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Volume 2 | Issue 4 | September-October 2019 TM
Australia & New Zealand Offer Astonishing Experiences Navigate Through Your Favourite Cities With ‘Discover This Way’ Unique Ways to Celebrate Diwali Across the World Share Your Travel Photos & Get Featured in CompassTM
Holidays are to splurge
Nicole Kidman
DISCOVER THIS WAY
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CEO Message
ENHANCE YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE Dear customer, Welcome to VFS Global COMPASSTM, a complimentary magazine created exclusively for VFS Global’s application centre customers, which shares useful information about visa application services, as well as other interesting news and updates from the world of travel. We have just concluded a very busy peak travel season. As travellers navigated through the visa process and their packed itineraries, one thing was clear – the desire to explore foreign destinations and seek out new and ‘off-beat’ destinations remains stronger than ever.
Zubin Karkaria CEO, VFS Global Group
In this issue, we are honoured to feature an interview with His Excellency Dr. Andreas Liebmann, Ambassador of Austria to the United Arab Emirates, on Austria retaining its attractiveness as a top European destination and some tips about the lesser-known highlights of this beautiful alpine country. In an exclusive interview with the talented and highly acclaimed Nicole Kidman featured in this issue, she talks about what drives her success and of course, her love for travel. Kidman’s home country Australia and neighbouring New Zealand are also featured in this issue as these two destinations enter their peak tourist season. We also bring you a peek into festive Diwali and Halloween celebrations to expect in countries around the world, and the experiential delights of Helsinki and Capri, among other tourist hotspots. In this edition, visa applicants will also find useful information about the visa application process, including the VFS Global Privilege Program that offers a variety of highly beneficial visa services. Don’t miss our photo contest where we invite you to share your travel photos that we will publish in future issues of CompassTM. I hope you find this issue interesting and wish you an excellent travel experience – wherever you may be headed!
Share your travel photos and get featured in future issues of CompassTM Via Krupp in Capri, Italy
Sep-Oct 2019 / 1
Volume 2 | Issue 4 | September-October 2019
Contents Pg 24 Pg 28
Pg 12
Pg 16
Guide to Visa Application
06 Mistakes to avoid while applying for your student visa 08 How to ensure a hassle-free vacation 10 Travel agent testimonials 12 Premium services designed for the valuable customer
People & Places
Festival
18 Nicole Kidman The Oscar winner speaks about her favourite holiday destinations and her upcoming projects
16 One festival, many charms The festival of lights has its unique charm all across the world
28 His Excellency Dr. Andreas Liebmann, Ambassador of Austria to the United Arab Emirates, talks about off-the- beaten-track attractions in Austria
Outdoor
14 Tropical wonder Suriname is gaining attention of travel enthusiasts
22 Celebrating Halloween Each country has its own tradition to celebrate Halloween
Cityscape 24
72 hours in Helsinki Take a tour of the vibrant seaside city of beautiful islands and green parks
Pg 40
Pg 22 Pg 30 Pg 36
Spotlight
30 A lpine Amazement Amidst the mountains, baroque architecture and rugged Alpine terrain, Austria is a charm for travellers
Leisure
34 T V Shows to keep you entertained List of shows that you can binge on while travelling
Hotspot
Photo Contest
38 A picture speaks a thousand words Win a chance to get your photos featured in Compass
Adventure
40 At the edge of the world Travel through the astonishing land of Australia and New Zealand
Globetrotter
About VFS Global 48 Get a Privilege Program card and enjoy ease and comfort of your application process 50 VFS Global encourages employees to contribute to community initiatives 52 VFS Global Network 54 Network of VFS Global Visa Application Centres in India
46 Best events across the world to make you plan ahead
36 With a song in your heart Capri is known for its picturesque sights and rugged landscape Sep-Oct 2019 / 3
Volume 2 | Issue 4 | Sep-Oct 2019 TM
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TM
guide to visa application
Applying for your student visa?
Common
1
mistakes to avoid
W
ith a new semester beginning at foreign
not be outdone by the stress of applying
universities across the world, many
for your student visa. VFS Global has put
students are in the process of heading
together a quick guide to alert students
abroad for further education. But the thrill
to mistakes often made – and easily
of starting your next big adventure should
avoidable - in student visa applications.
Going to Australia for studies? Online Visa Assist will help with your visa application
The Online Visa Assist facility enables you to lodge your online visa application at the Australia Visa Application Centre. Online form-filling assistance is available for all online visa categories.
Benefits of Online Visa Assist:
Get end-to-end support from VFS Global experienced staff to guide you throughout the entire application process. A complete application is the single most important factor in allowing the Australian Embassy to make a quick decision. Hence, ensure you bring all the supporting documents and complete any required health examinations early. Instant email status updates on your visa application progress. No need for hi-speed internet and scanners as all scans and uploads are done at the Visa Application Centre. For details, visit https://www.vfsglobal.com/Australia/India/additional_services.html#_Online_Visa_Assist
5
1
Include the admission letter Your admission letter is more than just your gate pass into a college; it is also one of the most vital documents to be submitted along with your visa application, as your reason for purpose of travel. Always have your admission letter (or unconditional admission letter, where required) ready for submission.
Don’t miss documents
2
There is a checklist available on www.vfsglobal.com or the relevant consulates’ websites listing the documents required to be submitted for a student visa application to various countries. Consulting the checklist and ensuring every required document is included in the application is of utmost importance.
Enough money? Ensure you check the financial requirements of the country you are applying for, (e.g. financial backing required for education and living for the duration of the course), and carry the statements as detailed in the checklist. In case you are a scholarship student, carry evidence of the same.
3
Don’t forget the marksheets
4
While it is common for students to submit college transcripts with their applications, several countries prefer to see prior educational mark sheets. Ensure these are at hand when you submit your application.
Include sponsor details
5
Your sponsor’s details are as important in the visa application process as your own. Submit all the relevant declarations/affidavits as specified by the country you are applying to, in cases where sponsors (parents/ family) are paying for the course.
It is important to remember that the rules and requirements differ for each country; it is imperative that applicants go online and thoroughly study the guidelines and checklists available.
Once all the documents are ready, book an appointment with VFS Global, via www.vfsglobal.com, to submit your visa application. You can also avail VFS Global’s special student packages, which offer a combination of convenient services (such as ‘Student Saturdays’ and discounted pricing) for the nation’s bright minds, offering a smooth and comfortable visa application experience. Sep-Oct 2019 / 7
guide to visa application
How to ensure a hassle-free Visa
Application
Preparing for your dream vacation can be exciting and scary at the same time. Here are a few things to keep in mind when applying for your visa to ensure seamless visa application experience
Make sure the documents list is checked off A checklist of the documentation required for visa applications for each country served by VFS Global is available on our website. Be sure to carry all the requisite documentation to submit along with the duly filled application form. Check your passport’s validity. Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date.
Apply early
Check the consulate/embassy website for turnaround times
Make sure relaxation is the only thing on your mind when you apply in advance for your visa. Apply as early as possible keeping in mind the average processing times and the intended date of travel. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days before the date of travel.
VFS Global ensures that your documents are dispatched to the consulate/embassy within 24 hours of submission. But remember that each country has a different timeline for its visa processing, and these timelines are clearly mentioned on their websites, providing you with the information required to apply for your visa well in advance. Be aware that during peak season visa processing can take longer than anticipated. Once applied in the Embassy, VFS Global has no influence on the progress of the visa application and cannot track the status at this stage.
If you are facing any issues with your visa application, we are happy to help you. Please drop us an email at customercare@vfsglobal.com and we will address the issue as soon as possible.
guide to visa application
Thank you for
the valuable Feedback Travel agents are among our most frequent customers. Read what agents across India and the UAE have to say about VFS Global services
india Amazing effort! An unparalleled support provided by Abid (VFS Global staff member) and his team during this season notwithstanding your hectic work pressure. Superb. Thanks immensely for never-say-no attitude and your support. Kalakara Dehury Cox and Kings Hyderabad
We at UVS truly appreciate the services from VFS Global and their teams. The ability to balance traveller visa and fulfil the consulate requirements required a high level of diligence and human touch; the team at VFS are able to deliver both. VFS Global’s ability to meet the ever-changing needs and demands in an agile and professional manner is worthy of mention.
It was a fantastic experience. I commend the professionalism, service orientation and attention to detail of both Ms. Poornima Khera and Ms. Jharna. In fact, the counter staff too were very courteous. It is such experiences that make a whole lot of difference to people and remain in your memory as the ‘Gold Standard’. Outstanding job! Keep it up!
The digital platforms of VFS Global are fulfilling the needs of the new-age travellers ad visa processors like UVS.
M.S. Raghavan
Arun Lazaran (Director) United Visa Services Pvt Ltd and Chairman TAFI-Tamil Nadu chapter
(Managing Director) Passion & Pleasure Travels And Tours Pvt Ltd Bengaluru
We believe that VFS Global will continue to enable more travellers process their documentation for seamless travel around the globe.
It is a great pleasure to work with the VFS Global team. We are happy that with VFS Global, the system has been more streamlined and if not 100%, then at least better clarity with the requirements and process for visa application. Suneet Rawat (Vice President) AK Travel & Tours Pvt. Ltd.
UAE I had been given to understand by my team that VFS Global has been giving them exceptional support and customer service, especially during the peak months of summer. On behalf of Orient Travel, we truly value this partnership and cooperation. Thank you for all the support. Asim Arshad (Group CEO) Orient Travel & Tourism Agency
“Unmatched service and commitment to excel is the motto of VFS Global and you all have lived to your expectations. Even when the embassies and consulates had system glitches, VFS Global was there to support the clients and ease the situations at the centre. Three cheers to VFS Global team for the excellent work. Sameer Karnani (Chairman) Travel Agents Association of India (WR)
Sep-Oct 2019 / 11
guide to visa application
Take a peek into our
premium services designed just for you!
S
ay goodbye to your anxieties about visa application, and say hello to the modernday smooth and seamless visa service process, complete with assured personal assistance with all visa-related queries, quicker completion of the application submission process, and immediate biometric enrolment, all at VFS Global’s
Lounge* service can also avail several additional benefits to further ease their visa application process, including complimentary photocopying and photo-booth services as per parameters specified by the Embassy and High Commission, and using the in-house equipment to print documents.
