Here’s how to plan your Andaman vacation the perfect way

The white sands and blue beaches make Andaman the most famous destination for a leisure vacation. Here are some ideas on how you can plan your vacation to Andaman in the perfect manner:

Type of Tour

Planning trip in advance is of immense importance these days. One can search for Andaman tour package including airfare before deciding anything. There are numerous types of tours to select from:

1. 1. Regular Package: A local tour operator can book a regular package departing from the chosen city. This type of tour packages can be customised according to the requirement. The tour operators are an ocean full of knowledge and therefore there is no chance of a nuisance being created on the trip. The operators are well versed with the languages and have good idea on local travelling and sightseeing.
2. 2. Group Package: Some people like to travel in groups with different kinds of individuals. A tour agency in the area will plan the group tour in accordance to the needs of every individual travelling. It is the best option to travel in a group with a guided tour.
3. 3. Self-Planned: Nowadays, with the information available online one can easily make all the bookings through the World Wide Web. Quotes from various websites can be taken and trip can be planned accordingly.

Passport/Visa Requirements

Andaman and Nicobar Islands belong to India. So, the Indian citizens do not need a passport to visit there. But for foreigners, a passport and a RAP (Restricted Area Permit) are required. It can be obtained once the person reaches Port Blair airport or the harbour.

Best Time to visit

The best time to plan a vacation to Andaman is from October to May when the weather is perfect. The peak season lets you have your ideal beach vacation. It’s better to book Andaman tour package including airfare at least 3 to 4 months in advance, as the flight fares are reasonable.

How to reach there

Chennai and Kolkata are the two cities from where more than 10 nonstop flights depart every day for Andaman. The city of Port Blair is also well connected to many major cities like Delhi and Bangalore. Apart from the air, one can also travel through ship. Around five ships depart from Vishakhapatnam, Chennai and Kolkata to Port Blair making the journey a three-day travel. The ships are not of utmost quality like the cruise ships. They are well equipped with all the necessary amenities like a canteen, recreation room, cafeteria, swimming pool etc.

Number of Days

The fantastic things on this beautiful island will require a week to explore. The week will cover all the major destinations of the island-like Cellular Jail, Ross Island, North Bay, Neil Island, Havelock Islands, and the city tours.

Accommodation

The infrastructure is limited to the Neil and Havelock Islands, but the city of Port Blair has many residential options for all kinds of budgets. The food supplies are expensive because of the transportation costs from Chennai and Kolkata. It is advisable to make all the bookings well in advance to avoid last minute hassles during the peak season.

Travelling to Havelock and Neil Islands

Ferry services, both government and private owned run from Port Blair to the islands. The tickets can be bought from the counter as no other facility is available. Makruzz, a private cruise gives a luxurious feel to the travellers.

Things to Note

Littering the beaches is not allowed it is a serious offence there. Due to security reasons, photography is not permitted at the Port Blair airport. The beaches where signs are showing ‘Swimming is not allowed’ need to be taken seriously. It is highly advisable to carry mosquito repellents, sunscreen lotion and seasickness medicines. Also, ID proof is a must to make all the bookings.