack for day trips when you've got a couple of days in a hotel between rail trips, too. Download TooGoodToGo This brilliant food waste prevention app is available in so many places across Europe, and it's a great way to pick up food from shops and restaurants that they can't sell but is still good to eat. Book accommodation with cooking facilities – many people opt for hostels, as they are cheapest – or take some basic equipment with you. A travel kettle, foldable bowl, and cutlery will ensure you can make a wide range of things on the go like noodles and porridge, or even instant meals like Huel or cup-a-pasta type sachets.
NDTV
13-07-2025
- NDTV
6 Countries That Are Best Seen By Train If You Are Travelling Through Europe
There is something uniquely charming about travelling through Europe. From cobblestoned towns and snowy mountain peaks to postcard-perfect countryside, every route feels like it belongs on a fridge magnet. But what truly makes the experience memorable is how simple it is to move around. Skip the airports and rental car confusion and take the scenic route instead. Europe's railway system is one of the best in the world. It is fast, connected, and honestly, ridiculously beautiful. If you love slow travel, nature, and the idea of watching villages, vineyards and castles pass by your window, this is for you. We have rounded up six of the best countries in Europe where travelling by train is not only convenient but also a complete visual treat. And yes, your wallet will thank you too. Here Are 6 Of The Best Countries To Explore Europe By Train: 1. Switzerland Ask any frequent traveller or scroll through social media, and Switzerland will always top the list for scenic train journeys. Think snow-draped Alps, blue lakes, and villages straight out of a movie set. The Glacier Express, which runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz, is known as the world's slowest express train and for good reason. Every second of the 7.5-hour journey is worth savouring. Clean, punctual, and smooth, Swiss trains are ideal for travellers who want a front-row seat to some of Europe's finest natural views. 2. Italy Italy is not just about gelato and Renaissance art. It is also home to some excellent rail routes that show off its natural and cultural beauty. High-speed trains like Italo and Trenitalia connect cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice in just a few hours. But the journey is as stunning as the destination. Tuscany's rolling vineyards and Naples' sparkling coastline make the ride unforgettable. Most train stations are located in city centres, so food, art, and coffee are never too far away. 3. Austria Austria is often overlooked, but train travel here is smooth, scenic, and well-connected. The route from Vienna to Salzburg is especially popular for its lakes, green meadows, and occasional castle views. Austrian trains are known for being clean and efficient, and they also offer easy access to neighbouring countries like Germany and Switzerland. If you are planning a longer train holiday across Europe, Austria fits in seamlessly. 4. Germany Germany's train network is one of the largest and most reliable in Europe. High-speed ICE trains take you to major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt in comfort and style. But do not ignore the slower regional trains. These routes take you through charming villages, half-timbered towns, and wine valleys along the Rhine. The Deutschland Ticket and other group rail passes make travelling even more affordable. If you are looking to go beyond the tourist map, this is the way to do it. 5. France France has one of the fastest trains in Europe, but there is more to the country's railway than speed. Yes, you can zip from Paris to Marseille in a few hours, but there is something equally rewarding about a slower train through Burgundy's vineyards or Provence's lavender fields. French trains offer wide seats, onboard cafés, and views that belong in a film. If you are landing in Paris, it makes a perfect starting point for a rail holiday through France and beyond. 6. The Netherlands Netherlands. ( Small but mighty when it comes to rail efficiency, the Netherlands makes train travel feel effortless. Trains are frequent, fast, and well-connected. You can zip between Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht in no time, and day trips to smaller towns like Delft or The Hague are incredibly easy. Along the way, expect views of tulip fields, old windmills, and green fields that stretch forever. No need to rent a car, just hop on a train and watch the country pass you by. So, if you are planning a holiday through Europe, consider trading the chaos of air travel for something calmer, greener, and frankly, more fun. Book that train ticket, charge your phone, and let the window views do the talking.