Premium Lounge or from the comfort of your home/office with Visa at Your Doorstep.
What to expect at the Premium Lounge Applicants who opt for the Premium
Once a decision is made on the visa application, the passport and documents will be delivered to your doorstep by courier. Automatic updates at each stage of the visa application will also be shared via voice calls and SMS.
Kids play area at the Premium Lounge in Mumbai, India
Experience comfortable visa application services from your home or at our Premium Lounge Key features of the Premium Lounge: • Personalised attention for every applicant • Quicker completion of the submission process • Spacious and plush facility • Professional staff that speak local language • Dedicated helpline and email contact for convenient appointment booking • Refreshments • Includes SMS updates and courier return of passport • Offers convenient payment options either online or at the centre
Visa At Your Doorstep As outbound tourism to foreign shores experiences exponential growth, so too has the demand for highly personalised visa services, especially for applicants looking for bespoke service, privacy and convenience. VFS Global’s ‘Visa at Your Doorstep Service’** was launched to increase accessibility of visa services to applicants located in any part of the world, and is proving to be highly popular among large groups of travellers, especially those from smaller cities, corporates, film crews, celebrities, travel agencies and high net worth individuals.
Opt for the Visa At Your Doorstep service in 3 simple steps!
1
Call or email us to book an appointment on the dedicated Visa At Your Doorstep helplines as below: (India) Call: +91 22 6786 6028 Email: vasinfo@vfshelpline.com (UAE) Call: +971 0420 55761 Email: vfsservices@vfshelpline.com
2
VFS Global’s team of experts will travel to the agreed location and collect the visa application and supporting documents.
3
Once a decision has been made by the Embassy or Consulate, the passport will be couriered back to the provided address.
What customers said about Visa At Your Doorstep
“Excellent service and amazing co-ordination!” “Reached on time and collected the documents and other particulars without any hassle and made my entire visa experience smooth.”
Sakthi Ganesan Superintendent of Police, Erode district, Tamil Nadu
Dr. Roy CJ Chairman and MD of Confident Group, and Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic in Bengaluru
Disclaimer: *Premium Lounge is optional and available in select cities and only for certain missions. Please visit www.vfsglobal.com for more details on the service and to schedule an appointment **The Visa At Your Doorstep service is for application submission only. Visa applications will continue to be evaluated and judged by the concerned diplomatic mission.
Sep-Oct 2019 / 13
outdoor
Suriname rainforest
Surrender to the
Diversity
L
of Suriname
ocated on the northeast coast of South
History
America, just north of the Amazon
Suriname, as a country, can be considered a European construction that started in 17th century, but was inhabited by the Indigenous people (American-Indians) long before this time. Through the years that followed, the country was ruled by the English and then acquired by the Dutch. Although the official language here is still Dutch, a Creole language, Sranan, is widely spoken.
Delta between French Guiana and the Cooperative Republic of Guiana, Suriname, with its tropical climate and average tropical temperature and ethnic diversity, has attracted the attention of travel enthusiasts from around the world. Known as one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the Americas, Suriname is often portrayed as a colourful painting of varied cultures living in harmony.
Apply for your eTourist Card/eVisa to Suriname through VFS Global and... • Receive travel authorisation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs prior to departure. • Get an eTourist Card valid for a period of 90 days for a single visit. • Apply and pay for the card/eVisa online instead of visiting the Embassy. • Enjoy quicker application and faster immigration processes. • To apply, pls visit, https://suriname.vfsevisa.com
Over the last two centuries, Suriname has emerged as a home to multiple cultures and ethnicities. In 1973, the local Surinamese government started independence negotiations with the Dutch government and succeeded in acquiring independence for Suriname on November 25, 1975. Wooden Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral in Paramaribo, Suriname
Nature Owing to a small population of about half a million people, the nation’s biodiversity and nature is well-conserved. With one of the largest rainforest covers on earth, Suriname boasts vast tracts of wilderness, numerous pristine rivers and coastal ecosystems, wild rapids, impressive mountains and unique cultural and historical attractions.
Top 3 places of interest: Brownsberg Paramaribo City Brokopondo Stuwmeer
Creole women in Kotomisi dress, the national Creole costume
Culture The cultural diversity is captivating in Suriname. With its adventurous interior inhabited by the Indigenous people and descendants of the Africans who fled the plantations (Marroons), they have remarkably retained most of their original customs and habits, which every traveller will experience with absolute certainty. An assortment of traditions, languages, objects, music, arts and cuisine, all inherited from the Indigenous, Indian, Javanese, Chinese, Jewish, African and European ancestors, is indispensable to the present culture that evolved throughout the years. While a cultural mix is strongly felt in the Surinamese cuisine and modern music, the different ethnic groups have also managed to keep their different cultures well conserved and mostly intact. Suriname receives over 200,000 global visitors every year, making it one of the fastest growing destinations among travel enthusiasts. Suriname invites avid travellers to explore the architecture, traditions, cuisine, objects, music and arts of the nation. Sep-Oct 2019 / 15
festival
Lightings of lamps in Thailand
One
Festival
many charms
L
ighting diyas (tiny earthen, oil-filled
US
lamps with wicks), bursting firecrackers,
With over 3.1 million Indian-Americans in the US, Diwali is a major celebration in the US. The scale of celebrations is so huge that tourist hotspots like Disneyland in California and New York’s Times Square get painted in vibrant Indian colours during this time. For Indians staying there, usually the day starts with visiting the temples and paying obeisance to Goddess Lakshmi. All over the country, wherever there is a sizeable Indian population, shops and boutiques sell Diwali knick-knacks. Fairs are a routine affair across the country. Last year, in downtown Jersey City, non-profit
decorating homes and inviting nearest and dearest for card parties and a sumptuous feast – Diwali holds a special significance for the people in India. People start their preparation almost a month prior to the festival, making sure that the house is decked-up with flowers, new clothes are bought and sweets and gifts are distributed among relatives and friends. However, the aura of Diwali is not only limited to India, but it is spread across all over the world. Like food, fashion and faith, Indians carry with them their beloved festivals wherever their livelihood takes them.
Diwali has its unique charm and is a multicultural event that’s spread across the world organisation Surati kicked off the festivities with a Broadway-style Ramayana in English, performing with a multicultural cast from around the world. A street fair and an indoor celebration party also followed.
Nepal India’s neighbouring country, Nepal takes Diwali just as seriously as the Indians do. The five-day festival called Tihar honours Yama, the Hindu God of Death, and Goddess Laxmi. During the five days, locals worship not just various Gods and Goddesses but animals, including cows, dogs and crows. Throughout the festival, people clean their houses and courtyards, light up colourful lamps and indulge in various forms of worship. The view of the brightly lit-up Kathmandu city from the Swoyambhunath Stupa is dramatic.
Thailand Thailand celebrates Diwali under the name Lam Kriyongh and at the same time.
Cultural performances in the US
Dogs being worshipped in Nepal
However, instead of bursting firecrackers, they celebrate the festival with lighting of lamps made from banana leaves. Symbolising a prayer for continuity and strength in times of uncertainty, these lamps hold candles, a coin and incense, which are set afloat in the closest river giving a wonderful view.
Japan The people of Japan, the land of the rising sun, celebrate Diwali (Deepawali) by going out into their gardens and putting up colourful lanterns and decorating trees. They believe that this will award happiness, progress, prosperity and longevity in their life. Dance and music are an integral part of the festival and they continue throughout the night. To bring in the festive mood, people also decorate the places of worship with colourful wallpapers of all kinds.
UK Diwali celebrations in Leicester are some of
Diwali celebrations in the UK
the best in the UK and some of the biggest outside of India. On the opening night, a spectacular fireworks show culminates a night of Bollywood dances and music performances. This is a street party like no other, with over 35,000 people of all faiths attending in 2018 for colourful fashion and food from some of the country’s finest Indian restaurants. Several cultural programmes like theatre performances, craft activities, cultural talks and exhibitions are organised for people to get involved in the celebratory spirit of the festival. Diwali lightings can also be experienced in places like Edinburg, The Isle of Wight, Byron Park London among others.
Sri Lanka Considering the many references made to Sri Lanka in the epic Ramayana, Diwali in Sri Lanka has a special significance. Owing to a large number of Tamil inhabitants in the country, Diwali celebrations are pretty much like the celebrations in Tamil
Nadu, a state in southern India. Like in India, Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is worshipped, houses are illuminated with traditional earthen lamps, and people enjoy sumptuous traditional delicacies and set off firecrackers. Locals also make figures from sugar crystals known as Misiri during this time.
Singapore As one of the major cultural festivals of Singapore, Deepavali, as Diwali is called there, is a celebration to mark the triumph of good over evil. The Hindu families across the city celebrate the festival similar to what they do in India – transform their homes into beacons of light, exchange gifts, share feasts and pray to Goddess Lakshmi. If you happen to be in Singapore during this time, a visit to Little India is sure to light up your festive mood. The district’s many bazaars are decorated with monumental installations, Instagram-worthy decorations and bright festive lights. Sep-Oct 2019 / 17
people & places
“Holidays are a splurge that I never regret…”
Nicole
n a m d i K
N
icole Kidman has been a wildly famous superstar from the time she leaped off screens in Dead Calm and Days of
Thunder and married Tom Cruise. She’s been through all the showbiz fires and even personal corn mazes, and remained both professionally intact - especially with the runaway success of her new hit TV series Big Little Lies - and even something of an intriguing public mystery. And yet she is disarmingly unassuming as she introduces herself over a chat, waving, “Hi! I am Nicole!”
