Hey travel fam!
Happy Tuesday! In today’s Newsletter, we will see high-level economic talks in the Swiss Alps, a surprise shift in Asia’s travel leaderboard, and today is all about planning for the “new normal” of 2026.
1. US Visa Update: New “Security Bonds” for 38 Countries
Starting tomorrow, January 21, the US is implementing a pilot program that may require travelers from 38 specific countries to post a visa bond of up to $15,000.
-
The News: Countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan are on the list. The bond is a refundable deposit aimed at preventing visa overstays.
-
The Impact: If you’re an Indian traveller with family or business partners in these regions, expect some delays and extra paperwork for joint US trips.
Pro-Tip: Do not pay any bond before your official embassy interview; scammers are already active!
2. Davos 2026: The Global Economy at a Crossroads
The World Economic Forum (WEF) kicked off in Davos yesterday. While global leaders debate “The New Growth,” here’s what it means for your wallet:
-
Market Pulse: Indian markets (Sensex & Nifty) saw a slight dip this morning due to foreign fund outflows.
-
Currency Watch: The Rupee remains under pressure, hovering near the ₹90.40 mark against the USD. If you’re heading to the US soon, consider loading your Niyo card in tranches to average out the cost.
3. Travel Spotlight: Sapa is Asia’s Fastest-Rising Star
Forget the usual hotspots, Sapa, Vietnam has just been named the fastest-growing destination in Asia for 2026 by Agoda.
-
Why now? Travellers are ditching overcrowded cities for “authentic immersion.” Sapa is leading the charge, followed by Okayama, Japan and Bandung, Indonesia.
-
The Vibe: Think terraced rice fields, misty mountains, and sustainable homestays. It’s the perfect “slow travel” alternative to the buzzing streets of Hanoi or Tokyo.
4. Global Bites
-
Japan’s Hidden Gems: While Tokyo is packed, regions like Nagano and Shizuoka have entered the Global Top 100 destinations list for the first time this week.
-
China Visa Waiver: Beijing is reportedly considering a 30-day visa-free entry for Canadians. If this goes through, expect a surge in trans-Pacific flight capacity, which usually brings down prices for everyone!
5. Community Spotlight: Solo Female Travel – The Bengaluru Meet-up
Our community is buzzing after the latest “Female Solo Travellers” Meet-up in Bengaluru!
Read here: Bengaluru Meet-up: Female solo Travellers Edition
Pulse Tip of the Day: Heading to the airport? With Davos in full swing, European airspace (especially around Switzerland and France) is under heightened security. Expect minor “flow control” delays on flights to Zurich, Geneva, or Lyon today.
Safe travels and smart spending!