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Flight Deals

New routes from Sydney to India with Qantas

Many possibilities
CEO of Qantas Alan Joyce has announced a new direct route between Sydney and Bangalore, alongside a planned agreement with IndiGo, India’s largest domestic airline. Travellers will be able to fly more frequently and more efficiently with more direct flights operating from 14th September this year. If you have any trips planned and haven’t made the jump to book your flights, direct flights are a great way to get to your destination quicker.

The Bangalore services will be operating 4 times a week which will complement Qantas’ already existing 5 weekly Melbourne – Delhi direct flights. The agreement with IndiGo will allow travellers access to over 50 Indian cities.

Seoul Flying
Seoul, the capital of South Korea has become increasingly popular amongst tourists amid the easing of travel restrictions. ‘Must-see destination for Australians’ Qantas and JetStar are recognizing the increasing popularity and will be operating more flights later this year. JetStar will be flying 787-8 flights 3 times a week from the 2nd of November 2022 whereas Qantas will commence flying to Seoul from the 10th of December.

Get Planning
This piece of news brings an opportunity to plan your travel this year, with many plans for direct flights to sought-after destinations, you are bound to have a memorable year travelling. Gaura Travel is here for your travel needs when it comes to pre-departure planning, stay in the loop and check our Travel Restrictions and eVisa to find out everything you need before taking off.

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As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Why Gaura

Secure Your Seats

The simple way
Gaura Travel is introducing a new way to secure your flights! You can now pay a 5% deposit of the total booking value and secure your seats. At the time of booking, 5% of the total booking value would be deducted as a deposit. Once the passport details are validated by the Government of India, we will notify you to make the balance payment.

Ticket booking will be done through an online portal. This online portal only accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express credit cards. Don’t stress about having to pay the full amount now, secure your seats now and secure your flight

Get to your loved ones sooner
Borders are open, and individuals can travel safely, it is great to stay in the loop of things when it comes to travel restrictions. Head over to Gaura Travel Flights and book you and your loved ones a flight to wherever your heart desires.Book your flight now. Simply, your best way home. Wherever home is.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

Our flight deals

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Travel Guide

Major changes – pre-departure tests no longer required

The news we’ve been waiting for
As the restrictions are easing around the world, it is imminent t for travel restrictions to ease as well. The Health Minister, Greg Hunt confirmed a plethora of changes on how COVID-19 is handled in Australia commencing from the 17th of April. Previously, travellers would need to show a negative RAT or PCR test before boarding, even if they were up to date with vaccinations.

Restrictions of cruise ships and anti-price gouging penalties for rapid antigen tests will end as Mr. Hunt confirms he will not be renewing the COVID-19 biosecurity orders. “The country is ready to move on from the emergency declaration made two years and one month ago. I will not be renewing the biosecurity emergency determination,” from Mr Hunt during a press conference on the Gold Coast.

This was much-needed news for travellers who are up to date with vaccinations and want to travel with no extra hurdles to worry about.Mask mandates remain during domestic and international flights and travellers will need to provide proof that they have received 2 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Normalizing Australia
It is great to see changes in restrictions for travellers as many individuals are eagerly waiting to reunite with their families. Australia is on track to move on from the pandemic and is heading towards the normalcy we have all been craving for.

It is important to mention that individuals are advised to be mindful of their health and if any symptoms occur, a RAT or PCR test must be done immediately.Though individuals will have to wait longer before being offered the fourth dose of the vaccine, for vulnerable travellers, the story is different. Including those over the age of 65 and individuals who are immunocompromised are encouraged to receive an additional ‘winter dose’ of the COVID-19 jab.

Ready to rumble?
Plan your trip to India with Gaura Travel and enjoy a stress-free journey. Don’t wait any longer to see your loved ones back home. To book your flights visit -insert link- or contact us at -insert number- for any enquiries. Happy travelling!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Travel Guide

India is flattening the curve

Cases are decreasing
Since India’s 3rd COVID-19 wave peak in January 2022, the total weekly cases are on a steady decline. The record low of 10,000 weekly cases has been the first since April 2020. The pandemic is currently at its lowest point in nearly two years since the initial lockdown.

Consistency is key
The consistent decrease in the pandemic’s effects is a crucial indicator that everyone is doing their part to keep each other safe in India. The decrease also means a much safer place for families and loved ones to reunite again. Travelling to India is made easier with lessened restrictions to accommodate people’s urge to return to normalcy.

Travellers are eager to travel to India to reunite with their family and loved ones and have been patiently waiting for borders to open and restrictions to ease. The decrease in total weekly cases and mortalities in India indicates the determination and hard work the whole nation is putting in to achieve balance.

If you’re travelling to India, ensure you’re a step ahead with Gaura Travel’s Travel restrictions feature so you can check off all the pre-travel requirements. The feature allows you to add a few details about your travel and provides you with a list of restrictions as well as the documentation you need prior to your travel.