Challenging the System Ever since she hit America in the early nineties, Kidman had always been underestimated—from Aussie ingénue to Mrs. Tom Cruise to mainstream movie star to serious actress. But she has proven
For Nicole, her family is her first priority. She often travels with them and usually brings them with her to Cannes, where daughters Sunday and Faith spend their time at the pool
detractors wrong, as her career, while Nicole is in her 50s, is actually spiralling up than tanking down. Such commitment to her craft is evident in the roles that she has played over the course of her career, whether it was a mother like in Lion or The Others, a war correspondent in Hemingway & Gellhorn, a cabaret dancer in Moulin Rouge or a depressed Virginia Woolf in The Hours. Kidman attributes her ability to take risks to her upbringing. “I’m the daughter of a very provocative mother,” she says of Janelle Kidman. “She always challenged the system, challenged me, challenged everything she could. My mother came from that era of the conformity of getting married and having lots of children and not doing anything. She was determined to push us out of that.” The second season of Big Little Lies is over, but Nicole hinted at the prospect of a third. The star said she would “love” to continue working on the hit show. Kidman says that after 30 years of doing no TV, she was pleasantly surprised by how much she cherished all that time she spent with her co-stars. “To watch Zoë and Shailene grow up and to see them become women… it’s so nice, and I’ve never had that. I know Laura and Reese feel that, too. We’re all so different, yet we complement each other.” When shooting the series in Monterey, the beaches were among Nicole Kidman’s favourite locations.“The beaches were the best! I love going swimming. I love salt water and I just love getting in the water. I am not the girl that loves lying on the beach for two hours to get a tan. I cover up and look like a complete dork, but I love getting in
Nicole in Big Little Lies
the ocean. To be able to shoot in Northern California with these incredible beaches was just amazing. Obviously, there were fantastic restaurants that we got to go out and visit in the evening, but the air quality and just being there close to the ocean was very relaxing.” Kidman was raised in Australia by intellectuals: her mother, Janelle, a nursing instructor in Sydney, and her father, Antony Kidman, a biochemist, clinical psychologist, and author. Her father died unexpectedly from a heart attack in 2014, and the pain of that loss is still acute with his eldest daughter. Kidman and her younger sister, Antonia, were reared on conversations about politics and philosophy every night at dinner. From an early age they were taught to think for themselves, to question, and, most important, to give back. “My mom always told us to ‘get a cause!’ ” says Nicole, conceding how Big Little Lies allowed her to add another to her long list, and says, “With Big Little Lies and the role of Celeste, I got to work with many advocates and survivors. Two days after the Emmy I was in San Francisco and stood
with survivors and advocates to promote prevention and education. Those were some lessons!”
Family is First “My family is a safe-house that nurtures me, where the tears can be shed. Keith (husband) always says to me, ‘You stay raw and sensitive, and I’ll buffer things for you,’ which is a beautiful offering. He is always told, “You’re so tough.” And he says, ‘That’s not what I want for you, Nicole. You don’t need to get a thick skin.’ So he allows me to be adventurous. In fact, he is the captain of the ship,” she laughs. For Nicole, her family is her first priority. She often travels with them and usually brings them with her to Cannes, where daughters Sunday and Faith spend their time at the pool. The family also travel with Keith Urban in his concert bus. “I commute or travel with the kids. They’re gypsies. Luckily, my husband is a musician and that’s what he knows. He’s not an office-job man. He really is the guy who can go, ‘Hey, we’re going to Antarctica tomorrow’, and he’d pack his bags,” says Nicole. Sep-Oct 2019 / 19
people & places
Nicole plans to go for an African safari
Her daughters, Sunday and Faith, are unfazed by the logistics of going everywhere. “We can live anywhere in the world, strangely enough. We bring along blankies, pillows and candles, but can set up home everywhere. I did a film in Morocco and had my kids living out in tents,” she says. Her film, Queen of the Desert, a romantic drama directed by Werner Herzog about Gertrude Bell, a real-life British Emissary to the Middle East, was something that made Nicole fall in love with the Middle Eastern landscape. “It was all so sumptuous and sweeping—desert sunlight and camels and gorgeous vistas, and the whole jamboree came along to Morocco for two and a half months I was shooting Queen of the Desert. I love the human contact - which we have so little of in this tech-driven world. And the people in the Middle East are just so welcoming!” exclaims Nicole. Her husband Keith Urban flew back and forth depending on his schedule; the girls stayed and grew to love the bustle of Marrakech and the camels, horses, and lion cub on the set. “It was an assault to their little world,” Kidman says, adding “The smells, the tastes—everything is so different.
“I’ve never been to Africa, so I’d love to go on safari! In fact tour all of Africa. Holidays are a splurge for me that I never ever regret”
By the end, they’re in the souks haggling, holding snakes, in it.” And what does she do on rare occasions when they are not together? “FaceTime! I even have dinner with them on FaceTime. Recently, I was chatting with my daughter and I could tell that she was hungry. I told my husband, ‘She needs a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and she’ll want to go to gymnastics.’ I was right!” says a confident Nicole who is raring to jump off a plane. “I’d love for my kids to accompany me. I have a skydiving license, so I would love to jump out of a plane,” she quips. Listing out other travel plans, Kidman says, “I’ve been coming to India since I was 17. I want my daughters to experience the sights, sounds and smell of the land here…meet the people. And you never know, perhaps be part of a cross over film!”
She has had that India connect several times in the past. Actor-producer Uday Chopra was one of the producers for Grace of Monaco. Nicole has shot in Udaipur in the past, shooting Eighth Wonder, an Omega ad film among others. Nicole is raring to explore some other parts of India after having heard travel tales from friends. “I have explored Goa and Rajasthan. I want to see Kashmir - don’t know how safe that is. I also want to experience Kerala. I have sampled sambhar with rice - eaten it with my hands and I would also like to go backpacking in the Himalayas,” says Nicole. Listing out other travel plans, Kidman says, “I’ve never been to Africa, so I’d love to go on safari! In fact tour all of Africa. Holidays are a splurge for me that I never ever regret. I will never ever say, ‘Gosh, I wish we hadn’t done that.’” As told to Aarti Kapur Singh
festival
Celebrating the
Night
of the dead
The old-age traditional festival of Halloween that celebrates the dead has been lately becoming part of every country’s holiday calendar
O
riginally celebrated as the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, Halloween meaning ‘ a hallowed evening’ has garnered interest and mystique in the hearts of many across
Ireland Considered to be the birthplace of the modern-day Halloween, Ireland has been celebrating its ritual to mark the end of the light half of the year. When in Ireland during the festival, one can witness ageold style bonfires, children dressed in scary costumes and playing games in the neighbourhood. The culture of parties, a game of treasure hunts is more popular among adults. The festival also hoards traditional foods like Barmbrack, an Irish fruitcake that contains coins, buttons, and rings for fortune telling. If part of the festival, one should indulge in the famous Irish card game where cards are laid face down on a table with candy or coins underneath them.
the world. Traditionally one of the oldest holidays in the West, Halloween is a
Día De Los Muertos, Mexico
favourite amongst the young and the old
The United Mexican State and parts of Latin America celebrate the day of the dead on the first two days of November month. Honouring the dead, the festival is celebrated with in-home altars jam-packed with assortments of chocolates, fruits, tortillas, turkey and many more mouthsavouring food items. The Mexicans also prepare a special holiday bread, “pan de Muerto”(bread of the dead), as an offering
and is celebrated annually on October 31st. Commemorating life and death, Halloween has evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating sweet treats. Popular with a different name in different cities, Halloween has been spreading its charm to newer cities with evolving time.
Halloween fanatics from all around the world gather near Kawasaki, Tokyo, to partake in the biggest parade in Japan
for the weary ghosts. They participate in the long parades and dance to the tunes of musicians playing at the festival to enjoy the most of the Halloween night.
Day Of Dracula, Romania One gets to celebrate Halloween all-vampire- style in Romania. People all around the world dressed in party costumes, posing as Dracula come to celebrate the festival at Bran Castle in Transylvania. It has a historical significance for a place like Romania, as Bran is often associated with 15th century Prince Vlad Tepes, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It’s a seven-day festival that kicks off with a delicious dinner with a plethora of cold and warm veggies, meats, and dessert. The celebratory night then opens up to a great run of music and ends in the morning with a sumptuous breakfast.
Kawasaki Halloween Parade, Japan Halloween fanatics from all around the world gather near Kawasaki, Tokyo, to partake in the biggest parade in Japan. Maintained with strict guidelines and standards, one can only be a part of the festival, if you have applied for the entry two months before the scheduled day of the parade. The partakers are dressed in all kind of gear of nightmares and fantasies, celebrating creativity and ingenuity which gathers on-lookers in large numbers.
Pangangaluluwa, The Philippines The traditional Halloween in the Philippines has children going door to door, dressed to look scary for their treat. One will find the costume dressed children singing and asking for prayers for those stuck in purgatory.
Austria Austria is famous for its Pumpkin festival - Kürbisfest in Retzer Land that happens on the Halloween night. People leave bread, water and a lighted lamp on the table as a custom before retiring to bed for the dead. And on November 11, Martini is celebrated where people join the lantern procession wearing colourful costumes.
England Quite famous around the world, children in England make “punkies” out of large beets carving design of their choice for the
Halloween night. In some remote places, turnip lanterns are placed on doorposts with the belief to protect homes from the evil that roams freely on Halloween night.
China Introduced by foreigners, Halloween in China is celebrated in festivals such as the Hungry Ghost Festival, the Qing Ming Festival, the Double 9th Festival, and the Spring Festival. In cities like Beijing, Shanghai or G uangzhou, one would find pumpkins or squash decorating shopfronts and parties rocking the night. Sep-Oct 2019 / 23
Cityscape
72 hours
Helsinki In
Aerial view of Uspenski Cathedral
A vibrant seaside city of beautiful islands and green parks, Helsinki captivates travellers with its laid-back yet refreshing attitude Words: Vinod Advani
S Finland.
towering trees, deep valleys and gushing rivers being pulled in two opposite directions by the determined Kings of Sweden and the powerful Russian Tsars. In 1550, King Gustav Vasa of Sweden founded Helsinki at the mouth of the Vantaanjoki river to compete with Tallinn (capital of Estonia), which lay on the opposite side of the Baltic Sea. Russia snatched it from the Swedes in 1809’s bloody war. When Finland became independent in 1917, Helsinki assumed the role of capital.
