Category: Blog

Russia Announces E-Visa for Indians!

Thanks to growing diplomatic relations and the decision of Russian counselors to open Russia to the world. Russian officials have announced that they will provide e-visa to Indians visiting its cultural capital Saint Petersburg and the Leningrad Region and plan to extend the facility for the rest of the country by 2021.

The facility has started its operations from October 1 and Indians can avail the services by filling an electronic application form and uploading the required digital photo. The form needs to be submitted at least four days prior to the expected date of arrival in the Russian Federation.

The type of visas available under the service for Indians are single business, humanitarian and tourist visas. These will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and the maximum period of stay in the Russian Federation should not exceed eight days.

Andrey V Fedorov, senior counselor, Consular Affairs, Embassy of the Russian Federation in India. Says, “We want to open up Russia, liberalize norms so that we get more visitors and also to showcase our history and culture to the world. We are also thinking of extending this e-visa facility for the rest of the Russian Federation by 2021,”

The e-visa facility is valid only for arrival and departure to the Russian Federation via border crossing points located in the territory of Saint Petersburg and the Leningrad Region. Air border crossing point – Pulkovo (the local airport), sea border crossing points – Vysotsk, Big Port Saint Petersburg (Marine Station), Passenger Port of Saint Petersburg, motor vehicle border crossing points – Ivangorod, Torfyanovka, Brusnichnoe, Svetogorsk and pedestrian border crossing point – Ivangorod are valid.

Foreign nationals with e-visas will not be allowed to enter other regions of the Russian Federation, with any purpose, including transit as that is not covered by e-visa service.

Officials shared that surname and name (names) are to be typed exactly as they are mentioned in the passport. In case there is full or any partial inconsistency in the information provided like – citizenship, surname, name, date of birth, passport number or in case another person’s photograph is uploaded, the entry into the Russian Federation will be denied.

The only exception shared in the case when the name of a foreign national contains more symbols than it is technically possible to type in the application form. Transport companies are authorized to check the validity of e-visas via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation website http://evisacheck.kdmid.ru.

As per the data shared, Russia has issued around 65,000 visas from its offices in New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai offices between January to September 2019.

Last year, Russia issued around 55,000 visas.

How Gold Loan Affects Your CIBIL Credit Score?

If you are in a dilemma, that whether a Gold Loan or normal credit affect your Credit Score, you first need to understand what is credit or loan. A credit or a loan is financial help that lenders give you with a trust of receiving it back in time. And credit score is a reflection of how well or responsibly do you handle your credit and your credit payments. So to the questions, if whether a gold loan or a credit influences your credit score the answer is YES.

Handling your credits responsibly and making the credit payments on time can increase your credit score showing your efficiency in handling. But on the other hand, negligence of any sort in loan payments will hurt your credit score and subsequently dim your chances of getting any loan in the future. If you want the credit facility to be available for you at all times, handle it carefully and responsibly.

To do so, you need to understand the different ways in which a gold loan can affect your CIBIL credit score.

Gold Loan Payments

Also regarded as a prime factor, making payments of the loan in time is something a lender expects. Meeting such loan obligations will affect your credit score in a good way and will boost your score substantially. If one is not meeting such obligations on time, it can also affect your credit score adversely.

This is how gold loan can affect your credit score:

Regular payments

Making loan payments at the time and even before the deadlines is essential in building a good credit score. Borrowers who pay their loan EMIs on time are considered as responsible credit users which makes them more attractive as a borrower than a person who is irregular at making their loan payments.

Lenders also prefer giving gold loans to borrowers who display responsible credit behavior, aka a good Credit Score.

Loan Default

A Loan Default is when you fail to meet the gold loan repayment obligation as per the loan contract with the lender. Even a day’s delay in making the payment can adversely affect your credit report. The delay is also reported to all credit bureaus, who then add the information to your credit report, thus reducing your credit score substantially.

Likewise, delaying the payment for 30 days attracts late payment fees and maybe a few other nominal charges. But defaulting for consecutive 90 days will get you NPA (Non-Performing Asset) label on your credit report. The title represents your in-efficiency in handing credit and bars your chance to get a loan from other lenders. Further non-repayment of the loan can get you a legal notice and auction of your pledged gold articles in the lieu of the gold loan.

