When you’re eager to pack up and travel the world, it’s not always easy finding someone who can tag along with you. With friends and family members being tied down with their busy lives, sometimes your only option is to travel solo or forgo the adventure altogether. And since the 'travel bug' isn’t something that can easily be ignored, it means stepping up to venture out alone. But despite what you may have heard, travelling alone really isn’t all that scary or intimidating. In fact, it can be the very opposite, giving you some serious soul-searching time to enjoy personal freedom, gain self-confidence, and meet some great people along the way.

If you’re contemplating a trip, here are a few of the most common misconceptions about travelling solo to help ease your mind.

It’s Lonely

If you’re worried about being lonely on your trip – don’t be! It’s easy to conjure up a plethora of images that can leave you expecting the worst, like witnessing the beauty of Angkor Wat or Machu Picchu without anyone to share it with. But the reality is, there are so many other people doing just the same as you are. And the travel community is very social, open and welcoming. Whether you’re staying at a hostel or taking a bus across Thailand, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people just about anywhere you go. You can strike up a conversation or even tag along with new friends as you go. It’s all part of the adventure!

You Have to Be Incredibly Brave

The idea of travelling on your own can be terrifying — not knowing what to expect or whether you can handle navigating the globe on your own. But as every solo traveller will tell you — we all go through that natural bout of fear. And being brave really has nothing to do with it. It’s just a matter of doing it. The most challenging step is getting on the plane.  After that, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to manage your way around, especially with the extra benefit of Google Maps and translation apps to help you.

You Have to Be Very Outgoing

Think you have to be a natural social-lite to travel alone? Think again! Aside from the fact that travellers are generally friendly people, travelling on your own is one of the best ways to learn how to step out of your shell and be more outgoing. It can be nerve-wracking at first, but when you’re hunkered down at the local bar or hostel, try to strike up a conversation with people by asking where they’re from. It’s the easiest way to break the ice. Do that a few times, and you’ll laugh about how scared you were of doing it in the first place.  

It’s Dangerous for Women

Whether it’s at home or abroad, as a woman, you’re going to face unwanted attention. But that should never deter you from doing what you love and exploring the world. Staying safe while travelling comes down to having common sense and trusting your intuition.

It’s Boring

When you’re out there travelling on your own, you have the personal liberty to do what you want and whenever you want to. There’s no compromising for other people’s needs or wants. Stay in bed for half the day, eat what you want, check out the landmarks you actually care about. Plus, just think of all the new friends you’re guaranteed to meet along the way.

Don’t get fooled by these most common misconceptions about travelling solo. It could be one of the most enriching and rewarding experiences of your life. When you’re ready to book, head to Nanak Flights for the best prices in airfare and hotel bookings!

If you’ve been dreaming of taking a trip to India, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in this vibrant culture than by taking a trip during Diwali. This “festival of lights” is one of the biggest celebrations of the year, which honours the battle of good versus evil, along with prosperity and family. Celebrate Diwali in India this year and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience the Traditions with an Indian Family

The best way to truly experience the beauty of this time of year is by joining in on the festivities with an Indian family. If you don’t know anyone living in India, you can book with an Indian homestay. This lets you get up close and personal, gaining insight into the traditions, meanings, and cultures of India.

Enjoy the Dazzling Lights

The festival of lights transforms India, illuminating streets, buildings, and marketplaces with lights and lanterns which make it a magical time of year. One of the best places to feast your eyes on the dazzling displays is in the “Pink City” of Jaipur. Here they host a competition each year for the most impressive display, so it’s guaranteed to be stunning!

Witness the Burning of Demon Narakasura

A central part of Diwali involves a monstrous effigy of the demon Narakasura who gets destroyed by Lord Krishna. All across the country, competitions are also held to build the largest demon which then gets lit on fire. It’s a very exciting and fiery event to witness in person.

Go to a Casino

If you’re a fan of gambling, this is a great time to get in on the gambling action in India since Diwali is a popular time for casinos, especially in Goa. You can try your hand at some of the top casinos in the country. Just make sure to book well ahead of time since they book up fast.

Enjoy Fabulous Fireworks Over the Golden Temple

The Golden Temple hosts impressive celebrations during Diwali as well. Take a trip here for the day and then enjoy eye-catching fireworks over the temple while the lake is illuminated in a mesmerizing display with thousands of oil lamps and candles.

If you’re finally ready to take the leap and celebrate Diwali in India this year, find the best deals on cheap flights and hotels with Nanak Flights.