Just imagine this. A land area of 338,000 sq km, larger than Italy, embracing within its folds 188,000 official lakes, billions of
In 1952, Helsinki hosted the Summer Olympics marking its appearance as a global city. In 2000, Helsinki was awarded
itting in my very comfortable business class seat, I do exactly as the captain has just announced on the speakers. I peer down through the tiny window. To be rewarded by the sight of silvery blue seas dotted by what look like giant turtles with green carapaces. As the plane comes closer, these tantalising shapes reveal themselves to be hundreds of tiny islands, possibly thousands, all like asymmetrical green upon verdant green carpets flying on a blue sky. It’s a memorable introduction to
Constructed directly into solid rock, the Temppeliaukio Church, in the heart of Helsinki, is an architectural marvel Panoramic view of St. Basilica in Rome
angels singing. We have stumbled onto a Lithuanian choir who are rehearsing for the evening’s concert. About 50 male and female perfectly pitched voices soar to the dome and envelope us visitors in a musical embrace. Constructed directly into solid rock, the Temppeliaukio Church, situated in the heart of Helsinki, is an architectural marvel, the wooden slatted dome a contrast to its walls quarried out of millions of years old natural bedrock. Due to its excellent acoustics the church is a popular venue for concerts.
Havis Amanda Say hello to Helsinki’s most famous nude lady. Havis Amanda is her name and she was built in Paris in 1906. To spite their Russian masters, the city installed her bronze statue with her ample buttocks facing the Mayor’s office! Surrounded by four Seals spouting fountains, Havis Amanda is situated right in the heart of Helsinki’s buzz area of the Esplanade Park (free concerts of jazz, pop, swing, folk, big band music take place every day from May to September) and the Market Square. Brightly coloured tents cover this popular touristic square, selling souvenirs, bric-abrac, beverages, Finnish tribal handcrafts. I ate three memorable fish meals here, one
even with Helsinki’s version of fish paella. Fishy desires brought us to the 120-year old Market Hall, 10 steps away from the above-mentioned attractions along the waterfront. Inside, rows of neatly arranged stalls sell Baltic Herring different types of Salmon (some marinated in different sauces) typical North Sea and Finnish fish varieties.
The Old City A two-minute walk away from Havis Amanda in the opposite direction will bring you to one of Europe’s excellent examples of Neo-Classical clusters, with its hierarchy of axes, squares and important buildings. My jaw dropped when I saw the imposing cathedral, white on blinding white with green domes. This is known as Helsinki Cathedral and was designed by Carl Ludvig Engel who also was responsible for the other buildings (between 1822 and 1852) in this Senate Square. A great flight of steps leads up to Finland’s most photographed building. Inside, silence and minimalist beauty reigns. Outside and below its commanding height impressed tourists bustle about admiring the Old Town Hall, the still intact Sederholm House built in 1757 making at Helsinki’s oldest building, now a museum.
European City of Culture. In 2007, it hosted the Eurovision song contest, joined the Good Food cities of the world in 2009 and thanks to its immensely creative citizens was named World Design Capital in 2012. In an area of 716 sq km about half a million people live, sleep, eat, work, cycle and speak a language that only they and Hungarians understand! Its grammar is difficult, no prepositions or genders included but when they speak its almost song-like lilting in its cadences and tones.
TemppeliaUkio Church Within two hours of landing, in my jet lagged state, my friend Sakari leads me to this church and immediately I hear
Open Air Museum in Seurasaari
Sep-Oct 2019 / 25
Cityscape
Sveaborg at the coast of Baltic Sea Cosy street in Trastevere in Rome
Uspenski Cathedral A 10-minute walk away lies a Russian orthodox church located in the Katajanokka district. With its golden, onion shaped cupolas, this cathedral was built on the highest outcrop of rock in late 19th century. Its Byzantine-Russian architecture, sitting atop a hill gives it a mesmerising presence, visible from far away. The cathedral is full of history, because it was built with bricks that originally belonged to a destroyed Crimean fortress. Inside its hallowed precincts, 13 domes, which represent Christ and the 12 apostles are unmissable.
Helsinki Zoo is home to over 200 animal & 1,000 plant species Suomenlinna
Katajanokka
Helsinki is home to hundreds of islands and just a 10-minute ferry ride away, six of them were joined together by bridges in the 1700s. It remains one of the world’s largest historical maritime fortresses and I spent a memorable day exploring its attractions. Start your visit watching the 30-minute audio-visual presentation that will take you through Suomonlinna’s 260 year history.
This peninsula area is also famous for the largest collection of buildings from the Finnish Art Nouveau period. Most of these colourful, highly individual and organic architectural gems were built between 1896 and 1913. The shipping cargo harbour is also in this peninsula. Many redbrick warehouse buildings are to be found and one of them is Helsinki’s luxury Grand Marina Hotel. One of the world’s most eclectic hotels is also located here. The former Katajanokka prison is a four star hotel, each prison cell now refurbished as a hotel room. The lunch in its darkly lit basement turned restaurant was delicious.
In 1748, a defensive fortification was started by a Swedish Count Augustin Ehrensvard. In the Finnish language the fort was called Viapori and in Swedish, Sveaborg. Its strategic position in the Gulf of Finland prompted Helsinki’s rapid growth. Even after Finland was wrested away from Sweden by Russia, both the city and the island fortress continued to grow. In 1917, the fort was renamed Suomenlinna and today, about a thousand permanent residents live on this wind swept island of beautiful buildings, spaces, gardens, church, summer theatre and a
Naval academy. Deservedly it is on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Seurasaari On the other side from Suomenlinna is another island that houses a popular museum and recreational area, located 15 minutes by bus from the city centre. On this island they have recreated ancient Helsinki by relocating old wooden buildings from the 18th to 20th century and created an Open Air Museum that represent Finnish building traditions. The oldest is the Karuna Church built in 1685, a popular venue in Helsinki for summer weddings. I was fascinated by the newspapers that covered the inner walls of these old buildings. One had an advert of Singer sewing machines dating back to 1913!
Helsinki Zoo Established in 1889, Helsinki Zoo is home to nearly 200 animal species and almost 1,000 plant species. The zoo also participates in the work to protect the habitats in the original homes of the various species. Endangered species like the Rhino are given prominence here and you can read the zoos’ shared protection programme. On the island you’ll also find a souvenir shop and cafés & restaurants.
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RHI Bengaluru
RHI Lucknow
RHI Ahmedabad
milk and dairy products in the world. On the global front, travellers can discover street art in Chalerm La Park, Lakshmi Shrine at Gaysorn Village and neon night markets in Bangkok, to the Conjunto Nacional, a symbolic building located on Paulista Avenue in Sao Paulo. To additionally supplement their offerings, Renaissance Hotels presents engaging Evening Bar Rituals that are assured to inspire soirées and stories worth sharing among travellers and locals alike. In India, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, Renaissance Lucknow Hotel and Renaissance Ahmedabad Hotel, are all gearing
up to align themselves with this new ideology. With a renewed perspective “Discover This Way” offers guests memories that will last forever - the gift of remarkable experiences; rich with varied cultures, heritage, sights, sounds, tastes and art, which weave together the fabric of individuality that distinguishes each city. So, from unexpected design and intriguing evening rituals, to helping guests uncover the local neighbourhood’s hidden gems, Renaissance Hotels invites you to connect with the destination through moments of spontaneous discovery.
Sep-Oct 2019 / 27
people & places
Austria
“Visitors to
have doubled in the last five years”
The historic and scenic beauty of Austria has always been an attractive destination for tourists. In an exclusive interview with CompassTM, His Excellency Dr. Andreas Liebmann, Ambassador of Austria to the United Arab Emirates, talks about Austria’s most visited sights and some offthe-beaten-track attractions that are emerging as favourites Do you find Austria growing in popularity among travellers? Which are the top favourite tourist attractions within Austria?
How many travellers visited Austria last year? What has been the trend so far in 2019? We did count 123,000 arrivals that generated 409,000 overnights spend in Austria in 2018. This is the secondbest result so far from the UAE. In 2019, currently we do notice a slight growth compared to the year before (+1.5 % in arrivals +9.5 % in overnights).
Within the last five years, the number of guests from the UAE almost doubled. The most popular tourist attractions and destinations for guests from the GCC are our capital Vienna and the region of Zell am See/Kaprun, where, thanks to the glacier, you can experience snow even in the summertime. Furthermore, the city of Salzburg, which is the birth place of Mozart, and the city of Innsbruck surrounded by beautiful mountain chains are hugely popular amongst travellers from the UAE and of course the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Tyrol, which is also the most mountainous region in Austria.
If you had to recommend some ‘off-the-beaten-track’ destinations/attractions in Austria, what would they be? As most travellers go either to Vienna or the west of Austria I would recommend them to discover the south of Austria. For example, there is Carinthia in the south bordered by Italy and Slovenia with beautiful mountains and lakes. Or, for example, the city of Graz in the region Styria, which is actually Austria’s second biggest city and has a
How are people-to-people contact and cultural and tourism exchanges growing between the two countries?
I would recommend people to discover the south of Austria... like Carinthia in the south bordered by Italy and Slovenia lot to offer when it comes, for example, to culture and culinary offers. The surrounding region is also very green and pleasant.
For Austrians, the UAE is a popular holiday destination and the same goes for Emiratis when it comes to Austria. The Austrians like the warm climate, the modern architecture and the desert landscapes and the guests from the UAE like the green hills, clear lakes, fresh air and impressive mountain ranges as well as our historical cities. What unites both countries is the genuine hospitality when it comes to the visitors (and also, for example, the coffee culture).
Tell us about the air connectivity between the two countries? The air connectivity is superb. There are two daily flights by Emirates from Dubai to Vienna and three daily flights to Munich in
Painted facades and the Clock Tower in Graz, Austria
Germany where you can reach the west of Austria (e.g. Salzburg or Innsbruck) in two hours by car. There will be also a new direct flight by Air Arabia once a week from September. That will for sure be beneficial for the tourism sector of both sides. With other airlines like Turkish Airlines or Lufthansa you can also travel conveniently with one stop to Austria. E.g. Turkish Airlines flies to three airports in Austria (Salzburg, Vienna, Graz).
What are the new steps to promote Austria tourism in the Middle East? The Austrian National Tourist Office in Dubai is promoting Austria as a touristic destination in different ways. There are a number of online campaigns going on in the GCC for the whole year to promote Austria. Also, there are cooperations with airlines, events and roadshows for the travel trade, the press and end consumers. One new project for 2020 is to create an app for the travel trade and also for the end consumer to get basic information about Austria (e.g. flight connections, Visa regulations, information about destinations and where to book) first hand and from a trusted source.
