With effect from 30 May 2023, the United States increased some nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application processing costs, making student and tourist visas more expensive, as per US State Department.&nbsp;

The application fee has gone up from $160 to $185 for visitor visas for business or tourism (B1/B2s), as well as other non-petition-based NIVs including student and exchange visitor visas.

For several petition-based nonimmigrant worker visas, H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories, the application fee has increased from $190 to $205.

H, L, O, P, Q, and R visas are for temporary workers, those who wish to visit the United States for employment that will last a set amount of time. There are several categories exist within them based on the nature of employment.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-injured-in-shooting-at-christiana-mall-in-us-state-of-delaware-police-580564">Three injured in shooting at Christiana Mall in US state of Delaware: Police</a>

Treaty traders, investors, and applicants in speciality occupations, E category, now have to pay a $315 application fee instead of the previous $205 amount.

All other consular fees remain&nbsp;unchanged. No further fees will be assessed to applicants who have previously paid a valid and non-expiring visa application fee but have not yet appeared for their visa interview or are awaiting their case processing.

Any fee payment&nbsp;for a visa interview made on or after 1 October 2022 is valid for 365 days from the day the fee payment invoice was issued.&nbsp;

The validity of fees paid by applicants prior to October 1, 2022 will last through 30 September, 2023.&nbsp;

As per State Department, visa fees are determined based on the findings of an annual review of service costs. The majority of non-petition-based NIV costs last underwent an upgrade in 2012, while certain additional NIV fees underwent an update in 2014.

"Visas for work and tourism are essential to President Biden’s foreign policy, and we recognize the critical role international travel plays in the U.S. economy," the US State Department said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uae-envoy-abdulnasser-alshaali-praises-indias-g20-leadership-says-honored-by-new-delhis-invitation-580566">UAE envoy Abdulnasser Alshaali praises India's G20 leadership, says honoured by New Delhi's invitation</a>

As a result, candidates must schedule an interview in advance or submit an application for an interview waiver by September 30, 2023.

As far as India is concerned, the US State Department hopes to grant 1 million visas to Indians this year, surpassing the figure of around 800,000 issued prior to the pandemic, according to Julie Stufft, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Services, who spoke to Press Trust of India earlier.&nbsp;

Watch | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles

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"We have increased the number of officers going to India. We have set up arrangements, which is unprecedented, with other embassies in the world like Bangkok to take Indians who are seeking visas. We are opening a new consulate in Hyderabad… and we’re just focused on making sure that we can bring the wait time down in India," she said.

PTI citing a top official in the US President Joe Biden's administration reported that the wait period for an Indian's interview for a US visitor's visa has been cut by 60% this year.&nbsp;

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With effect from 30 May 2023, the United States increased some nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application processing costs, making student and tourist visas more expensive, as per US State Department.

With effect from 30 May 2023, the United States increased some nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application processing costs, making student and tourist visas more expensive, as per US State Department. The application fee has gone up from $160 to $185 for visitor visas for business or tourism (B1/B2s), as well as other non-petition-based NIVs including student and exchange visitor visas. For several petition-based nonimmigrant worker visas, H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories, the application fee has increased from $190 to $205. H, L, O, P, Q, and R visas are for temporary workers, those who wish to visit the United States for employment that will last a set amount of time. There are several categories exist within them based on the nature of employment. Also Read | Three injured in shooting at Christiana Mall in US state of Delaware: Police Treaty traders, investors, and applicants in speciality occupations, E category, now have to pay a $315 application fee instead of the previous $205 amount. All other consular fees remain unchanged. No further fees will be assessed to applicants who have previously paid a valid and non-expiring visa application fee but have not yet appeared for their visa interview or are awaiting their case processing. Any fee payment for a visa interview made on or after 1 October 2022 is valid for 365 days from the day the fee payment invoice was issued. The validity of fees paid by applicants prior to October 1, 2022 will last through 30 September, 2023. As per State Department, visa fees are determined based on the findings of an annual review of service costs. The majority of non-petition-based NIV costs last underwent an upgrade in 2012, while certain additional NIV fees underwent an update in 2014. "Visas for work and tourism are essential to President Biden’s foreign policy, and we recognize the critical role international travel plays in the U.S. economy," the US State Department said in a statement. Also Read | UAE envoy Abdulnasser Alshaali praises India's G20 leadership, says honoured by New Delhi's invitation As a result, candidates must schedule an interview in advance or submit an application for an interview waiver by September 30, 2023. As far as India is concerned, the US State Department hopes to grant 1 million visas to Indians this year, surpassing the figure of around 800,000 issued prior to the pandemic, according to Julie Stufft, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Services, who spoke to Press Trust of India earlier. Watch | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles × "We have increased the number of officers going to India. We have set up arrangements, which is unprecedented, with other embassies in the world like Bangkok to take Indians who are seeking visas. We are opening a new consulate in Hyderabad… and we’re just focused on making sure that we can bring the wait time down in India," she said. PTI citing a top official in the US President Joe Biden's administration reported that the wait period for an Indian's interview for a US visitor's visa has been cut by 60% this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US hikes tourist, student visa fee effective 30 May, check details

