Tag: Tourism

  • Pakistan declared ‘best performing destination’ in tourism

    Pakistan declared ‘best performing destination’ in tourism

    Pakis­tan was the ‘best performing destination’ in terms of tourism during the first nine months of 2023, according to the ‘World Tourism Barometer’ published by the World Tourism Organisation of the United Nations, reported Dawn.

    Pakistan made a remarkable 92 percent recovery to pre-pandemic levels in 2023, as the country experienced a 115 percent surge in foreign tourist arrivals compared to the previous year, signaling a robust comeback post-Covid.

    With the recovery reaching 115 percent and projections of international receipts reaching $1.3 billion by the end of the year, Pakistan stands as a beacon in tourism resurgence, showcasing its potential on the global stage, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Aftab Rana said.

    He attributed this success to the concerted efforts in tourism promotion. Pakistan actively participated in six major global events to project the tourism potential in the country.

    A strategic online outreach, along with the launching of the “Salam Pakistan” tourism brand in August 2023, contributed significantly to attracting a diverse range of visitors from across the globe.

    Minister of State for Tourism Wasi Shah congratulated the PTDC team and industry partners for the achievement, expressing optimism for a stronger performance in 2024 despite existing challenges. Mr. Rana spoke highly of the collaborative efforts of PTDC, provincial tourist departments, and private sector operators, emphasising the role of global events in expanding international partnerships.

    According to the WTO Tourism Barometer, other leading best performing destinations were Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Turkiye, and Romania among countries from Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. Egypt and Serbia were at the bottom of the destination countries list.

    Key findings of the barometer show international tourism recovered 87pc of pre-pandemic levels in January-September 2023.

    An estimated 975 million tourists traveled internationally between January and September 2023, an increase of 38 percent over the same months of 2022, though 13 percent fewer than in 2019.

    International tourism receipts could reach $1.4 trillion in 2023, about 93pc of the $1.5tr earned by destinations in 2019.

    These results reflect the strong recovery of demand in 2023. By regions, the Middle East continued to lead the recovery by regions in relative terms, with arrivals 20pc above pre-pandemic levels in the first nine months of 2023. Europe, the world’s largest destination region, reached 94pc of pre-pandemic levels, supported by robust intra-regional demand.

    Africa recovered 92 percent of pre-crisis visitors during these nine months and the Americas 88 percent. In Asia and the Pacific, arrivals climbed to 62 percent of pre-pandemic levels.

    By sub-regions, North Africa (+5pc), Central America (+4 percent), and Southern Mediterranean Europe (+1 percent) continued to exceed pre-pandemic levels in January-September 2023.

    International arrivals are expected to reach 1.3 billion overall in 2023, up 33 percent over 2022 and almost 90 percent of pre-pandemic levels, in line with UNWTO scenarios published in January.

    Against this backdrop, international tourism is well on track to fully recover pre-pandemic levels in 2024 despite economic challenges and uncertainty derived from certain geopolitical tensions and conflicts, WTO says.

  • Yemenis turn captured Israeli-linked cargo ship into tourist attraction for locals

    Yemen’s Houthi movement has lately attacked and captured a number of Israeli-linked ships crossing through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait — a pathway for the world’s oil shipment.

    Among the captured ships was an Israeli-linked cargo ship known as Galaxy Leader.

    Yemenis are now utilising the ship as a tourist spot for the locals.

    Visitors can be seen enjoying themselves as they dance, make videos and take pictures.

    Houthis have been targeting Israeli-linked ships following the failure of the international community to ensure a ceasefire in Gaza where more than 18,000 people have been killed because of heavy Israeli attacks and blockade of humanitarian aid.

  • Pakistanis kay liye Bahrain aur Azerbaijan jana hua asaan

    Pakistanis kay liye Bahrain aur Azerbaijan jana hua asaan

    In an effort to facilitate tourism and strengthen cultural ties, the government of Azerbaijan has launched a user-friendly online service for the issuance of e-visit visas to citizens from various countries, including Pakistan.

    This exciting development launches in November 2023, providing Pakistani tourists a hassle-free entry into Azerbaijan.