We urge all applicants to submit their visa applications with all documents ahead of time, especially in summer time, to avoid any delays How convenient is the visa process for travellers? The Austrian Embassy works on each and every application very thoroughly and makes it easy for the applicants to submit additional documents in case missing requirements have not been met by the applicants. Nevertheless, we urge all applicants to submit their applications with all required and supporting documents ahead of time, especially in summer time, to avoid any delays in regards of their holidays.
What would be your message to those who generally prefer to travel to western Europe or to nearby countries? Whether travelling for business or leisure reasons a trip always enriches you in
terms of meeting new people, broaden your knowledge and understanding for other cultures, tasting new recipes and accommodating with new surroundings. Therefore, I would recommend people to visit all possible countries whether around you or far away. It’s worth it anywhere. In Austria, for example, you have many possibilities to enjoy your holiday, whether in the nature, visiting historic places and fun parks for kids or just enjoy a nice Melange with Sacher-Torte. There is everything for everyone.
How exciting has been your time in the Middle East? What do you like most here? I was very excited when I received the news to be transferred to the UAE, since I heard and read a lot about the UAE and its fast development in the last 40 years. And to tell you the truth I never ever regret it. It is a unique and very interesting time for me and for my family to be here. I very much love the desert and the mountains, especially the excavation work in the Eastern region. Abu Dhabi has a lot to offer and we enjoy spending time to discover all the wonderful places in the UAE. I have met many interesting people and admire the multicultural society and peacefulness of the UAE. Sep-Oct 2019 / 29
spotlight
Alpine Amazement Mountain villages, baroque architecture, imperial history and rugged Alpine terrain, Austria is a charm for travellers Words: Ben Mack
There’s an extravagant elegance all around Vienna, perhaps more so than almost any other European city. Pop into any of the city’s famed coffeehouses (Café Schwarzenberg in the central Innere Stadt area is especially recommended – one really must try their hot chocolate), wander down any cobblestone street, or gaze up at any fantastically adorned façade, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to a time when fairy tales like Cinderella and their depictions of opulent balls were considered contemporary. Speaking of opulent balls, they’re still a thing in Vienna – at least during ball season. That reaches its height in January and February – and if you’re lucky enough to attend one (some are even open to the public), you might find yourself waltzing
alongside the likes of Kim Kardashian or real-life royalty. Of course, you can’t have opulence without palaces – which Vienna has in spades. There’s the Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper – it also hosts the country’s most famous ball of all), the Hofburg (the official residence of the President of Austria, and a home of the legendary Habsburg Dynasty), Schönbrunn Palace (the Habsburgs’ summer residence), the Belvedere, and many more. You could do nothing but visit palaces in Vienna – and still need several weeks to see them all.
HITTING THE ROADS Vienna is consistently ranked one of the world’s most beautiful cities for a reason, but there’s still an entire country beyond it.
Schönbrunn Palace by Simon Matzinger
I
n Austria, a national icon is a horse of a different colour: the dazzling white Lipizzaners. Famed for incredible athleticism and a calm demeanour (traits which, combined with their unique colour, make them a popular choice for horses seen in movies and on TV), the horses and their pointed bicorne hat (made famous by Napoleon)-wearing riders can be seen at daily ballet-like public performances at the equally stunning Spanish Riding School (Spanische Hofreitschule) in the gilded heart of Vienna, Austria’s capital and largest city.
Vienna State Opera House
Sep-Oct 2019 / 31
spotlight
Cosy street in Trastevere in Rome
Winter view of Hallstatt, UNESCO world culture heritage site
And it’s one of the best countries in Europe to explore by automobile or train on its comfortable and reasonably-priced – not to mention extremely punctual – rail network. Picturesque small towns and villages with winding streets and traditional architecture can be found every few kilometres. Larger communities like Salzburg (the birthplace of the composer Mozart) perfectly blend old and new attractions. Elsewhere, rolling hills undulate alongside snaking rivers cutting a thin blue ribbon across the greenery. Nature abounds – including Austria’s most famous natural wonder: the mighty Alps.
SIGHTS ON THE SLOPES A favoured hangout of fictional characters like James Bond and real-world celebrities, billionaires and more, the Alps are renowned worldwide. The Austrian portion is typically less crowded than the morepopular French, Swiss and Italian Alps – but no less luxurious.
Few countries in Europe have as much to do crammed within their borders as Austria. Also one of the safest countries in the world
Perhaps the most luxurious place in the region is Kitzbühel. Think the magnificent ski resort of your dreams: cute, brightlycoloured wooden buildings surrounded by towering mountains enveloped in powder-soft, glistening white snow. Unsurprisingly, this is a popular spot for the rich and famous to relax (speaking of James Bond, author Ian Fleming even used to live here). A frequent visitor is actor Arnold Schwarzenegger – himself originally from Austria.
While sipping hot chocolate from a mug in a large chair next to a roaring fire after a day skiing (or snowboarding, or even tobogganing if that’s more your style) down the slopes is a must-do, so too is a trip on Kitzbühel’s famous cable car. Among the reasons why: it’s the highest cable car above ground (a whopping 400 metres, or more than 1,300 feet) in the world. If you’re in Kitzbühel in winters, another must-do is to watch the snow polo. It’s especially a treat if you like horses: watching them gallop through the snow while their riders attempt to hit a small ball towards the goals is like watching poetry in motion. Few countries in Europe have as much to do crammed within their borders as Austria. Also one of the world’s safest countries, you really can’t go wrong no matter what direction you choose to wander in. An added bonus: you’re far more likely to encounter crowds of birds and other wildlife than tourists.
leisure
Shows you can’t miss while
Travelling Words: Vinod Advani
COUNTERPART (Starz) Imagine there is not one but two planet Earths. Now imagine there’s two of you, one on each planet. You with an identical family of parents, spouse, children. Identical looking but with diametrically opposite traits and virtues. The yin to the yang. Now imagine there is a corridor that links the two Earths, through which only officially designated humans can traverse back and forth. This fascinating premise forms the basis of this science fiction thriller of two seasons, each of 10 episodes. Two Howard Silks (the brilliant JK Simmons in a
dual role) live in two Berlins connected via this corridor. Silk One has for 30 years worked in the same desk job at a UN agency, without ever being promoted. Understandably, he seethes with anger inside. Silk Two is a secret agent in the other Berlin, in a country that has been reduced to poverty due to a deadly virus that was allegedly let loose by Silk One’s world. In Season Two, Silk One and Silk Two exchange cities to live the other one’s life. How will this help them catch the criminals under cover? How will each one’s wife and family react to a diametrically different spouse from the one they have lived with all their lives?
OZARK (Netflix) Dark, edgy and gritty thriller series of two seasons. Meet Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) a financial planner living with wife Wendy (Laura Linney) in Chicago; Marty calls himself an economic advisor but in actuality is a corrupt man whose schemes always go terribly wrong. With money laundering biz gone kaput, he flees overnight to the backwaters of the Ozarks, in the state of Missouri. The locals may look like hicks, yet they are anything but! Outwardly country bumpkins, each one is on the make and this lack of moral compass is what makes Ozark viewing so compelling. The Mexican drug cartel that has tracked down Marty are agreeable to a bigger laundering operation but that is not what the local violent mafia families will allow him to do without their own hefty cuts. This is not a family entertainer, containing as it does, a host of sexual, violent, murder scenes. Every cast member delivers outstanding performances. The good news is that Season Three is now confirmed.
SEX EDUCATION (Netflix) It’s funny and serious, romantic and cheesy, light-hearted and dramatic. It’s never easy to mix all these ingredients and get a superbly must watch series like this one. But Sex Education gets it right in each episode. The story line centres around 16 year old Otis (Asa Butterfield) whose growing up problems are compounded by the ironic fact that his mother (Gillian Anderson) is a sex therapist. Unable to confide in his mother (who has a lot of one-night stands), Otis, however, is surprisingly good at dispensing advice about adolescence to others in school. This particular talent is noticed by Maeve (Emma Mackey in great form) a street-smart girl living on her own in a trailer park. Maeve persuades Otis to start a sex therapy partnership to counsel fellow students and thus make good pocket money. What follows is so captivating that you will wind up binge watching. Sex Education deals with a host of human and adult complexities as well. The cast of characters drive this show in a hilarious and sympathetic way. The message of homosexuality is delivered with so much sensitivity, deftly portrayed by best friend Eric (Ncuti Gatwa is a rare find). I can’t wait for Season Two.
GAME OF THRONES (HBO) Really? You still haven’t seen the most successful television series in the history of the world? Where were you for the last eight years as over a billion people were enthralled by these eight seasons based on the series of fantasy novels, ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’, written by George RR Martin. Set on the continent of Westeros, you encounter seven kingdoms that used to fight for years with each other until they were united by the Targaryen family. It was a temporary peace never meant to last, as desire and ambition rise up for plotters and kings to gain control of the Iron Throne. Civil war ensues and it’s time for the Dragons to come flying back. Thanks to the spectacular success of the series, unknown actors have become huge stars. And thanks to its locations, countries like Croatia, Iceland, Malta and Morocco have become much sought-after tourist destinations! Sep-Oct 2019 / 35
hotspot
With a song in your
Heart
One of the most picturesque and visited locations in Campania, Capri has a rhythmic charm to its surroundings Words: Vinod Advani
W
arning. Do not go to Capri if you are not adventurous. Do not go to Capri if you are not going to compact your body into the world’s smallest boats and get paddled into Blue Grotto. Let me add a caveat. Don’t go to Capri without a song in your heart.
What’s the point of doing Capri if you don’t go Grotto! The water inside the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) really is the colour that has so astounded European writers and artists in the last two centuries, when they ‘discovered’ it in 1826. The Grotto is a large cavern famous for the effects caused
by light. Everything around is pitch dark. The water, which I dip my hand into, is electric blue, as if someone had installed a gigantic fluorescent tube below. The loquacious boatman proudly informs me that Roman royals used the Grotto as a swimming pool. At the main Marina Grande, you saunter up to the ticket window, which will finally sell you the ticket to travel to the Blue Grotto, this is what you must accept. To pay a certain Euro ticket cost. Accept that once the boat (maximum carrying capacity of 20 passengers) reaches the Blue Grotto, you have to hop on, in mid-ocean, to a smaller row boat, which ferries you inside the Grotto. Accept the fact that this will cost you an additional hefty Euro handout. Accept the fact that the opening to the grotto is so small, you have to lie flat on the rowboat to get inside. Acceptance can be rewarding. Is it all worth it? YES, in capital letters. I have been to Capri three times. I love visiting places that spell romance and bespoke luxury of a bygone era. Both times, in Capri, I have felt that I’m going to meet
The Blue Grotto
For nearly four centuries till the 8th century BC, Capri was part of an extensive Greek system of maritime communications
Via Krupp stairs to the sea
Getting around There are three public transport companies on the island of Capri: the funicular and two bus companies. There is no daily pass that is valid for all three.