Be Travel Ready
Borders are open, and individuals can travel safely, it is great to stay in the loop of things when it comes to pre-travel preparations. Head over to Gaura Travel and check Travel Restrictions & eVisa to ensure you’re well prepared for your travel.

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Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Events

A legend has passed.

A final goodbye
The Melbourne Cricket Ground was filled with memories on the 30th of march, honouring former Australia test cricketer Shane Warne. Shane’s contributions to his sport, the state, and the country itself magnify the passion he had for cricket. After Shane Warne’s retirement in 2007, he played for 4 years in the Indian Premier League. Warne served both as a player and mentor for Rajasthan Royals and became the captain of the team when they won the inaugural IPL in 2008, beating Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings in the final.

Shane Warne’s children unveiled their fond memories of their dad and took a trip down memory lane. ‘My dad just wanted to be the best dad he could be’ said Brooke Warne as she continues to describe her beloved dad and his everlasting legacy. All three of Shane Warne’s children spoke at the memorial amongst a sea of onlookers, everyone cherishing their fond memories of Shane Warne.

Remembering the good
Many performances took place, with Ed Sheeran playing Shane’s favourite song as well as Robbie Williams performing Angels in tribute.  Actor Glenn Robbins recalled his experiences playing golf with Shane Warne saying ‘I used to play gold with him as well and it was hard because he had such a full life, and he would tell the best stories’ reminiscing core memories he has with Warne.

Andrea Egan spoke on behalf of the UN wildlife fund and commended Warne’s work which had begun last year, showing his responsibility as an Australian to protect the wildlife ‘when he joined, he expressed his hope of trying to rewrite the future and protecting animals and their habitat’

Shane Warne has impacted many lives throughout his life, from being one of the best cricketers, a father, a friend, a brother, a husband, a son, to a lover of all animals. Warne has left his mark on all of us. The Melbourne Cricket Ground’s atmosphere was quiet and sentimental in memory of Shane Warne.

Ready to rumble?
Plan your trip to India with Gaura Travel and enjoy a stress-free journey. Don’t wait any longer to see your loved ones back home. To book your flights visit -insert link- or contact us at -insert number- for any enquiries. Happy travelling!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Travel Guide

India is overcoming the challenges of COVID-19

We all went through nearly challenging 2 years with ups and downs, loosing our loved ones and without able to see our families over the period, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Fortunately, now we can look at the light of end of the darkest period as the shadow of Covid gradually diminishes from the society.

 Recently India has reported 97 deaths during the past week, which set to record less than 100 deaths from the Covid-19, a first in almost after 2 years of the pandemic. According to this Sunday’s data from Indian states, they have recorded similar result of death toll lastly on 30th March – 5th April 2020, which about 2 years back before the imposition of total lockdown over the nation.

Since, 31st March 2020, the first daily death toll reduced to single numbers on last Sunday, by just reported 8 Covid losses from across India, which just two states are pending to report its data. However, we can see significant change in fatality rate as both weekly and daily death tolls continue to dip down since earlier from this month.

According to the reported figures of active cases over the period, this week (March 21-27) recorded over 11,400 cases, but lowering to the previous week’s tally of 15,820. After April 20-26,2020 (fresh infections of 10,585), this was the least weekly fresh cases count that India has recorded over the time.

Since the peak of 3rd wave of active cases on 23rd January 2022, it’s progressively declining the current active cases within the country as well as in every state and Union territory of India without exclusion. There are around 15,800 active cases still exist of coronavirus in India. But isn’t it a new hope to conquer this pandemic from us?

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Flight Deals

Skies reopen, Indians flock to airlines desks

Many flights, even more memories!
International flights will be resuming after a two-year gap. From Sunday 27th March, over 3,249 weekly flights will be operating from India. As the bubble systems are easing for travel destinations, there is an increase in connecting flights, due to the increase, airfares will decrease to a manageable price for example Gaura Travel currently has an offer from India to Australia from just $899 – to book your flights visit Gaura Travel Flights. IndiGo will have the highest international departures on a standalone basis among all airlines, operating 505 weekly flights.

“Very important day’ said Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia as the airline industry returns to normalcy. An important day not just for the aviation companies but also for the common man. Many individuals have been separated from loved ones due to the inability to travel overseas. The relaxation of restrictions is a piece of welcomed news for everyone as airline companies resume to full capacity from the 27th of March.

Short and sweet
As the restrictions are easing, foreign airlines will be able to offer one-stop layovers for travellers flying from India to the rest of the world. Airlines will be utilizing their air hubs to make travellers’ journeys as short as possible as the ‘air bubble’ arrangements meant a longer overall travel time between destinations.

Shorter travel times indicate lesser travel fares, offering an unmissable opportunity for everyone to travel. Though air ticket prices will not lower to pre-COVID-19 costs, they will remain at a comfortable median.