West Australian
13-07-2025
- West Australian
From Zurich to Locarno on the Treno Gottardo, an underrated trans-alpine train
It doesn't take long for the urbanity of Zurich — neoclassical streets, medieval churches, modern apartments, graffiti-scrawled tunnels, tangles of railway tracks — to dissolve. Pretty soon we have postcard-perfect lakes, villages and mountains to admire. I usually read or work when I'm on a train, but that's rarely possible in Switzerland, a country with arguably the most scenic rail trips on earth. I'm heading south on the Treno Gottardo, which is relatively unknown compared to iconic Swiss trains like the Glacier Express. But I'm not complaining. It's a midweek afternoon during the onset of northern spring. Snow still showers many of the Swiss Alps, but there's greenery in abundance, boosted by the snow melt and sunshine, and I have the carriage mostly to myself, so I can sit back and soak up the loveliness from my window seat in relative peace and quiet. 'Danke,' says the ticket inspector, scanning my Swiss Travel Pass, an all-in-one ticket that allows unlimited rides on the country's trains, trams, buses and boats (it's available for 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days of travel and gives discounted fares for special mountain railways like the Jungfraubahn and Gornergrat Bahn). I'll use the pass again several times on my travels around Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton that I'm visiting for the week. Usually blessed with Switzerland's best weather, plus an assortment of super-pretty lakes, peaks and valleys, Ticino nestles on the other side of the St Gotthard Pass, a fearsome alpine pass rising 2106m above sea level. For centuries, it could only be crossed on foot (or by mule or horse-drawn carriage), but in the late 19th century Swiss engineers conjured the first, groundbreaking Gotthard Tunnel. Coursing 15km through the St Gotthard Massif at an altitude of around 1100m, it was the longest railway tunnel in the world when it opened in 1882 and remains a key part of Switzerland's rail infrastructure (and a link between northern and southern Europe). More than 2500 men toiled in its construction and it's estimated that around 200 lost their lives in the process. Working conditions were so bad at one point that the labourers downed tools and a vigilante group of volunteers were corralled to force an end to the strike. A Gotthard road tunnel opened in 1980, then another railway portal — the 57km Gotthard Base Tunnel — was unveiled in 2016, promising a quicker, flatter and straighter route at about a 500m lower elevation than the old tunnel. But after a freight train derailed in the new one in 2023, causing widespread damage to the tracks, it was closed for repairs for 13 months and during the interim, services were diverted to the trusty old tunnel. While I plan to return to Zurich later this week on a faster train zipping through the base tunnel, for this journey I'm happy to take the longer, slower route via the old one. The Treno Gottardo is about 90 minutes longer than the rapid trains, but it's worth your time (there are snack and beverage machines in the carriages if you get peckish or thirsty). One of the best and most surreal parts of the trip is when it ramps up to the original tunnel and navigates a series of loops in the canton of Uri, on the northern side of the alpine pass. If you look out of the window, you'll see the same baroque church — that of the Uri village of Wassen — from three different angles. Another thing I enjoy about this ride is the change from German-to-Italian-speaking Switzerland. Whereas on the north side of the tunnel, you'll hear mostly German and stop at stations with names like Schwyz, Brunnen, Altdorf, Erstfeld and Goschenen, it's a very different story and vibe south of the Gotthard. Greetings and farewells — 'Ciao, bella!', 'Ciao, ciao!' — begin to flutter through the carriage after we stop at Airolo. As the upcoming stations — Ambri-Piotta, Faido, Lavorgo — flicker on the digital screens, a conductor passes through the carriage. 'Grazie,' he says, eyeing my ticket as I see yet another palm tree out of my window. Just over an hour later, the train snakes by yachts gliding along Lake Maggiore, one of the ravishing bodies of water bordering southern Switzerland and northern Italy. The Treno Gottardo terminates in Locarno, a pretty resort town by the lake. I retrieve my luggage from the rack and check my phone as I alight the train and walk on the sun-splashed platform. In typical Swiss style, we're bang on time, three hours and 22 minutes after departing Zurich Hauptbahnhof. + Steve McKenna was a guest of Ticino Tourism and Switzerland Tourism. They have not influenced this story, or read it before publication. + The Treno Gottardo runs several times daily in both directions between Zurich and Locarno, with one-way fares from around 33CHF ($62). This train also has routes to Locarno from Basel and Lucerne. If you're looking to do lots of train travel in Switzerland, it may be worth purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass. It's priced from 244CHF ($466) in second class and 389CHF ($743) in first class for three days' travel, with better value the more days you purchase. For Swiss tickets and routes, see + For more information on planning a trip in Ticino and across Switzerland, see and .
India.com
10-06-2025
- India.com
World's slowest train: THIS train covers 291 kilometers in..., passes through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, name of the train is..., top speed...
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a Vande Bharat train service between Katra and Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. This is the first train that will connect the Kashmir valley and the Jammu region. According to Northern Railway, the train has two travelling classes — Chair Car (CC) and Executive Class (EC) — with tickets costing Rs 715 and Rs 1,320, respectively. PM Modi inaugurated the train in the presence of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, among others. The commercial operations of Vande Bharat trains between Katra and Srinagar commenced on Saturday. Passengers who boarded the trains from Katra to Baramulla, or vice versa, expressed immense enthusiasm, with many stating they had eagerly awaited the opportunity to travel to Kashmir by train. The first day of commercial operations went smoothly, as the trains reached their destinations by the evening, officials said. They added that public excitement was high, with most of the seats booked within hours of the train's inauguration. Apart from the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train, there is another train journey in the world which covers a distance of 291 km in 8 hours. During this journey, the train runs continuously without any stops. The name of the train is Glacier Express. The train passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, such as the Rhône Glacier, the high and treacherous Oberalp Pass, the winding Landwasser Viaduct, and the Rhine Gorge, which is also known as the 'Grand Canyon of Switzerland.' Here are some of the key features of Glacier Express: The train on this route passes over towering mountains. As it moves through snow and peaceful mountain villages, the train gives the feeling of being in heaven. Known as the Glacier Express, it is often referred to as 'the slowest express train in the world.' Traversing through rugged mountains, the train runs at a speed of 24 miles per hour. Due to its slow pace, passengers get ample time to enjoy the diverse landscapes and varying altitudes. The Glacier Express crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels while covering a distance of 291 kilometers. This thrilling train journey is divided into four segments. Running from Zermatt to St. Moritz in Switzerland, the train passes through the stunning Alps mountains. The two most remarkable and memorable parts of this spectacular journey are the famous Landwasser Viaduct and the Oberalp Pass. The Oberalp Pass is the highest point on this route, located at an altitude of 2,033 meters above sea level.
