Category: Travel News

If your US-India itinerary includes a significant layover in a third country, consider turning it into a delightful sightseeing adventure rather than simply waiting around at the transit airport. Many airlines now offer transit stopovers and city tours, allowing you to enjoy a mini vacation for yourself or your family during your upcoming trip to India this summer. While some stopovers last for 24 hours or more, transit city tours are available in various packages at discounted rates for layovers of 5 to 10 hours. Additionally, you can visit Flyopedia to get a flight ticket from Canada to India on affordable price.

Certain airlines, such as Turkish Airlines, provide transit city tours as a complimentary addition, while others like Emirates and Qatar Airways offer them at reduced rates. Some airlines, like Singapore Airlines, even offer guided tours to popular tourist destinations within easy reach of the transit airports. What adds to the appeal of these transit city tours for Indians and US citizens is the visa-free entry, visa waiver, visa on arrival, or easy-to-obtain e-visa policies in the countries through which the flights transit.

Fly Turkish Airlines and Tour Istanbul

If you book cheap business class tickets to India via Istanbul, you might qualify for Turkish Airlines’ free Istanbul City tour or stopover program, depending on your layover duration. Regardless of whether you’re flying economy or business class on Turkish Airlines flights to India/USA, you can explore Istanbul during a layover of at least 6 hours. Passengers with a layover of 20 hours are entitled to a complimentary hotel stay in Istanbul. With eight packages to choose from, you can tailor your experience with the Touristanbul program to suit your layover in Istanbul. It is important to note that Turkey is a visa-free destination for US citizens.

Fly Emirates and Explore Dubai during a layover

Dubai International Airport stands out as the top transit hub, offering layover tours for Indians flying with Emirates to India/USA. Dubai, known for its vibrant culture, luxury activities, and desert safaris, is ideal for stopovers of up to 48 hours.

With customized tour packages and Emirates Airline Fares, you can transform your layover into a memorable mini holiday on your way to India or the USA. These packages include hotel accommodation with 24-hour check-in/check-out and exclusive deals for theme parks, water parks, and desert safaris.

Fly Qatar Airways and Add Doha Sightseeing to Your Itinerary

Among the top airline stopover programs, Qatar Airways’ Doha stopover can enhance your travel between the USA and India without any extra airfare. With a layover of over 12 hours at Hamad International Airport, you can enjoy a Doha City tour, including one-night accommodation at a 4-star or 5-star hotel. Discover Qatar, Qatar Airways’ destination management arm, offers budget-friendly Doha stopover packages – Standard, Premium, and Luxury – starting from $14 per night for standard 4-star accommodation, $23 for premium 5-star accommodation, and $81 for luxurious 5-star accommodation.

If your itinerary with Qatar Airways doesn’t allow for a Doha stopover, you can opt for a brief sightseeing tour of Doha during a 6-8 hour layover at Hamad Airport. Both Indian and US citizens can avail of a visa waiver upon arrival at Hamad Airport, provided they have a passport valid for at least 3 months and a confirmed flight ticket for onward or return travel. You can book your cheap USA to India flight tickets through Flyopedia.com for a memorable experience.

Fly Japan Airlines and Enjoy a Multicity Stopover

Among the top international airlines with stopover-friendly policies, JAL offers the flexibility to book multiple itineraries from the USA to Delhi and Bangalore, allowing travellers to visit multiple transit cities without extra airfare. If your connecting flight departs from Kansas International Airport, you can explore Osaka City, which is just a 15-20 minute high-speed train ride away from Kyoto. With a Japan Explorer Pass, you can enjoy affordable air travel within JAL Airlines’ domestic network.

For travellers connecting through Tokyo Haneda or Narita airports on their JAL Airlines US-India itinerary, layovers of 6 hours or more present an opportunity to explore both Haneda and Narita City. Notably, Narita International Airport offers free English-language tours led by knowledgeable guides as part of its transit tour program. While the tour guides are complimentary, travellers are responsible for transportation, entrance fees, and other associated expenses. Lastly, if you are in a hurry and looking for Canada to India flight deals then you can now check out our last minute flight to India only on Flyopedia.