Hello World! India is back in the game
Multiple airlines have applied for approval of their international schedules for this summer which will be effective from the 27th of March to 29th October. Senior DGGA Official said “A total of 1,466 departures per week by six Indian carries have been approved to 43 destinations in 27 countries” offering an endless selection of destinations for travellers to choose from. After a long 2-year gap between pre and post COVID-19 individuals and families are eager to reunite with their loved ones.

Indira Gandhi International Airport is the country’s largest airport, located in the national capital of India is set to witness a significant increase in departures in the first week of April. As Indian carriers are prepared for normal international flights, various foreign airlines, including Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, and LOT Polish have announced their plans to offer flights to and from India.

India is back in the airline game, pushing full steam ahead to get travellers to their destinations and welcome tourists. Sunday 27th of March signifies a monumental day as airlines return to normalcy and resume overseas flights.

Your travel is our best interest
Get booking as Indian skies are open and ready for you! Several airlines are operating flights to and from India with a shorter layover. Embark on a journey with your loved ones this year and fly with Gaura Travel and snag the best deals possible! To book your tickets, visit Flights – Booking them made easier – Gaura Travel for all your travel needs in one place.

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News

Australia will recognize higher education degrees completed in India.

The partnership between India and Australia is set to grow
It appears as though the world is returning to some sort of normalcy after the pandemic, on the 22nd March 2022, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi took part in a virtual meeting to discuss the mutual growth for the two countries as Australia is set to invest over $200 million to bump up the economic relations with India. This investment will include partnerships in education, research, green steel, and space.

One of the prominent issues which take Indian international students by halt is the official recognition of their higher education qualification. Proving it tedious to even repeat a few classes to level up to Australia’s education grade. Australia recognizing degrees completed in India exhibits that Indian students continue to be a vital part of Australia’s community. This new advancement will allow international students to use their completed Indian degrees in Australia, giving them a great opportunity to travel to Australia.

Students will be able to travel between Australia and India with no limitations on validating their overseas qualifications.

The two-way degree recognition arrangement truly eases the transition process for students wanting to continue studying in India or Australia, allowing them mobility, web, and in-person blended learning. Coming as a much-needed bonus for international students, ‘This is very important for us because of the number of Indian students in Australia. Mutual recognitions mean you can do a degree in Australia, and it’ll be recognized in India as well.’ Says Mr. Harsh V Shringla, India’s Foreign Secretary.

The new arrangements promise consistent career growth for all Indian International students as there are plenty of career paths in Australia, laying the groundwork for those who wish to study overseas. It is also a great head start for students to plan their travel to Australia or India.

The task force will deliver a mechanism for education qualification recognition between India and Australia by the end of the year, with implementation taking place in 2023.

Opportunity to travel & an economic partnership
Australia’s tourism industry is bound to gain some serious traction from India in the following years due to the investment. Benefiting from investment, international students and travellers will be greeted with much more opportunity than ever. Australia and India are bridging the gap in more than you think, the social and economic growth will grant a bright future for individuals wanting to travel. The multi-million-dollar investment proves to be a substantial growth for the tourism industry.

As the solidarity between the two countries serves as a gateway for more travel opportunities. Economic growth is a leeway to support jobs and business in both countries. The support for jobs and businesses means that there is a mutual connection for individuals from India and Australia.

Plan your journey with Gaura Travel
Are you ready to plan your trip? Well buckle in and start planning your next vacation to India or Australia with your loved ones. Gaura Travel offers a wide selection of travel packages to suit all your travel needs. Make this year a memorable one with your family with Gaura Travel. Visit gauratravel.com.au to book your flights.

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Travel Guide

After a 2 year wait, India resumes international flights.

This is great news for overseas travellers as they can resume their visits to India. The reopening of international borders has been long-awaited, there has been a pent-up need to travel to India for passengers waiting to see their family and loved ones.

After 2 years of suspended travel, India will reopen its international borders on March 27th, 2022. Travel industry professionals expect flight fares will be much lower than exorbitant bubble charges, but travellers are made aware that plane fares are unlikely to be close to their pre-pandemic prices. It is estimated that with the reopening of Indian international borders, there is a high opportunity for more connectivity/choices between countries, leading to lower fares. The Ukraine conflict will undoubtedly cast its shadow on these expectations.

The aviation minister says “international operations shall be subject to strict adherence to (current) health ministry guidelines’ India’s strict health guidelines had prohibited the international borders from opening in December 2021 but was abruptly cancelled due to the COVID-19 variant Omicron.

COVID-19 Restrictions in India

From February 14, Individuals from 82 approved countries (including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, France, Japan, and Thailand) are no longer required to take a pre-departure test to visit India, however, they must present proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated arrivals will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours.

How Russian airspace closure impacts routes to India

Unrestricted travel will give individuals more options to choose from, but the rising fuel costs will increase the overall ticket prices. American Airlines and many other airlines have stopped using Russian airspace to fly to India and making additional stops to refuel. On Monday United airlines announced they are suspending Delhi-San Francisco and Mumbai-Newark flight routes as they are no longer fuel or time-efficient as Russian airspace is out of bounds. They will continue shorter Delhi-San Francisco slights. Air India is one of the few airlines that continues to utilize Russia’s airspace.

