Category: Blog

Summers are around the corner and so are the Summer Vacations that come with it! As students, teachers and college goings rejoice the anticipation of a good family travel. We share with you the best destinations that you can map this summer.

Normally, people love to head towards the places that have little to do with rising temperature and are free of constrains of city life. The top destinations in list can be travelling hill stations with our families and knit beautiful and stronger bonds in the lap of nature.

Here is a list of the Best Places to Visit this Summer Vacation in India:

1. Kashmir – “The Crown of India”
2. Ladhak – “The Family Destination with a Twist”
3. Manali – “Home to Enchanting Landscapes”
4. Shimla – “The Hot Summer Destination”
5. Dharamshala – “The Majestic and Awe-aspiring Destination”
6. Darjeeling – “The Queen of Summers”
7. Sikkim – “Summer Vacations at its Best”
8. Mussoorie – “Refreshing Family Experience”
9. Nainital – “Nature at its Best”
10. Munnar – “Family Vacation in Beautiful Kerala”

1. Kashmir – The Crown of India

My colleague who is from Kashmir, once said to me while sipping tea, “that you should visit Kashmir” Not because flyers, websites and tour agents say so, but because, “You should”. Landscapes, Nature, Trees and everything else in Kashmir is beautiful beyond words.

But what should you see in Kashmir? Here are the top 4 places that you should visit in Kashmir:

• Pahalgam
• Gulmarg
• Sonmarg
• Srinagar

Pahalgam is the perfect summer vacation destination for families. Here you can have some leisure time, explore the local delicacies and even opt for some adventure. River rafting in Lidder River or skiing in Aru Valley can be few options to explore.

Gulmarg, the place will never miss a chance to impress you! Set amidst the beautiful snow-capped mountains, Gulmarg offers vacationers the best time of their life. Major attractions here include cable car ride to and fro Apparwath and Kongdoori Peak.

Sonmarg is an offbeat destination for families, but as all off beats are, sonmarg has a lot of surprises in store. Camping at Thajiwas Galacier could be the best thing you could do in your life. Followed by late night strolls around the lake can be soul-filling.

Srinagar is counted amongst the best places to visit on a summer vacations with family in India. Shikara ride, houseboat stay, water-skiing can be some adventure and leisure activities to do. Apart from these you can also explore Chashma-e-Shahi, Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Garden.

 

2. Ladhak – The Family Destination with a Twist

Leh – Ladhak the destination you have never seen before! A perfect summer holiday destination, but we would recommend this if you can handle the moody and rigours weather. As beautiful as the place is, it is equally challenging.

Then why is it the best? Because it is easy to reach Leh. There are air services to Leh from Delhi and Jammu. Secondly, the weather in Leh during the summer season, remains constant at 30 degree Celsius, making it a pleasant time to visit.

While here don’t forget to visit the 800 year old Kali Mandir, located on a mountain top; the Shanti Stupa that is just outside the city; and the 17th century made – Leh Palace.

 

3. Manali – Home to Enchanting Landscapes

Manali needs no introductions, the place is just exceptionally beautiful! Adding more beauty and grace is the Manali Hill, one of the most loved place by tourists.

The snow-capped mountains, the evening scarlet sky and the majestic Rohtang Pass are few things that will make you fall in love with the place. Some other must explore places can be Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Village, Naggar, Solang Valley, and Rahala Falls.

 

4. Shimla – The Hot Summer Destination

 Shimla is The Hot Summer Destination, with lots of tourists coming every year the place is beautiful, picturesque and comfortable.

The reason we have Shimla in our list is because it also the fastest and nearest getaway destination that also has moderate – to – cold temperatures.

Here you can linger around the Mall Road, eat, shop and visit the beautiful church located on the Ridge near the mall. Take time out and visit Jakhu Temple, Kali Bari Temple and Tara Mata Temple. An image in Traditional Attire is a must have!

 

5. Dharamshala – The Majestic and Awe-aspiring Destination

Dharamshala – The mighty Dhauladhar does the magic for Dharamshala! The beautiful valley is overlooked by snow-capped mountains. The place welcomes you with open-arms!

Dharamshala’s cricket stadium is also one place to visit. The lofty conical mountains are breath-taking. While there don’t forget to visit the Kangra Art museum, War memorial, Kunal Pathri temple and tea gardens on the way to Kunal Pathri.

 

6. Darjeeling – The Queen of Summers

Darjeeling, inarguably is one of the most popular summer destinations in India. Also known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’, the charm of this beautiful destination remains young.

Some of the best things to do can be to experience sunrise at Tiger Hill peak, enjoy the Toy Train ride from New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. The ride can be sheer family fun!

Rock Gardens and the waterfall are in close proximity and are worth visiting. A ride on the Darjeeling-Rangit passenger cable car or the ropeway is a thrilling experience for the tourists.