    Azerbaijan visit visa fee November 2023:

    • Standard Category: For a single-entry 30-day electronic visit visa, Pakistani tourists can avail of the standard category at a fee of $69. The processing time for visa applications in this category ranges from 3 to 5 days

    • Urgent Category: In the urgent category, the visit visa for Pakistan nationals costs $119. This option offers a swift consideration period, with visa applications processed within three to five hours

    On the other hand, Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior, Nationality, Passport, and Residence Affairs (NPRA) has unveiled an efficient and convenient online visa application system for Pakistani nationals, offering three distinct types of visit visas.

    This new initiative aims to enhance travel experiences for visitors from Pakistan, whether they are planning a two-week vacation or a more extended stay in Bahrain.

    Visa types and application process:

    Pakistani travelers seeking to explore Bahrain’s tourism or business opportunities can now choose from the following visit visa options:

    1. Visit Visa – 2 Weeks Single Entry
    2. Visit Visa – Three Months Multiple Entry
    3. Visit Visa – One-Year Multiple Entry

    Application process

    1. Visit the official website and click on the “Apply for Visa” link on the homepage
    2. Fill out the eligibility page and proceed to view the available visa types and their respective conditions
    3. Select the desired visa type and click “Apply now”
    4. Complete the online application form as prompted, following the subsequent steps
    5. Attach the required documents, and if you are applying for multiple visas with the same credit card, use the “Submit another application” button to repeat the process
    6. Make the initial payment for the application fee using a credit card through a secure payment gateway, and keep note of the Application Reference Number(s) provided
    7. NPRA will process your application, and once approved, an email notification and a PIN will be sent to you
    8. Visit the Visa homepage and select “Pay for Application.” Provide the necessary information and enter the PIN to access your applications

    Should your application not be approved, you will receive an email containing instructions on contacting the relevant Embassy or NPRA.

    Required documents

    To complete your visa application, ensure you have the following documents:

    • A copy of your passport, including the family page and any additional information pages

    • A copy of a confirmed return air ticket

    • A copy of your hotel booking in Bahrain. If you plan to stay with a relative or friend, provide a copy of their ID reader’s printout

    • A copy of a bank statement under your name, covering the last three months with a balance of not less than the equivalent of USD 1000

    Visa fee information

    The total fee for applying for a two week long visit visa is nine Bahraini Dinar.

  • Pakistan’s Namira Saleem set to launch into space

    Pakistan’s Namira Saleem set to launch into space

    The Galactic 04 spaceflight will take off today carrying three passengers, including a Pakistani, Namira Salim.

    On Tuesday, Virgin Galactic announced a day’s delay in the space tourism mission to Friday, October 6.

    “The slip will give our team an additional day to complete vehicle prep and checks,” they wrote on their X account. “We look forward to taking to the skies (on Friday)!”

    Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar congratulated Namira Salim for becoming the first woman from Pakistan to go into space.

    “By proving their mettle as trailblazers in multiple fields, Pakistani women are making the whole nation proud,” Kakar had written on his X account, wishing her luck.

    Namira Salim is a Pakistani polar adventurer and artist based in Monaco and Dubai.

    The other two passengers are British advertising executive Trevor Beattie and Ameri­can astronomy educator Ron Rosano.

    Virgin Galactic’s carrier plane VMS Eve will be piloted by Pakistani-Canadian Jameel Janjua alongside Kelly Latimer and CJ Sturckow

    Galactic 04

    Galactic 04 will take off from Spaceport America in New Mexico, carrying the passengers to suborbital space and back. In simpler words, suborbital flight is a short journey into space where a spaceship goes up but does not stay in space. It leaves the earth’s atmosphere for a brief time and comes back right after. It is a quick trip to experience weightlessness and witness space. Unlike an orbital spaceflight, it does not circle the earth.

    Space.com explains that the space tourists will be carried by Virgin’s VSS Unity space plane taken into the sky by a carrier craft named VMS Eve. Eve will drop Unity at an altitude of about 50,000 feet (15,000 meters); the space plane will then fire up its rocket motor to get to suborbital space.