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Travel Guide

Australia Celebrates International Travel

Your Toolkit To A Perfect Travel

Australia is on track with its increase in international arrivals during the second week of borders fully opening. Two years have been too long to wait, and travellers are excited to fly down under. Australia has been the most sorted after destination, offering beautiful scenic visuals and tourist-friendly hot spots to please everyone.

Country Manager for India and Tourism Australia stated, “Our research has consistently shown that there is a huge pent-up demand for travel to Australia amongst Indian travellers.” Confirming the growth of passengers.

It is important to know the latest updates regarding international travel guidelines before passengers arrive in Australia. Gaura has curated a perfect tool kit to ensure all our passengers are well equipped and informed before they board their plane. Stay up to date on the most recent updates for international travel.

We encourage our passengers to be well educated before they travel, to ensure all safety precautions are taken, follow the below checklist and be prepared.

Before departing India, travellers need to provide a:

  • Valid and current visa
  • COVID-19 vaccination certificate with 2 doses (Covishield & Covaxin are recognized by Australia’s Therapeutic Good Administration TGA)
  • Negative rapid antigen test (RAT) under medical supervision which needs to be done 24 hours prior to boarding a plane. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests need to be taken 72 hours before departure.
  • Digital copy of Passenger Declaration is mandatory to be submitted 72 hours before departure.

Upon arrival in Australia:

  • All travellers need to perform a self-monitored Rapid Antigen Test within 24 hours of arrival in Australia. RAT results need to be reported to the respective state authority if the test has resulted positive.
  • Tourists travelling to South Australia will need to undertake a PCR within 24 hours of arriving at SA. Tourists who arrive in Western Australia will need to undertake a RAT within 12 of arrival.
  • Travellers need to comply with the requirements and obligations of the state or territory they arrive in, and any other state or territory they plan to travel to.

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As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Travel Guide

Singapore has taken off from the list of Omicron ‘At-risk’ nations

India has removed Singapore from the list of Omicron risk countries

The removal of Singapore from at-risk countries has become a big relief to the Indian diaspora due to pent up travel demand between Singapore and India.

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Omicron singapore removed from the list of at risk countries

Singapore no longer in ‘at-risk’ list amid Omicron scare

The central government has removed Singapore from the list of ‘at-risk’ countries which allows international travellers to transfer through Singapore and will not need to undergo further Covid-19 tests or quarantine.

Read More: India removes Singapore from ‘at-risk’ list amid Omicron scare. Details here -livemint

The current list of ‘at-risk’ nations removes Singapore, by classifying it as one of the countries which can move through for international travellers.

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India removes Singapore from list of \’at-risk\’ nations

The Modi Government removes Singapore from ‘At-risk’ list amid Omicron threat

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India Removes Singapore From ‘At-Risk’ List Amid Omicron Threat | Important Details Here

Singapore dropped from India’s ‘at-risk’ nations list

On Thursday the Union Health Ministry has removed Singapore from the list of ‘at-risk’ countries, by allowing travellers from the Southeast Asian nation. Therefore, they will no longer require to go through additional quarantine measures upon arrival in India.

Read More:

Omicron: Singapore dropped from India’s ‘at-risk’ nations list

In a statement, Singapore Airlines said that move from at-risk nations means “passengers arriving into India from Singapore will no longer subjected to additional arrival protocols specified for countries categorised as ‘at-risk’ by Indian authorities. These additional protocols include a mandatory on-arrival RT-PCR test and seven days of home quarantine, with a follow-up RT-PCR test on day eight.”

So is that the safest place to be at right now? You bet!

And we are pleased to share that we are there for you 24/ 7 and fly our charter flights over the time no matter what!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Flight Deals

100 reasons to ‘return’ to India with Singapore Airlines

For a while, it was impossible to travel more than 5km from our houses, especially in Melbourne. At that point, the (almost) 10,000 kms that stood between India and Melbourne felt like a few light years away.

But not anymore. The boundaries have melted away and travel between India and Australia has returned as close to normalcy as possible.

Singapore Airlines, the designate ruler of the clouds, has once again been united with the skies. And with more opportunities to avail the Singapore Airlines experience, it means that you can and must book your return travel today.

Book your return fares with us today

Book Your Flight with Gaura Travel and you can now avail $100 off your return fare through Singapore Airlines! But hurry this is a  limited-time offer, so get in before it is too late.

To avail the discount, use the offer code: RETURN100 at checkout and you can immediately avail the discount.

Now you can not only travel to where home is, but you can also plan your safe return back to Australia. All the more, when you travel with Singapore Airlines, you can once again receive top-of-the-class service, both in-flight and at the award-winning Changi International Airport.

Unlock Your Adventure: Discover Your Flight Deal Today!

Unlock from here.

