BY ArnabFeb 22, 2023

You might be familiar with the term universal pass. It was quite popular during the covid-19 pandemic. People, especially the front workers of society, were allowed to have these passes, which helped them travel without restrictions during the covid lockdown. It is necessary to follow the covid 19 lockdown rules and regulations. However, living takes work, and work takes us outside our safe zone. That is why introducing the Universal Travel pass was a great decision. So, what is this travel pass, and how does it work? This article should give you a clean and complete overview of the same. What Is A Universal Travel Pass? The name of the passUniversal Travel passTypeQR code based.Levels of travel category5 different levels.Launched byMaharashtra governmentAdopted byCentral governmentApplicable inAcross IndiaPurposePublic transport free of covid restriction.EligibilityCitizens aged above 18 who have taken both doses of the vaccine and completed 14 days after their second dose.When to applyAfter 14 days of taking the second dose.Online applicationAvailable. Universal travel passes are electronic passes with a QR code. Fully vaccinated citizens of India are issued with QR Code-based universal passes that allow them restrictionless travel through different mediums of transport. The universal pass started with the Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority. They started it in association with the Indian Railways. Two of these authorities ensured that people who are fully vaccinated and have the universal pass with them are eligible to travel through metros, local trains, and monorails in Mumbai. The Maharashtra government issued the pass in five degrees; people working at the forefront of society, like healthcare workers, utility, education workers, and other essential services, were prioritized to have the pass. Gradually, this travel pass became available to people from other cities in India. One only needs to get their vaccination done to be eligible for the universal travel pass. Why Was The Universal Pass Introduced? Following are the objectives for introducing the universal travel pass – People with this QR-based pass can travel safely across India during the covid pandemic. The travel pass was introduced to ensure that the education and healthcare system runs smoothly despite the obstacles caused by the covid pandemic. People had safer modes of transportation thanks to the e-pass or Qr code-based travel pass. There is no need for people with a travel pass to go through a physical examination to check whether they are fully vaccinated or not. The pass is proof of their vaccination. During the covid-19 restrictions, there were many incidents of people traveling with a fake ID. The universal travel pass put a stop to this practice. People with a travel pass can travel using any mode of transportation, be it a rickshaw or a train. The universal travel pass reduces the need for RT-PCR tests during any interstate travel. Who Are Eligible For A Universal Travel Pass? The adult people of India are eligible to have a travel pass. However, they need to fulfill two simple criteria to be eligible for the universal travel pass. Citizens need to have both doses of their covid vaccination done. Also, they need to spend a period of 14 days after the vaccination before they can apply for the universal pass. There is no need for children to apply for a travel pass. How To Apply For Universal Travel Pass? Here are the necessary steps for applying for a universal travel pass – First, navigate to epassmsdma.mahait.com. There, you will see the Citizen category. Under this category, you should click on Universal Pass for Double Vaccinated Citizens. Vaccinated individuals have to enter the mobile number they have used during their CoWin registration. An OTP will be provided to you. Now, you have to enter the OTP. The previous procedure will show the applicant’s Covid-19 vaccination details. The details of their beneficiaries will also be there. Now, the applicant's details will be visible along with a slot to upload their photos. Now, they must upload their photos (below 3 MB) and checkmark the declaration. Once they click on Apply, the photo will be uploaded. Then, the applicant will get a link to download their Universal Pass through SMS. Applicants now download and print their universal travel pass. One can use both computer and mobile devices to generate, download and print their universal passes. Once you go through these steps, universal travel pass downloading will be easier. Data Displayed On The Universal Travel Pass Here are the data displayed on the Universal travel pass - Name of the Travel Pass-holder. UTP holder’s gender. Age of the UTP holder. Picture of the applicant. Level of their travel category. The IDs of the applicant’s beneficiaries. QR code Date of both dozes of the covid vaccination. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): I hope you have found the information you were looking for regarding the universal travel pass Maharashtra. Here are some extra queries and answers in case you need them – 1. Can I Travel Using Universal Pass? Ans: The universal travel pass allows users to travel without any restrictions. The Indian railway and central government have issued this pass allowing citizens to travel across the country without any restriction. However, pass holders need to complete both the dozes of covid vaccines. 2. What Is The Process Of Universal Travel Pass? Ans: People with a universal travel pass can travel across the country without restriction. They need to have a printout of the travel pass while booking train tickets or using any other public transportation. Only fully vaccinated individuals are eligible for the pass. 3. Is Maharashtra Universal Pass Valid? Ans: You can use the universal travel pass all over the country, and the Maharashtra UTP is a valid government-issued document. This certificate is valid across all the states in India. The Central government has adopted the pass that the Maharashtra government initiated. 