    “VSS Unity passengers get to experience a few minutes of weightlessness and see Earth against the blackness of space. A ticket to ride the space plane currently costs $450,000”.

  • Mountaineers in pursuit of records accused by climbers of ignoring dying Pakistani sherpa on K2

    Mohammad Hassan, a 27-year-old Pakistani porter, lay severely injured just 1,300 feet from K2’s summit, a peak known for its unforgiving nature. Shockingly, as he battled for survival, fellow climbers allegedly chose to prioritize their ascent records over extending a helping hand. Drone footage captured at the grim scene reveals climbers navigating around Hassan on the precarious ledge, effectively leaving him to his fate.

    The incident has ignited controversy, centering on Norwegian climber Kristin Harila and her team, who were captured passing by the injured porter. Accusations have been leveled against them, claiming that their pursuit of a new world record took precedence over providing aid to Hassan. Adding to the outrage, reports said that a celebratory party followed shortly after the team achieved the record of conquering 14 of the world’s highest peaks in just over three months—despite the tragic loss of Hassan’s life, Daily Mail has reported.

    Kristin Harila has defended her actions, stating that she and her team attempted to assist Hassan. However, the treacherous conditions on K2 made any rescue attempts perilous.

    Austrian mountaineer Philip Flämig, who was climbing alongside Wilhelm Steindl, has drawn attention to footage captured by their drone. The footage allegedly depicts a grim sequence of climbers stepping over the stricken body of Mohammad Hassan rather than offering assistance.

    Flämig described the scene in Austria’s Standard newspaper, highlighting the heart-wrenching footage. He expressed dismay, pointing out that while one person tended to Hassan, others surged onward toward the summit. Flämig criticized the absence of an organized rescue operation despite the presence of Sherpas and guides who could have acted.

    Flämig denounced the incident as a “disgrace” and compared the stark contrast to practices in the Alps, highlighting the ongoing debate regarding the treatment of Sherpas in the Himalayas. He asserted that if Hassan were a Westerner, immediate rescue efforts would likely have been deployed. The tragedy, he lamented, highlighted the callous disregard for human life in favor of record-breaking pursuits.

    In response to these claims, Harila defended her actions and decisions, countering accusations of inaction. She refuted the notion that no effort was made to help Hassan, stating that her team attempted to lift him for over an hour. She also explained the hazardous conditions on the mountain, particularly on the treacherous part where Hassan fell.

    Drone footage of the incident revealed individuals climbing over Hassan as he lay helpless in the deep snow. The video offered a glimpse of the thin air at such high elevations, as climbers wore oxygen masks to combat the thin atmosphere.

    Despite differing accounts of the incident, the unsettling scene has prompted renewed debate about the ethics of mountaineering and the value of human life in extreme circumstances. Steindl, who had to retreat to base camp due to perilous conditions, expressed his disgust at fellow climbers’ inaction, stressing the importance of lending aid.

  • PTA introduces 120-day tax-free mobile registration for overseas Pakistanis

    PTA introduces 120-day tax-free mobile registration for overseas Pakistanis

    Prime Minister (PM) Shahbaz Sharif inaugurated the Online Temporary Mobile Phone Registration System on Tuesday, aimed at facilitating overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals during their visits to the country.

    Under this system, individuals will be able to register and utilise their personal mobile phones for a duration of up to 120 days from the date of their arrival, exempt from any duties and taxes. This facility is available to overseas Pakistanis, including students and employees, as well as foreign nationals visiting Pakistan for tourism or business purposes.

    During the inaugural ceremony in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz acknowledged the significant progress made by Pakistani youth in the field of information technology and emphasised the need to seize the abundant opportunities in this sector. He further stated that the current government has allocated ample funds in the budget to support various youth-oriented programmes.

     To attract foreign investment and revive the economy, a Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has been established, with the IT Ministry playing a pivotal role in achieving the set objectives.

    Additionally, the PM highlighted the importance of promoting IT parks in the country to boost IT exports. He mentioned the distribution of free laptops among deserving students based on merit and assured that a non-financial package will be announced soon to further enhance facilitation for overseas Pakistanis.