We’ve all felt traveling from India to the United States. However, the delayed or damaged luggage can be devastating. However, knowing your rights for delayed baggage compensation can benefit you a lot. This knowledge will help to find different suitable accurate ways regarding lost baggage compensation. Join us on captivating holiday and spiritual tours in India, book your Canada to India business class flight deals, tap on Flyopedia, and get the luxury travel experiences.

Liability for Delayed Baggage Compensation

Airlines are liable for any bag damage, loss, or delay. This happens while the luggage is under the airline’s control. As a result, you are entitled to compensation for any loss. However, there are maximum liability limits.

Liabilities For US Domestic Flights	Liabilities For International Flights
The highest liability amount allowed by DOT regulations is $3,800. Airlines can pay more than the limit but are not compelled to do so	The maximum liability amount allowed by the DOT rule is $1,780 per passenger (1288 SDR – Special Drawing Rights) under the Montreal Convention.

Damaged Baggage Exceptions

• Airlines are not obligated to cover pre-existing damage to the bag due to inadequate packing.
• Airlines are not responsible for “certain categories of items (for example, fragile items, electronics, cash, perishable items).” These exclusions are usually specified in the airline’s contract of carriage.

Although airlines are not compelled to cover normal wear and tear, they cannot avoid liability for damage to wheels, handles, straps, and other checked luggage components. Secure your advance tickets to visit this place, head to Flyopedia, and cheap business class tickets to India now.

Damaged Baggage Compensation

The damage to the bag cannot be undone. Airlines will negotiate compensation based on the bag’s value—the maximum liability amount allowed by the DOT.

• For domestic travel, airlines are not compelled to pay passengers for products excluded from their contracts of carriage.
• Airlines are in charge of these belongings if they have been approved for transportation for foreign travel (including the domestic portion of an overseas itinerary). This is true even if travelers did not state when they checked in that these things were put in the bag.

Passengers may want to consider acquiring supplemental insurance for important things. However, certain things are restricted for checked baggage and should be avoided at all costs.

Delayed Baggage Insights

There will be a time when your bag is delayed. The airline is responsible for offering compensation for delayed luggage. It is recommended that you keep your boarding card with you at all times. Since it contains information on your luggage that the airline staff can use to assist you find it.

Delayed Baggage Compensation

Airlines are responsible for paying passengers for reasonable, verifiable, and actual incidental expenses acquired while their bags are delayed, subject to legal liability limits.

Lost Baggage Insights

Though each airline has its guidelines on how long it takes to declare a suitcase lost, many of them consider it lost after seven days of no trackability. It also depends on the type of itinerary (international or domestic), the number of connections, and other factors.

Lost Baggage Compensation

After the bag is considered lost, the airline is responsible for luggage lost compensation, which means you will be compensated for the contents of your bag – subject to depreciation and maximum responsibility restrictions. Airlines are also compelled to repay any money you paid them to transport the lost bag.

In conclusion, whenever someone is traveling from India to the US, it’s important to know your rights when it comes to damaged luggage. The airline is responsible for compensating you. So make sure you keep all necessary documentation. Consider getting insurance for valuable items. Being informed can help you feel more empowered during your travels! Start this transformative journey with Flyopedia for a seamless travel experience. Book your last-minute flight to India today.

Also Read: Plane Ticket Refund: Policy & Process For Refundable Tickets

On January 18th, 2024, Air India announced several enhancements for passengers. This is for all cabin classes on long-distance international flights. These enhancements include new luxury packages and eco-friendly bedding upgrades. Further, it also contains new chinaware, cutlery, and glassware. These improvements are set to be introduced in mid-2024. It also coincides with the A350-900’s international commercial operations. Join us on captivating holiday and spiritual tours in India, book your cheap business class tickets to India, tap on Flyopedia, and get the epitome of luxury travel experiences. Learn more about the Air India’s update released below:

The Ferragamo Touch: Exclusive Amenity Kits

Air India’s latest enhancements include a unique collaboration with Italian luxury brand Salvatore Ferragamo. These one-of-a-kind Ferragamo toiletry packages provide a taste of Italy’s highly regarded fashion aesthetics. These kits contain superior skin care items designed to give maximum flight comfort while keeping customers looking refreshed during their journey.