Over the last two years, two aspects of travel have been a source of a great deal of stress, but not anymore.

No exemptions. No quarantine.

Ever since travel became complicated, one of the most common sources of confusion and stress was the need to apply for exemptions. Over the last two years, our team has been submerged with questions but our 24/7 call centre has helped numerous passengers travel to and back from India.

But the great news is that passengers don’t need to worry about exemptions anymore. Speak to us about your situation to get further clarity if required.

The other added element that created concerns for travellers was having to undergo hotel quarantine – there have been many horror stories about the ‘then mandatory’ 14-day stay in a hotel without any human connection.

Ever since travel became complicated, one of the most common sources of confusion and stress was the need to apply for exemptions. Over the last two years, our team has been submerged with questions but our 24/7 call centre has helped numerous passengers travel to and back from India.

But the great news is that passengers don’t need to worry about exemptions anymore. Speak to Gaura Travel Support Team about your situation to get further clarity if required.

The other added element that created concerns for travellers was having to undergo hotel quarantine – there have been many horror stories about the ‘then mandatory’ 14-day stay in a hotel without any human connection.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Talk to us

As always, the rules and regulations are changing rapidly. We live and breathe travel, so we are happy to answer your questions. Don’t forget that we are open 24/7 and are there to help you out. Call us, Australia: 1300 359 463, India: 91 8585 027 970.

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Events

This Dussehra, NSW (Rama) vanquishes hotel quarantine (Ravana)

NSW to ‘open up to the world’, scraps quarantine for fully vaccinated passengers

On the occasion of Dussera, could residents of NSW wanting to return to, or travellers wanting to visit the state, have asked for a better gift?

We celebrate Dussera to mark the occasion of Lord Rama defeating Ravana. On that very day Lord Rama was united with Goddess Sita and one can imagine how they might have prepared to travel back to Ayodhya – well you can start packing your bags too, because the state of NSW is ready to welcome you with open arms.

In a very welcome move, NSW premier Dominic Perrottet has announced that fully vaccinated travellers arriving into New South Wales from overseas will no longer have to quarantine from November 1, thereby giving us another reason to celebrate this auspicious day of Dussera.

New South Wales is about to hit its 80 per cent double-dose vaccination target over the weekend and this news comes as an absolute breath of fresh air to travellers and families who wish to fly into NSW.

The reopening of Sydney and NSW to the world, is a giant step towards the resumption of ‘normalcy’, especially for the travel industry, promising a way back to the times before COVID 19 became a household term.

The state of New South Wales has recorded 399 new local coronavirus cases and the case numbers continue to plummet, creating a pathway towards a future without restrictions.

The only thing that matters is double vaccination

In order to qualify and be exempt from quarantine, travellers will need to do a PCR test before boarding a flight and will need to prove their double-vaccination status.

Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres told the press conference there would be no restrictions on where travellers are arriving from. What this effectively means is that regardless of whether you are an Australian Citizen or not, you can travel to NSW.

With vaccination status being the only determinant, the state and its travel industry has made it clear that all travellers are the same in its eyes.

The NSW Government also confirmed that fully vaccinated travellers already in quarantine will be freed on November 1, even if their stay is for less than 14 days.

What does this mean for you?

In simple terms, if you wish to travel back home to NSW, or just want to visit the state, you are welcome to do so after November 1st without you having to go through hotel quarantine, as long as you are doubly vaccinated.

So, if you haven’t booked up for your vaccines, get onto that first. And then give us a call – we will get you on a flight to Sydney / NSW before you can say ‘Happy Dussera’!

Your prayers have been answered. And Gaura Travel looks forward to flying you to NSW and to welcoming you all once again.

And this time, you can drive away from the airport, wherever you wish. Your imagination is the only limitation.

We wish you all the ‘Happiest Dussera’ ever!

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Why Gaura

What will this festive season bring us all?

It is around this time of the year when festivities from the Hindu calendar spring to life.

As a lead up to one of the most popular Indian festivals, Diwali, the majority of India and many Indians settled overseas celebrate Navratri, Durga Ashtami and Dussera.

In the years before COVID 19,  festivities would already have kicked into top gear and the social interaction would have been full of excitement, without any restrictions or boundaries of any kind.

But of course, those times now seem like a different world. A world we probably took for granted, in hindsight.

But having said that, the indomitable human spirit will always find ways to celebrate and honour the divine, regardless of the challenges and restrictions.

Let us take a look at how Indians in Australia celebrate these festivals and the new ways that have been adopted, reflecting the world we live in.

Navratri

The most famous nine nights in India, are symbolized by the victory of Goddess Durga over the evil tyranny of Mahisasura. It is said, that she borrows the power of every God and engages in a dazzling and brutal battle that lasts for nine nights (ten days).

The battle was so mesmerizing that the entire world stood frozen to witness it.

People across India who celebrate this festival, do so in different ways, depending on which part of India you belong to.