Sophia Loren around the corner. Or at least Gina Lollobrigida. I know it won’t be Audrey Hepburn or Cary Grant. But maybe a Jennifer Lopez or Johnny Depp? After all, Capri for years was the haunt of Hollywood royalty. If France’s Cote D’Azur was their playground since the 1950s, Capri is where they came to be decadent, well away from the prying paparazzi. On the way up in the funicular from the landing bay to the main village of Capri, ample evidence of this strikes the eye. Your vision will alight upon some of the most beautiful villas ever built. All wealthy Italian fash-dash designers worth their emblems have hideaways here. Stories of their private all-night capers are fodder for the gossip
media. But the Capri I found is an island of contrasts. On one hand, it is an expensive summer playground for the bling-bling gang. On the other, it is an island of breath-taking natural beauty, cinemascope views, dense vegetation and the bluest of blue seas. It’s 1 pm, the sun is still overhead, it’s brilliant rays like raindrops of gold. The waters of the Tirreno Sea (Gulf of Naples) 1000 m below are azure upon azure, lightening to a translucent aquamarine near the shore. From the gardens on top of the mountain, my vision embraces the Faraglioni, the famous rocks arising from the sea that have featured in countless paintings. From the right a speed boat inhabited by a couple of naked bronzed torsos, whizzes past happily skimming through the grottos of the rocks and emerges on to the other side. In five minutes it has vanished from sight. Know how old Capri is? Evidence of human inhabitation on the island dates back to the lower Paleolithic age, 400,000 years ago! Now, a 45-minute hydrofoil ride from Naples, Capri broke away from the mainland approximately 10,000 years ago to become an island. History shows that for nearly four centuries till the 8th century BC, Capri was part of an extensive Greek system of maritime communications.
From history lessons to smelling of flowers. My right hand smells of lemon, the left, of wild carnations. One wrist of musk and rosemary, the other of wild raspberry rosewood. The young lady inside the Carthusian perfume boutique is eager to use the testers on me. She says India signals spice, philosophy and perfumes and that I must take one of the bottles back home. It was surprise, not pleasure, for the Father Prior of the Carthusian Monastery in 1380 when Queen Giobanna d’Angio arrived without warning on Capri. What could he do to welcome her? At short notice, a flower arrangement with the most beautiful flowers of the island. When the Queen left days later, the Prior threw the flowers away. But noticed a wonderful fragrance emanating out of the water. He took the water to the resident alchemist who suggested a commercial aspect. Thus was born the first perfume of Capri. Sold in expensive boutiques in Italy. Nobody knows how the famous limoncello was born. But Capri is the mother of this sweet and highly spirited digestivo, made from lemons, pure alcohol and sugar. It’s best served chilled from the freezer and is quite the rage among the cognoscenti in India. Capri and Naples are where you drink it fresh. Sep-Oct 2019 / 37
photo contest
Ja pa n Kyoto, etty i Inari, h Fushim ted by Kyra S u Contrib
Speaks A picture
a thousand words...
Your chance to get your photos featured in CompassTM!
Tokyo, Japan Contributed by Sanjukta Rai
Visa in hand, it’s time for your travels! We would love for you to share your experience with us to see photos of the great adventures you have embarked upon. Explore your artistry in photography and send in your best international destination photos to communications@vfsglobal.com with the subject line of ‘Photo contribution for Compass’. S.E.A. Aquarium, Sentosa Singapore Contributed by Ria Cherian
Your photos can also get featured on VFS Global’s official Instagram and Facebook pages if you tag @vfsglobalofficial in your social media post. We will feature the best photos in our next issue of COMPASSTM!
Khor Virap Mo
naster y, Lusa rat, Armenia Contributed by Priyanka Anil
Railway Bournville Station, UK d by Contribute hik us Ka i ns aa M
Paris
C. Image contributed by Rachel
Kh Contribute ai Island, Phuket d by Judah George
View from the Singapore Flye r Contributed by Arya Vaidya
City view of Ka ndy Contributed by Rachna Ro y
m Vietna hakrabor ty C g River, Mekon ted by Srishti u Contrib
Sep-Oct 2019 / 39
adventure
Parakeet Bay in Rottnest Island in Western Australia
Travelling through Australia and New Zealand is an astonishing and surreal experience for the sheer diversity and incredible natural beauty on offer Words: Anita Rao Kashi
At the edge of the
World
Uluru Rock
Melbourne Central Tower
F
ar flung and teetering on the bottom right corner of the world map, Australia and New Zealand are fondly referred to as the Trans-Tasman countries owing to the
Australia’s biggest claim to fame is the incredibly beautiful, endangered and unique Great Barrier Reef
Tasman Sea that lies between them. Both are incredibly beautiful and so diverse in their own way that visitors are often left spoilt for choice.
Australia’s East Coast is where most of the stunning cities are. Sydney’s beautiful beaches and harbour is rivalled by Melbourne’s deep-dive into art, culture and cuisine. Brisbane is fun while Adelaide is sophisticated and full of
architecture and Cairns is both laidback and adventure-filled. It is on this coast that Yarra, Mornington and Barossa are located, which make and send out lipsmackingly beautiful wines while the Gold Coast entices visitors with its golden beaches and party atmosphere. Ringing the coastline are beautiful islands such as
Philip, Moreton, Kangaroo and Tasmania, that offer everything from penguins and seals to stunning natural formations. And then there is Australia’s biggest claim to fame – the incredibly beautiful, endangered and unique Great Barrier Reef. Snorkelling and diving here should be on everyone’s bucket list. Sep-Oct 2019 / 41
adventure
Cruising in Milford Sound, New Zealand
On the west is somewhat underrated city of Perth with it beautiful beaches as well as vast national parks and nature reserves, offering a variety of natural experiences. Darwin in the north is more tropical with stunning sunsets than any other Australian city while the mystical Uluru Rock is worth a visit. In between is the wide yawning wilderness and the Outback with its harsh climate but magnificent natural formations such as sandstone domes, ancient Aboriginal rock art and the bewitching Margaret river.
remember • Australian money is colourful and plastic, and the size of the notes increases as the value increases. • New Zealand’s unit of currency is NZ$. All major credit cards can be used in New Zealand. • Each city in Australia and New Zealand provides a different type of summer. So do wear plenty of sunblock no matter where you are.
New Zealand for travellers The New Zealand experience, on the other hand, is slightly different. It is less harsh, more beautiful in a peaceful way and exudes a certain kind of charm that is hard to ignore or escape. Divided into two main islands, North Island is where much of the country’s administration and commerce is
centred. Auckland is busy, cosmopolitan and sophisticated while Wellington, the capital, has a certain boho-chic and is full or street, museums, food and diversity. In between is Rotorua with its surreal geysers and mud volcanoes, Napier with its art-
deco architecture and Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough with their wineries. For fans of fantasy movie fans, the Hobbiton Movie Experience is something not to miss. On the other hand, South Island is more rugged with sweeping hills and valleys, beautiful lakes and coastal formations that will leave the visitor spellbound. Of all the towns in South Island, Queenstown, sitting on the sprawling Lake Wakatipu is enchanting and swirls with Maori stories. More magnificent is a cruise through Milford Sound, which is actually fiord and the snow-capped peaks that lead to it. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will love Stewart Island just off the Southern tip where it is possible to do midnight jungle treks and spot kiwis on the beach. Needless to say, whether Australia or New Zealand, there’s far too much in store for the visitor.
off the
Bucket list A wild and soulful experience, these adventurous sports in Australia and New Zealand will make your vacation memorable
Hang gliding Soar high in the eternal sky and cherish a bird’s eye view of the scenic landscapes as you revel this awe-inspiring activity during your trip.
Heli-ski Sky diving New Zealand’s magnificent landscapes take on an extra dimension when you’re 12,000 feet in the air. No matter you decide to go tandem or solo, the excitement as you soak the view is extraordinary The most popular locations to ski dive in New Zealand include Wanaka, Queenstown and Bay of Plenty.
River rafting
Shark diving
Due to its mountainous terrain, New Zealand offers some outstanding white water rivers. The Tongariro river in Lake Taupo, the wild West Coast and Queenstown are among the popular rafting spots in the country.
One of the most trilling experiences that Australia has to offer is Shark diving. You come face-to-face with your fear as you have a close encounter with the most fearsome marine predator - the shark.
Fly to the top of the mountain and make your own tracks through fresh virgin powder snow as you ski your way back down on the ultimate guided heli-ski adventure.
Rock climbing With rugged cliffs, majestic mountains, and extensive monolithic rocks, Australia is a wonderland for climbers. Put your core strength to test by indulging in climbing and abseiling adventure tours in Australia.
Sep-Oct 2019 / 43
outdoor
Travel
Happy
Planning your next vacation? These travel essentials will help you get the best of your time
Bluetooth Speaker Water Purifier Bottle Most of the travellers’ health problems are caused by contaminated drinking water when you’re venturing into remote locations with harsh environmental conditions. GRAYL’s Ultralight Purifier, for instance, is a state-of-the-art device capable of transforming almost any tap or clear natural water source into pure drinking water in just 15 seconds.
Allowing people to listen to music anytime, anywhere, Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay P2 portable speaker has features like gesture or voice controls, along with a sleek, minimalist design that’s also dust and splash resistant. It has over 10 hours of playtime per charge.
Portable Washing Bag Camera The GoPro Hero Session camera is incredibly compact and easy to use. There’s only one button to power it on, and it starts recording video immediately. The camera is waterproof up to 33 feet deep and, unlike other GoPro models, you don’t need a special waterproof case for it.
Whether you are backpacking, or going on a safari, or travelling on a budget, the Scrubba Wash Bag is a must to carry. Equipped with a flexible washboard, this lightweight, portable wash bag will not only help you do your laundry anywhere on the road, but also save you money and time.
