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Destinations
India
India Tourism / AS2430
The land where one visit is never enough, India is one of the most diverse tourist destinations in the world. From its tropical southern coastline to its mountainous north, the country is a world of marvels. Tourism is big business and, fortunately, India never disappoints. The cosmopolitan cities of New Delhi and Mumbai are the most popular destinations for international travellers and a look at pre-pandemic figures reveals that Bangladesh, the USA, the UK, Sri Lanka, Canada and Australia are among the top source markets. With its history dating back thousands of years, there is something to learn at every turn. Architectural wonders, from the Taj Mahal to Mysore Palace, make it no wonder that the country is known as one of the world’s most mystical and enchanting lands. Its people are as diverse as its cuisine and its landscapes. Lush green jungles in the country’s heart contrast with dramatic snow-capped mountains in the north, while secluded, palm-fringed beaches on both coasts are juxtaposed against some of the most hectic cities. Each state has something different, from its architecture to its gastronomy. While the south revels in
simplicity, with daily dishes consisting of the likes of fish curries and rice, the north offers a mix of flavours as the Mughal influence becomes more evident with rich and meaty delicacies to match the changing climes. Whether wandering through the Himalayas, exploring monasteries and seeking new realms of spirituality in one of the thousands of ashrams around the country, or going upscale for a touch of Indian city life, there is something for every traveller and budget. Some of the world’s most magnificent hotels and service to rival more developed countries make India an experience one never forgets. Often touted for its otherworldly feel, Kerala’s backwaters offer a peaceful retreat into nature, while a camel ride through Rajasthan seems like a world away from urbanity. The Holy Ganges attracts those looking for a more spiritual escape,
Secluded, palm-fringed beaches on both coasts are juxtaposed against some of the most hectic cities
something more soulful than the hustle and bustle of the likes of Mumbai or Delhi. But most of all, this is a place where everyone can find their way. Rail trips offer a scenic way to see the vast country, while a massive network of internal flights allows visitors
to hop between some of the major destinations affordably and easily. As India opens up again, 2022 feels full of promise for international visitors, while the country’s citizens are preparing to take off to new destinations to steer the outbound travel market forward.
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Madhya Pradesh
Bulgaria
Ministry of Tourism of The Republic of Bulgaria / EU1330
Bulgaria is located in Southeast Europe and in the eastern portion of the Balkan Peninsula. A fascinating country at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, it is now one of the region’s up and coming destinations; a mix of old and new; a destination with a difference. Over the centuries, the country has passed through the hands of many an empire, from the Roman to the Russian, and present-day
Bulgaria was a cradle of some of the earliest civilisations in Europe. Ancient cultural monuments include an array of fascinating UNESCOlisted sites. The list features the likes of the Kazanlak Tomb, the Thracian Tomb by the village of Sveshtari near Razgrad, the Madara Horseman, the Boyana Church, the Ivanovo Rock Churches near Ruse, the Rila Monastery and the Old Town in Nessebar.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Sofia
Sozopol, Bulgaria
Lifestyles and cultures in Bulgaria have developed over thousands of years, drawing on diverse influences from Thracians to Greeks, Romans to Slavs, meaning the nation is a rich tapestry of civilisations. Travelling around the country offers an insight into this historic legacy of the melting pot nature of Bulgarian heritage. Its natural beauty is one of its biggest attractions for nature and outdoor adventure lovers. The natural landscape is as diverse as it is breathtaking, consisting
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Bulgaria’s natural beauty is one of its biggest attractions, with plenty to do for nature and outdoor adventure lovers of lowlands, plains, foothills, plateaus, river valleys, basins and mountains of varying elevations. From hiking or horse riding through the mountains in summer to skiing in winter or a trip to the country’s healing thermal springs, there is never a shortage of things to do. With its fascinating gastro heritage, the cuisine is another reason to come, while for beach lovers, the Bulgarian Black Sea or many of its dramatic rivers dotted by magical forests offer the perfect escape, with activities such as fishing and watersports also available. Most visitors come from the European Union and arrivals are slowly on the up, but a long way to go from 2018 numbers when statistics from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development revealed that 12.4 million foreign visitors travelled to the country.
09/05/2022 8:13 PM