In the western part, this festival marks the beginning of the ‘dance’ season in the way of cultural dance forms like Garba, Dandiya etc. In the southern regions, families place divine dolls in the form of a tiered altar called ‘Golu’. In the northern region, special pujas, fasts, meditation, singing, and dancing takes place along with the exchange of sweets, clothes etc. In West Bengal, a five day Durga Puja is also celebrated with great pomp and fervour.

And given the diversity of the country and the cultures within, it is almost impossible to specify what happens in each region. Do let us know how you like to celebrate Navratri.

Durga Ashtami

While Durga Ashtami is celebrated as a separate festival, it really refers to that 8th night in the above-mentioned battle.

A tradition associated with Durga Ashtami is to honour young, unmarried girls (usually a group of five to seven), who are invited into the home. The tradition is based on the belief that each of these young girls represents the shakti (energy) of Durga on Earth.

This festival, a lot like Navratri is a testament to the power of the divine feminine and is a reminder of the wonderful role that women continue to play in all aspects of life. A reminder that it is this energy that sustains and nourishes the very existence we treasure.

Dussera

One of the most popular historical epics from India is the Ramayana. Those who are familiar with the epic know that it is the ultimate fight between the virtuous (represented by Lord Rama) and unrighteous (King Ravana).

Dussera marks the last day of the war where Lord Rama finally kills the demon King Ravana and reunites with his wife, Goddess Seetha.

Given that we have reunited numerous couples over the last two years through our flights, we understand the pains of separation that Lord Rama and Goddess Seetha might have faced.

Here is to the triumph of the virtuous in us, every single time.

But what does all of this mean to us, especially now?

One of the most popular historical epics from India is the Ramayana. Those who are familiar with the epic know that it is the ultimate fight between the virtuous (represented by Lord Rama) and unrighteous (King Ravana).

Dussera marks the last day of the war where Lord Rama finally kills the demon King Ravana and reunites with his wife, Goddess Seetha.

Given that we have reunited numerous couples over the last two years through our flights, we understand the pains of separation that Lord Rama and Goddess Seetha might have faced.

Here is to the triumph of the virtuous in us, every single time.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Flight Deals

Why you need a new ‘return booking’ strategy

Over the many decades that we have all been travelling, it has almost always been a case of booking a return fare, as opposed to buying two single fares simply because a ‘bundle’ has always been cheaper than the individual parts.

But the last two years have proved that our decades of travelling experience count for nothing.

The Australian Government has announced its imminent plans to open international borders, resulting in a flood of eager travellers who are ready to book and ready to fly.

But a word of caution. Actually, a few words of caution. Choosing the ‘return bundle’ is no longer   the best option. Not right now anyway.

Making any predictions into the future is a risky proposition, especially in the world of travel. But we can explain what all of this means for you in the present-day scenario with a great deal of certainty.

Booking a flight OUT of Australia to India, is by far the cheapest option. As you are aware, airfares are a complex function of several variables, and at present the rates will be low.

But what about the return leg? As things stand, flying back into Australia is an expensive option.

Again, there is very little travel agencies like us can do about it, owing to numerous external factors out of anyone’s control.

I haven’t seen my family in years

We hear you. Which is why we recommend the following:

If you are travelling to India to visit family and friends, we suggest you wait until the return fares become normalised and then book your way back to Australia.

As our customers, you will be the first to know of the changes in the return fares.

Over the last two years, numerous families have been separated geographically. Let us put an end to all the waiting, to all the ‘I miss you’ messages, to the yearning thoughts about loved ones – let us put you on a flight to the country that continues to live on in your heart.

But if you don’t have to rush back to Australia, then we suggest, you wait and watch. While none of us have a crystal ball to read the future, what we know is that as both India and Australia continue to march towards their vaccination targets, the restrictions on the number of passengers will change, along with a few other factors.

It will only become easier to book a cost-efficient journey back to Australia.

So, what should be my new travel strategy?

Book a one-way ticket to wherever home is and we will get you there. Re-unite with your family, celebrate all the birthdays you missed, fill your heart with the smells and flavours of India and wait….until the time is right to book your return flight.

If in doubt, please speak to our friendly staff. We have spoken to thousands of passengers, and we know what you need to have a beautiful trip to India…and back.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Travel Guide

NO MORE LOCKDOWNS ONCE WE REACH 70% VACCINATION TARGET

Australia has had one of the strictest lockdowns in the world and it’s been months and months that we have been battling against this deadly virus. Both mentally and physically, every Australian has struggled through this. Not being able to meet our loved ones, travel like before, or go out like we used to, this virus really did change our lives. But now it is time to rise up again. It Is time to fill our hearts with hope and embrace the excitement of going back to the old times, where we were one, we were together.

