Foreign travelers
India has always been the dream destination for people who want to explore one of the earliest civilizations in the world. Since time immemorial, India has received a number of keen travelers who came here and fell in love with its traditions and colors.
Hiuen Tsang from China (629-645)
One of the earliest and the most celebrated travelers to India, Hiuen Tsang came from China to India in search of Buddhist belief and practice. He has been described as the “prince of pilgrims” and his accounts carry a lot of information on the political, social and religious set up of India. Hiuen Tsang visited Kashmir, Punjab and proceeded to Kapilavastu, Bodh-Gaya, Sarnath, and Kusinagara. He studied in the University of Nalanda and travelled through the Deccan, Orissa and Bengal. Since he stayed in India for 14 long years, his accounts reflect what ancient India must have been once.
Megasthenes/”>Megasthenes
Megasthenes was a famous Foreign Envoy and ambassador of Seleucus Nikator of Syria . He visited the Chandragupta Maurya (Sandrokottos) court. He wrote the great book Indica which explains the reign of Chandragupta Maurya. He explained Social and administrative status at the time of Mauryas. Megasthenes was the first foreign envoy who visited India.
Fa-Hien is a Foreign Envoy who visited India at the time of Chandragupta II, known as Vikramaditya. He was a Chinese pilgrim. Fa-Hien was the first Chinese pilgrim to visit India. Fa-Hien came to India to collect Buddhist texts and relics. Fa-Hien visited Lumbini, the Buddha’s birth place. He compiled his experiences in a travelogue “Record of Buddhistic Kingdoms”.
Al Beruni from Persia (1000-1025)
Al Beruni was an Islamic scholar who was “commissioned” by Mahmud of Ghazni to write his monumental commentary on Indian philosophy and culture Kitab fi tahqiq ma li’l-hind. In the words of the historians today, “His observations on Indian conditions, systems of knowledge, social norms, religion … are probably the most incisive made by any visitor to India.” Born in Uzbekistan, this traveler remained in India for thirteen long years to understand its culture and literature.
Ibn Battuta from Morocco (1333)
Its unbelievable that a person could have traveled so much in times where no travelling paraphernalia was available. Meet Ibn Battuta who had a passion for travel unparalleled in history, inimitable by any individual. It is hard to believe that Ibn Battuta journeyed more than 75,000 miles (121,000 km), a figure unsurpassed by any individual explorer until the coming of the Steam Age some 450 years later. He was the only medieval traveller who is known to have visited the lands of every Muslim ruler of his time. His journeys include trips to North Africa, West Africa, Southern Europe and Eastern Europe in the West, Middle East, South Asia, Central Asia, Southeast Asia and China in the East, a distance surpassing threefold his near-contemporary Marco Polo.
Marco Polo
Marco Polo from Italy (b.1254-d.1324) Marco Polo, the Venetian traveler, is perhaps the most celebrated traveler even till today. He is said to have visited South India twice, in 1288 and 1292, where he saw a tomb of St. Thomas “at a certain little town” which he does not name. Many historians accept these dates and visits without question, and identify the little town that he speaks of with Mylapore.
Abdul Razzak from Persia (1442-1445)
One of the earliest mention of Vijaynagar-empire/”>Vijaynagar Empire in India comes through Abdul Razzak, the Persian traveler who visited it around 1440. His accounts of the Hampi marketplace, its architecture and grandeur have left a lot of corpus of history for later historians to work on. Abdul Razzak was the ambassador of Shahrukh of Timurid Dynasty.
Nicolo Conti from Italy (1420-1421)
Nicolo De Conti‘ (fl. 1419-1444) was a Venetian explorer and writer who visited the west coast of India to Ely, and struck inland to Vijayanagar, the capital of the principal Hindu state of the Deccan. Of this city Conti gives an elaborate description and one of the most interesting portions of his narrative. From Vijayanagar and the Tungabudhra he travelled to Maliapur near Madras, present day Chennai.
