“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” – Anita Desai
Planning new adventures this summer? We are so proud of you! 2022 is going to be the year of travel; at least we are hoping it to be *fingers crossed*. 😀
After two years of border closures, international flight ban, a million travel rules and what not, your chance to travel the summer away is finally back. Here are six Asian countries that are now open for Indian travellers. Take a look –
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Maldives
Bollywood’s favourite holiday destination has been open for Indians for quite some time now. Known for its sandy white beaches, clear emerald waters and gorgeous water villas, this dreamy destination is a must-visit at least once in your lifetime.
Travel rules: Maldives is open for all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status. COVID-19 test and quarantine are not required.
Nepal
Home to beautiful sceneries, mountains, forests and friendly locals, Nepal is calling you for a peaceful retreat, and you must go. The Himalayan nation is a great place to be at the onset of summer. You can refer to our travel guide to Nepal, in case you need help planning your trip.
Travel rules: Vaccinated tourists entering Nepal should carry their vaccination certificates in English. At least 14 days should have passed since the last dose. Fully-vaccinated travellers are exempted from carrying a pre-departure PCR test report.
A negative COVID-19 test report (RT-PCR, True NAAT, Gene Xpert) within 72 hours of starting their journey is mandatory for unvaccinated travellers.
Singapore
If you want to splurge on your first summer back to travelling after two years, look no further than Singapore. It is one of the cleanest countries in the world with gorgeous skyscrapers, and you’ll notice it the moment you step off the plane at Changi Airport. Be ready to gorge on some tasty street food at Michelin-starred hawker stands here.
Travel rules: Fully-vaccinated adults and children (aged 12 and below) can enter Singapore quarantine-free.
Travellers except those aged two and below must take a pre-departure RT-PCR test or a professionally administered Antigen Rapid Test (no self swabs) within two days before departure.
Malaysia
A neighbour to Singapore, Malaysia is known for its vibrant culture, amazing cuisines, and stunning beaches and parks. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is home to the world’s tallest twin towers – the Petrona Towers – and is a popular shopping destination. For those craving Instagram-worthy architectural shots and scrumptious dishes, George Town is the place to be.
Travel rules: Passengers travelling to Malaysia must present a negative RT-PCR report of a test taken within two days of departure.
Travellers must undergo a rapid antigen test within 24 hours of arrival.
Fully vaccinated travellers and those below the age of 17 are exempted from quarantine. Partially-vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers will have to stay in quarantine for five days.
Travellers holding digital vaccination certificates issued outside Malaysia will have to get them verified before departure.
Thailand
Basking at a beach in Thailand, sipping mocktails and trying out delicious Thai dishes is how we describe a perfect summer. A relaxing vacation in “the Land of Smiles” is just what you need to rejuvenate yourself. As Thailand is a haven for shopaholics, do not forget to pick up some great souvenirs for your friends and family from here. Need help planning? Read our travel guide to Thailand.
Travel rules: Travellers keen on visiting Thailand can do so under three schemes: TEST & GO, Blue Zone Sandbox and Alternative Quarantine (which is open to unvaccinated travellers as well).
Below are the requirements for the TEST & GO scheme, which is open to vaccinated travellers:
> Travellers who are 18 years of age and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before travel. They will be exempted from quarantine.
> Travellers must hold an insurance policy with coverage of at least USD 20,000. The policy should cover the cost of COVID-19-related medical expenses, the whole duration of stay in Thailand, and at least 10 extra days.
> They will also be required to take an RT-PCR test on Day 1 and a self antigen test on Day 5.
To know about the requirements for the other two schemes, tap here.
United Arab Emirates
When in doubt, take a trip to the UAE. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are two of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Shop your heart out at the malls in Dubai and end your day at a fun club, dancing until your feet hurt. Do visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi or go for a desert safari if you are in the mood for some light adventure.
Travel rules: All passengers are allowed to travel to the UAE, regardless of their vaccination status.
Vaccinated tourists will be required to show a valid vaccination certificate. Unvaccinated travellers can either present an RT-PCR report of a test taken 48 hours before departure or a COVID-19 recovery certificate issued within a period of one month.
Travellers will undergo an RT-PCR test on arrival at the airport, if requested, and will have to self-isolate till the results are declared.
Wish to know the travel guidelines for various countries? Then refer to our COVID-19 Guidelines tracker here.
Stay tuned with us for the latest travel updates!
