Vacation Time: Places to chill in this summer

Summer time is equal to travel season. Everybody seems to be packing their bags to head to some place where they can either enjoy the privileges of the sun. The Maldivian Islands, Bhutan, Mauritius and Kenya are some of the best bets, because of the lax visa procedures (visa on arrival or visa free for a limited duration) for Indians. You can cycle along the beaches in Mauritius, take a hiking trip in Bhutan or a camel ride in Egypt. The options are endless. A resort stay at an island in the Maldives is like a ticket to heaven as you surround yourself with glazed waters and delicious food here. All you have to do is pack your bags, and get going.

BHUTAN

Bhutan has friendly people, vibrant culture and amazing natural beauty. Visit the National Folk Heritage Museum to get a glimpse into the traditional life of a Bhutanese family. Trekkers — the Department of Tourism of Bhutan has 11 trekking routes which can be covered in three to 23 days. The Jhomolhari-Laya-Gasa Trek and the Snowman Trek are the popular trekking routes.

MAURITIUS

Grand Baie is a seaside village and a big hit with tourists. Apart form water sports, Grand Baie is also known for its nightlife and shopping opportunities. Once you’ve partied to your hearts content, make time to visit Le Morne Brabant, a Mauritian peninsula and a UNESCO World Heritage site. What makes it special is that it is a single standing basaltic rock, 1821 feet above sea level. You can also see seven coloured earth in Chamarel village. When you're not in the mood to tour, enjoy a variety of preparations of fish in Maritius!

MALDIVES

Clear water, sea food and water sports, they pretty much sum up the essence of an experience on a Maldivian island. One of the first things that catches your attention as soon as you walk out of the airport is the pristine, clear blue waters, everywhere. The blues landscape is intermittently interrupted with a sprinkling of ferries, jet skis and speed boats transferring people from one island to another. Beach resorts are gorgeous but lagoon villas have an edge over them as they give its occupants direct access to the water. Go scuba diving, kayaking or just take long walks on the beach. Direct flights from Mumbai and Chennai is another reason to explore these islands.

KENYA

The first thing that comes to mind when one mentions Kenya is its rich, unique and abundant wildlife. A visual treat, safaris here will give you opportunities to see large groups of zebras, tigers and cheetahs in their natural habitats. Once you're done with elephant safari and jeep safari, sit in the hot air balloon basket to view the different textures of the stunning landscape below.