The Italian fashion house’s fascinating relationship does not end with toiletry kits. The classic Ferragamo symbol is embroidered on the luxurious pillows and comforters aboard the flight, paying homage to the brand’s eternal luxury. What makes these kits so appealing? Their use of high-quality recyclable and reused Kraft paper, which is consistent with the airline’s dedication to sustainability and passenger comfort, makes these kits more desirable.

Premium Bed Linen & Blankets

Air India treats its First and Business-class passengers to carefully created and designed bed linen, ensuring a pleasant, sustainable, and sumptuous sleeping experience. Inspired by the airline’s new worldwide brand identity, this premium collection features soft, handmade duvets that are both sustainable and lightweight. Furthermore, guests can enjoy mattress toppers precisely made with quality multi-layer material, including a memory foam layer. Secure your advance tickets to visit this place, head to Flyopedia, and book book last minute flight to India from Canada now.

Experience Of Dining & Table Setting

Air India’s China Ware has lightweight and sturdy materials embellished with sophisticated brand components such as elaborate Mandala patterns and India-inspired themes. The airline delivers notable products from this collection, such as a distinctly India-inspired tiffin box-shaped salt-pepper cruet set with a gold finish. This unique touch elevates the dining experience, promising to amaze guests from all over the world with its combination of elegance and cultural inspiration.

Glassware and Cutlery

Air India Business-class passengers are in for a treat with luxury, lead-free glassware imported from Slovakia. This glassware is renowned for its remarkable transparency and contains the uncommon and high-quality element erbium. This magnificent glassware is complemented with a lovely set of stainless-steel silverware. These flatware pieces, which include weight-saving hollow handles, are set to improve visitors’ overall eating experience.

Tumi Amenity Kits for Air India Premium Economy

An exclusive amenity kit will be provided to Air India Premium Economy passengers, designed by TUMI. It has received a stylish update with the incorporation of the iconic Air India Red color. This enhanced kit also features skincare essentials from the renowned Swedish label, Verso. For Air India Economy class travelers on ultra-long-haul flights, exclusive amenity kits await, including an eye mask, socks, and hand lotion, all crafted from premium-quality recyclable and reusable Kraft paper.

TUMI Sleepwear For Business & First Class Travelers

Air India Premium Economy passengers will receive a specially designed amenity pack from TUMI. It has received a sophisticated facelift by incorporating the famous Air India Red hue. This upgraded set also includes skincare necessities from the well-known Swedish brand Verso. Air India Economy class passengers on ultra-long-haul flights will receive customized amenity packs containing an eye mask, socks, and hand lotion, all made of high-quality recyclable and reusable Kraft paper. Start this transformative journey with Flyopedia for a seamless travel experience. Book your Toronto to Chennai cheap flights today.

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Air India’s Cancellation Policy

The planned transformation of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport’s Terminal 2 (T2) into a fully international terminal has been rescheduled until early in the new year, according to a report published by The Times of India on Monday. The purpose of Delhi International Airport Ltd.’s (DIAL) action is to prevent a repeat of the winter of the previous year, when significant infrastructure—particularly the main CAT III runway (28/10)—was repaired for a significant portion of the foggy season, resulting in protracted flight delays and passenger inconvenience. Let’s shed some light on this topic in our today’s blog “Delhi Airport’s Terminal 2 International Conversion Pushed to Early Next Year”. Additionally, for those seeking cheap flight tickets from Canada to India, make sure to visit Flyopedia.

Revised Timeline for Conversion

The plan to make Terminal 2 (T2) at Delhi Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport fully international has been delayed.

According to those with knowledge of the situation, Delhi International Airport Ltd. (DIAL) chose to postpone the conversion to prevent the operational problems that surfaced during the previous winter. These issues usually arise when crucial infrastructure—like the primary CAT III runway (28/10)—was shut down in the fog for maintenance. The T2 conversion is now scheduled for April of the next year, which coincides with the end of the winter season.

Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) is keen to prevent a recurrence of the issues that prompted the closure of its main CAT III runway (28/10) for maintenance throughout a large amount of this winter’s foggy season.

According to the report, the T2 conversion project is anticipated to start in April of the next year, once the winter season has ended. According to this plan, T2 should be ready for foreign flights by the winter of 2025–2026.