Some other must visit places are: The Mall Road, Ghoom Monastery, Tamang Ghumba, The Ava Art Gallery, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop and the War Memorial.

 

7. Sikkim – Summer Vacations at its Best

Sikkim, is one of the most underrated Summer Holiday Destination, but believe us it is majestic, thrilling and beautiful! This second smallest state has lots to offer.

The ideal summer vacation destination in Sikkim are:

• Pelling
• Ravangla
• Gangtok

Pelling, Home to the breath taking Mt. Khangchendzonga, the place is spellbound beautiful. Pelling has some of the most wonderful places to vist, like Pemayangste monastery, Rock Garden at Rimbi, Sanga Choling monastery, double-pronged Kanchenjungha Falls, the Chhange Waterfalls, Singshore Bridge and the Khechuperi Lake here.

Some adventure sports to enjoy can be kayaking, rafting and trekking options.

Ravangla, one another good summer vacation spot in Sikkim. It is located in the southern district of Sikkim. The small yet utterly beautiful and picturesque Ravangla is admired for its view of lofty peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Sinialchu, Mt. Pandim, and Mt. Kabru.

The Ralong Monastery here is known for producing the best hand-woven carpets in India. A must buy! One place that one must not miss is the Rayong Sunrise point in Ravangla.

Gangtok:   Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in India, is the ideal summer vacation spot in Sikkim.

Gangtok promises all kinds of amenities to tourists. A chilled weather, delicious local delicacies and great places to visit. Some of the best activities can be walking up to the forests, relaxing at the Titanic park, and savour the taste of some delightful cuisines.

 

8. Mussoorie – Refreshing Family Experience

Mussorrie Situated at an elevation of 2000m, Mussoorie has always been a popular tourist destination in India. Green rolling hills and varied flora makes it no less than a fairyland.

Mussoorie becomes quite crowded in the summers, so it is better to book hotels in advance. While enjoying the ride on the ropeway or the cable car, which takes you to Gun Hill, catch the fantastic panoramic view of Mussoorie.

The Mall Road is quite the charmer as this place allows tourists to shop for various gifts items to take with them for their family members and friends. Another fun place to visit in Mussoorie is Kempty Falls, where one can enjoy bathing under a giant waterfall to one’s heart’s content. Other than these Cloud End and Lal Tibba are some must visits in Mussoorie.

 

9. Nainital – Nature at its Best

Nainital is small yet beautiful hill station the place attracts a lot of tourists. Ideal as summer vacation destination. Nainital has some good attractions! Strolling on upper and lower mall road, boating in the Nainital lake or visiting the zoo can also be a fun filled activity for family.

Some of the best places to visit near Nainital are Naukuchiyatal, Khurpatal, Naina Devi Temple, Tibetan Market, Snow View, Tiffin Top and China Peak.

 

 10. Munnar – Family Vacation in Beautiful Kerala

Munnar from God’s own country is a great summer vacation getaway! Just imagine sprawling tea gardens, lush green rolling hills and the lovely climate!

Munnar has a magic of its own. While here visit Pothamadu, The Sita Devi Lake. Attukal and Nyayamakad are also some good places that one must visit in Munnar. Some other things to do can be trekking and trying local delicacies. 

Well, summer vacation is a festival in itself and it can be exhilarating; there is no better thing than spending some magical time with family and friends at vacations. Make the most of these summer vacations by planning your vacation tour with us! Get the best quotes on your travel destination with PML Holidays. Just give us a call at 1800 137 1444 and our Travel Specialist will curate a travel plan just for you!

 

Travelling? Need to Plan Travel Money? Use your Forex Card!

One of the main concerns of traveller while travelling abroad is Cash. How to plan money requirements? What ratio should be cash vs cards? What Card should be used, a debit or a credit? Are few question based dilemmas that every travel enthusiast goes through.

But worry no more, as we have you covered!

The first step is to Plan your cash needs. How much money you think you need to cover all your expenses, this includes everything from shopping to eatables and the best part is that with Indian rupee surging against US dollar, Euro and other currencies in the past few months, you get more purchasing power while travelling abroad.

Now the question is what way is the best way to use this money? A debit or credit card swipe? Or using cash? Considering there are high risk of frauds when it comes to using cards and even getting charged high exchange rates, makes using cards not a very wise choice. Carrying too much cash on the other hand is risky as well.

The answer to the question is mixture, of Cash and forex card. Forex cards are prepaid debit cards that let you swipe, do ATM withdrawals and pay directly while travelling abroad. The best part of Forex Card is that it lets you fix your exchange rate and then it’s all about using it. The best practise is to carry 10% of your travel money in Cash and 90% of your travel money in Forex Card. One of the reasons why this is advised is that the practise is safe. In case you lose your card, the card cannot be used without the Pin.