Afanasy Nikitin from Russia (1469-1472)
Nikitin, the Russian merchant, spent more than two years in India traveling to different cities, getting acquainted with local residents and carefully describing everything he saw. The notes of the merchant were compiled in the form of a so-called “Journey,” that is more like a traveler’s log. This work accurately described the nature and political organization of India as well as its traditions, lifestyle and customs.
Domingo Paes from Portugal (1520-1522)
After the conquest of Goa in 1510 and its rise as capital of The Portuguese Estado da India, several Portuguese travellers and traders visited Vijayanagara and wrote detailed reports about the glory of Bisnaga or Vijayanagara. Most valuable are that of Domingos Paes written in c. 1520-22. The report of Paes, who visited Vijayanagara during Krishnadeva’s reign, is based primarily on careful observation as he describes in detail the so-called feudal nayankara system of Vijayanagara’s military organisation and the annual royal Durga festival.
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Visas and entry requirements
Before you travel to any foreign country, it is important to check the visa requirements. Some countries require visas for all visitors, while others only require visas for certain types of visitors, such as those who are staying for a long period of time or those who are working in the country. You can usually find information about visa requirements on the website of the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting.
If you need a visa, you will need to apply for it in advance. The application process can vary from country to country, so it is important to start the process early. You will usually need to provide your passport, a completed application form, and a visa application fee.
Once you have your visa, you will need to make sure that you have it with you when you enter the country. You may be asked to show your visa at the border, so it is important to keep it in a safe place.
Currency exchange
When you travel to a foreign country, you will need to exchange your currency for the local currency. You can do this at a bank, a currency exchange bureau, or even some hotels. The exchange rate will vary depending on the market conditions, so it is a good idea to check the rate before you travel.
It is also a good idea to have some local currency on hand before you arrive in the country. This will come in handy for things like tipping and buying small items.
Transportation
There are a variety of ways to get around in foreign countries. The most common way is to take public transportation, such as buses, trains, or taxis. You can also rent a car or take a taxi.
The best way to get around will depend on the country you are visiting and your budget. If you are on a tight budget, public transportation is usually the most affordable option. However, if you are short on time, renting a car or taking a taxi may be the best option.
Accommodation
There are a variety of types of accommodation available in foreign countries, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. The best type of accommodation for you will depend on your budget and your travel style.
If you are on a tight budget, hostels are a great option. Hostels are usually very affordable and they offer a great way to meet other travelers. However, they can be noisy and crowded.
If you are looking for a more comfortable option, hotels are a good choice. Hotels come in all price ranges, so you can find one that fits your budget. However, hotels can be expensive, especially in popular tourist destinations.
Food and drink
One of the best things about traveling is trying new foods. When you are in a foreign country, be sure to try some of the local cuisine. You may be surprised at how delicious it is.
If you are not sure what to try, ask your hotel concierge or a local for recommendations. You can also find information about local restaurants in guidebooks or online.
Activities and attractions
There are always plenty of things to do in foreign countries. From visiting historical sites to exploring natural wonders, there is something for everyone.
When you are planning your trip, be sure to research the different activities and attractions that are available in the country you are visiting. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you have a memorable trip.
Culture and etiquette
It is important to be aware of the local culture and etiquette when you are traveling to a foreign country. This will help you avoid any faux pas and make a good impression on the locals.
There are a few things you can do to learn about the local culture. You can read guidebooks, talk to locals, or watch documentaries about the country. You can also try to learn some of the local language.
Health and safety
It is important to take precautions to stay healthy and safe when you are traveling to a foreign country. This includes getting vaccinated for common diseases, packing appropriate clothing, and being aware of the local crime rate.
You should also make sure that you have travel insurance in case of any unexpected medical expenses.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is a type of insurance that covers you in case of unexpected events while you are traveling. This includes things like lost luggage, medical expenses, and trip cancellation.
Travel insurance is a good idea for any trip, but it is especially important for long trips or trips to developing countries.
BUDGETING and saving Money
Traveling can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. One way is to book your flights and accommodation in advance. You can also look for deals on flights and accommodation online.
Another way to save money is to eat at local restaurants instead of tourist traps. You can also cook your own meals if you are staying in a hotel or hostel.
What are the most common visa types for foreign travelers?
The most common visa types for foreign travelers are tourist visas, business visas, and student visas. Tourist visas allow visitors to stay in a country for a short period of time for tourism purposes. Business visas allow visitors to stay in a country for a longer period of time to conduct business. Student visas allow visitors to stay in a country to study.
What are the requirements for obtaining a visa?
The requirements for obtaining a visa vary depending on the country you are visiting. However, some common requirements include having a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a recent photograph. You may also need to provide proof of financial means, travel insurance, and a letter of invitation from a host in the country you are visiting.
How long does it take to get a visa?
The processing time for a visa can vary depending on the country you are applying to and the type of visa you are applying for. In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to get a visa.
What are the costs associated with obtaining a visa?
The costs associated with obtaining a visa vary depending on the country you are applying to and the type of visa you are applying for. In general, you will need to pay a visa application fee, as well as any other fees that may be required by the country you are visiting.
What are the benefits of having a visa?
Having a visa allows you to enter and stay in a country for a specific purpose. This can be for tourism, business, or study. Having a visa also gives you the right to certain benefits, such as the right to work in the country you are visiting.
What are the risks of traveling without a visa?
If you travel without a visa, you may be denied entry into the country you are visiting. You may also be deported and banned from re-entering the country for a period of time. In some cases, you may even be arrested and charged with a crime.
What should I do if I am denied a visa?
If you are denied a visa, you should contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are applying to for more information. You may also be able to appeal the decision.
What are some tips for applying for a visa?
Here are some tips for applying for a visa:
- Start the application process early.
- Make sure you have all the required documents.
- Be honest on your application form.
- Proofread your application form carefully.
- Be prepared to pay the visa application fee.
- Be patient. The processing time for a visa can vary.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when applying for a visa?
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when applying for a visa:
- Not starting the application process early enough.
- Not having all the required documents.
- Lying on your application form.
- Not proofreading your application form carefully.
- Not being prepared to pay the visa application fee.
- Not being patient. The processing time for a visa can vary.
Which of the following is not a type of visa?
(A) Tourist visa
(B) Business visa
(C) Student visa
(D) Foreign traveler visaWhich of the following is not a requirement for a tourist visa?
(A) A valid passport
(B) Proof of onward travel
(C) Proof of sufficient funds
(D) A letter of invitation from a friend or family member in the country you are visitingWhich of the following is not a requirement for a business visa?
(A) A valid passport
(B) Proof of EMPLOYMENT
(C) Proof of sufficient funds
(D) A letter of invitation from your employerWhich of the following is not a requirement for a student visa?
(A) A valid passport
(B) Proof of acceptance to a school in the country you are visiting
(C) Proof of sufficient funds
(D) A letter of invitation from your schoolWhich of the following is not a way to apply for a visa?
(A) Online
(B) By mail
(C) In person at a visa application center
(D) Through a travel agentWhich of the following is not a document you may need to provide when applying for a visa?
(A) Your passport
(B) A visa application form
(C) Proof of onward travel
(D) A letter of invitation from a friend or family member in the country you are visiting
(E) Proof of employment
(F) Proof of sufficient funds
(G) A letter of invitation from your employer
(H) Proof of acceptance to a school in the country you are visiting
(I) A letter of invitation from your schoolWhich of the following is not a fee you may need to pay when applying for a visa?
(A) The visa application fee
(B) The processing fee
(C) The courier fee
(D) The service feeHow long does it typically take to process a visa application?
(A) 1-2 weeks
(B) 2-4 weeks
(C) 4-6 weeks
(D) 6-8 weeks
(E) More than 8 weeksWhat happens if your visa application is denied?
(A) You will not be able to travel to the country you are applying to visit.
(B) You may be able to reapply for a visa at a later date.
(C) You may be able to appeal the decision.
(D) All of the above.What is the best way to find out more information about visas?
(A) Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are planning to visit.
(B) Visit the website of the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
(C) Consult a travel agent.
(D) All of the above.