It's the time of year when things get wrapped up and new, sometimes updated, resolutions are shaped or reshaped. Yes, it's calendar retirement time again. This year may or may not be glorious, but many may find travelling the best solution to pass time, either as a leisure trip or for grief travel. Here is a look at five destinations, which are among the most Googled in India.
Philippines
Travel enthusiasts who love to shuttle between bustling cities and serene mountains and beaches will always consider the Philippines a top travel destination. This archipelagic nation in the Pacific Ocean offers platters of varied cuisines and is home to many endangered birds. Manila, as the "Pearl of the Orient", Davao City with its Eden National Park, a walk through the cobblestone streets of the UNESCO heritage site Vigan, the Chocolate Hills, and the Ifugao Rice Terraces are just a few examples of where the Philippines can take you.
Georgia
Getting a tan while standing before the Chronicle of Georgia and wondering how huge those historic pieces are, may not be something you regret, but leaving the country without taking a cable car ride to Narikala Fortress would be. It's no wonder Georgia has appeared in trending search lists, because the land demonstrates how differently nature has designed the landscape of Stepantsminda and why the sulfur baths of Tbilisi have grabbed global attention. Walking down the streets thinking about how beautiful Georgian wine tastes and remembering the previous day's adventurous water activities on the lakes makes the trip memorable.
Mauritius
Wandering in Mauritius sometimes makes you feel like you are walking through multiple countries within a single trip. The island, with its crystal-clear water, appears to be a blend of India, China, Africa, and Europe. The blending of tremendous cultures makes it feel like home to many tourists. From the art of basket weaving to tasting Mauritian Biriyani, celebrating the Tamil festival Thaipoosam Cavadee, and observing whether the Mauritian Holi is brighter or not, the Indian influence on Mauritius becomes apparent. Apart from the beaches of Grand Bay, Blue Bay, and Pereybere, experiencing Port Louis with its fullness matters to those seeking a Chinese connection.
Kashmir
From sacred sites like Sankaracharya Hill to trekking tours of Mohanmarg Meadow, Kashmir offers diverse tourism spots. Sitting in a houseboat with the warmth of a Pashmina shawl, sipping Kahwa, and admiring the beauty of Dal Lake makes the trip complete. The Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, Gulmarg, Nishat Garden (which is on the bank of Dal Lake), the Amarnath Cave, and Shikara rides in the traditional wooden boats are just some of the places one should visit while on a Kashmir trip.
Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc's label as Vietnam's largest island has likely contributed to it becoming the most searched travel destination. Everything here revolves around beach life. The island's stories have the aroma of fish sauce and black pepper. The Cay Dua Prison offers a walk through history, and the Cao Dai Temple, which follows an assorted faith, is unique to Phu Quoc.
Phuket
Thailand’s Phuket, with its crystal-clear marine landscape stretching tourism venues to Phang Nga Bay and the Phi Phi Islands, has become a bucket-list spot for many. Old Phuket Town and the Sunday walking street and night markets create the feeling of walking through an animated town with bright lights and vibrant colours.
Maldives
Having formed from volcanic activity, the Maldives has become a hub of biomes. Located in the Indian Ocean, this island complex is becoming the next travel destination for thalassophiles. Standing at the merging point of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters in the Maldives provides a top-notch oceanfront experience.