4. How Many Degrees Of UTP Are There? Ans: There are five degrees of UTP issued by the government of India. These degrees are issued according to the level of covid restriction applied to certain states. Bottom Line People having the universal travel pass can travel across different states based on the degree of their pass and the levels of restrictions applied to different states. If citizens need to go out during the covid lockdown, they should have the UTP with them along with other necessary documents. I hope that this article was helpful. If you have any questions about the same, you can approach us for clarification. Please comment below to engage with us. We cherish and encourage your support. Read Also: Top 3 Party Destinations For Safety-Conscious Tourists How To Apply For A Passport Online In This Pandemic? Canadians Can Forget Their Winter Vacations Despite COVID-19 Travel Insurance

BY Ariana SmithSep 22, 2021

Despite being a tiny city-island state, There are many popular tourist places in Singapore. This is not just because of deliberate action by the Singaporean government to attract tourists but also due to the rich and vibrant cultural and historical experience the country provides. But the sheer variety of places to visit often tends to confuse some travelers who are pressed for time. They would prefer a list of the best places to visit, which will help them organize their trip and make the most of their time. Although making such a list is difficult in a country that offers myriad options, here are 10 of the top places to explore Singapore. Keep in mind that many of these attractions have an admission fee, and it would be a good idea to carry a travel card with you for a secure, hassle-free experience. Top 10 Singapore Tourist Attractions Tourist places in Singapore are pretty famous among all-age travelers. The Singapore tourist destinations are not only famous for their cultural diversity. The law and the social structure are also other noticeable things. Here is the list of Singapore sightseeing top 10 Singapore tourist attractions. 1. Resorts World Sentosa Perhaps the best place to visit in Singapore is not on the main island itself but on one of the adjacent resort islands, known as Sentosa, off its southern coast. Resorts World Sentosa is a destination resort spread across almost 50 hectares of land with several unique attractions in it. Among all Singapore’s special places, this place belongs to our top priority list. Some of these include the Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Dolphin Island, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and a wide range of restaurants. In fact, if you are a food explorer, this is an ideal place for you because it has more Michelin star outlets than any other single destination. Other attractions at Resorts World Sentosa include a casino, spas, and frequent concerts and shows. 2. Marina Bay Marina Bay is considered one of the most happening tourist places in Singapore in the whole country. In fact, some even call it the epicenter of tourism in the country. At the heart of this is the Marina Bay Sands, a resort that has almost everything to satisfy your senses. Whether it is nightclubs, casinos, spectacular shopping centers, performances, or even luxurious accommodation, Marina Bay Sands has them all. But the attractions of this spot don’t stop there. Offering a wide range of exhibitions, there is the ArtScience Museum in a lotus-shaped building. You will also be able to find The Float at Marina, which is the biggest floating stadium in the world, and the Merlion Park, which has the iconic statue that has a lion’s head and the body of a fish. 3. Gardens By The Bay One of the best things about tourist places in Singapore is that it has something for everyone. For instance, if nature is your thing, but you are not looking for an exhausting trek through the wilderness, head to Gardens by the Bay. This urban jungle is located at Marina Bay itself but requires a special mention for the one-of-a-kind experience it offers. Top attractions within this nature park include a Cloud Forest and a Flower Dome. The former is home to the tallest indoor waterfall in the world on a mini-mountain. Things get more scientific in the Flower Dome, which is a greenhouse with plants categorized by their native countries. Apart from these, don’t miss The Supertree Grove, a cluster of tall structures supporting a skyway. 4. Singapore Flyer If you have seen the London Eye in the UK or the High Roller in Las Vegas, US, and wanted to try a Ferris wheel in Asia, tourist places in Singapore are the best place to do it. This 42-story-tall observation wheel will give you a panoramic view of not just Singapore but places as far as Malaysia and Indonesia. There are different options to choose from when taking a trip on the Flyer. These range from a Singapore Flight that costs about S$33 per person to a more luxurious Premium Champagne Flight that would set you back by S$79. Use your travel card and enjoy a breathtaking experience. 5. China Town Fancy an experience of Chinese culture in Singapore? The country is home to a significantly large migrant Chinese population and this has played a major role in its development. Located in the Central Area of the country, Chinatown, with its characteristic stores and food stalls, is an ethnic enclave where you can get a taste of authentic Chinese culture. Different parts of Chinatown are known for different attractions and makes this place a unique tourist place in Singapore. Pagoda Street, for instance, is the place to go if you are looking to pick up some souvenir trinkets. The district of Tanjong Pagar has several pubs, bars, and quintessentially Asian karaoke stores. 