One of the big mistakes travellers make is they leave currency exchange to last minute. Thinking they would get it converted at the Airport. But at that time you will never get the best deals. Consider the peak summer holiday season, the exchange counter operators know that you are in a dire need of exchange and so they will charge you a higher exchange rate. Thus, it is always better to plan well in advance and get the forex you need exchanged at authorised forex dealer someone like Paul Merchants and be travel ready.

However, one thing all travellers must know is that the rates for exchanging cash is somewhat higher than getting your forex card loaded. This is because during the rush peak summer holiday season the cash currency is limited, whereas loading a Forex Card is pure Banking Product and involves no cash. This means unlimited supply of forex through cards.

Ultimate Benefits of using Forex Cards by Paul Merchants

There are numerous benefits of using a Forex Card instead of Debit/Credit Card and even Cash!

1. Exchange Rate:

The biggest advantage of using Forex Cards is the Exchange Rate. While getting currency loaded in Forex Card you know the exact exchange rate that you have agreed upon. Once the rate is decided it stays constant despite of any surge or fall in the market price. Whereas, if you use Credit or Debit card you get to know the conversion rate later, which mostly very high.

2. Foreign Currency Mark-Up:

Credit and Debit cards come with a pre-decided Foreign Currency Mark-up fee that is charged upon using a rupee-denominated card for a non-rupee transaction. The currency charge ranges between 1-3.5%. Whereas, most forex cards are either dollar or euro denominated and, there is no such mark-up.

3. Cash Withdrawals:

Forex Cards are handy and first choice when it comes to ATM cash withdrawals, as there is no charge applicable. Whereas, if we talk about Credit or Debit cards, a big foreign transaction fee for an ATM withdrawal amount is charged.

4. Forex Volatility:

Another reason why Forex Cards are the best option is Forex Volatility. The economy goes up and sometimes comes crashing down, all these daily activities directly affect the foreign exchange and charges related to them every minute. In case of Debit/Credit and Cash this volatility can shake your budget

5. Security:

Forex Card, Debit Card and Credit Cards are secure and safe when we compare with Cash. In case you lose your cash, it’s gone. In case of cards they are secured with Chip and Pin and thus cannot be used without Pin.

While considering other factors like Transaction cost, Forex Volatility and other factors the best choice for travellers to make is Forex Cards.

6. Loading – Reloading Cards:

One of the best thing about Forex Card is that it comes with option of reloading. In case during travelling you are short on money, your relative, family member can get your card reloaded. But in case of Debit/Credit cards there is no reloading feature available.

So if you are planning your travel abroad this summer, don’t forget to plan your foreign exchange requirement well in advance and avoid any last minute and expensive deals. You know you can always rely on Paul Merchants for your Forex Services.

 

Canada is all set to offer new opportunities under its new permanent Global Talent Stream programme. The programme offers a quick and hassle-free route to professionals with background in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics to make most of the emerging job opportunities in the country. The scheme will benefit aspiring Indians, including those who are residing in US for their Jobs.

Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, says, “We are attracting some of the most highly skilled people of the world, through our global skills strategy.”

The programme will process applications filed by sponsoring employers in just two weeks and the best part is that those who get hired under the GTS programme will get valuable work experience in the country, which will serve as an edge while applying for a permanent residency under the Express Entry Route.

Statistics say, Indians form the largest group to be issued invites for permanent residency under the Express Entry Route. Out of 86,022 Invitations that were sent in 2017, almost 42% population held an Indian Citizenship. As per the data by Department of Immigration, invites to Indians have recorded a rise of 13% in 2018.

The proposal to make the two-year pilot project a permanent scheme follows calls from the Canada’s burgeoning tech sector. Since June 2017, more than 2000 skilled workers have been successfully approved.

The 2019 Canadian budget mentions that GTS has generated commitments from Canada based employers to create 40,000+ jobs with permanent residents.

Vartika Manasvi, Co- founder of Stackraft – A tech-talent platform that matches skilled individuals with potential employers, says, “GTS, is not just an immigration programme, it is a strategy that companies are adopting to attract and build more diverse, skilled and innovative teams.” The GTS programme has two categories for workers. Category A and Category B. Category A requires that the sponsoring employer must be validated by a designated referral partner (such as regional development agencies). Where as in Category B, the sponsoring employers have to demonstrate a need of highly skilled international workers from the ‘Global Talent Occupation List’. The stipulated wage requirements must be met in both the cases.

“Category A” cases are primarily related to start-up businesses with a rapid upward growth pattern. “Category B”, has greater number of application, where employers are intending applications for occupations that are considered short in supply, mostly are IT related.

Indians who have background in STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths now, have even greater chances to get Canadian work exposure along with an edge while applying for permanent residency through the GTS and Express Entry System.