Tourism just joined military-industry

Move over Jungfrau, Bali, Paris, Serengeti.... The military-industrial complex just got longer. Say hello to the military-industrial-tourism complex. In case testosterone needed more attraction, Army Polygon, a St Petersburg-based company that specialises in military tourism, are inviting new-age Indian tourists to cruise around in an 8x8-wheeled amphibious, armoured personnel carrier. Or, if you're more of a Cold War buff, take a spin in a T-62 tank. The next thrill could well be sending tourists to truly hot spots. Army Polygon and other disruptive firms can provide vacationers much more than army fatigues and paintball equipment. Let's just say that Russia is, indeed, facing a shortage of cannon fodder in its border war with Ukraine.

Indian tourists are ditching typical tourist traps for wild adventures. They're swimming with toothy whales in Sri Lanka, riding whale sharks in the Philippines, snorkelling through fissures between North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Iceland. Demand for such bespoke experiences has gone up by about 35% from the leisure segment to over 50% among MICE - Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions - operators. So, supply side has reasons to be spiced up, or, well, weaponised. If you do decide to strap up for your next vacation, though, do read the fine print. Especially the life insurance bit.