6. Singapore Zoo If you are an animal lover and wish to see wildlife in their natural habitat without worrying about your safety, the Singapore Zoo would be a great place to visit. Located within an artificial rainforest, this zoo has over 2,800 animals housed across a staggering 26-hectare compound. One of the most attractive features of this place is the chance to experience wildlife as they would in their native regions, such as the African savannah grasslands. Among all the tourist places in Singapore, this place is like a smooth touch of nature. There are other enticing activities to engage in as well. For instance, you can have breakfast with orangutans for company. How much closer to nature can you get? 7. Little India Besides the Chinese, Singapore has a thriving Indian community as well. And if you want to get a taste of India without actually going over to the subcontinent, Little India is worth checking out.  From aromatic spices to bright, colorful clothes and scrumptious food, this place will feed your appetite for an authentic Indian experience. If you visit during any of the Indian festivals like Deepavali, you would even be able to get a glimpse of how the celebrations go. Little India is also a popular shopping and tourist place in Singapore. Its Mustafa Centre is open around the clock, and Tekka Centre is popular for sarees and gold. For seeing the diversity of the culture, these are the unique tourist places in Singapore. 8. Orchard Road If you are looking for an incredible shopping experience, head to Singapore’s commercial avenue, Orchard Road. The place got its name from orchards that existed in the area during the 19th century, but it has come a long way since then. Orchard Road is now a vibrant stretch of malls and food outlets. When venturing out to shop till you drop, a good idea would be to use your travel credit card to ensure safe and secure transactions. These places are the famous tourist places in Singapore among shopaholic travelers. 9. Asian Civilisations Museum Little India and Chinatown are guaranteed to get you a taste of Singapore’s migrant culture, but if you want to have a more comprehensive experience, head to the Asian Civilisations Museum.  With over 1,300 artifacts that include religious scriptures, relics, and ceramics from across the continent, this museum is a great place to learn and understand the different Asian cultures. Apart from the permanent exhibition, the Asian Civilisations Museum frequently hosts various events that throw light on different cultural aspects.  10. Singapore Botanic Gardens Spread across 60 acres of land, the Singapore Botanic Gardens was the first site to get the UNESCO World Heritage title in the country. Whether you are just interested in being close to nature or are an avid scholar of botany, this place has enough attractions to keep you engaged for hours. Start with its famous library if you are interested in checking out some academic resources on the subject. There is an orchid garden if flowering plants in a multitude of colors excite you.  The whole place is great for activities such as picnicking or even a casual jog, although the weather can get rather hot during the day. Among all Singapore tourist attractions, these natural tourist places in Singapore are a little bit different experience. Frequently Asked Questions What are the most popular things to do in Singapore with children? The popular things to do with children in singapore, 1. Singapore Mass Rapid Transit 2.National Orchid Graden 3.Grdens by the bay 4. Singapore Botanic Gardens 5. Cloud Forest Is Gardens by thr bay free? It is free to visit Gardens by the Bay and you can watch the light show. You can also access the Cloud Forest, Flower Dome and OCBC Skyway by buying tickets. When you buy it in person, you get access on both conservatories at Gardens by the bay is for an adult you will have to pay $28 SGD, and for a child $15 SGD. How much does it cost to go on the Singapore Flyer? Tickets for a flight to Singapore Flyer cost $33 for visitors aged 13 or above, $21 for children aged 3 to 12, and $24 for residents or citizens of Singapore aged 60 or above. Children under the age of 3 has a free entry. Where can i go in singapore for free? 1.Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay. 2.Merlion Park. 3.Singapore Botanic Gardens. 4.Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. 5.Sri Mariamman Temple. 6.Sentosa. 7.MacRitchie Reservoir. 8.Jurong Lake Gardens. How long is Singapore flyer ride? For you tyo reach Singapore flyer ride, it will take you more or less 30 mintues. All Set to Go? Don’t Forget These In the excitement of deciding what to see and do & visit Singapore, do not forget to take some basic precautions to avoid any difficulties during your trip to tourist places in Singapore.  The most important among them is to buy travel insurance that would cover things like medical expenses and loss of personal possessions when you are at your destination. Check with popular insurance companies to know what they offer and purchase a plan that suits you. If you are planning to use your credit card abroad, remember to inform your card-related issuer of the same to avoid transactions being blocked on fraud-related concerns.  As mentioned before, a safe option is to carry a travel credit card that would be accepted anywhere you go. Claire Huang  Is Financial Advisor & Travel geek and has also interest in entrepreneurship & Digital marketing world. He is also working as a freelancer in Sales Team: www.bankbazaar.sg Read More: Make Your Honeymoon a Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How Glow your New Year at these Bangalore Events What Can You Expect From the New Year’s in Mexico 15 Unexplored Destinations in India Worth Visiting

BY Nabamita SinhaSep 16, 2022