Travelling on your own is one of the best ways to get out of your comfort zone, meet new people, and enjoy some of the best experiences of your life. But before you’re ready to trek off on your own, there are some helpful things to know. Check out our top five tips for travelling solo below.

Learn How to Meet People

The majority of solo travellers are all eager to meet new people, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the other people in your dwelling or while you’re catching the bus across Thailand. You’ll find it much easier to have engaging and thought-provoking conversations since most people are in a similar boat as you are more than willing to have some company too. To meet new people when you’re on your own, find some of the popular, recommended hang out spots where other solo travellers frequent. This usually includes coffee shops, hostel bars, and local tours.

Know Your Limit When it Comes to Drinking

Although we’re all for having a good time, when you’re abroad and on your own without anyone you can depend on, you need to really be able to take care of yourself, especially if you’re a woman. Learn what your tolerance levels are like and try to make sure you can judge when it’s time to taper off so you can find your way home safely. Plus, there is so much more to experience and enjoy beyond the bars. So try to learn how to have a good time without overdoing it, so you don’t waste the majority of your trip feeling hungover.

Be Selective About Where You Stay

If this is your first time travelling abroad solo, then take some time to really research where you’re going to stay during your trip. Choosing a popular, highly rated hostel is always a great start since it’s one of the best ways to meet other people and enjoy the community around you. Plus, they’re usually close to major sites and have organized tours that you can sign up for.

Learn to Enjoy Your Own Company

Travelling on your own teaches you so much about yourself. Navigating your way around, deciding your own itinerary, striking up conversations with others, trying new things and different foods are all part of the magic that makes solo travel one of the best ways to grow and as a person. So when you’re out there, learn to embrace it instead of fearing the idea of being on your own! Spend time lounging in cafes watching the world go by, grab a good book to read, explore some of the cool sites, make new friends, and enjoy spending time getting to know yourself.

Take a Journal with You

It may sound a tad cheesy, but having a travel journal to take along and document some of your most memorable experiences, or even the simple ones, is something you won’t regret when you’re older. Having those little notes to rummage through and look back on will make it so well worth the effort.

Remember these tips for solo travelling when you head abroad so you can learn how to make the most out of your time on your own. And when you’re ready to book, hop onto Nanak Flights for the best prices on airfare that you’ll find!

Waiting in anticipation for an upcoming trip is always exciting! But experiencing any hiccups can quickly throw a wrench in your plans, putting a damper on your entire experience. That’s why it’s always important to spend a little time before you depart to ensure that you have everything organized and in order so you can kick back, relax and enjoy your trip to the max. To help you do just that, we’ve compiled a few quick tips here for how you can make the most of any trip.

Don’t Leave Things To the Last Minute

Sure, sometimes it can feel exhilarating being able to throw things into a suitcase an hour before you need to head to the airport, but that last minute spontaneity can also land you in some stressful scenarios when it comes to travelling. Rushing to pack without sorting through the essentials well ahead of time can be a recipe for disaster if you forget to pack certain items, especially the most important ones like your passport, wallet and other necessities. And yes, this does happen more often than you may think. So give yourself plenty of time to double and triple check that you have those essentials with you and ready to go.

Make A Loose Plan

Anyone who has travelled extensively knows that things often don’t go quite as planned when you’re abroad. But that’s not always a bad thing, and it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t formulate a plan before trekking off. If you’re eager to explore a few European cities or lounge on a few tropical beaches, it’s always helpful to do a little research to figure out how you want to make the most of your time. We always recommend forming a loose plan so that you can make the most out of your trip while also remaining a little flexible for those unpredictable experiences that come along with travelling.

Bring A Travel Buddy

There’s a lot to be said for travelling solo, but having a travel companion who you can share those 'awe' moments with can make your experience that much more enjoyable. Plus, if you’re planning on backpacking around and really exploring local cultures, it’s always handy to have a friend that you can count on and keep you safe.

Plan A Local Tour

Planning a tour is a great way to experience more of the local culture and hotspots of where you’re travelling to. Many of the tours that are organized are hosted by local experts who know the history of the area and all of the hidden gems that you would struggle to find on your own. And when you’re heading somewhere that’s steeped in ancient history like Rome, for example,  it makes your trip that much more memorable as you get to learn about distinguished landmarks like the Coliseum with an expert by your side.

Dig Into The Local Cuisine

Travelling is all about exploring new places and trying new things, especially when it comes to food! So don’t be afraid to dig in and try the local cuisine. Different places around the world offer so many unique flavours, spices and ways of eating that’s it’s hard to even fathom until you try it. Plus, you can learn so much about a culture by exploring their local food.

