Martin Ferguson, Australian Tourism Minister, in his recent interview with IANS, said that Indian economy is applauded as the tenth biggest economy of the world. In addition, the nation is facing tremendous growth period, an aspect that would surely generate opportunities for masses who are interested in the “tourism” aspect!

Despite the recent spate of the racial attacks, Oz is intending to have more Indian tourists, captivating on the 11.9 percent jump in the inflow of visitors last year. The minister said that despite the recession, Australia got a good inflow of visitors last year. According to the statistics, 120,500 Indian tourists came to Australia last year. The stats point out an increase of 11.9% as compared to 2007-08.

The Minister said that Aussie as a country is gradually becoming as an applauded and prospective travel destination as compared to other places like Britain and North America. The main reason as to why Aussie is emerging as a major attraction is because it offers a wide range of adventure activities, he further added

Ferguson said that people of all genres come to Australia. Some spend a fortnight here, stay in luxury hotels, visit some destinations like Sydney and look for adventurous activities! Also, in attempt to lure other Indian tourists, Australia would be coming out with various attractive campaigns with airlines companies, in order to provide competitive travel packages.

Also, keeping in mind the popularity of Internet, the Tourism Australia website is getting all ready to serve its global target audience in the best way possible, the Minister later said.

Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has set a number of rules and regulations on shipping goods by people who migrate to or enter the UK. Arriving UK is not really complicated as long as you abide by the rules. Just obey these rules and you are free to enter the nation!

If you breach the rules set by HMRC, there are possibilities that you may be taken into custody or detained. You are not allowed to bring certain things across UK border. Thus, a little knowledge about the UK custom regulations comes handy when you are planning to travel the UK.

The HMRC has divided the goods into 4 categories. They are:

• Things that can be brought across the UK free of charge.
• Things that can be brought across the UK, however, which may incur charge, such as duty/value added tax.
• Things that can be brought across the UK, but with legal permission.
• Things that should not be brought across the UK.

Interestingly, visitors are permitted to bring alcohol, tobacco, perfume into the UK free of charge, however, there is as limit to the amount. These allowances, except the perfume are only meant for people who are over 17 years old.

Go through the UK custom regulations before you plan to enter the country in order to avoid any undesirable incident! Or you can hire professional help to know about the rules and regulations. For a smooth entry to a country, it is very important to know its limitations! Safe and Happy traveling!

Nature lovers and sports enthusiasts can find perfect comfort and harmony in Wellington, New Zealand! In short, an amalgamation of both extrovert and introvert activities at one spot! What else can one ask for! The culture, the famous tourist destinations, the diversity in cuisines, and the fascinating ambiance, everything is just perfect in Wellington and play a crucial role in applauding it as one of the hottest tourist destinations!

Some of the must-try options in Wellington are:

• Museum located on Queens Wharf: The monument symbolizes the various facets linked with the New Zealand history. For those who are eager to dive in the pool of NZ history, can take part in the Te Papa history event that happens on an annual basis.
• The Botanic Gardens in Wellington hold various events every year. For instance, a one hour tour that happens on the last Friday on May holds an altogether different charm. The event happens at other instances also. Another even hosted by the Botanic Garden is the Sensation walk that happens on May 26 every year.
• Cuban Carousel Celebration happens at the Opera House in April and is draped with various activities like singing and dancing.
• Relax minded people can head on towards Waterfront Walkway and watch the fisherman commencing their regular day-to-day activities in their beautiful yachts. Trust me, no better view would provide you with a better feeling than this!
• Waterfront lovers can straight away head towards Lyall Bay. The beautiful beach is perfect for you and your beau to spend some quality time together and capture those moments forever in your heart! Fun loving people have the freedom to indulge in outdoor activities like surfing on those beautiful waves.
• If you are with your kids, take them to Wellington Zoo! Kiwi, of course is a must-watch option here!

No matter where you drive in Wellington, your eyes would be treated with the fantastic views of the harbor and the city; no doubt it is regarded as the most picturesque city!

The life is here…

The enchanting beaches, beautiful volcanic cones and stupendous hills, Auckland has all of what it takes to be an alluring holiday destination! The addition of museums, fun parks and other amenities add cherry on the cake, every time you visit this amazing place!