    In December 2018, the government introduced the ‘Mobile Phone Tax Policy,’ allowing overseas Pakistanis to bring one phone without paying customs duty, subject to registration upon arrival at the airport. Failure to register resulted in the phone being non-operational. Initially, the registered phone could be used with one SIM for 60 days, after which it required payment of due taxes to regularise its usage.

    In 2022, authorities upgraded and introduced new features in the Identification Registration and Blocking System, enabling overseas Pakistanis to use their imported mobile phones for a period of 120 days.

    The system facilitated data exchange among the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). It was also integrated with the FIA’s record of passengers’ entry and exit.

  • Yamaha proposes a ferry service linking Do Darya and Port Qasim, expanding water sports facilities in Sindh

    Yamaha proposes a ferry service linking Do Darya and Port Qasim, expanding water sports facilities in Sindh

    In a groundbreaking announcement, a Japanese firm, Yamaha, has presented a proposal to launch a ferry service connecting Karachi’s Do Darya with Port Qasim, as well as develop various water sports facilities across the province of Sindh.

    The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah and Yoshiyuki ITO, the Senior General Manager for Central Asia and the Middle East at Yamaha Japan.

    The officials explored the potential of establishing water sports facilities at different barrages and lakes in Sindh, with a particular focus on enhancing recreational activities.

    A statement issued by the CM House outlined the discussion, revealing that the proposed ferry service between Do Darya and Port Qasim was among the key topics.

    Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed enthusiasm for the idea, emphasising the immense potential to develop water sports facilities in collaboration with Yamaha Pakistan.

    The chief minister further highlighted the possibilities for establishing these facilities at various barrages in Sindh, including Keenjhar, Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri Barrages.

    He underlined the importance of involving the private sector in such endeavors, which would contribute to the growth of water-based recreational activities in the region.

    During the meeting, the Yamaha representative informed Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah that the proposed ferry service would not only facilitate transportation but also provide recreational opportunities.

    Additionally, he emphasised the quality and performance of Yamaha’s WaveRunners, indicating their suitability for water sports enthusiasts.

    The introduction of a ferry service and the development of water sports facilities in Sindh would not only boost tourism but also enhance the overall experience for locals and visitors alike.

    As the proposal moves forward, collaboration between Yamaha and the provincial government holds the promise of an exciting future for water-based recreational activities in Sindh.

  • Vacation but visa nahi mil raha? Here is a list of countries that have visa on arrival for Pakistanis

    Vacation but visa nahi mil raha? Here is a list of countries that have visa on arrival for Pakistanis

    Summers are already here and the recent devaluation of the national currency has made it nearly impossible for travelers to pursue journeys.

    If you have a Pakistani passport, it’s not an easy task to get a visa of the country you love. But we have some suggestions to make your summer vacation memorable and budget-friendly.

    Currently, there are a total of four countries that allow Pakistan visa on arrival. These countries are as follows:

    Maldives

    The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, located southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. The Maldives is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, sunbathing, diving, snorkeling, fishing, and sailing.

    most famous tourist spot in maldives

    Things to do in Maldives

    Swimming and sunbathing:The Maldives has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

    Diving and snorkeling:The Maldives is home to stunning coral reefs, making it a popular destination for divers and snorkelers.

    Fishing:The Maldives is a great place to go fishing, with a variety of fish species to catch.

    Sailing:The Maldives is a great place to go sailing, with calm waters and beautiful scenery.

    Spa treatments:The Maldives is a great place to relax and pamper yourself, with many resorts offering a variety of spa treatments.

    You do not need to apply for a visa before you travel to the Maldives on holiday. All tourists, of all nationalities, can receive a 30 day visa free of charge on arrival in the Maldives.

    SamoaSamoa tourist visa is not required for citizens of Pakistan for a stay of up to 60 days.
    Samoa is a beautiful island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is made up of two main islands, Upolu and Savai’i, and several smaller islands. Samoa is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls.

    samoan traditional dance

    As a tourist, there are many things to see and do in Samoa. Here are some of the top activities and attractions:

    Beaches: Samoa is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From Lalomanu Beach to Aganoa Beach, there are plenty of stunning spots to soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

    Waterfalls: Samoa is also known for its incredible waterfalls. Some of the most popular include Togitogiga Falls and Fuipisia Falls.

