NRIs visiting India with their kith and kin often make last-minute travel plans. With an extended bucket list—people to meet, to-do list, travel places to unravel, etc. Obviously, for  NRI tours holiday planning isn’t going to be easy without proper planning. But put things into perspective, you can enjoy your holidays, and spend quality time with your family and friends while in India.

Here are some ways by which NRIs can make the most of their holiday experience:

Choosing your travel destination:
India is an exotic land that has fascinated the western world for several centuries. There are a number of holiday destinations to suit every mood, budget and season. Therefore, options are aplenty and, if you’re an NRI, all you need to do is to choose the right holiday destination by factoring in various aspects such as the duration, what part of the year or season you’re travelling, and who your travel partner is: spouse, friend, colleague, etc. These factors and more will largely decide the theme and purpose of your travel. The more you read popular travel sites and blog or use resourceful travel apps, the more you’ll be able to extract useful information, advice and hacks from other travelers and travel buffs.

If all you want to visit is a quiet and serene travel destination, then the mountains are your calling. States like Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh and Kerala offer a number of scenic landscapes that would not only rejuvenate you, but leave an indelible impression upon your mind for eternity. If your adrenaline is kicking hard and fast, then you should visit one of the national parks in the country such as the Bandipur National Park, Kaziranga National Park, etc.

If it’s a family holiday tour, places of religious and spirituals interests will excite elderly family members. If you are enamored by the architectural marvels of our country, why not explore the culturally and historically significant heritage sites of the bygone era across the country?

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Advance planning:
It is always recommended that NRIs plan in advance, taking into account the time availability of their family and friends. Most travel and tour operators, either online or offline, provide early-bird offers and deals for NRI tours in India, the benefits of which NRIs can reap only when they plan in advance. This also means greater savings and peace of mind!

Using Credit & Debit card offers:
From earning frequent flyer miles, discounts and deals on travel and stay, and various EMI offers—as an NRI, you can opt for numerous discounts and offers. Most financial institutions and banks are tied up with several travel partners that allow you to book flights, cabs, vehicles, self-drive and lots more. Check their websites and avail of the offers posted there from time to time.

Watch your baggage weight
Baggage allowance is another factor that can dictate overseas air travel, probably somewhat low when it comes to a domestic flight. However, it is recommended to carefully check the baggage specifications like size dimensions with the tour agent/operator or airlines.

Travel Insurance policy
If you’re an NRI and international visitor, travel insurance becomes mandatory. It can provide you with increased peace of mind and an added layer of security in the case of accidents, unexpected medical emergencies or cancellations, and theft or loss of your luggage, etc. Don’t brush this step aside when planning your next visit to India. Talk to your travel operator/agency managing tour services for NRI or insurance agency, and sign up for a policy that best meets your requirements.

Must Read: Buying a Comprehensive Travel Insurance Plan For a European Trip

Speak the language of money—be organized:
Stay abreast of the latest developments with the customs regulations when carrying and handling foreign currency. Questions including what’s the upper limit of foreign currency exchange and those related to declaring cash in excess of USD 10,000 (or its equivalent) in currency notes, traveler’s cheques and currency notes matter a lot. All said and done it should be noted that exchange of foreign currency cash for INR (Indian Rupees) can prove expensive. It is advisable to use your debit card for cash withdrawal in Indian currency from the local ATM centers. Therefore, you can also remit or deposit money to India before your arrival so that you will have sufficient cash in your NRE or NRO savings account. Here understanding the differences between NRE and NRO type accounts helps before opening a bank account.

Make multiple hard copies of travel documents
Always carry multiple copies of essential documents including flight tickets, passport, credit/debit cards, bank documents and various ID proofs. In India, with limited internet access at times, it is always handy to have these documents in hand.

Protect your family’s health:
It is important to understand the protocols of the COVID pandemic (at the time of writing this article) before travelling to a particular region. Taking any special medical precautions, including vaccination and immunization records, especially for the kids and elderly members on an overseas trip is important. Exercise precaution with a complete travel health kit, safe consumption and food safety  wherever you travel in India.

Must Read: How to Maintain Your Health during Travelling