Sikkim is a small kingdom state tucked wavy into the lap of the Himalayas. It is known for its culture, heritage, and, of course, beautiful scenic beauty. Here in this beautiful city, you can experience a peaceful atmosphere among the mountains and the greenery. But do you know when the best time to visit Sikkim is? If not, then continue to scroll down this article. Welcome To Sikkim! Sikkim is among those places in India that you need to visit once to gaze upon the beautiful Kangchenjunga, the highest mountain peak in India and the third highest in the World. Here you will see the beautiful harmony between modern and traditional cultures and heritage. Tourists visit this beautiful state in India practically all year round. But like any other tourist destination, there is the best time to visit Sikkim as well. You can visit Sikkim with both your friends and always with your family. There is a lot to do for everyone here in Sikkim. Best Time To Visit Sikkim Whether you are visiting Sikkim for a solo or a big fat family vacation, or a getaway with your friends, these are the months you look for to travel. March - June ☀️July - October ☔November - February ❄️ 5c - 25c4c - 17c-5c - 7c Sikkim has a lot of beautiful places to visit with different scenic beauties. So the terrains and beauty you will witness in the North of Sikkim will be very different in South Sikkim. March - June March to June is considered the best time to visit Sikkim. The weather is pleasant, and you won’t have any problem traveling to different places. There won’t be any roadblocks like during winter or monsoon.  During this time, you can easily enjoy the beautiful flowers that will fully bloom during these months. And as for gazing upon the beautiful mountain peaks, you can easily see the Kanchenjunga due to the lack of rain or snow clouds. However, due to pleasant weather, the mountain peaks are visible. July - October From July to October, it is considered the monsoon season. The first few showers of rain nourish the mountains and the hills. It rejuvenates the beautiful green landscape. But it is advised that you not visit any hilly region during the monsoon months, as the danger of roadblocks and even landslides are dangerous for tourists. However, you can plan to stay here but try to avoid Northern Sikkim. November - February November to February are the winter months and the best time to visit Sikkim to see snow. The whole landscape is covered in a thick layer of beautiful fluffy snow, which looks like something out of a painting. If you are capable of handling the snow, then surely you should visit Sikkim during these months to experience it fully. If you are lucky enough, you can even witness snowfall here. So for Christmas, have a white winter wonderland here in Sikkim. Different Climates In Sikkim Like any other tourist destination, you can divide each season into months, and on the basis of that, you can plan your trip.  ☀️Summer In Sikkim The summertime in Sikkim is an enjoyable time for tourists to visit the hill station. Therefore, if you are looking for Sikkim best time to visit, then I will advise you during the summertime. But even though it is the summertime, don’t forget to bring woolen clothes, as the temperature might drop at any time. It is easier for sightseeing in such pleasant and clear weather. So it is the best time to visit Gangtok Sikkim, the Yumthang valley, and Rumtek Monastery. ☔Monsoon In Sikkim During the monsoon months, Sikkim usually gets heavy showers each year, and this causes roadblocks and landslides each year. Although the weather during these months is chilly, you can enjoy it a lot.  One of the best advantages of the months is that you can get many discounts on travel and hotels since it is off-season. So you can take advantage of that. ❄️Winter In Sikkim The snowy months are the best time to visit Sikkim Gangtok. The valley and the mountains are covered in beautiful layers of white snow; it is just like heaven. The temperature falls to -5 degree celsius, so don’t forget to bring enough warm clothes and gear along with you. Even though the weather is quite chilly, it is bearable, and you won’t feel any discomfort due to the cold. There are a lot of snow sports you can enjoy at this time, like snowboarding and skiing. So I would recommend to you the best time to visit Sikkim is during the winter months. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Now that you know which is the best time to visit Sikkim, if you have any more questions, then here are some of the questions asked by others. 1. How Many Days Are Sufficient For Sikkim Trip? Ans: Sikkim is considered to be one of the most beautiful and heavenly places in India. So as to explore the place in its entirety, then you would require about 12-15 days to the max. But if you want to skip a few places, then you can say there for about 8 to 10 days as well. 2. Where Is Snowfall In Sikkim? Ans: To experience snowfall and snow, you have to travel towards Northern Sikkim. Places such as Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, and Gurudongmar Lake are a few of the areas in Northern Sikkim that experience snow and snowfall during the winter months. 3. Which Is The Coldest Place In Sikkim? Ans: The coldest place in the whole of Sikkim is a part of the Northern Sikkim called Zero Point. It is best for its snow-covered valleys and landscape. If you want to enjoy beautiful snow, then this is the place for you. Visit Now! Now that you know what the best time to visit Sikkim is, you can easily plan your next trip to Sikkim. Don’t forget to pack enough warm clothes and necessary gear to beat the chilly weather.  If you find this article helpful, then write down in the comment section which is your favorite hill station in India or in the World. Read Also: Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh – Himachal Pradesh Guide Which Is The Best Time To Visit Spiti Valley? – Travel Guide Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide