Off the beaten track on ‘Rupee’t highs

Grab your passports! It’s time to stretch that rupee and get travelling this year. If you can find it in you to not thrift on the air ticket, these new finds are best in value, great in experience and offer a bang for the buck. Checks on the travel bucket list, here we come!  

Etosha National Park

Namibia
Why you should go: Dramatic landscapes, scarcely populated and first-class wildlife viewing in safaris. The country’s currency has also depreciated in value for few years now (1 Namibian dollar = Rs 5).
Don’t miss: Desert-wildlife spotting in Etosha National Park, the incredible wilderness hike through Fish River Canyon and sand surfing at the mighty Sossusvlei Dunes. Twyfelfontein contains rock engravings created by ancient Bushmen and is at least 6,000 years old and Cape Cross is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape Fur Seals in the world!
When to go: June to October. Avoid South African and European school-holiday times, especially late December and January.

Rangiroa

Rangiroa
Why you should go: Hello, 1 CFP Franc = Rs 0.61! Aside of Bora Bora or Moorea, destinations of cashed-up honeymooners, try places like Rangiroa in the Tuamoto Islands, which is an almost-uninhabited paradise, or the Marquesas, where it’s as much about adventure as romance.
Don’t miss: Free trips to pearl farms, jewellery made of pearl and bone, vineyards that look on to the beach. If you’re lucky enough to be in the main island of Tahiti at the right time, check out the Billabong Pro surf tournament at Teahupo’o, known as the world’s “heaviest” wave.
When to go: April to October.

Georgia
Why you should go:  This former Soviet state that lies at the cusp of Europe and Asia has a seaside location, surprisingly good culinary forays and a rich, independent culture.  Plus, 1 Georgian Lari = Rs 25.54.
Don’t miss: Beautiful countryside perfect for hikers and cyclists, neo-bistros with innovative food, stellar bottles of vino, its capital Tbilisi with Brooklyn-esque undertones. Skiers and snowboarders, looking to access untouched terrain in Caucasus Mountains? Come say hello.
When to go: May to September.

Lake Atitlan

Guatemala
Why you should go:  This Central American country is home to volcanoes, rainforests and ancient Mayan sites. Also, 1 Guatemalan Quetzal = Rs 9!
Don’t miss: Lake Atitlan surrounded by volcanoes, Quetzaltenango’s local natural sulfur springs called Fuentes Georginas, black sand, volcanic beaches in Montericco.
When to go: November to April.

Trinidad and Tobago
Why you should go: The islands’ unique mix of wild nature and distinct culture make them a refreshing alternative to the typical Caribbean beach vacation. Your itineraries will be a week-long mix of dancing to soca music and tasting that national dish, roti with jungle adventures and beach lazing. And 1 Trinidad and Tobago Dollar = Rs 10.12!
Don’t miss: Their excellent birding with many avian species from nearby South America, colonial Renaissance-style architecture, rainforests and reefs
When to go: January to May when skies are clear.