Travel Firms Urge Indians to Not Visit Turkey and Azerbaijan Over Supporting Pakistan
The ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan has taken a drastic turn, with several travel firms in India urging Indians not to visit Turkey and Azerbaijan. The reason behind this decision is that both countries have supported Pakistan in the conflict, leading to a backlash from Indian travelers.
Travel firms like Pickyourtrail, EaseMyTrip, WanderOn, and Cox & Kings have taken the step to suspend bookings for Turkey and Azerbaijan, citing the current situation as the reason. In an interview, WanderOn revealed that they have closed the bookings for these two places and are not making any new bookings. This decision is a significant blow to the tourism industries of both countries, which were previously popular among Indian travelers.
Cox & Kings, a well-established travel firm, has also cancelled its tour packages to Turkey and Azerbaijan. The company has stated that they are monitoring the situation closely and will re-evaluate their decision once the conflict resolves.
Go Homestays, a homestay aggregator, has taken a more drastic step by cancelling its partnership with Turkish Airlines. The company has stated that they are working with other airlines to provide alternative travel options to their customers.
The decision by these travel firms is not surprising, given the current tensions between India and Pakistan. The conflict has led to a significant increase in anti-Pakistan sentiments in India, with many Indians calling for a boycott of Pakistani goods and services.
The Indian government has also been vocal about its opposition to Pakistan’s stance on the conflict. In a recent press conference, the Indian foreign ministry spokesperson stated that Pakistan’s actions have “compromised the peace and security of the region.”
The impact of this decision on the tourism industry of Turkey and Azerbaijan is likely to be significant. Both countries have been popular among Indian travelers in recent years, with their rich history, culture, and natural beauty being major draws.
Turkey, in particular, has been a favorite among Indian travelers, with many visiting the country to explore its ancient cities, such as Istanbul and Ephesus. The country’s stunning beaches and natural wonders, such as Pamukkale and Cappadocia, are also popular among tourists.
Azerbaijan, on the other hand, has been gaining popularity among Indian travelers in recent years, thanks to its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The country’s capital, Baku, is a popular destination among tourists, with its ancient walled city and bustling streets.
The decision by travel firms to suspend bookings for Turkey and Azerbaijan is likely to have a significant impact on the tourism industry of both countries. The countries will need to find ways to address the concerns of Indian travelers and restore confidence in their tourism industries.
In the meantime, Indian travelers are being advised to avoid traveling to Turkey and Azerbaijan until the situation improves. The Indian government has also issued an advisory, urging citizens to exercise caution while traveling to these countries.
The conflict between India and Pakistan is a complex issue, with both sides having their own claims and counter-claims. While the situation is unlikely to resolve soon, it is essential for both countries to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
In the meantime, travel firms in India will need to continue to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of their customers. The decision to suspend bookings for Turkey and Azerbaijan is a significant step in the right direction, and it is essential for the industry to come together to support the decision.