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, which means that more amenities and tourist destinations are offered to the tourists as compared to other cities. The streets are wide and offer some of the cleanest ambiance for the visitors. It is also a business hub and is arrayed with plenty of offices, companies and firms, to provide a quick glimpse of the business culture of New Zealand. In addition, it is a perfect hot-spot to enjoy various delicacies at one place. The involvement of bars, clubs and night pubs offer an escape from the monotonous lifestyle and add that much needed spice in your life, which you craved for, since ages. Auckland has something to offer to everyone! Amid the happening culture and night life, geeks can find some respite in the applauded libraries of Auckland, with a majority of them offering open spaces to skim through your favorite novel with a cup of hassle-nut cappuccino.

Now let us talk something about the marine life of Auckland! It is called “City of Sails,” courtesy its wonderful docks and sea side views! Visitors can enjoy various enthralling water sports like sailing, fishing, surfing with their loved ones, like never before. Sports lovers can find some solace in outdoor activities like sky diving, kit boarding, cave, bungee jumping, to name a few.

Auckland is also famous for its beautiful gardens. You can also visit the Puha Conjon Park or go to the famous zoo with your sweet kids. Even adults would enjoy the experience! Other not-to-miss-options are Broadway Street - applauded as a perfect shopping destination; Pernell Risa and Road - famous for its historical homes and architecture and last but definitely not the least, Otara Market – known for budget shopping options!

Still Thinking? Auckland is waiting for you! Just go for it!

Italy was recently acknowledged as “the most welcoming country” in the entire Europe. Contrary to Australia, that has left no scope in getting the tag of a racist country; Italy, on the other hand, claims that THERE IS NO RACISM in the country what so ever.

Andrea Ronchi, the European Affairs Minister, confirmed that Italy shows no signs of racism, and only those people who do not know Italy can make allegations for the same! He further blamed the rest of the Europe that left Italy to face the problems of immigration of its own.

He stated that Italy would provide a free tour to all those people who have accused the country and show them as to what Italy is all about! It offers solidarity and a welcoming attitude to everyone who enters its premises. At the same time, it is also true that “ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION” too exists as a violent phenomenon.

He further called all those who accuse Italy as a racist country as being STUPID! He applauded Italy as the most welcoming country, days after residents attacked African farm workers who were found complaining and agitating against their conditions. Reports say that various residents and immigrants were left injured in the Italian town of Rosarno.

Several incidents have been witnessed where immigrants were bashed seriously and left wounded. Interior Minister Roberto Maroni, stated that these incidents are a result of “too much tolerance towards clandestine immigration“.

This western province of British Columbia is known for its spellbound natural beauty. Created in 1871, its capital city – Victoria, is the fifteenth largest metropolitan city in Canada and the second largest in the Pacific Northwest, between the Pacific Ocean and the eastern Rocky mountains.

The province is known for its enchanting flora and fauna draping the beautiful landscapes making it a sight for all the tourists. There are many activities to indulge in for all age groups. The biggest of all the attractions in British Columbia is that it is home to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and Paralympics Winter Games. What more could be asked for? Witness the games live which is just the perfect vacation that could be asked for.

Apart from the biggest attraction mentioned above, try out hiking, exploring beaches, mountain climbing and relax by the lakes. The moderate climate of the province (except for the mountainous regions), makes it one of the most happening provinces in Canada. With Olympics happening in the near future, this hustling has almost doubled wit the preparations.

The most popular cities in British Columbia are Victoria, Vancouver and Whistler. Here, you can indulge in shopping in some up market complexes. You can get a taste of the various Canadian exhibitions as well.

Vancouver has many tourist spots to be visited. Some of them include the Granville Island, Robson Street for that endless shopping, Grouse Mountain (don’t forget the tram ride here!), Chinatown and Chinatown Night Market which is one of the biggest Chinese communities in North America. However, Vancouver has much more to explore.

Similarly, Victoria is known for its historical sites and museums. Activities to indulge in here include whale watching, Butchart Gardens which are more than a century old, Chinatown to get the feel of Asia in America, the Fisgard Lighthouse which is one of the key landmarks in the city and the Royal British Columbia Museum to get an insight into the history of the province.