“After receiving approval from the CISF and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, the recently enhanced T1 is anticipated to go into service in early June 2024. After that, T2 was supposed to be kept operational for a few months to account for any teething issues at the new site.

Closing T2 for conversion by that could prevent work from finishing this winter. We might begin T2 conversion in April of next year to avoid any issues for flyers, according to sources.

Future Prospects: New Terminal Construction Plans

Currently, the three terminals at the airport handle close to 70 million people annually. Terminal 1 is expected to quadruple its capacity from 20 million to 40 million passengers yearly under phase 3A of the development project.

However, it is anticipated that foreign capacity will become scarce as early as this fiscal year. At the Delhi airport, international flights are only handled by T3.

T2 was originally designed to be an international terminal when it was built in 1986, and DIAL had intended to temporarily convert it back to that function last year to handle the impending shortage. T2 would then be demolished to make way for a brand-new terminal.

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Traffic Surge and Terminal Expansion

Airlines have urged DIAL to consider allowing Terminal 1 to accommodate international flights as well, as T4 is expected to be finished by 2030 or 2032.

They highlight the dramatic increase in traffic that has happened since the GMR Group took over the airport’s management in May 2006, necessitating the construction of a new T1 before the originally planned T3 to accommodate the rush of travelers.

The expanded Terminal 1 is expected to open for operation by early June 2024, given approval from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and the Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF).

The initial plan was to keep T2 open for a few months after Terminal 1 opened to iron out any issues. However, according to the TOI article, which cited sources, it was advised to begin the T2 conversion in April to guarantee that there would be as little disruption as possible for travelers owing to the potential delay in completing the conversion process.

CEO’s Vision for Meeting International Demand

It is anticipated that the impending opening of Terminal 1 will greatly increase IGI’s capacity to handle nearly 100 million passengers yearly.

While IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa are expected to relocate their operations to Terminal 1, low-cost airlines (LCCs) already headquartered their domestic operations next to Terminal 2.

DIAL had intended to temporarily convert T2 into an international terminal last year to address the capacity difficulties, as originally envisioned in 1986. Then, it was planned for T2 to be destroyed to make room for a new terminal.

DIAL CEO V K Jaipuriar had previously outlined options for meeting international demand, including reconverting T2 as a short-term solution, converting one of the two domestic piers at T3 into an international section as a medium-term option, and eventually demolishing T2 to build a larger T4 with increased capacity.

The new Noida airport, with a 1.2 CPA T1, will be ready and running by year’s end. Here, the majority of the schedule will consist of domestic flights. It’s unknown if DIAL would have different plans for IGI airport if Noida airport begins operations.

Therefore, this is all you need to know about the latest updates on Delhi Airport’s Terminal 2 international conversion pushed to early next year. Additionally, if you are looking to get cheap flights from Delhi to Edmonton, be sure to explore Flyopedia.

Also read: Shopaholic’s Paradise: 7 Incredible Places for Shopping in Delhi

Hello Everyone! You will be glad to know that the summer break season approaches quickly and you can now book a flight ticket from Canada to India because it is the best time to start planning your travel itinerary. As you go on this adventure, it is critical to stay up to date on the most recent visa restrictions to guarantee a smooth and stress-free trip. We at Flyopedia Keep you informed about these updates and can help you to make better decisions and improve the fun you can get out of your trips. In summary, having an in-depth awareness of visa regulations and maintaining current on any changes can make a significant difference in your travel experience.

Here are several visa updates for the year 2024 that are essential for all Indian tourists.

Introduction of a five-year, multiple-entry tourist visa by Dubai

Dubai has recently launched a new visa program specifically designed for Indian tourists, prompted by a notable rise in Indian visitor numbers. This visa program provides a five-year, multiple-entry permit, allowing travellers to stay for up to 90 days per visit, extendable once, and with a yearly limit of 180 days. Apart from that, you can book cheap business class tickets to India to experience the luxury on your trip.

Catering to both business and vacation trips this visa offers unlimited entries and exits over five years. Requirements include a passport photo, six months’ bank statements with a balance of at least $4,000 (INR 3,33,447), a valid passport with a minimum six-month validity, health insurance, and round-trip flight tickets. The application process typically takes 2-5 days, with submissions accepted through the GDRFA website, app or the official ICP website.

