Wanderlust or woes? The allure and challenges of foreign travel

Travelling is one of the most interesting experiences/hobbies one can have, especially when it comes to foreign trips. Travelling abroad has been a dream of many which has only been fueled by the desire to explore new places, understand different cultures and relax in new environments. International travels have the ability to transform people that shape lives in ways domestic travel often cannot.
With the advent of social media, international tourism has become the ‘Thing’ to flaunt in recent years. It has been made possible by lower travel costs, the rise of budget airlines, and the allure of Instagram-worthy destinations. But, let’s admit that the excitement of foreign trips is a truth that is undeniable.
But the reality of international travel comes with both positive and negative aspects that often get overlooked. So let’s have a look:
The positive aspects of foreign trips

Well let’s talk about the most obvious positive side of foreign travel first. Travelling abroad and exploring new international destinations allow people the opportunity to experience new cultures.
Saima Seth, an employee in a multi national company in Gurugram said, “I have been travelling abroad since the age of 10 with my parents. Though I have seen my country and it of course has made me aware of the places I do not even know exist, the international destinations made me aware of the different cultures and cuisines. But if it comes to preference, I would prefer an international trip over a domestic one”.
It is a fact that every place, every city, every country, and region has its own unique customs, cuisine, language, culture and traditions. Experiencing this firsthand can of course broaden one’s overall view, allowing people more understanding and tolerance in the world of modernisation and globalisation.
It is this wideness and diversity that makes foreign travel look so attractive and the idea that one can step into a completely different way of life, even if just for some days or weeks. In addition, foreign travels offer a quick escape from the pressures of monotonous day-to-day life, which includes household chores, raising kids and going to the office, on a daily basis.
For those looking for relaxation, international destinations often offer beautiful landscapes which help relax the mind. If you plan a trip to international sea destinations, just looking at the exotic beaches, and beautiful properties relaxes the mind. The sun, sand and sea views of Thailand or trekking through the Swiss Alps, the chance to disconnect from the demands of work or social obligations is a major draw.
“Given the airline fare and budget accommodations, there are countries in Asia that can be explored without breaking your bank balance. Therefore, people these days prefer international travel rather than domestic ones”.
Not to forget that foreign travel also allows personal growth by learning a new foreign language, understanding unfamiliar transportation systems of the country, or simply getting the taste of new food and veggies, traveling abroad encourages independence. It allows travellers to come out of their comfort zones and boost self-confidence.
The Negative aspects of foreign travel

Though there are myriad positive aspects of foreign travel, we can’t deny there are several negative sides of this experience as well. Today, foreign travel has become more of a ‘showbazi’ for social media. People are taking hefty bank loans, selling jewellery or doing anything just for the ‘Gram’ (read Instagram).
Talking about some stark negative aspects of foreign travels, Sania Seikh, a travel agent said, “I have been in the travel industry for two decades now. What travel used to be before social media was completely different. Some 15 years back, going on a foreign vacation was a big deal, but today the trend has changed drastically. Today, it has become more of showbazi for the social media accounts. It’s all about making reels rather than living in reality. Which is sad”.
Second and the most significant negative is the environmental impact of air travel. Did you know that airplanes are among the highest contributors to carbon emissions? The growing popularity of international travel is only allowing the carbon footprint of the global tourism industry. And it is a cause for major concern that can’t be ignored.
It is strange but for many, the allure of foreign trips may not match their bank accounts, which ultimately leads to financial stress and burden. The cost of foreign travel can’t be overlooked certainly. While there are several budget airlines and affordable accommodations, one still needs to shell out a significant amount in booking flight and accommodations. It is an expensive activity for sure. And as expenses can pile up quickly while travelling.
Another downside to foreign travels is the risk of travel disruptions. From flight cancellations to natural disasters or political instability, visiting a foreign land is most of the time unpredictable. Remember, the COVID-19? The pandemic showcased to the world how quickly international travel plans can end.
Then comes the health risks and new viruses, including exposure to diseases that are less common in a home country of traveller. While some countries are more developed than others in terms of healthcare infrastructure, others may pose significant challenges in terms of healthcare.
The Impact of Recent US Travel Ban

We are already seeing some significant changes in the U.S. travels. How the newly-elected Trump government has been changing the visa rules and introducing various travel restrictions. These have had a significant impact on international tourism.
Today, obtaining a visa is getting more and more time-consuming and tedious, especially if you are planning a trip to the U.S. or planning to get a Schengen Visa.
“My application for a Schengen visa was rejected recently without a valid reason and I paid a good amount of money”, says Nikhil Arora, an avid traveller and budding photographer from Bengaluru. He said that despite submitting all the required documents and money, his visa was denied and he was not even given a proper explanation.
Let’s agree to the fact that the allure of foreign trips is undeniable but the reality comes with its own set of challenges.