Whistler is known as one of the top four season resorts in North America. It is the perfect place for that adrenaline rush to come. Get involved in Zip Lining, Hiking, Heli – Rides, apart from skiing and snowboarding.

All in all, British Columbia has to be explored with a human eye. Putting it down in words is not sufficient to describe the beauty and enigma of the place. So, pack your bags and start unwinding!

Manitoba is one of the biggest Canadian provinces, which is driven by agriculture. If you are a tourist visiting Canada, ensure that you don’t skip Manitoba. Indulge in the following:

• The northern region of Manitoba is host to the northern lights which is a spectacular view to watch at starry nights. These could be best viewed between January and March on a clear night. This is also known as the one of the all time adventures experienced in a lifetime. These northern lights could be watched from the specially made see – through domes meant for this purpose.
• Bird watching is one exercise offering calm and peace to a traveler trying to connect with the nature. The province of Manitoba is home more than five hundred species of birds which is around two – thirds of the entire bird species found in Canada. During the spring season, north bound birds are a spectacular to watch flying over the lakes and forests in flocks. The North American Birding Hotspot at the Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre is a must visit. This place was awarded for the Best Environmental Experience by British Airways Tourism for Tomorrow in 2002. Other places offering similar experiences include those of Delta Marsh and the Riding Mountain National Park.
• The capital city of Manitoba – Winnipeg is the home of the polar bears. The tundra region is a must to be explored for which there are vehicles that have been designed for this purpose. The best time for viewing these bears is during October and November. They could be easily found roaming around the coastline waiting for the Hudson Bay to freeze. The place is decked to live, eat and sleep with the bears roaming by your side.
• Resting by the lake is the best form of relaxation that a traveler can get. Camping or a cottage to rest by the side of some of the biggest and the best lakes in the world could be done here. You can rest or dive in during the scorching summers or a calm walk in the moonlight, gazing at the stars would be the perfect way to spend a vacation.
• For those looking for some adventure, hiking and biking are the activities found here. The highest point in Manitoba – Baldy Mountain along with the ranges at the Duck Mountain Provincial Park is host to some of the ancient glaciers. Some of these formed almost 10,000 years ago. On the other hand, the Spruce Woods Provincial Park is host to the sand dunes. The ancient granite at the Whiteshell along with the waterfalls near the Paint Lake includes the other spots to be visited. With these are trails everywhere for the bikers and the hikers along the forests.
• The Canadian countryside offers something different. A vacation at the country side amidst the lush green fields is the perfect mode to relax. With this, you can get to witness many of the Canadian festivals and other fall suppers held in small towns.
• Last but not the least; indulge in some shopping as well. Winnipeg is one place where you can find a blend of everything. A combination of food and music. You can find many shopping malls along with casinos and museums and other historic sites.

However, there are many other sites and activities that are also a must visit! So, make sure that you cover all the major aspects of Manitoba while planning your vacation.

The state of Alberta has been a tourist destination since the early twentieth century. The place has been known for its culture and history since the early years. The various attractions for the tourists include those of cultural and heritage sites which portray the history of Alberta, national parks, urban arts, indulge in adventure sports such as those of skiing, hiking and camping to name a few. The favorite tourist spots are Edmonton, Calgary and the Canadian Rockies.

Edmonton, which is also the capital city of Alberta, is known for the West Edmonton mall which is a shopper’s paradise. The place is also known as Canada’s Festival City where the summer season hosts a series of festivals. These include the Edmonton Folk Music Festival and the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival. The city has almost more than 4.4 million visitors each year.

Similar to the above, Calgary attracts around 4.2 million tourists annually. At least a million visitors come to Canada just to witness the Stampede which is a festival in Calgary. It is basically the celebration of the Wild West and the cattle ranching industry. The Banff National Park and the Jasper National Park are another attraction not to be missed out.

A vacation could be easily categorized into exploring the mountains, ski activities, hunting and fishing and so on. The Canadian Rockies in the south - west of Alberta is the best place to indulge in some activities to pump your adrenaline. You can get on hiking trails, horse riding and water rafting.

