Akshay Kumar – Mumbai
Czech Republic, a nation located in central Europe, recently witnessed a 20 per cent increase in tourist footfall from India. In 2014, the destination received around 9,000 visa applications which is a 20 per cent growth as compared to 2013. In a new development, VFS Global has launched two VFS Visa Application centres for Czech Republic in Mumbai and New Delhi.
Milan Hovorka, ambassador designate, Czech Republic in India said, “India is a vast market, it has a lot of potential. As of now, we are focusing on Mumbai and Delhi market, but apart from these we would love to strengthen our ties with other parts of the country. In recent years, many Indians are willing to travel to Czech Republic, we have seen a lot of people applying for visas. In 2014, we received around 9000 applications, which is a growth of 20 per cent as compared to 2013. We already have witnessed an excellent growth in the first half of 2015. We have received 7500 applications till now.”
Prague, the capital of Czech Republic has been a popular destination for the Indian travellers and also Bollywood. Many films have been shot in Prague in recent years, which has given a boost to tourism in this European nation.
Speaking about the destination, Hovorka said, “Prague is the most popular destination amongst Indian travellers. There are many other places which are still to be explored and we are seeing a steady growth. Also, our nation has certain niche products to offer like the golf tourism and spa and wellness. We have world-class spa therapies and also thermal spas in Czech Republic. Also, we have over 80 golf courses in the country which is again a segment we are exploring.”
The Government of Czech Republic also provides incentives for filmmakers from all over the globe. Film tourism has not only increased tourism, but has also opened avenues for employment generation. Also, the nation is keen on tapping the students segment for which they have launched a programme called, ‘Study in Prague’.
Speaking about the new VFS Visa Appication centres, Hovorka said, “Already we provide a high quality visa service in India. But with the official opening of VFS Visa Application centres in Mumbai and New Delhi our services will be much better. The new visa facilities demonstrate continuous commitment of the Czech authorities to improve quality of service for visa applicants.”