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From a glimpse of polar bears, ring seals, and Arctic foxes in Svalbard, Norway, or in Canada’s northern territories, to standing in the vicinity of vast glaciers and viewing the Northern Lights, Indian travellers are enjoying unparalleled adventures in some of the most remote places and extreme environments.
In the first week of August, Mumbai resident and lawyer Sneha Jaisingh embarked on a trip to parts of the lesser-explored Arctic region.
“I have always had a passion for wildlife and wanted to see arctic wildlife, so I researched and booked it all by myself via a local operator in Svalbard,” she said.
Another Mumbai resident Archi Varma’s trip to Antarctica was part of a leadership programme conducted by polar explorer Robert Swan.
Mumbai resident Archi Varma said, “I was part of Swan’s expedition to work on solutions and actions around climate change. There were discussions, documentary screenings, and experiences.”
Travel influencers Prachi Dhadwal and Harsh also received queries from their followers about their recent trip to Antarctica in March.
“For a long time, we have been creating ‘adventure’ content. It was a dream to visit Antarctica as it always intrigued us,” Prachi said.
She recalled how her inbox was full of questions from followers about the trip on how to get there, the expenses, experi ence etc.
“I do hope we can explore Greenland soon,” she added.
Rajeev Kale, president & country head of Holidays, MICE, Visa-Thomas Cook (India), said high-spending Indian travellers are displaying in creasing appetite for one-of-akind location and experience with the Arctic Circle and Antarctica and more recently, Greenland growing in appeal.
“The fascination is for the Midnight Sun in the summer and the Polar Night in the winter (Arctic) and Aurora Australis, ice breakers and diamond dust in the Antarctica. The surge is fuelled by rising disposable incomes, influence of social media, visa reforms, and the unique solar activity expected in 2024-25 which promises spectacular Northern Lights displays,” he said.
Destinations like the Arctic and Antarctica are expensive and not a mass market holiday. It could cost a minimum of Rs 12-13 lakh excluding flights/visas for Antarctica.
In the face of bitter cold and rising expenses, the resilience of Indians shines brighter than ever! It’s a testament to our spirit that we can endure hardships with courage and determination. Together, we rise above challenges and inspire each other to keep moving forward!
Amidst the chill of winter and financial strains, Indians exemplify bravery and unity! Every struggle we overcome adds to our collective strength. Let’s celebrate our ability to adapt, persevere, and inspire future generations with our stories of resilience!
Absolutely! The way Indians brave the chilly weather is nothing short of inspiring. It just goes to show how determination can overcome any obstacle, even the rising costs! Keep warm, everyone! ☕️😊