There are many skiing resorts and destinations in Alberta. Some of the famous resorts include Lake Louise Mountain Resort in the Banff region, Nakiska and Fortress in Kananaskis Country, Marmot Basin near jasper and so on.

The wild in Alberta offers a perfect ambiance to relax and rejuvenate. The Bow River is an excellent spot for fly fishing. There are many lakes in Alberta where the tourists are permitted fishing.

However, there is a lot more to explore. So pack up and to make things easier, consult a Visa specialist who can help you get your visa as soon as possible!

Ottawa - the capital city of Canada is one of the largest multicultural destinations in its country offering a wide range of attractions to the tourist and the immigrant population. The city offers various aspects for an explorer which involves history, culture, politics arts and so on. You can wander on your own in this city which keeps the enigma intact and ensures that you have your share of adventure.

The presence of a multicultural society in this city ensures that you are not an outsider. The people of the city are warm and extremely welcoming, similar to that of a rural city. This feature makes the place exotic – a large city with the feel of countryside makes it the perfect place to take time off your busy and boring schedule.

Stroll across the lush green parks in this eastern Ontario city. There are a total of eight hundred and fifty parks in this city. With this are the banks of the Ottawa River which separates it from the province of Quebec. The Rideau River and Canal adds to the beautiful pollution free environment of the city.

The city is also host to the world’s largest skating rink at the Rideau Canal which is used by the locals as well as the visitors.

The main places to visit include the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the National Gallery of Canada, and the National Arts Centre amongst others. With this, there are around 45 festivals that are celebrated every year in this city. These celebrations add to the vigor and the vibrant colors of the city.

Above all, the neighborhoods are not to be missed out. Some such places are –

• Little Italy to feel the Italy in Canada. The place is known for restoring the Italian culture and heritage.
• Rockciffe is host to all the embassies and the residences of all the top Canadian Government officials including those of the PM and the Governor General.
• Downtown is known for its history and architecture in the centre of Ottawa.
• A waterfront village known as Manotick.
• Feel Asia in Somerset Chinatown.
• ByWard Market is a happening place for all those interested in shopping. It also has many pubs, restaurant and bars for those keen to meet new people and taste new cuisines. You can also find Canada’s oldest farmer’s market here.

So pack your bags and get exploring ASAP!

The uniqueness of Ontario makes it one of the hottest choices when it comes to spending time with your loved ones. Ontario can serve as a romantic honeymoon destination for you to cuddle your beloved in your arms. Also, the place has the capacity to be applauded as an amazing adventure destination for all the thrill-loving geeks out there. For those who want both, Ontario is the place for all of them.

Let us start with the ‘adventure’ factor first. The unforgettable outdoors of, the majestic wildlife, amazing beauty and plenty of adventure to perform, Ontario is decked with some of the never forgetting moments for you. Gear up yourself and fasten your seat belts for some of the stupendous activities like cycling, hiking, water adventures, snow adventures, arts and wonders, rail adventures, to name a few. You name it and Ontario has it!

Fishing is Ontario’s USP when it comes to offering some of the relaxing and soothing activities. The scenic beauty of Ontario adds cherry on the cake for your adventure holiday!

Now let us talk about the romantic aspect of Ontario. Every place becomes romantic when you have ample love in your relationship! The Canadian winters act as a cherry on the cake to provide you with a perfect excuse to hug your beloved and cuddle her in your arms! It is not just about making the gateways romantic, but having fun at the same time. Starting from cottages, resorts, hotels, motels, secluded cottages, hot-tub in the mountain resort, etc., couples have plenty of options to choose from. Make every moment worth living in Ontario during your stay in this majestic place. Visit Ontario to witness various festivals and places like Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, the Royal Canadian Henley, Canadian National Exhibition, Highland Games, Southwold Earthworks National Historic Site, Casa Loma, to name a few. In addition, Peterborough Lift Lock, The Big Nickel, Casa Loma, and Niagara Falls are some of the most popular tourist destinations for love birds.

Do all those things that please your beau and create some of the best moments in life with her. Don’t panic as to what to pack and what not to pack. Winters are chilling, so stuff as much attires as you can. With its majestic lakes and water bodies, awesome natural wonders, forests and beaches, Ontario leaves no stone unturned in making your holiday a perfect dream vacation for you!