Under National Cabinet’s four-phase pathway out of the pandemic, when the nation starts hitting the 70 per cent and 80 per cent vaccination targets, we can start claiming back what COVID has been taking away from us. And when we do so, people must not be intimidated by the case numbers that will inevitably increase. The government will be able to handle the situation better with all the improvements in the health care sector which Australia has made to protect people from serious illness and fatality.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has said, “we can’t live with lockdowns forever” and that at some point, the states and territories needed to conceded it’s “highly unlikely” that Australia will be able to return to COVID zero. Once the states reach 70 per cent of adult vaccinations, they must open up borders and lockdown will only be the last resort.

According to the data, if you take the AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccination, people are 86 to 87 per cent less likely to end up in hospital or an ICU. A key next step in the plan will also be getting children aged over 12 vaccinated.

Just as we are seeing overseas in places like the UK, even when their case numbers tick up, their hospitalisations and deaths are not increasing at the same rate and remaining flatter and at rates like you see with the flu.

It is always darkest before the dawn, and these lockdowns are demonstration of that, but the dawn is not far away and we are working towards that dawn and we are hastening towards the dawn.

Hundreds of active Covid cases in the community should not delay Australia’s plan to reopen and end widespread lockdowns, Scott Morrison says, urging people to look beyond a “one-eyed focus” on daily case numbers.

Lockdowns are not a sustainable way to deal with the virus and that’s why we have to get to the 70 and 80% marks so we can start living with the virus!

This doesn’t mean people won’t get sick, but with achieving the vaccination targets, a strong public health system, retaining common sense public hygiene measures and more effective treatments for COVID-19, the nation can get on with the new normal, and treat COVID like other infectious diseases.

That is the light at the end of the tunnel on our journey. Australia has now had three days in a row of giving more than 300,000 vaccinations every day, and with more than 1.73 million vaccinations provided in only the previous week, we’ll see fewer hospitalizations and fatalities, allowing us to resume our lives. This is what living with COVID is all about. The case numbers will likely rise when we soon begin to open up. That is inevitable.

But the focus needs to be on the rate of people being hospitalised. That’s the measure that should now start to guide our response.

Rising cases need not impact the nations plan to reopen, and reopen as soon we can. 

With this, there will be light again, harmony again. No borders will separate us from our loved ones, and we will be one again.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Travel Guide

INDIA no longer in the bracket of ‘high risk’ for Australia, travel restrictions are now back to the worldwide settings.

We have another reason to rejoice now! Another reason to celebrate! On August 10th, the Australian government removed India from its list of “high risk” countries and lifted additional restrictions on outgoing and incoming travel from the country. This step has been taken due to the dramatic decline in daily COVID cases in the country.

This comes as a great news and a breather for us as we proceed in our aim to reunite you with your loved ones.

The number of overseas acquired cases with a country of acquisition of India has stayed far below thresholds of concern since the resumption of government sponsored repatriation flights from India on 15 May 2021, says a federal Department of Health spokesperson.

A halt in flights from India, as well as improved pre-departure arrangements, allowed the number of cases from that country to be reduced to a manageable level. Well, this is great news! We are back in the safe bracket.

Impact on temporary visa holders stuck in India

Until 9 August, people looking for an exemption for travel to or from India could only be permitted in limited situations due to the unprecedented spread of COVID-19.

However, as the number of new cases in India decreases, the Australian government has broadened the exemption rules to accommodate more reasons for travel to and from India. This has provided much-needed relief to Australian citizens and permanent residents seeking outward travel exemptions, as well as temporary visa holders stranded in India and yearning to come home.

The Plan Ahead

More than 10,000 people are stuck in India, who are wanting to get back to the land down under. This brings a ray of hope, particularly for families who have been separated from their loved ones for long. The temporary residents are hoping this development works in favour of them and improves their chances at getting inward travel exemptions, so they can continue the lives that they had painstakingly built in Australia.

Well, where there is a will, there is a way. We are here to get you a step closer to your destination be it Australia to India, or India to Australia!

Sit back and Relax. We are here to be your best way home. 

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Flight Deals

Travel Home In Luxury & Comfort!

It has been a long road.

Ever-changing rules and regulations that have dominated headlines over the last few months have come at the cost of individuals who found themselves stranded in India, unable to find a way back home.

Families have spent months separated from other members of their family with chances of seeing loved ones dwindling away with every passing day. With hopes of securing a ticket back home to Australia also looking bleaker, courtesy of limited options being available to passengers, hopes of coming back home began to look like an illusion.

Ever since the pandemic first struck, most doors seemed shut. But our entire team has made a habit of finding a new door or simply breaking down existing ones. 

Fly Business Class with Sri Lankan Airlines

Our recent collaboration with Sri Lanka Airlines means that all those stranded in India have a viable option to come back home. And we are not referring to travelling like cattle, with minimal amenities on a flight that lasts for many hours. As if the stress they have faced over the last few months was not enough!

Instead, we have made arrangements to provide you with the ultimate in flying comfort and luxury – we have facilitated a rare and luxurious BUSINESS CLASS experience for you.

You deserve it, weary traveler! Spend your journey in comfort, where you can relax and unwind, physically and mentally in a flight where every in-flight need of yours is catered for.

