Travelling these days has become really simple and effortless. You can search for all the information online, book tickets and choose hotels in no time. The connectivity and widespread network have made the entire process smooth.
Earlier, people used to get the help of travel agents for any foreign trip they planned. These days, people prefer to make the itinerary and organise everything by themselves.
In simple words, we can say that communication and technology have simplified our lives. In this blog on, we will compare travel now and then and discuss why travelling these days is much easier than travelling in the past.
Overseas Travel: Then and Now
Key Factors | Travelling Then | Travelling Now |
Transportation Options | Limited options and longer travel times. | Multiple options via air, road, rail and maritime. Also the travel times have reduced significantly. |
Planning and Booking | Travel planning used to be relied upon travel agents and guides. Travellers had to follow the plans and tour itineraries designed by their travel agents. | Travel planning and booking is much easier due to digitalisation. You can explore multiple options, plan your trip as per your preferences and make online bookings to save time. |
Cost and Payments | Travelling overseas was often seen as a luxury. Also, payments used to be made in cash which was inconvenient and risky. | With an availability of endless transportation and accommodation options, travellers can find cost-effective options based on their budget. Moreover, digital payment options allow travellers to explore the world cashlessly. |
Global Exposure | Limited travel experiences due to lack of knowledge and global exposure. | Increased global exposure and cultural familiarity has enabled travellers to gain unique experiences and explore even the unexplored areas. |
Safety and Security | Limited security protocols. | Stringent safety procedures and availability of financial security instruments like travel insurance. |
Visa and Immigration Process | Visa processing was challenging and time consuming in the absence of technology. | Securing a foreign visa today has become easier and straightforward due to availability of internet and online processing. |
6 Reasons Why Travelling Now is Much Easier than Before
1. Advancement of Transportation
Air Travel
There was a time when it was quite inaccessible to reach different locations around the globe. There were a few flights and the duration was longer. However, the advancement in technology and innovation in the travel sector have resulted in better and well-connected flights. This enables you to explore the unexplored with much ease. There are several flights frequently that let you fly to any corner of the world.
Road Infrastructure
Not just air travel, travelling via road has also become easier and more comfortable due to the availability of well-connected roads and advanced road infrastructure. This enhancement in road connectivity allows travellers to explore even the remotest of locations instead of merely popular tourist spots.
2. Digitalisation Across Globe
Internet and Millions of Options
The Internet has to be the best thing that has ever happened. It has made the world a global village. You can be sitting in India exploring travel trends, the several delicacies and destinations all across the world.
You can understand the climate, the food, the geographical details, and other essential things, through the Internet. You can plan your entire trip relaxing on your couch and running your fingers over the phone.
Digital Booking System
Booking flights and accommodation earlier was no less than a challenge. Travellers had to make on-spot bookings, which was highly inconvenient and time-consuming. With the digital booking system, this scenario has transformed completely.
From flight tickets and hotel reservations to other tourist activities, you can book your seats in advance from the comfort of your home. It allows you to compare plans, prices, and options to choose from according to your budget.
Paperless Transactions
Earlier, travellers had to carry numerous documents which was quite risky and inconvenient. However, things now are different.
The introduction of paperless transactions allows you to save everything on your smartphone so that you don't have to worry about carrying the same wherever you are going.
From your identity cards to other travel documents such as driving licence, travel insurance, etc, you can store everything in a digital format. In short, you can have peace of mind and travel worry-free, knowing that your official documents are safe and secure.
3. Rapid Globalisation
Streamlined Visa Processing
Obtaining a visa was considered as the most difficult task for travelling overseas. Lack of awareness, online services and slow visa processing, travellers had to face a lot of difficulties. Most of them used to rely on third-party agents and tour organisers, which was very costly.
Today, most countries offer online visa services allowing travellers to apply for a suitable visa by themselves. Moreover, the availability of authorised visa application centres like VFS Global has eliminated the need to rely on unreliable travel agents.
More Travel Options
A few decades back, people used to visit only popular destinations such as the USA, UK, Canada, France, etc., due to a lack of cultural familiarity and global exposure.
Thanks to globalisation and the internet, travel enthusiasts are now travelling across the continents to explore various lesser-known but surreal destinations. Further, cultural familiarity allows modern travellers to gain unique and comfortable travel experiences.
Familiarisation with Global Brands
The availability of global brands has also made travelling easier and more pleasant than before. From hotels and restaurants to other services and products, you can find outlets of brands you are familiar with all across the globe.
These include brands like Airbnb, Marriott, McDonalds, Starbucks, etc. So, when you travel abroad, you know where exactly to go for a familiar experience.
4. Enhanced Travel Safety and Security
Travel Insurance
While the concept of travel insurance is not new, people have started realising its importance not so far back. It is an indispensable travel requirement that allows you to travel without worrying about any unplanned expenses.
By offering necessary financial coverage, travel insurance enables you to travel worry-free. In fact, some countries have made it mandatory for foreign travellers to ensure their safety away from home.
Also Read:
Steps to Buy Travel Insurance
Stringent Safety Protocols
Unlike travelling before, you don't have to worry about your safety and security. From flights and accommodations to immigration checks, everything is completely secure.
Not just that, strong diplomatic relations, global reputation and global security measures allow tourists to have a safe and memorable experience abroad.
Travelling Now Vs Then: Conclusion
From the points we have discussed in the blog, it can be concluded that travelling now has become much easier, comfortable and budget-friendly than a couple of decades back.
Travelling absolutely enriches, and broadens your outlook. Then why not take full advantage of the means and technology to take the best international trips of our lives. Also, don't forget to cover your international trip with a travel insurance policy.
Reliance Travel Insurance for Hassle-free Overseas Journey
Planning an overseas journey is one of the most exciting things to do. But no matter how well you plan, there is always a possibility of unforeseen risks such as medical emergencies, loss of personal belongings, emergency evacuation and whatnot. This is why it becomes crucial to stay prepared by investing in travel insurance.
Reliance
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Whether it is cashless hospitalisation or financial emergency assistance, you get customised and comprehensive travel coverage. From hospitalisation, injury and accidents to loss of passport, flight cancellations and trip cancellations/delays, our travel insurance plans cover a range of risks that can potentially ruin your overseas journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is travelling abroad more expensive than before?
Although the cost of travelling may have increased over the years, it has become more affordable. Today, with the availability of budget-friendly options, individuals can travel anywhere within their budget.
Which countries do Indians go to the most?
Indonesia, Thailand, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and others are some of the most visited countries by Indians.
Which is the safest country for Indians?
The United Kingdom, Australia, Norway, Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany, etc., are some of the safest countries to visit from India.
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