Tree Tent Designed mainly for camping enthusiasts, Tentsile Connect Tree Tent comes with fold away doors and a removable rain fly, and can also be attached to other Connects to create one suspended super-camp.
Micro Lazy Luggage
Portable page turner
The Micro Lazy Luggage comes handy when travelling with kids as it converts from a trolley to a vehicle your little one can ride on. Sleek and compact, this smart travel companion comes with extendable wheel legs and a fold-out seat that allows you to tote your child (20kg max) around with you.
Readers in the family will appreciate the adjustable builtin light, speedy page-turning and high-resolution of the Kindle Paperwhite that makes it easy to dig into the next bestseller – almost anywhere.
goTenna Mesh Designed to keep Android or iOS devices connected even when there is no cellular service, goTenna Mesh is a slick, pocketsized device that uses BluetoothLE to pair with a smartphone, enabling users to share messages and location info instantly within a range of up to 6 kms.
Security Camera See what’s going on at home while you travel for peace of mind on the go. This sleek Mini O is a smart security camera that easily allows families to see what’s going on at home from the palm of their hands, using the UZVIZ app. Sep-Oct 2019 / 45
Globetrotter
Event planner
1
Oktoberfest 21 September – 6 October, Munich, Germany Oktoberfest celebrations can be found all over the world, but the main event happens in Munich, Germany, where the first Oktoberfest was held. It is world’s largest Volksfest where German beer experts and other specialists from all across the world gather to celebrate the old Bavarian traditions.
2 3
NFL London Games 2019 6 October, London The National Football League is conducted every season in London since 2007. Eighteen games with almost 1.5 million attending fans depicts the charm of the show. In 2016 and 2017, games were played in Twichenham Stadium but in 2019 it will be conducted at the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Check out what’s on around the world in the months of September and October
The Contemporary Istanbul Art Fair 12 September -15 September, Turkey, Istanbul Contemporary Istanbul takes place each September and offers a platform for the city’s thriving art scene, growing art market and collector base, as well as an access point to the best contemporary art from the wider region.
XPOSURE International Photography & Film Festival 2019 19 September, Abu Dhabi XPOSURE is a non-profit educational & photography platform, which features a range of photography events keeping exhibitions, workshops, seminars, competitions, photo walks and presentations in mind. It embraces education in visual art and gathers award-winning photographers and filmmakers.
4
5
The Hilton Arts Festival 13-15 September, Hilton, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa The biggest theatrical event of its kind in KwaZulu Natal, the festival’s brings the pick of South Africa’s great quality performing art to KwaZulu Natal, which is enhance by art exhibitions, craft, food and drink and live music.
Atlanta Horror Film Festival 12–15 September, Atlanta Atlanta Horror Film Festival is a top horror festival in Atlanta. It is a very good platform for the most talented filmmakers who have created short films and feature films that audience praise the most. It showcases awardwinning films from every corner of the world.
7
NZ Motorcycle Show 14 -15 September, Auckland, New Zealand The largest motorcycle show in New Zealand, it takes place in more than 10,000 sq m of indoor space. On display are street bikes, racing bikes and museum pieces. The event also showcases new bikes, classics, dirt bikes and custom bikes too.
6
8
Austin City Limits 4-14 October, Austin, Texas, USA ACL Festival features a diverse lineup of acts every year with eight stages, more than 125 performances – and best of all, two weekends.
10
Melbourne International Arts Festival
3-21 October, Melbourne, Australia The Melbourne International Arts Festival bring Melbourne’s artistic spirit to the fore. Art and dance, music, traditional arts, ideas etc can be enjoyed here.
9
Diwali 27-28 October, India The Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated across the world with much enthusiasm. People wear new clothes, clean up their houses, pray to Goddess Lakshmi, lit up their houses with decorative lights, indulge in savoury feasts and burst firecrackers too. Sep-Oct 2019 / 47
about VFS Global
Experience the
Privilege
Pick up a Privilege Program card for your loved ones, and enjoy ease and comfort of your application process
A
t VFS Global, we have a variety of wellcrafted and personalised packages for visa applicants in the UAE and India to ensure the first step to travel is seamless.
Getting a visa is the first step to your international travel plans and we are here to make this first step smoother, convenient and memorable for you and your family and friends. Put all your anxiety to rest as the VFS Global Privilege Program* understands the unique needs of travellers and works to assist them in making the pre-travel preparations a delightful and stress-free experience. You can access a range of meaningful benefits and privileges and simplify your application process.
Optional membership programmes available in India: •
•
•
•
Gold Privilege Membership: Comes with unlimited Premium Lounge access, courier service, relationship manager and discounts on UAE Express Visa, free Forex Card and attractively priced SIM Card. Silver Privilege Membership: Offers access to Premium Lounge on two visits, two courier service, relationship manager and benefits like free Forex Card and so on. Gold Family Privilege Membership: Offers access to Premium Lounge for all members on two visits, two courier service, relationship manager and benefits like free Forex Card and so on. Student Privilege Membership: Valid for entire course duration and
•
comes with two Premium Lounge visits and two courier service besides relationship manager and other benefits. Senior Citizens Privilege Membership: Comes with a single Premium Lounge access and one courier service, privilege helpdesk and relationship manager and other benefits.
Optional membership programmes in the UAE: •
•
•
•
Platinum Privilege Membership: One mobile biometrics/on demand visa service/visa at doorstep (up to two persons) or two Platinum Lounge visits, unlimited Premium Lounge visits beside other benefits. Gold Privilege Membership: Single mobile biometrics/on demand visa service/visa at doorstep (up to two persons per use), single Premium Lounge visit and other benefits. Silver Privilege Membership: Single Premium Lounge visit, form filling assistance, courier service and so on. Each membership plan has been designed to meet the unique requirements of the user by ensuring that convenience, personalisation and exclusivity are maintained as top priorities at all times.
Assistance you can count on Privilege Program members in both India and the UAE enjoy a consistent access to the ‘Always On’ services without any cap during the entire period of membership. You can reach out to the dedicated global Privilege Helpdesk number for all the information around the range of membership services available. Besides this, members can seek guidance on any documentation and visa-related queries, secure assistance to book an appointment or receive help with any other possible travel-related queries.
Relax! Be at ease as we process your application
Doorstep visa services in the UAE for Platinum & Gold members The Platinum tier members in the UAE can opt to submit their applications in the ultra-luxurious Platinum Lounge in Dubai or at a location of their own choice anywhere in the UAE. Gold members in the UAE also enjoy the exclusive benefit of opting for VFS Global’s doorstep visa services. VFS Global is with today’s global citizens in their quest for a simplified and speedy travel solutions and service. Our multi-dimensional approach to travel-care and travel facilitation caters to this evolutionary change.
Once you walk into the Visa Application Centre, you will be welcomed by dedicated Relationship Managers to the world-class Premium Lounges. You will be assisted with a personalised touch during the entire application process. While you enjoy the luxury of the lounge, experts will swiftly manage each and every aspect of the submission process from document checking and sorting to biometric enrolment (if required) to ensure an enhanced customer experience.
Find all your pre-travel requirements under one roof Besides visa, you need a variety of products and services for your travel needs. For your convenience, a host of useful services such
FREQUENT users of VFS Global Privilege Program include: • Corporate Executives • Families travelling together • University students who travel during mid-term breaks
as Insurance, Forex cards, SIM cards and travel concierge services, among others, are available for members. VFS Global has partnered with a range of organisations to offer members value deals from leading service providers. Moreover, complimentary services ranging from courier services, photocopying and printing to SMS status alerts, are offered to take care of a member’s every travel-related need as a one-stop solution. The VFS Global Privilege Program** envelopes the diverse needs of every kind of traveller and offers greater peace of mind to its members before they set off on their journey. To enrol and for detailed information on the programs and applicability to your region, please visit www.vfsglobal-privilege. com. You can also call 1800 266 9720 (India) or +971 4 205 5908 (UAE), or email us at enquiries@vfsglobal-privilege.com or visit your trusted Travel Agent for details.
*VFS Global Privilege Program services are currently available in select countries and for select missions. **Membership tiers and benefits vary as per the region.
Sep-Oct 2019 / 49
initiative
Helping hands
Around the world VFS Global promotes a culture of giving by encouraging its employees globally to participate in and contribute to community initiatives. Take a peek into some of the activities undertaken by our ‘Champions of Change’ across the globe
Volunteers from VFS Global Moscow visited the S.A. Bashlyaeva Children’s Hospital and conducted activities, like painting T-shirts and a quiz among others. The event was organised on May 31, 2019 to celebrate the ‘International Children’s Day’.
VFS Global Birmingham staff member Gurmesh Singh Sidhu and his family participated in the ‘Race For Life’s’ 5km run held in Sutton Coldfield, the United Kingdom, in June 2019 to raise £800 for Cancer Research UK.
VFS Global volunteers participated in the ‘Clean Games: Vyborg Superheroes’ campaign held on June 8, 2019, in Vyborg (Russia) to clean the residential area and collect the disposable items for recycling.
In the Leningrad Region (Russia), VFS Global volunteers visited a home for elderly people on June 22, 2019, located in Kikerino and planted rows of fresh herbs for the residents to include as supplements to their daily meals.
VFS Global team members in Jordan participated in a blood donation campaign organised by the Ministry of Health, in August 2019.
In July 2019, participants of The World Children’s Winners Games 2019 in Moscow (Russia) were engaged by VFS Global volunteers in an exciting masterclass on painting eco-bags. Popularly known as The Winners Games, the event includes international sports competitions for young survivors of life threatening medical conditions.
More than 70 volunteers participated in the forest clean-up drives held in Engels and Vyrista on June 8, 2019, organised by VFS Global as part of the ‘International Day of Family, Love and Fidelity’ celebration events in Russia.
