Ditching Turkey and Azerbaijan? Greece, Vietnam and others are top picks now

Following the recent geopolitical tensions where Turkey and Azerbaijan expressed support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, many Indian travellers are reconsidering their travel plans to these countries. This shift has prompted a search for alternative destinations that offer similar cultural richness and experiences.

Below is a comparative analysis of potential alternatives:

1. GREECE

Attractions: Famed for its ancient history, Greece offers landmarks like the Acropolis in Athens, the ruins of Delphi, and the monasteries of Meteora. The picturesque islands of Santorini and Mykonos provide stunning landscapes and vibrant nightlife.

Cuisine: Greek cuisine features dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava, offering a delightful culinary experience.

Cost: Travellers can expect mid-range expenses, with options to suit various budgets.

Visa requirements: Greece is part of the Schengen Area; Indian travellers need to apply for a Schengen visa.

2. EGYPT

Attractions: Home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor and Karnak. A Nile River cruise offers a unique perspective on Egypt’s ancient sites.

Cuisine: Egyptian dishes like koshari, ful medames, and mahshi are both flavorful and affordable.

Cost: Generally more affordable than many European destinations, offering good value for money.

Visa requirements: Indian citizens can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival, simplifying entry procedures.

3. ARMENIA

Attractions: Rich in history with sites like the monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin, and the Temple of Garni. The scenic Lake Sevan and the Dilijan National Park are also notable.

Cuisine: Features dishes such as khorovats (grilled meat), dolma, and lavash bread.

Cost: Known for being budget-friendly, Armenia offers affordable accommodation and dining options.

Visa requirements: Indian nationals can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival.

4. GEORGIA

Attractions: Offers a mix of medieval architecture, such as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and natural beauty in regions like Kazbegi. The capital, Tbilisi, is known for its charming old town and sulfur baths.

Cuisine: Georgian cuisine includes khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings).

Cost: Comparable to Armenia, Georgia is considered economical for travellers.

Visa requirements: Indian travellers can apply for an e-visa prior to arrival.

5. THAILAND

Attractions: Known for its tropical beaches, ornate temples, and bustling markets. Destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai cater to diverse traveller interests.

Cuisine: Thai food is globally renowned, with dishes like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice.

Cost: Offers a range from budget to luxury, accommodating all types of travellers.

Visa requirements: Indian citizens can avail of visa-on-arrival facilities.

6. VIETNAM

Attractions: Features natural wonders like Ha Long Bay, historical sites in Hanoi, and the ancient town of Hoi An.

Cuisine: Vietnamese dishes such as pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (sandwich) are popular and inexpensive.

Cost: Known for being a budget-friendly destination with low costs for accommodation and food.

Visa requirements: E-visa options are available for Indian travellers.

COMPARATIVE INSIGHTS

Cultural experience: Greece and Egypt offer deep historical and archaeological experiences akin to those in Turkey. Armenia and Georgia provide rich cultural heritage with unique traditions.

Proximity and accessibility: Thailand and Vietnam are closer to India, resulting in shorter flight durations and often more affordable airfare.

Budget considerations: Armenia, Georgia, Thailand, and Vietnam are generally more budget-friendly compared to Greece and Egypt.

Visa facilitation: Most of these alternatives offer e-visa or visa-on-arrival options, simplifying travel planning.

In light of current geopolitical considerations, these destinations not only serve as viable alternatives to Turkey and Azerbaijan but also offer diverse experiences catering to various traveller preferences and budgets.