You will find yourself in a world-class flight, with award-winning service and only handful of other passengers. Spend your journey in peace with the knowledge that you are not one of hundreds, packed into a flight like ‘sardines in a can’.

What you will experience

Not even once will you need to request someone to let you access the aisle. Thanks to Sri Lankan Airlines providing 28 leather seats (in what is known as the ‘herringbone structure’), you and every other passenger in the flight will have their own personal and complete access to the aisle.

You certainly don’t have to sit in great discomfort for the duration of the flight – you can travel the entire flight resting your tired bodies on flat beds. That’s right, stretch your legs and sink in the comfort on offer.

Or you might even want to forget the difficulties of the past few months and immerse yourself in a wide range of inflight entertainment, playing out on an impressive 15.4” monitor.

Store your personal belongings safely and securely in storage space that is yours for the length of the flight.

Charge your equipment using the USB portals, but most importantly, charge your mind and body, and prepare yourself to see your loved ones again.

Plan your ‘escape’ with us

Our next flight from India to Australia is on August 2nd. If you are looking to make that getaway and find your way back home, then do not wait. Only 9 seats are left now!

Other flights on sale are scheduled on:

  • August 9th
  • August 16th
  • August 23rd
  • 30 August 30th!

They say, ‘every cloud has a silver lining’. With Sri Lankan Airlines’ Business Class, who knows, you might actually see a cloud with a golden lining?

See you back home.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Events

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE WITH TRIVIA’S!

At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. 75 years ago, in that moment when Jawaharlal Nehru recited these famous words, India became one. India became free.

A country full of distinct cultures, religions and festivals – one thing that binds us all together is the undying love for our country. Despite the differences, India is united in its diversity. This is where heritage meets pride and beauty meets legacy.

This year marks as the 75th Independence Day for us! 75 years of reflection of the sacrifice of our leaders, martyrs, and heroes. Oh, we have really come a long way!

To celebrate the love of these 75 years, we are bringing your patriotism and love for India at test! Woah, what does that mean? Well, that means every week we will challenge you with weekly quizzes that will that test your general knowledge, love for sports, academics, history, entertainment and what not!

Brace yourself for trivia’s that will keep you on the edge of your seat! Are you ready? Pull up your socks because this will be a nail biter!

Every week, we will select 2 lucky winners who will get a $50 gift voucher and exciting prizes! Woah!

Get ready guys, prep yourselves because this is going to be fun!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Melbourne Welcomes International Travellers through Sydney

If you find yourself stranded in India, unable to make your way back home to Victoria, then the information provided below is invaluable.

Read it carefully and reach out directly to us with any questions you have.

Are you hoping to find a way back home from India (anywhere in the country) to Victoria in the month of August? Or know someone who finds themselves in this situation?

It is critical to look at the various options out there – hint: there are two options of which only one option is viable for the month of August.

Flight Options in August

Option 1: You can try and book through the Australian Government’s initiative through Qantas, but they are fully sold out for the month.

Option 2: The only viable option is to book through Gaura Travel’s flights in August (full dates provided below). We still have seats available, but you need to book them as soon as possible.

The Rules – International Transit through Sydney to Victoria

The Government has provided clear instructions on how passengers will be safely allowed to transit through Sydney on to Victoria.

International travellers from India are required to undergo mandatory quarantine in Sydney, following which, they are required to immediately  travel by car (or a cab) to the airport and take a flight to Melbourne. 

They are not allowed a detour or a stopover anywhere in Sydney.

The key difference to note here is that ‘Hotel Quarantine in Sydney’ is considered a GREEN ZONE, as opposed to anywhere else in Sydney which continues to be a red zone.

We can also confirm from passenger reports,  that the quarantine experience is the same in Sydney as you would expect in Melbourne.

Passengers will enter and exit GREEN ZONES as designated by the government without having to access any RED ZONE areas. Which means, travellers do not have to contend with the current situation in Sydney, if Melbourne is their final destination.

No Extra Cost to Travellers

As a show of our undying commitment to the community and our ambition to keep families together during these times, we will cover your costs to travel from Sydney to Melbourne. At this stage, we can confirm this initiative for the month of August, so please avail this while you can.

Direct Flights Options to Melbourne are Sold Out

After having spent months, and many over a year, stranded in India, we encourage travellers to think outside the box and avail solutions that are perfectly within the rules.

For the month of August, all flights directly to Melbourne are fully sold out. So please book your flights to Sydney and make your way to Melbourne, as explained above.  

Gaura Travel Flights Scheduled in August

These flights depart from Chennai and arrive in Sydney the very next day:

  • August 2nd   (Sold Out)
  • August 9th
  • August 16th
  • August 23rd
  • August 30th

India gained freedom in the month of August – would it be nice for you to unite with your families once again and experience that newfound sense of ‘freedom’ too?

Don’t wait. Book now: India to Australia Flights

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

Our flight deals