Employees from VFS Global engaging with children from a local orphanage in Vyritsa (Russia) in June 2019. Sep-Oct 2019 / 51
Network
VFS GLOBAL NETWORK
Sep-Oct 2019 / 53
About vfs global
Network of VFS Global VISA Application Centres in India Ahmedabad Address: Ground and 1st floor Emerald House, Near Parimal Garden Cross Road, Off C G Road, Ahmedabad – 380006 Missions served: Austria, Italy, The Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Greece, Estonia, Malta, Sweden, Luxembourg, Latvia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Norway, France, Belgium, Slovenia, Portugal and UK / Ireland Address: Ground Floor, Shri Ambika MillsGujarat Chamber Building Ashram Road, Ahmedabad - 380009 Missions served: UAE, South Africa, US, Malaysia, Australia, Turkey, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, Lebanon, Georgia, Ukraine and New Zealand Address: Unit No.1 & 2, 1st floor Bhikubhai Chambers, Nr. Kochrab Ashram, Ashram Rd, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad-380006
Luxembourg, Slovenia, Hungary, Latvia and Sweden
Chandigarh Address: Elante Offices, Entry from Gate No. 2 & 3 ,C-313-315, 2nd Floor, Plot no. 178- 178A, Industrial & Business Park, Phase - I, Chandigarh (UT) 160002 Missions served: Canada Address: Ground Floor, SCO 62/63, Sector -8 C, Madhya Marg, Chandigarh, 160008 Missions served: UK Address: SCO 141, Ground Floor, Sector 8 C, Madhya Marg, Chandigarh,160018 India Missions served: New Zealand Address: Elante Offices, Entry from Gate No. 3, Unit no. B 208- 209, 2nd Floor, Office Block B, Plot no. 178- 178A, Industrial & Business Park, Phase - I, Chandigarh 160002
Missions served: Canada
Bengaluru Address: Global Tech Park, No 11 1st Floor O’ Shaughnessy Road, Langford Town, Bengaluru - 560025 Missions served: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Finland, Germany, Slovakia, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, The Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Latvia, UK, Ireland, Australia
Address: Unit No. 405, 2nd and 3rd floor, Level 3 & 4, Prestige Atrium, No. 1, Central Street, Bangalore - 560001 Missions served: Japan, Croatia, Cyprus, UAE, Georgia, Laos, Lebanon, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, Attestation, New Zealand, Malaysia, South Africa, Vietnam, Dominican Republic and USA Address: Sobha Pearl, 8th Floor, Commissariat Road, Ashok Nagar, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025 Missions served: Canada Address: Brigade IRV, Unit No 108, 1st Floor, Nallurahalli, Whitefield, Bengaluru, Karnataka - 560066 Missions served: UK, Austria, Italy, Switzerland,
Missions served: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Cyprus, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Estonia, Portugal, Czech Republic, Switzerland, USA, Japan, Latvia, MEA, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey & Vietnam
Chennai Address: Fagun Towers, 2nd and 3rd floor, No 74, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai - 600 008 Missions served: France, Japan, Turkey, New Zealand, Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Czech Republic, Greece, Slovenia, Cyprus, Switzerland, Austria, Laos, Latvia, Luxembourg, Lebanon, Sweden, Finland, Portugal, Malta, Estonia, Croatia, Italy Germany, Hungary, Belgium, Georgia, Australia, Thailand, Vietnam, MEA, UAE, Ireland and UK Address: Old No.2, New No.3, Sadasivam Street, Gopalapuram, Chennai - 600086
Address: Fagun Mansion, 5th Floor, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai – 600 008 Missions served: Canada
Goa Address: Gera Imperium 1, Office No 301, 3rd Floor, Patto Plaza, Panjim Goa - 403001 Missions served: Belgium, Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Cyprus, Georgia, Greece, France, Hungary, Austria, Latvia, Luxembourg, MEA, Estonia, Czech Republic, South Africa, Turkey, Japan, Slovenia, Thailand, Vietnam, Lebanon and UK TEL
Gurugram Address: ILD Trade Center, Unit no 419-420,4th Floor, ILD Tower, Sec-47, Sohna Road, Gurugram -122001 Missions served: Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Cyprus, Belgium Japan, Luxembourg, Italy, Malta, Latvia, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam, UK and South Africa
Hyderabad Address: 1-8-384 / 385, Gowra Grand, Sardar Patel Road, Begumpet, Hyderabad - 500016 Missions served: USA Address: 3rd floor, Zonah Cresent, Road No.12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad - 500034 Missions served: Canada Address: 206, 2nd Floor, Ashoka Capitol, Banjara Hills Road No: 2, Hyderabad - 500034 Missions served: Australia Address: 8-2-700, 3rd Floor, Srida Anushka Pride, Road No. 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500 034
Missions served: Malaysia Address: Good Shepherd, No. 82, Kodambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai - 600 034 Missions served: USA Address: ISPAHANI Centre, No 123, 124, Nungambakkam High Road, 1st Floor, Thousand Lights, Chennai - 600 034 Missions served: Russia
Missions served: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Finland, Greece, Germany, Malta, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, Slovenia, Switzerland, Ireland and UK Address: Ground Floor, Srida Anushka Pride, Road No 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad - 500 034 Missions served: UAE, Lebanon, Algeria,
Georgia, Ukraine, New Zealand, Thailand, Malaysia, MEA, Japan, Turkey, Croatia, Cyprus and Vietnam
Jaipur Address: Mangalam Ambition Tower, 106-114, 01st floor, Subhash Marg (Malan Ka Chauraha), C Scheme, Jaipur-302001 Missions served: Germany, Italy, Austria, Latvia, Malta, Georgia, Estonia, Czech Republic, France, Luxembourg, Hungary, Cyprus, Turkey, Thailand, South Africa, Japan, Vietnam and UK
Jalandhar Address: Aman Plaza, 3rd Floor, 310, Lajpat Nagar, Mahavir Marg, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chowk, Jalandhar - 144001
Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Laos, Luxembourg, Latvia, Lebanon, Vietnam, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, Slovenia, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Czech Republic, Croatia, Cyprus, UK, Ireland, Malaysia, South Africa, UAE, MEA, South Korea, Turkey, Japan, Georgia & Thailand Address: Jasmine Tower, 1st Floor, 31 Shakespeare Sarani, Kolkata - 700017 Missions served: USA Address: BIPI Building Omega, Ground Floor Bengal Intelligent Park, Block-EP & GP, Sector-5, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata 700091 Missions served: China
Lucknow (User Pay)
Missions served: Australia, Austria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Belgium, Germany, Georgia, Malta, Slovenia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxemburg, Latvia, Netherlands, Portugal, Switzerland, Turkey, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam and USA
Address: Golden Tulip, Lucknow, 6, Station Road, Lucknow – 226001
Address: Canada Visa Application Centre, Aman Plaza, 1st Floor, 310 Lajpat Nagar, Mahavir Marg, Nakodar Chowk Opposite to Lovely Autos, Jalandhar - 144001 Missions served: Canada
Address: Trade Centre, First Floor, ‘G’ Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400 051
Address: Midas Corporate Tower, Lower Ground Floor, Plot No, 37, G. T. Road, Jalandhar - 144001 Missions served: UK & Ireland
Kochi Address: S & T Arcade, Kurisupally Road, Ravipuram, Cochin-682015 Missions served: Australia, Thailand, Turkey, Japan, UAE, MEA, UK, Cyprus and Ireland Address: 1st Floor, Coastal Chambers, MG Road, Ravipuram, Kochi - 682015 Missions served: US, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Malta, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Latvia, Algeria, New Zealand, Lebanon, Georgia, Swiss
Kolkata Address: Rene Tower, 4th & 5th floor, Plot No. AA-I, 1842, Rajdanga Main Road, Kasba, Kolkata - 700107 Missions served: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ukraine, Denmark,
Missions served: UK (This service is currently available on the third Tuesday of every month
Mumbai
Missions served: UK/Ireland, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Sweden, Croatia, Estonia, Denmark, Norway, Luxembourg, France, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Australia, MEA Attestation, New Zealand & Slovakia Address: Urmi Axis Building, 4th Floor, Behind Famous Studio, Opp. E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai - 400011 Missions served: Canada Address: 8th Floor, Mafatlal Centre, Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400021 Missions served: China Address: Parinee Crescenzo, 101, 1st Floor, A Wing, G Block, Bandrakurla Complex Bandra East, Mumbai 400051 Missions served: USA Address: Urmi Axis Building, First Floor, Second Floor, 3rd Floor and 4th Floor, Behind Famous Studio, Opp. E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai - 400 011 Missions served: Japan, Australia, UK, Ireland, Dominican Republic, Switzerland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Malta, Slovenia, Portugal, Finland, Germany, South Africa, Malaysia OSC, Latvia, Turkey, UAE, Georgia, Thailand, Ukraine, Lebanon, Laos, Greece, Nigeria, Russia, DVPC, Vietnam & Italy
New Delhi Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110001 Missions served: Austria, Netherland, Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Georgia, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Laos, Luxembourg, Lebanon, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, China, UAE, Latvia, Russia, Slovakia, South Korea, Ministry of External Affairs (India), Japan, South Africa, UK, Canada, Australia, Ukraine, Turkey and USA Address: 7th Floor, Prakash deep Building, Tolstoy Marg, New Delhi Missions served: Thailand, New Zealand & Vietnam
Puducherry Address: Good Shepherd Square, I Floor, No 33, 1st Floor, East Coast Road, Elaipillaichavady, (Opposite to Rajiv Gandhi Govt Hospital), Puducherrry - 605 005 Missions served: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Luxembourg, Latvia, Switzerland, Turkey, Japan, Georgia & Malta
Pune Address: 4th Floor, E Core/F Core, Marvel edge, Viman Nagar, Pune- 411014 Missions served: Austria, Cyprus, Greece, Luxembourg, Latvia, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Portugal, Italy, Malta, Norway, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Japan, Australia, US, South Africa, Malaysia, Turkey, Thailand, UK/Ireland, the UAE, Vietnam, Lebanon and Georgia Address: Office 401 Lalwani icon Sakorenagar Pune - 411014 Missions served: Canada
Thiruvananthapuram Address: VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd , First Floor - Asiatic Business Centre, T c 2/2408-3, Attipra Village, Kazhakuttam, Trivandrum, Kerela - 695583 Missions served: UAE, Lebanon, Italy, Algeria, Georgia, Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, Estonia, Hungary, Vietnam, Czech Republic, Turkey, MEA, UK, Latvia, Malta, Cyprus, Belgium and Japan
Sep-Oct 2019 / 55
Answers: Colour of Palm tree on the left, Features of the bird, One flower is missing, One branch of tree on the right is missing, No rock on the water
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