So before you zip away to your next destination, be sure to make the most of your trip by planning ahead of time and doing a little research to make a loose plan of what you want to see and do while you’re there. And remember, planning a local tour and trying the local cuisine are two of the best ways to really immerse yourself while abroad and discover a whole new way of enjoying life.

New Zealand may be a small island, but it’s filled with breathtaking beauty and an unlimited array of activities that make exploring one big adventure in itself. If you’ve been eager to plan your ultimate Kiwi adventure, but are wondering “where should I go in New Zealand?”, let us help! Whether it’s whales, wineries, glaciers, cascading mountains, or the amazing coastlines that have you most excited, here’s our recommended list of places to include when visiting this beautiful destination.

Auckland

At the top of the North Island is the largest city in New Zealand and the perfect place to start your exploration: Auckland. A thriving multi-cultural hub of culture, cuisine, and music, there is so much to see and do here. With a number of beaches, hiking trails, outstanding food, shopping, and spectacular landscapes, it’s a tourist’s wonderland.  You can even take a short ferry from the city to check out Rangitoto Island’s dormant volcanic cone and then another one to Waiheke Island known as the “Island of wine”. Or you could just stay in the vibrant city and take in the Auckland Museum or check out the 360-degree panoramic views of the city from the Sky Tower. 

Rotorua

Known as the “thermal wonderland” of the country, Rotorua is a must-see location on the North Island. Featuring a number of tourist attractions, it’s one of the most popular destinations in the country. Head here to enjoy mud pools and geysers, but be sure to check out the Wai-o-Tapu hot springs with mesmerizing and stunning colours.

Wellington

If you’re looking for culture, character and charm, then the capital of New Zealand is the place to be. Here you’ll find the world’s best coffee, stunning scenic views and the Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa Tongarewa. And, unlike other cities in the country, Wellington is easily walkable so you can get to all the best attractions on foot. Whatever you end up deciding to do, be sure not to miss the city’s thriving nightlife, amazing coffee culture, and the famous Lord of The Rings tour.

Bay of Islands

This popular holiday destination contains 144 islands with pristine secluded bays and sandy beaches.  Known for its abundant marine life with whales, penguins, and dolphins, this is the perfect spot if you love diving, fishing, or sailing.

Christchurch

The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch, offers travellers lush Canterbury vineyards, piercing the Southern Alps, glacial lakes, and amazing cuisine. Make sure you don’t miss out on visiting the Aoraki/Mount Cook National park to see the tallest mountain in New Zealand and one of the longest glaciers in the world.

Milford Sound

The South Island is one of the most famous attractions in the country. Milford sound within Fiordland National Park offers spectacular natural features like carved glaciers and majestic peaks. The fjords’ cliffs rise over the dark waters to create cascading waterfalls like you’ve ever seen before.  

When you’re asking yourself “where should I visit in New Zealand”, don’t forget to include these amazing spots during your travels! And when you’re ready to book, find the best prices on flights at Nanak Flights. Whether you’re booking your flights a few months in advance or a few days before your travels, we’ll find you the lowest airfare for your trip. 

Do you know what places you should avoid visiting in 2018? While it’s always important to know what areas are on your governments travel advisory list, it’s also wise to avoid any environmentally sensitive areas or places that have set tourist limits for the year.  Here is a glimpse into some of the places you should avoid in 2018.

Taj Mahal

This ivory white mausoleum masterpiece is one of the most popular monuments in the world. Every year it attracts millions of travellers from far and wide. However, this year, the Taj Mahal in New Delhi is scheduled to undergo renovations involving mud-pack therapy to correct the yellowing of its surface. This will start in the springtime of 2018, so if you wanted to see it in all of its glory, we recommend waiting until the work is completed in 2019.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik recently has become a popular tourist destination for its rich ancient history, amazing views, and favourable weather. However, the city has become increasingly oversaturated with tourists, and UNESCO has threated to take away it's World Heritage status if it does not improve the situation. In response, the city has now set a limit at 4,000 tourists a day and will cut the number of cruise ships that will be able to visit the city. So if you can give the city a pass this year, it’s probably best.

Beijing

The Chinese may have declared war on pollution, but concerns of thick smog and dangerous particulate levels in Beijing are still apparent. Due to the very poor quality of air, this city makes the list of places you should avoid in 2018.

Dominican Republic

Recent hurricane damage has left the island of the Dominican Republic with widespread damage and flooding that has led to increased levels of crime. In relation to the concerns, the Government of Canada has recently issued a travel advisory for the island and is advising that people exercise a high degree of caution because of its intensified crime rate.