Introduction of eVisas for Indian travellers by Japan

Japan has initiated eVisa applications for Indian travellers through Japan Visa Application Centers managed by VFS Global. This simplified process maintains the familiar steps of document and application submission to VFS. Tailored for short-term tourism, the eVisa offers a single-entry option, permitting stays of up to 90 days. Both Indian nationals and residents of India are eligible to apply.

A significant change is that authorities will now electronically issue visas instead of placing physical stickers on passports. Upon approval, travellers must display a visa issuance notice on their mobile device at the airport, requiring internet connectivity. It is important to note that authorities will not accept alternative formats, such as PDFs or printed copies of the eVisa.

Romania and Bulgaria now offer Schengen Visas.

Romania and Bulgaria have partially integrated into the Schengen Area, broadening the Schengen visa’s coverage to encompass 29 nations across continental Europe. Consequently, Indian travellers can now acquire Schengen visas from Romania and Bulgaria, allowing stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. However, it is essential to note that visas issued by these two countries before April 1 do not provide access to the entire Schengen area. Furthermore, travellers from non-Schengen countries may still undergo passport checks when moving between different Schengen destinations. You can complete visa applications for Bulgaria and Romania on their official websites. Meanwhile, if you are planning your summer breaks in India then you can book affordable USA to India flight tickets only on Flyopedia.com as we have the best cost-effective deals on international travel.

Visa-free option by Thailand for Indian travellers

Indian passport holders would not need to apply for visas during the period of November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024, according to a recent announcement from the Thai government. Indian visitors can visit Thailand for leisure during this period without a tourist visa, and their stay can last up to one month.

Similarly, Kenya has abolished visa restrictions for not only Indian citizens but all global tourists, starting January 1. This measure aims to boost the country’s critical tourism economy. This visa-free approach would make travel easier for travellers interested in wildlife safaris and beach vacations. Lastly, remember to book last minute flight to India from Canada with us if you are in a hurry.

Also Read: Everything You Need To Know About Indian e – Visa For Canadian Citizens

Madhya Pradesh tourism industry has benefited significantly since the state implemented the film tourism policy, according to a senior official here.

Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, told PTI that filmmakers are increasingly exploring many places in the central state for shootings after the Madhya Pradesh Film Tourism Policy was passed in 2020. Meanwhile, you can also explore Madhya Pradesh by booking a flight ticket from Canada to India with Flyopedia at an affordable price.

Expanding Filmmaking Opportunities

“We are actively promoting film shootings in Madhya Pradesh. Since the policy’s introduction, tourism in the state has seen notable growth,” said Shukla, attending the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Panaji.

Facilitating Hassle-Free Shoots

Shukla highlighted key aspects of the Film Tourism Policy, such as the “hassle-free” filming experience in a favourable setting. Also, with Flyopedia you can have the experience of filming sites in MP. Book your cheap business class tickets to India now!

He mentioned “best weather,” nature, woodland, wildlife, historical landmarks, and a hill station as reasons why MP is an ideal site for shooting a film.

Supporting Infrastructure and Talent Pool

Shukla mentioned that a drama school in MP cultivates a talented pool of supporting artists for filmmakers, highlighting the state’s provision of top-notch and cost-effective shooting facilities.

Economic Impact and Employment Generation

As a result of the policy, the industry has become a major source of employment, with numerous individuals finding work opportunities. Hotels are experiencing increased bookings, and destinations like Chanderi are gaining popularity, drawing in a significant number of tourists,” he explained.

Brand Ambassadorship

The Managing Director highlighted that actors such as Pankaj Tripathy, who have appeared in movies filmed in Madhya Pradesh, serve as the state tourism’s brand ambassadors. Meanwhile, you can opt for Flyopedia.com if you are searching for affordable deals on the USA to India flight tickets.

Conclusion:

In summary, Madhya Pradesh’s Film Tourism Policy has transformed the state’s tourism industry, drawing both travellers and filmmakers. With its unique locations, enabling infrastructure, and economic benefits, the policy continues to foster regional growth and development. Book your last minute flight to India beforehand to experience the same.

Also Read: India Unscripted: 6 Homegrown Film Festivals and Their Unique Tales

The state government of Goa has developed the idea of co-working spaces on the beaches, so professionals visiting the area will soon be able to work while taking in the gorgeous coastline. State Tourism and Information and Technology (IT) Minister Rohan Khaunte stated in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday night that the Goa government intends to foster the “culture of #WorkationGoa” by establishing co-working spaces on the beaches. Let’s discuss this topic in depth in today’s blog “Beachside Collaboration: Co-working Spaces Coming to Goa’s Sunny Shores”. Additionally, make sure to visit Flyopedia to grab cheap business class tickets to India.

Co-working Spaces on Goa’s Beaches

Goa is currently getting ready to offer co-working spaces to individuals seeking an ideal equilibrium between business and leisure on its beautiful coastlines in Ashwem and Morjim. The Goa tourism department released the news, which is in line with the government’s goal of making the state known to tourists as more than only its well-known beaches. According to State Tourism Secretary Sanjeev Ahuja, increasing the number of European tourists and affluent holidaymakers in Goa could enhance the state’s tourism offering overall.

But there’s more! The Goa government is working on more than just co-working spaces. They are also trying to get special nomad visas for people who want to work remotely from Goa. As a result, you can benefit from the sun, the beaches, and your job simultaneously. it sounds quite good, doesn’t it?

Enriching Tourism Beyond Coastal Areas

Ahuja underscored the government’s resolve to turn Goa into a tourism destination by presenting co-working spaces as a cutting-edge draw. The state aims to give tourists an all-encompassing experience beyond its sun-kissed shores. The main objective is to draw travelers from high-spending areas like Europe and give them more reasons to come back to Goa. Ahuja continued, “We want to invite more tourists, especially from Europe, and high-spending tourists from other destinations by providing them an all-round experience.” Also, don’t forget to check out Flyopedia.com to grab the cheapest flights from USA to India.

Nomad Visas and Coastal Coworking Spaces

The introduction of co-working spaces on beaches is a component of a larger project spearheaded by Rohan Khaunte, the minister of tourism. The state administration intends to issue nomad visas to people who want to work and take advantage of the tranquil beachside atmosphere of Ashwem and Morjim. The facilities at these locations are currently being built, and completion is expected soon.

Ahuja described in detail the steps the administration took, including letters to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the External Affairs Ministry to streamline the process of issuing nomad visas for these travelers. The state government is optimistic that negotiations will go well in the aftermath of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Discussions are now underway.

The state’s strategy focuses on regenerative tourism, which actively incorporates local communities, culture, food, festivals, and even farmers. It extends beyond beach tourism. Ahuja emphasized the significance of highlighting lesser-known sights, such as large cathedrals and temples in Goa, which will be expertly included in this avant-garde tourist strategy. An existing agreement has been reached with Temple Connect, an organization devoted to the development and revitalization of the temple ecology.

Evolution of Goa’s Tourism Landscape

The state is emphasizing spiritual tourism through the idea of regenerative tourism, in addition to co-working spaces and beach travel. Goa’s spice and cashew plantations will soon be open to visitors, offering a distinctive farm-to-table experience. The government wants to provide visitors with an all-encompassing and engaging experience that highlights Goa’s varied aspects outside of its sun-kissed beaches.

Goa’s metamorphosis into a diverse tourist destination is becoming more and more apparent as improvements move forward. The addition of co-working spaces on the spotless beaches of this coastal sanctuary is a positive step toward changing the landscape of tourism here. Goa is more than just a destination; it’s an ever-evolving experience that will attract travelers seeking a vibrant, culturally varied environment for both business and pleasure.

The co-working spaces on the beaches in Ashwem and Morjim are still under construction, but they should be finished shortly. The government is already in talks with the powerful people in Delhi to facilitate the issuance of nomad visas. So, stay tuned for updates and begin organizing your dream vacation to Goa for your desk! Also, make sure to browse Flyopedia to book last minute flight to India from Canada at affordable prices.

Also Read: Comprehensive List Of Wonderful Things You Have To Do In Goa This Monsoon 2023