    Cultural Activities: Samoa is a rich and vibrant culture. Visitors can experience traditional dance performances, attend a Fiafia Night, or visit a village to learn more about Samoan customs and traditions.

    Tuvalu

    Tuvalu has made visa-free access or visa-on-arrival access for almost every country globally, including Pakistan. These visas are valid for 30 days and will cost travellers approximately 100 AUD.
    Enjoy the Beaches: Tuvalu is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world. Visitors can soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the stunning views.

    Snorkeling and Diving: Tuvalu’s coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, making it a great destination for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the reefs and see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks.

    Visit Funafuti Atoll: This is the capital of Tuvalu and offers visitors a chance to see the local way of life. Visitors can explore the town and visit the local shops, enjoy the markets, and learn about the history and culture of Tuvalu.

    Attend a Cultural Event: Tuvalu has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can experience traditional dance performances, attend a Falekaupule Meeting, or participate in a local celebration or festival.

    It is important to note that visa policies for each country can change quickly and without notice, so it is recommended that travelers check with their local embassy before departing. Additionally, visa on arrival may not be available for all types of travel such as business or education purposes, so travelers should also verify the purpose of their travel is eligible for visa on arrival.

    In conclusion, while the list of countries offering Pakistan visa on arrival is relatively small, it does provide some relief for those who may have difficulty obtaining a traditional visa. As always, travelers should research their destination before embarking on any trip to ensure all necessary documents are secured to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

  • Miami girl shifts to Hunza, says its more comfortable than ‘toxic’ America

    Samantha Shea, a Miami native, has penned a loving essay about her adopted home Hunza, saying that her quality of life here is infinitely better.

    “I save thousands each month compared with living in a US city, and my quality of life is infinitely better,” Shea wrote for Business Insider.

    Stating that she finds American hustling culture “toxic”, Shea said that the people in Hunza are generally polite and respectful.

    “I breathe clean air and eat organic, home-cooked food for every meal,” she writes.

    Shea writes that people from back home think Pakistan is a desert, and she herself didn’t know much about it before travelling to the country after college.

    When she first came to Pakistan in 2019, she had never lived outside of the US.

    “In Hunza, electricity comes on for only a few hours a day, you walk to the local market if you need anything – Amazon doesn’t deliver to the mountainous valley region – and running hot water isn’t guaranteed,” she says.

    However she writes that the valley is now her home:
    “Here, I don’t lock up my bike or my front door, I can walk everywhere, and my recent major home renovation cost me only $3,000.”

    And though she travelled to Pakistan from India, she says she found it easier to travel here.

    “I found it easier and more fun to travel here than in India, a much more ‘mainstream’ backpacking destination. I encountered fewer scammers traveling in Pakistan. I also found Pakistan had less trash on the streets, and the roads were in better condition.”

    Samantha, who is now a travel blogger, says she has learnt Urdu and is now learning Burushaski, one of the two major languages spoken in Hunza.

  • Affordable bus service between Islamabad and China to start soon

    Affordable bus service between Islamabad and China to start soon

    A bus company in Pakistan has announced its decision to launch a private bus service between Islamabad and Tashkurgan, a city in China, following Eid-ul-Fitr.

    According to a spokesperson for the company who spoke to Gwadar Pro, the service will commence on 13th May 2023, with the first phase involving the deployment of a mini-Utong bus capable of accommodating 28 passengers.

    The journey, including the immigration process, is expected to take approximately 38 hours, with passengers staying overnight at the Sost border. The fare for the journey is estimated at Rs60,000.

    To travel, individuals must have an original passport and copy, a valid original visa with its copy, and an invitation to China (visa category).

    The service is available to all, including tourists and those travelling for business and official purposes. Given the service’s popularity, the company plans to expand it to cater to the needs of the people of both countries.