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By Nishang Narayan
Published on June 29, 2024
In 2023, Indian nationals faced substantial financial losses amounting to EUR 12.1 million due to rejected Schengen visa applications. This places India among the top five nationalities experiencing the highest rejection rates for Schengen visas, underscoring the financial burden on those attempting to travel to Schengen countries.
Out of the 151,752 visa requests filed by Indian applicants, a significant number were denied. This situation reflects a broader trend of high rejection rates among certain nationalities, with Turkish nationals facing the highest monetary loss of EUR 13.5 million, followed by Algerians at EUR 13.3 million, Moroccans at EUR 10.9 million, and Chinese applicants at EUR 4.8 million, despite having one of the highest approval rates.
In 2023, Schengen states rejected a total of 1.6 million visa applications, generating EUR 130 million in funds, according to SchengenNews. The rejection rate, representing the proportion of visas denied relative to the total number of applications, was notably high among African and Asian countries. Comoros had the highest rejection rate at 57.7%, followed by Pakistan (48.2%), Guinea-Bissau (47.9%), Ghana (46.7%), and Mali (46.4%).
For Indian applicants, the high rejection rates and associated financial losses highlight the challenges faced in securing Schengen visas. Many applicants bear the cost of application fees without obtaining the desired visa approval, leading to frustration over "wasted money."
BLS International Opens New Visa Application Centre in Mumbai
To address the growing demand for visas, BLS International has opened a new visa application centre in Mumbai. Located at Nariman Point, the 5,200 square foot centre is designed to process approximately 1,000 visa applications per day. While primarily focusing on visa applications for Spain, the centre will also handle visa services for Slovakia, Egypt, Gambia, Morocco, and South Korea, catering to both short-term and long-term travel needs.
Increased Schengen Visa Fees and New Multi-Entry Visa Regime
Starting June 11, 2024, Schengen visa fees increased from EUR 80 to EUR 90 for adult applicants and from EUR 40 to EUR 45 for children aged six to twelve. Countries not cooperating with the readmission of their irregularly staying citizens in the EU may see visa fees rise to EUR 135 or even EUR 180. This fee hike follows a European Commission decision aimed at addressing inflation and civil servants' salary adjustments, marking the first increase since February 2020.
Despite the increased fees, there is some relief for Indian travelers. The European Commission has introduced a new visa "cascade" regime for Indian nationals, easing access to multi-entry visas with extended validity. Indian nationals residing in India can now obtain a two-year multi-entry visa after lawfully using two visas within the previous three years. This can be followed by a five-year visa, allowing short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Growing Interest in European Travel Among Indians
Indian nationals have shown a growing interest in European travel, with a 43% increase in Schengen visa applications in 2023 compared to 2022. India ranked third in visa applications, with 966,687 filings. While the increased fees present a financial challenge, the new multi-entry visa regime could simplify travel plans for frequent visitors, potentially encouraging more Indians to explore European destinations.
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Published on May 31, 2025
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) made a landmark move in the Emirate’s hospitality journey with the debut of the Tourism Excellence Awards, a prestigious platform honouring those transforming Ras Al Khaimah into one of the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Public Services Department in Ras Al Khaimah, the inaugural ceremony took place on 21 May 2025 at the stunning Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island.
The awards celebrated outstanding performers across six dynamic categories:
Corporate Hospitality Excellence
Individual Innovation
Culinary Artistry
Hospitality Leadership
Community Involvement
Environmental Responsibility
This comprehensive recognition structure reflects RAKTDA’s intent to spotlight excellence at every level—be it individuals, teams, or companies.
Speaking at the event, Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA, said,
“The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Excellence Awards mark an important milestone in our journey to become a leading global destination. By recognising those who go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable experiences, we are not only celebrating their achievements, but fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and community engagement.”
More than just accolades, the awards align with RAKTDA’s wider mission of building a sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich tourism ecosystem. They aim to enhance traveller confidence, elevate service standards, foster innovation, and drive collaboration between businesses, local communities, and government bodies.
Phillips added,
“These awards mark a new era of recognition and inspiration in Ras Al Khaimah’s exceptional tourism story—one driven by shared ambition, pride in local achievement, and a commitment to excellence at every touchpoint.”
For more information and interview requests, reach out to:Nidhie Raj Singh | +91 9999 266134 | nidhies@branditindia.comPriyanshi Jain | +91 8527217660 | priyanshij@branditindia.com
To explore Ras Al Khaimah’s journey and initiatives, visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.comFollow: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeHashtag: #VisitRasAlKhaimah
Published on May 28, 2025
The Vietnam Golf Coast is calling travellers this summer with its unique blend of lush landscapes, cultural immersion, and exclusive seasonal packages. Stretching across Central Vietnam, this renowned golf destination is offering more than just top-tier fairways—it’s inviting players to experience the soul of Vietnam through its rice paddies, highland mists, seaside breezes, and traditional flavours.
At Laguna Golf Lang Co, harvest season paints the course with shades of gold as rice paddies reach their peak through May and June. “This is one of the most enchanting times to play,” says Stephen Banks, Director of Golf, noting how the course deeply reflects Vietnam’s natural rhythms and traditions. This summer, golfers can enjoy curated offers like the Golf & Spa package, the time-friendly Golf Express deal, and the Golden Rice Flash Sales that celebrate the vibrant harvest.
Nestled in the cool highlands beyond Da Nang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club offers a completely different ambiance. Surrounded by pine trees and misty mountain air, it provides a tranquil escape from the coastal heat. “Every time I walk this course, I’m reminded why golf in the mountains feels different – calmer, clearer, and more connected,” shares General Manager Simon Mees. The summer lineup includes a Twi-Night Golf package, with weekday slots available until 2:15 PM (3:00 PM on Wednesdays) at just VND2,600,000 (USD100), complete with a refreshing beer. The Night Golf experience, starting at VND2,500,000 per player, adds local flair with craft beer and Ba Na sausage.
Closer to the coast, Montgomerie Links offers the classic charm of seaside golf, where the sea breeze dances through casuarina pines and fishing boats drift along the horizon. “Montgomerie Links captures the spirit of true links golf, but with a distinct Vietnamese character,” says Club Manager Le Vo Hoang Van. Their Stay & Play package is available until September 30, 2025, starting from just VND4,770,000, offering unbeatable value by the beach.
What sets the Vietnam Golf Coast apart is its ability to fuse sport with culture. From caddies in traditional non la hats to clubhouses serving iconic Vietnamese dishes like ca phe sua da, banh mi, pho, and bun thit nuong, every detail adds to the experience.
Off the greens, golfers are spoilt for choice. Laguna Golf Lang Co is close to the historic city of Hue, while Ba Na Hills and Montgomerie Links are a quick drive from Da Nang’s beaches, fireworks festival, and buzzing food scene. And of course, the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and timeless charm, is always worth a visit.
For golfers seeking more than just a round, this summer on the Vietnam Golf Coast promises a sense of place, pace, and unforgettable play.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on May 21, 2025
Adventure seekers, get ready! The Dharoi Adventure Fest is all set to kick off from May 23, 2025, at the picturesque Dharoi Dam in Mehsana, Gujarat. This much-awaited event, inaugurated by Hon’ble CM Shri Bhupendra Patel, promises non-stop action and fun with a wide array of air, water, and land-based activities.
Recognised as Gujarat’s first and India’s longest adventure fest, the event will showcase an exciting mix of thrills—from parasailing and paramotoring to power boating, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and more. It’s a full-fledged adventure destination rolled into one unforgettable experience.
As the sun sets, the excitement continues with cultural events, stargazing, astronomy camps, and nature walks, offering a perfect blend of thrill and tranquillity.
For those looking to stay, the festival offers a range of accommodations—luxury tents to budget dorms, all with included meals and full access to the fest.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Dharoi Dam on the Sabarmati River, the location is fast emerging as Gujarat’s newest hotspot for eco-adventure tourism.
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, the Dharoi Adventure Fest is the perfect summer getaway packed with excitement, culture, and the great outdoors.
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