Chill out at these perfect summer getaways

“I wonder what it would be like to live in a world where it was always June.”

Had Canadian author LM Montgomery visited India in June, she might have changed this line in her novel ‘Anne of the Island’, which was published in 1915. Unlike Anne’s dreamy June, India’s summer heat pushes families to seek cooler escapes. As the scorching heat sweeps the country at more than 45ºC and schools close for the summer break, Indian families are scrambling to beat the heat, even if for a few days. Though flights have become expensive now that the peak season is here, still some pocket-friendly getaways with minimal visa hassles are merely a click away.

Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi

Malaysia’s 30-day visa-free policy for Indians makes it a summer star. The proximity to India — it is a four-hour flight from Delhi or Bengaluru to Kuala Lumpur or Langkawi — makes it a pocket-friendly destination. June’s warm weather suits both destinations. Langkawi boasts of beautiful natural beaches like Cenang Beach, Tanjung Rhu Beach, and Pantai Tengah, besides manmade wonders like Sky Bridge and Sky Cab. It is also popular destination for duty-free shopping. In Kuala Lumpur, explore the Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, or the kid-friendly Aquaria KLCC. Budget hotels start at ₹2,500 per night, and meals like nasi lemak cost ₹200. If you have time, you could plan a visit to Genting Highlands too. The country’s cuisine is a blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavours. A round trip can cost ₹30,000-40,000.

Thailand

Thailand’s vibrant culture and budget-friendly vibe make it a no-brainer as a summer escape. Offering a mix of adventure and relaxation, the country has something for everyone — Bangkok’s bustling night life, including world’s largest market of Chatuchak, Chiang Mai’s misty temples to the beautiful beaches of Phuket, Krabi and Phi Phi or the limestone caves of Khao Sok National Park. Round trip from major Indian cities start at ₹25,000, with budget hotels starting at ₹1,200 per night while hostels can cost as low as ₹800 per night. Street food meals like pad thai can cost ₹100. Overnight buses save on transport, and free attractions like Bangkok’s Wat Arun keep your budget intact. The country offers a 60-day visa-free stay for Indians.

Georgia

June’s weather is perfect for a visit to Georgia, which is nestled between Europe and Asia. Its capital city Tbilisi is merely a 4.5-hour flight from Delhi. Explore its popular cobblestone streets or take a trip to the 6th century BC cave city of Uplistsikhe, or the mist-kissed Caucasus Mountains in Kazbegi. The 8m tall moving steel sculpture of Ali and Nino in the seaside city of Batumi tells a tragic love story. A must visit for wine lovers is a trip to the vineyards of Kakheti, which is also known for its diverse landscape and old churches. The hilltop town of Sighnaghi in Kakheti offers panoramic views of the Alazani Valley. Guesthouses and hostels start at ₹2,000 per night, and hearty Georgian meals like khachapuri (cheese bread) cost ₹300-400. An e-visa can take around five days. A round trip will cost ₹45,000-70,000.

Seychelles

A melting pot of many cultures, this Indian Ocean gem in East Africa, is merely 4.5 hours direct flight from Mumbai. For visiting this visa-free archipelago of 115 islands, you need a valid Indian passport, return ticket and proof of accommodation. Turquoise waters and granite boulders create postcard-perfect views whether it is stunning beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and Grand Anse in La Digue, Anse Lazio in Praslin or Port Launay in Mahe. You could visit Victoria, one of the world’s tiniest capitals or get awed by the giant tortoises of Curieuse Island. The island’s warm, breezy weather is ideal for snorkelling, island-hopping, or simply relaxing under palm trees. Budget guesthouses in Mahe or Victoria can start at ₹2,500 per night. Local Creole meals like fish curry can cost around ₹500. A round trip would cost around Rs 40,000-60,000.

Singapore

If you are looking for an urban adventure with easy access, then Singapore is the place for you. The country offers Indians an e-Visa, easily obtained online in 3-5 days. A 4.5-hour flight from Delhi (round trip starts at ₹25,000) lands you in a family-friendly urban wonderland. Be it exploring the futuristic Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island’s beaches, or Universal Studios, the place is a kid magnet. Wander through the UNESCO heritage botanical gardens, book a Night Safari, go shopping on the Orchard Road or go dancing at the nightclubs of Clarke Quay. Visit the Marina Bay Sands’ iconic SkyPark and infinity pool. If you are missing Indian food, you could, perhaps, visit Little India neighbourhood. Budget hotels can start at ₹3,000 per night while the MRT rides (₹100-200) keep the transport affordable.