Hey globetrotters!
Happy Thursday! and welcome back to the Niyo Pulse. Whether youâre eyeing a weekend in Kazakhstan or planning for the World Cup, the travel world is moving fast today. Here is the pulse on whatâs happening in international travel and finance this week.
1. Indiaâs Passport Power: New Heights in 2026
The latest mobility rankings released this morning show a significant win for Indian travelers.
- The News: Indiaâs passport has climbed to its highest position yet in 2026, driven by expanded visa-free access to Malaysia and Kazakhstan.
- The Impact: These corridors are becoming the go-to for âhassle-freeâ international business and quick leisure trips, strengthening Indiaâs ties with Southeast and Central Asia.
2. Aviation Watch: The Worldâs Safest Airlines for 2026
AirlineRatings.com just dropped its annual safety index today, and thereâs a new leader at the top.
- The Winner: Etihad Airways has been crowned the Worldâs Safest Airline for 2026, recognized for its advanced turbulence-reduction tech and young fleet.
- Top Performers: Cathay Pacific (2nd) and Qantas (3rd) remain in the top tier. For budget travelers, HK Express took the top spot for safest low-cost carrier, followed by Jetstar and Scoot.
3. The âFIFA PASSâ: Priority US Visas for 2026
In a massive win for football fans, the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) officially went live today.
- The Deal: If you hold a ticket for the FIFA World Cup 2026, you now get access to prioritized US visa interview appointments.
- Why it matters: With visa wait times still a hurdle, this âfast-trackâ is designed to ensure fans donât miss the kickoff. If youâve got your tickets, check your email for the opt-in instructions!
4. Community Spotlight: 5 Destinations Topping the 2026 Charts
Where are Indians heading this year? Our latest community blog breaks down the top 5 international spots that are dominating travel searches right now:
- Switzerland: The undisputed #1 for âAlpine Dreamsâ and family vacations.
- France: A resurgence in cultural âslow travelâ across Paris and the Riviera.
- Dubai: The king of short-haul luxury and the ultimate family stopover.
- Singapore: The top pick for efficiency and first-time international explorers.
- Thailand: Still the budget favorite, especially with the 2026 âDigital Nomadâ extensions.
Read here: 5 International Destinations Are Topping Indian Travel Charts In 2026
Pulse Tip of the Day: Booking a domestic flight within the US for your 2026 summer trip? Remember that REAL ID enforcement is in full swing. While international travelers can use their passports, ensure your local documentation is up to date if youâre planning any side trips between US states!
Safe travels and smart spending!