Conclusion

So now you know in what ways a gold loan can influence and affect your credit score. Multiple loan inquiries can adversely affect your credit score and regular loan payments can boost it.

As far as loan defaulting is concerned, it depends on various consequences. The specifics of these consequences differ from one case to another. But on the whole, while defaulting loan you can expect damage to your credit score along with fewer chances of getting credit in the form of a loan or a credit card. It can also attract you a legal notice, late payment fees, penalties and even auction of your gold articles.

If you are a busy person and suspect that you might miss the due date of your loan payments, set a reminder on your computer, mobile. Setting a reminder can help you in maintaining a healthy payments record and thus keeping your Credit Score healthy.

Indians Are Spending Record High Forex On International Travel, Shares RBI!

Indians are spending a record amount of foreign exchange on international travel. In June 2019 alone, the spending on foreign travel as per the Reserve Bank of India amounted to $596 million – the highest since RBI is collecting data under the liberalised remittance scheme. As the overall forex spending by Indians is on the rise, expenditure done by them on international trips is increasing even faster, denoting their rise in interest of travelling abroad.

 

In June, this year the travel spends done by Indians surged and accounted for 42% of the foreign exchange purchased. In the first quarter of FY19, the international travel summed $1,594 million of the total $4,181 million in forex purchased.

 

The Reserve Bank of India categorises retail purchase of foreign currency under various heads, such as the purchase of property, travel, gifts, education, investments, and maintenance of close relatives. The second-highest recorded category has been education.

 

In 2004, RBI introduced the liberalised remittance scheme, which allowed Indians to spend up to $25,000 annually. This limit was revised to $250,000 per individual and now except for the purposes of gambling and investing in Indian convertible bonds, the money can be used for any purpose.

 

In June 2018, the stats of foreign currency spend under the head Foreign Travel stood at $381 million out of a total spend of $1 billion, accounting for 37%. Followed by Education at 25% while the share of education has remained constant, it was because of the partial restriction on work visas in the US and the UK that travel has grown sharply.

 

According to the WTO – World Tourism Organization, the number of Indians travelling overseas in 2019 will hit 5 crores, which is nearly twice the 2.4 crores Indian travellers who flew in 2017.

 

The FY19 data shared by RBI shows that out of the $13.8 billion spent by Indians, $4.8 billion (35%) was on travel, followed by $3.6 billion (26%) on education and $2.8 billion (20%) for maintenance of close relatives. Apart from this Indians also spent nearly $1.4 billion on gifts to their relatives overseas.

 

Looking forward to book a vacation or send your university fee abroad? Do it right with the Asia’s Most Trusted Company – Paul Merchants. To get in touch with experts call at: 1800-137-144.

India’s “Generation Z” – Voted Travel as Worth Spending On!

Generation Z or Gen Z is the demographic cohort of people typically born in the mid-1990s to mid-2000s. They are characterized as internet savvy since a young age and are comfortable with using new tech and social media.

A new report shows that an overwhelming majority of Gen Z in India (born after 1995) prioritizes travel spend over material possessions like car, house, and gadgets. Over two-thirds of Gen Z has already compiled a “bucket list” of places and countries in the world they want to travel.

According to the survey on the needs and wants of the next generation of Indian travelers. Nearly 79% of Gen Z Indians feels that an opportunity to travel for work is important while selecting a job and travelling in their own country opens the door to learn and discover more about themselves.

Over 68% of Generation Z voted travel as an activity always worth spending money on. “When it comes to prioritizing, ‘travel and seeing the world’ is ranked as most important by this generation in India with 81%, investing in education came on the second rank with 76% and material possessions like buying gadgets and clothes ranked the lowest at 51%. Says the survey by Booking.com

The most important aspect is learning by travel for Gen Z. In the survey, maximum Gen Z populations say that they were able to enhance their skills by learning something new while traveling and 2 in 5 – 40%, of them are going to visit three different continents over the course of next ten years.

Travelling being an important aspect, Gen Z, also comes out as an adventure Junkie population! Almost 3/4th seeking adventure activities in their travels, like bungee-Jumping, paragliding, trekking to an extreme location. Over 40% of people say they would prefer solo adventurous travel.