Myanmar

Myanmar has become a popular destination over the past few years. However, with the recent political unrest in the country, it has become increasingly dangerous to visit. It’s recommended to check your government's travel advisory warnings before booking a trip here in the future.

Honduras

Honduras is considered to be one of the deadliest places on earth with a very high murder rate. It is also home to the world's most violent street-gang, the MS 13. Crime is rampant here, and many of the incidents go undocumented and unsolved. Until things drastically change, Honduras is a definite no-go this year and most likely will remain so into the foreseeable future.

Galapagos Islands

The beautiful Galapagos Islands are an environmentally sensitive destination. They have a very delicate ecosystem that has already been negatively impacted by the high tourism traffic. To ensure that the island’s natural habitats are protected, it is recommended that you give them a pass this year in 2018.

Whether it's about the places you should avoid in 2018 or any other tips and advice you need for your travels, you can always contact us at Nanak Flights. Our professionals keep up-to-date information on the most popular tourist destinations and can provide you with the recommendations you need for a safe and enjoyable trip. Contact one of our agents today!

It’s never too early to start planning your next summer vacation. In fact, most of the popular spots book up well over six months in advance. We always recommended starting in the winter, or well before it could be too late. Here’s how to stop dragging your feet and start planning your summer vacation now.

Check Destination Guides For Advice

The first step is figuring out where you want to go. And with so many options out there, it can be challenging to choose what’s best for you. That’s where a destination guide can come in handy. There are plenty of online resources that are designed to help you learn more about each location and the types of travel options available. At Nanak Flights, we offer over 20 guides to help you narrow down your options to find the perfect destination for you.

Determine Your Budget And Duration

Sure, you might want to fly to Bora Bora, but you may only have 5 days left of company vacation time and a budget that will only stretch for 3 days there. Of course, you can’t officially pick a destination until you know how long you will be travelling for and what you can afford. Determine what your budget and duration of time will be before you start to consider any destination seriously.

Find The Best Deals On Hotels

When it comes to choosing a hotel, if you don’t book early enough, you could end up with limited options and locations that are less than favourable and a mile from the beach. That’s why we recommend booking a hotel as soon as you pick your summer vacation destination.

Find The Most Affordable Flight

When you want to find the best deals on airline tickets worldwide, here at Nanak Flights, we offer the lowest competitive rates. We use an innovative flight search algorithm to check between millions of airfares to find you the most affordable flight options with the least amount of connections.

Pre-Book Your Tours

Don’t forget about booking your tours in advance. If you wait too long, you might miss out on that once in a lifetime adventure you’ve been hoping to mark off your bucket list. At Nanak Flights, we can help you book your tours along with your flights for extra convenience.

Start planning your summer vacation now to beat the rush and avoid disappointment.  At Nanak Flights, we can help you find the perfect destination, the lowest flight price, and the best hotel rates - we can even book your tours. Our search engine scouts across our vast network of travel partners to find you the lowest prices possible. We also offer a price match guarantee as well as a price drop guarantee of up to $100 as future credit! And we use Tripcase so that you can receive automatic messages and alerts to your phone if there are any changes. Contact us today for more info!

As the fourth largest city in India, Chennai is one of our top destinations for both tourists and family members visiting home. If you are not interested or have already seen the huge cities of Mumbai and Delhi, you should consider visiting Chennai for its warm (and humid) climate and for its distinct cultural value. The culture of Chennai is markedly different from other major cities in India, as it is heavily influenced by its Tamil roots. Local clothing, cuisine, music and dance are unique to the area and anyone wishing to sample India's vast and diverse cultures should not overlook this city of over 4 million people.

Formerly (and still commonly) known as Madras, the name of Chennai was chosen as an alternative to the old name rooted in colonial past. It is one of the only cities in the world containing a National Park ( Guindy National Park ) within its borders, with nearly 5% of the city covered in green. Along with other wetlands and reserves, Chennai should hold some appeal to wildlife enthusiasts who may not yet be ready to enter the jungle and see tigers.

When and How to Visit

Summer season in Chennai may be too hot for most, so we advise planning a trip between October and March. Use our online search engine to check a few dates around the time you would like to visit to get an idea of the price range you can expect, and then find the lowest price by either searching yourself or contacting us to get you the lowest fares.

If you would like to land in a different city in India first, rail is your best option to get to Chennai. Regular trains depart from large hubs like Delhi to Chennai.