Are you planning to explore some exquisite destinations? Get in touch with our Travel experts and book yourself an adventurous tour to Dubai, Singapore, Thailand and more! Call 1800 137 1444 or Visit: pmlholidays.com

UAE Announces free Visa for Children below 18!

Planning to visit Dubai? We have a good news for you!

Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) – UAE has announced visa waiver for children below 18 years of age. United Arab Emirate is well known as a tourist hotspot and the latest visa waiver for children below 18 accompanying their parents for a vacation in UAE, will further boost the in-bound tourism, as per the tourism department.

 

The cabinet decision for visa waiver passed in July 2018, under which tourists do not have to pay visa fee for their children while visiting the UAE between July 15 and September 15.

 

The visa fee exemption is beneficial for families planning vacation in Dubai. The ICA, also urges tourists to take the benefit of visa waiver and plan a good getaway in Dubai. As the benefits of fee waiver will be available for tourists from 15th July to 15th September, Every year!

 

The decision is believed to be great one as the months of July to September are considered off-peak tourist season. So, this move by the government will definitely attract and encourage tourist families to explore Dubai in the summer months.

 

The summer weather in Dubai is considered harsh, but that’s not entirely true. Keeping in mind the low rush of tourists, low-cost stay and shopping, cheaper airfare and comparatively easier travel. Visiting Dubai during this period can especially leave you with good tourist experience and memories.

 

It is not just the visa fee of children that the UAE government has taken care of, the government has also announced free SIM card on arrival for tourists. Experts from the industry have appreciated the step and say that the step would contribute in increasing number of travellers from China and India.

 

With all the good news floating, of the governments newly announced policies of Visa Fee waiver for children and free International Sim Cards on arrival. The UAE’s tourism industry is forecast to grow and welcome more tourists.

 

It is a good news especially for the budget travellers. As per the data shared by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Dubai welcomed 4.75 million international overnight visitors in the first quarter of 2019, which is a 2% growth in volumes as compared to 2018.

 

The Sharjah International Airport shared that it registered over 3.156 million passengers in the first quarter of 2019, recording a growth of 9.56 per cent in passenger growth as compared to same period in 2017.  Indians staying as residents UAE are rather happy with the announcements by the government and expect more visits from their loved ones.

 

Prior the announcement of Visa Fee Waiver, family members visiting UAE had to pay around Dh350 for Visa of their children’s. Relatives of migrant residents are cheerful because of the extra savings and expect more family visits during the season. There are various other category visas available for tourists like multi-entry visa, and Express visa. The 30-day tourist visa to UAE costs around Dh365 and the 90-day tourist visa is around Dh900. Which is now saved on the part of tourists for their children!

 

Planning to take advantage of the waivers? Plan it with Paul Merchants! We can serve you with the best Dubai Tour Packages for family and with no hidden or extra cost. Avail the offer now. Call 1800 137 1444

 

Going Abroad for Studies? These are the essentials you require as an International Student

So, you’ve been accepted onto a program in foreign university of your choice, and are preparing to set off to start your new international student life. While you’re preparing all the stuff you need make sure you follow our study abroad checklist to make sure you’re as prepared as you can be for your international trip.

Whether your study abroad session is for a month, a semester, an entire academic year or a full degree, it’s vital that you think about the important things that you must opt for, like travel insurance that will help make your time abroad run as smoothly as possible.

Read on for our Study Abroad Checklist Essentials…

 

1. Passport

Of course, you’re not going to forget your passport on an International trip. But what you may need to ensure in time before boarding your new study journey is whether your passport will remain valid for the duration of your travel or not.

In Many countries, by the rules, you might require to have at least six months extra on your passport beyond your study timeline, so make sure you do have what’s required. If you do need to renew your passport, make sure you apply in time and as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays in starting your term. Passport processing time varies from country to country but generally takes six weeks or more.

 

2. Student Visa

Depending on your choice of country to study in, you will have to procure a student visa in order to be allowed in the country for your study. Often, if you are applying for an undergraduate degree at an accredited university, the school assists you with the student visa process. This is not always the case, in case you don’t get help. You may get online and search or directly get in touch with the visa department.

To do this you will need to contact the embassy of your country of study and get details. You may also need to attend an appointment as part of procuring your student visa. In the interview, you are asked to bring documentation such as a university letter of approval, valid passport, proof of funds, and etc. 

 

3. Finances

One of the most important aspects that needs undivided attention while going abroad for studies is finance.

Consider planning finances as making sure you have the money required, safe and accessible for the duration of your study travel. While in a foreign land, carrying the local currency is a must, but make sure you don’t solely rely on cash or withdraw and store large amounts of cash at a time.

One of the most common mistakes that people do is that they get their money exchanged at airports and become victims of superbly expensive exchange rates. The best thing to do id to get your currencies done from a recognized money exchanger well before time. This also gives you the opportunity to get your currency done at the best exchange rates. To get the best rates, you can get help and a price comparison through Paul Merchants.

Plan even for cash, make sure you have a bank account which grants you access to your cash through your debit card or make payments through credit cards. Most banks are internationally recognized, but you will often be charged a small fee every time you withdraw money or pay with your card. Make sure your card is valid for your travel duration and also update your bank about travel to make sure it isn’t blocked.

Once you know you are going to access your money while you are away, you must also know how to spend it wisely. Whether you’re funding yourself through scholarships, savings, education loan or something else, keeping and following a budget is one of the most hardest and important thing.

For more information about handling your student finances, you can visit www.paulmerchants.net

 

4. International Student Scholarships

If this brief talk on ‘planning your finances’ has got you worried, we suggest you to consider trying at international student scholarships to find out whether you are eligible to receive additional funding for your studies.

Your first scholarship call should be your new university’s website. Here you will find information about all the scholarships, grants and bursaries that are available and how can students apply for it. Many of these scholarships are subject-specific and/or needs-based, and sometimes exclusive to high-achieving students.

If your university doesn’t offer anything you are eligible for, applying and searching for outside funding is also an option. There are various companies, National Scholarship programs available that provide education funding.

Almost all the student scholarships are heavily subscribed to, so you should make sure to research about the scholarship and start working on it well in advance to meet all the deadlines and to increase your chance of getting one. 

 

5. International Student Identity Card (ISIC)

ISIC – The International Student Identity Card is one that should be on every international student’s study abroad checklist. The card offers discounts on products and services around the world.

Students can check online to see whether the International Student Identity Card would be useful to them and discover discounts that they offer on travel insurance, public transport, international Sim cards and a number of other useful things.

The International Student Identity Card is offered by The International Student Travel Confederation, the organization has offices in 106 countries and offers help with many travel-related issues you may face as an international student.

 

6. Travel insurance

Many may feel like Travel Insurance is an unnecessary cost, but, in reality, it is an essential part that needs to be addressed when you are planning to study abroad.

Travel insurance should be seen as a small, one-off payment that will cover you from any unforeseen event of a loss. If anything happens to you during your stay – like illness, injury, theft – the insurance cover will protect you. In many countries, it is essential and mandatory to have a travel insurance policy of enough cover, to make sure the student is protected during the study stay.

 

7. Medical

Medical wellness is another essential that needs to be covered. To make sure you’re fit and fine before leaving for studies, it is advised that students go through a thorough medical test. In many countries, there are listed vaccinations that are required to be done before boarding for studies. As an aware student one should check it with the chosen study destination and consult a doctor.

In case you have a medical condition and you need ongoing care while you’re away, make sure to update your doctors and that they send a copy of your medical records abroad.

Foreign prescriptions are not always honored, so make sure to allow yourself some extra time to collect your prescription well in advance for your trip.

 

8. Language

If you are chosen to study abroad in a country of which you do not speak the local language, fear not! Often in various European countries and much of Asia, you’ll find locals who speak at least a little bit of English. Regardless of this, you should consider taking some language lessons. 

Language lessons do not mean professional courses, there are various DIY learning options available. Applications can Duolingo, offer comprehensive reading, listening and writing features to learn the language. These comprehensive learning options can help you adapt yourself to fully immerse in the local environment and get localized.

The best part of learning is that it is available on your smartphones. When in doubt or lost in a new town, able to politely converse with locals can be of great help.

 

9. Travel

The first and foremost thing on every student’s ‘study abroad checklist’ should be the knowledge and means to be able to get around the new country and explore its culture. In order to travel smart and on a budget it is critical to book your initial flights beforehand, but also to do thorough research on how will you travel in the country.

Internet can be a great tool in this, allowing you to check and use dedicated applications, compare rates, check timings, various modes of travel and more to make the best decision. Through internet, you can also find and buy a railcard for trains or coach cards for buses.

Doing all this beforehand will surely help you save more and make a more informed decision.

If you need any more information or need experts to help you with your Visa, Travel arrangements, Foreign Exchange, and more, you may get in touch with us at – 1800 137 1444. 

 

Kochi to The Maldives – A 700 KM Ferry Ride

If you love the travel that gives you the sight of the mighty sea, involves the adventure water sports and serenity of nature then we have good news for you! The Maldives, home to the best beaches in the world will soon be tied with India in its own beautiful way. The much-awaited passenger-cum-cargo ferry service that our Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi agreed to develop with the Maldives, might soon be a reality and ready for public use.

 

As of now, Maldives can be reached through Air or Cruise which costs little on the higher side. With the Maldives getting connected to India through regular waterways, accessing and planning holidays there would become quite easy and cheap.

 

Earlier this year, heads of both countries agreed to develop a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between Kerala’s Kochi to Maldivian capital Male. The new intercountry service will involve an approximate 700 km long voyage in the open sea via Kulhudhuffushi atoll which, in turn, will strengthen the relationship between the countries.

 

In the bilateral move, country heads signed an MoU for setting up a frequent passenger-cum-cargo service as a step towards the development of tourism for both Kerala and Maldives.

 

The ferry service will be one of its kind and will cover a total distance of 700 km between Kochi and Male. The distance between Kochi and Kulhudhuffushi atoll is approximately 500 km which includes open sea and fun along waves. The distance from Kulhudhuffushi atoll to Male is another 200 km which will flaunt numerous beautiful Maldivian islands.

 

Reports by The Hindu says, that the diplomatic heads of both the countries have already directed their officials to rapidly progress and work towards connecting the two countries with regular ferry service. The ferry service will include transportation of both cargo and passengers.

 

In another report by The Hindu, the proposal for ferry service was first proposed in 2011 following the SAARC Summit which was followed by a meeting between the Indian shipping officials and officials from the Maldives. The meeting also mentioned the structural planning of the modern ferry, like the service, is expected to incorporate 300 people, 15-20 cargo containers and 500 tonnes of bulk cargo with the transit time of approximately one day.

 

The Maldives is well-known for its serene beaches, beautiful sunsets and adventurous water-sports whereas Kerala is famous for its diversity in flora and fauna. Many think that the initiative taken by the Indian government with the officials of Maldives will turn out to be a fortunate one.

 

Tourists and Travel enthusiasts see the new ferry service a game changer step that will not only just boost the inter-country tourism but will also be available to tourists at much cheaper rates.

How To Plan A Trip In 8 Simple Steps

The word “vacation” makes us start dreaming of those days of no alarms and schedule. It is that time of the year when you feel unrestricted to explore the destination, its food, and culture. Though the thought of vacation often starts as an exciting fun idea but may often turn into chaos in your head. Travel planning can be a bit overwhelming and exhausting. With a little bit of effort and planning, you can overcome any difficulty faced during your vacation.  Here we have listed down our best tips about how to plan your travel which will come handy when planning your dream vacation:

 

– Decide your Dream Destination

– Plan the Duration of Stay

– Research your costs and start saving money

– Apply for Forex Card or Travelers’ Card

– Check for deals & Book your Flights and Hotel

– Plan your Activities

– Pack your Stuff

– Don’t forget to Have Fun

 

1. Decide your Dream Destination

The first step towards planning your trip is to choose a travel destination. This could be the places and destinations that you’ve heard about and want to explore, or it could be the places that have something very specific you want to experience, like adventure sports, etc. It is a good idea to sit with the people accompanying you and pinpoint the destination. Make sure you give a good time to the process while planning for travel abroad.

 

2. Plan the Duration of Stay

One of the primary things to decide in terms of travel is definitely the duration of your travel. If you’re a working professional your idea could be to club long weekends and add some leaves. For college-goers, it could be a simple flunk and plan. But whatever your duration of travel be, you can always rely on PML Holidays to deliver you a smooth, fun-filled and hassle-free travel experience. With plenty of hotels and flights to choose from, with PML Holidays you can tick done the most important things in advance.

 

3. Research your Costs and Start Saving Money

Once you have decided on the destination and duration of your travel the next important step is to research the cost of your vacation. This could include the flight/transport cost, hotel cost, and some other miscellaneous things. But the best way to ensure you get the best travel bargain is to book a customized tour package from PML Holidays. The industry experts can be providing the packages you need at best prices while ensuring the utmost smooth travel experience. 

 

4. Apply for Forex card or Travelers’ card

While you’re already working on saving money for your travel make sure to apply for a travel card. Travel Cards are the best medium for carrying foreign currency. By using a Multicurrency Forex Card, you ensure you have the required currency for your tour.  

Some of the other benefits include – Safety, Convenience, ATM withdrawals, Merchant swipes and much more! All this comes at the best exchange rates by Paul Merchants.

 

5. Check for deals & Book your Flights and Hotel

Though it is important to save money but do not get carried away by any cheap hotel or long-duration flights. These are most important things to do in Travel. But be sure that during travel, you don’t want to be exhausted on long flights and dirty hotel rooms as that can be a nightmare on your vacation.

Good news is that these activities are not as hectic and exhausting as it used to be as PML Holidays provide A to Z solutions to travelers. Now you can save money and book your hotel and flights at the same time.

 

6. Plan your Activities

While planning your trip it is good to list down beforehand the must-visit places and the things to do in your chosen destination. An in-depth trip planning is a good idea in case of a popular destination in the peak travel season. Do some research about popular local delicacies and restaurant you would like to indulge-in. In case you are planning to go for adventure activities, sightseeing or safari you must find out the details of the tickets if it is required to book in advance. PML Holidays comes handy with a plethora of options related to your day travel and sight-seeing at your convenience so that you can skip the long queues at counters.

 

7. Pack your Stuff

While packing, make sure to carry all the necessary items and don’t go overboard. Consider the adventure activities you would be doing to pack the gear. The weather and season can affect your travel plans. Make sure to add warm clothes in case of a colder climate. You must read about the do’s and don’ts to avoid any disrespect to the local people of the place to be visited.

 

8. Don’t Forget to Have Fun

The most important thing is to have fun every minute of your holiday and enjoy the fruits of your labour. You have saved and worked hard to get here. It is important to trust your planning as you embark on this amazing trip and keep all you worry away.

 

Planning your travel is essential to avoid missing out on anything important. In case of international travel, you may also be required to plan for your visa, travel insurance, forex, etc. It is essential to make a list before you start so that your planning is more organized. A well-planned trip is always relaxing and stress-free with thousands of memories. The expert tips from the team of PML Holidays will make travel planning simple for you so that instead of spending time worrying about your travel arrangements, you spend more time clicking a picture and having fun.

 

 

Healthy Precautions – The Travel Checklist!

Vacations can be exciting and rejuvenating but things can go wrong if you aren’t prepared with the basics. Thus your travel checklist should contain the basics and in a very hassle-free manner so that you can have the best travel experience.

Summers are the most awaited season in the whole year, people plan for the long weekends. Whether you are planning to have some good time at beaches or some serene moments at mountains. It is always a best practise to take some health based precautions. The best way to not ruin your vacation is to do some vacation research. 

Firsts and foremost step is to exercise some Travel Sense. Travel sense comprise of the most basic steps that almost everyone who travel forgets. They are:

 

  • Washing Hands: Whenever travelling it is crucial to make sure you wash your hands before having meals. Sanitized hands could be the only thing between you and diarrhoea.

 

  • Skin Care: Buy and use the best Sunscreen. Whenever you are going out for exploration, make sure you are protecting your skin.

 

  • Carry Water Bottles: You should avoid drinking at open public places and most importantly the ones that are visibly non maintained. The best practise is to carry water bottles with yourself.

 

  • Limit Caffeine: One of the important things to take care of while travelling is to limit your caffeine and Alcohol consumption to avoid dehydration and restlessness.

 

  • Travel Clothing: Make sure to invest in and pack good, comfy and warm clothes and mufflers while travelling in colder regions and carry hats and UV protected sunglass for warmer regions.

 

Once you have covered all the basic requirements, it is time to take some more preventive steps:

 

1. Medical Check-up and Vaccination: If you are planning to go all out this summers, do some adventure sports and activities. Then the one thing that you must not miss is to complete your Vaccinations. Meeting your doctor for a general check-up and vaccinations can be detrimental in saving you from many risks that come from trekking, mountain biking, and other adventure sports.

 

2. Allergies: It can be quite frustrating to get you’re allergies when you’re travelling! And the best to make sure nothing such sort happens is to consult your doctor and equip yourself with medicines for your journey.

 

3. Food and Water: For most foodies, the best way to soak in a new culture is by experiencing the cuisine in its most authentic way. Dieticians say the best way to enjoy food is by researching about it and the ingredients that are used. Food tours can also be a good option as they teach you about the food culture of the area. One thing to be sure of, is to not go overboard because trying all the spicy and exotic dishes on vacation can leave your stomach upset.

 

4. Right Clothes: It is important to do some basic weather homework to be ready for whatever a destination’s weather has to throw at you. Dressing appropriately is important if you are hitting a place where temperatures vary drastically in the morning versus in the night. It is advised to carry good warmers as well as light breathable summer clothing’s for the morning. Travellers can also seek clothing advises from travel groups or the travel agent because it can be quite inconvenient to go to a place and find your apparel to be not sufficient.

 

Taking care of yourself is important while traveling and the best way to ensure is to take the tips and buy custom tour and travel packages from the best travel company – Paul Merchants. Whatever your favourite travel destination is, our travel experts can always serve you with the best tour packages. Call us at: 1800-137-1444

Half of 11.7 Lakhs Students in the US are from India and China

The recently released SEVIS – Student and Exchange Visitor Information System figures by the US Department of Homeland Security reveal that Indian and Chinese citizens incorporate to nearly half of the total 11.7 lakhs of international students in the United States as of March 2019. Other stats share that Chinese Students dominated the bachelor degree courses and Indian Students dominated Masters.

Collectively, students from these countries comprise at 5.8 lakh and 49.5% of total students. These students hold an “M Visa” or an “F Visa” respectively for their academic and vocational studies.

For Indian Students, Stats says, that nearly 75% or 1.6 Lakhs of the total 2 lakh active Indian students have enrolled themselves in master’s courses, 11% of these are studying for bachelor’s degree and 10% of these students are pursuing doctorate.

The raw data provided by DHS does not share insights as of numbers of students in respective streams but do share that a significant number of Indian students opt for STEM – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics steams. While studying abroad, international students also seek to work in the host study for initial 2 to 3 years. For students who aspire to work in US have to obtain an H – 1B Visa, which is challenging. Every year US annually processes 85,000 such Visa’s and out of this 20,000 are reserved for Masters pursued and plus the process involves a lottery system.

For the financial 2019-20 season, successful H-1B applicants would be permitted to work in the US from October at the earliest.

For the financial year 2019-20 season, successful H-1B applications would be permitted to work in US from October at the earliest. The recently announced lottery reversal mechanism, was implemented for the first time this season. This means, USCIS first conducted a selection process of all H-1B cap applications and then conducted a selection process for those eligible for the master’s cap.

This would give applicants with a US master’s or higher a better shot at getting selected through the lottery and then working at US.

Thus, the trend of Indian students of being greatly focused on attaining US masters in STEM will continue. According to media reports,

Chinese students, especially those who are planning to study or are studying robotics, engineering, and aviation—priority areas for the “Made in China 2025” Industrial Policy—are facing visa-related challenges which seems to be a fallout of the trade war among China and the US.

Another surprising fact that SEVIS-based data captured in its various research reports is that the number of international students in the US is declining. At 11.7 lakh student, the student numbers on M and F visas had shrunk by approximately 3% from March 2018. The total number of prospect students from India had shrunk marginally by 1% and those from China by 2%.

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