Deadly avalanches in Norway resulted in the death of four people, including tourists, whereas a house and a barn were swept into the sea, as per reports quoting police authorities.&nbsp;A series of avalanches hit Norway's far northern parts.&nbsp;

According to police, a group of tourists was caught in an avalanche in the Kvalvikdalen valley in Norway's far north Lyngen municipality on Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Lyngen Mayor Dan-Havard Johnsen apprised the media that the tourists were from Italy, however, their nationality is not yet clearly known.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-24-injured-after-devastating-tornado-hit-us-state-of-arkansas-577880">At least 24 injured after 'devastating' tornado hit US state of Arkansas</a>

Out of four, two people died in an avalanche on the island of Reinoya. In another avalanche&nbsp;in Lyngen, one person died and two others were injured. One is reportedly in critical condition, the spokesman said. One avalanche also hit in Tromso, where one person from a group of five foreign tourists died.

Norway experiences avalanches every year, particularly during the winter months when there is significant snowfall.&nbsp;Avalanches occur when snow builds up on a terrain until the weight of the snow becomes too great and the snowpack slides downhill, sometimes with great force potentially hurting, or killing people in the area.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-themed-spring-break-in-chinese-colleges-as-nation-scurries-to-tackle-population-decline-577925">Love-themed spring break in Chinese colleges as nation scurries to tackle population decline</a>

Norwegian authorities take measures to prevent and mitigate the impact of avalanches and people are often trained in avalanche safety. Despite these measures, avalanches can still be unpredictable and dangerous.&nbsp;

Police spokesman Morten Pettersen said, "There were five people of foreign origin that were on an outing in the area. We can confirm that one person is deceased."&nbsp;

Watch | Will Artificial Intelligence be the end of mankind? | This World

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"The person was part of a larger foreign travelling party. Another member of the travelling party who was at the scene located the person and alerted the emergency services," a police statement said. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store termed the deaths "a tragic start to Easter". 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Deadly avalanches in Norway resulted in the death of four people, including tourists, whereas a house and a barn were swept into the sea, as per reports quoting police authorities.

Deadly avalanches in Norway resulted in the death of four people, including tourists, whereas a house and a barn were swept into the sea, as per reports quoting police authorities. A series of avalanches hit Norway's far northern parts. According to police, a group of tourists was caught in an avalanche in the Kvalvikdalen valley in Norway's far north Lyngen municipality on Friday afternoon. Lyngen Mayor Dan-Havard Johnsen apprised the media that the tourists were from Italy, however, their nationality is not yet clearly known. Also Read | At least 24 injured after 'devastating' tornado hit US state of Arkansas Out of four, two people died in an avalanche on the island of Reinoya. In another avalanche in Lyngen, one person died and two others were injured. One is reportedly in critical condition, the spokesman said. One avalanche also hit in Tromso, where one person from a group of five foreign tourists died. Norway experiences avalanches every year, particularly during the winter months when there is significant snowfall. Avalanches occur when snow builds up on a terrain until the weight of the snow becomes too great and the snowpack slides downhill, sometimes with great force potentially hurting, or killing people in the area. Also Read | Love-themed spring break in Chinese colleges as nation scurries to tackle population decline Norwegian authorities take measures to prevent and mitigate the impact of avalanches and people are often trained in avalanche safety. Despite these measures, avalanches can still be unpredictable and dangerous. Police spokesman Morten Pettersen said, "There were five people of foreign origin that were on an outing in the area. We can confirm that one person is deceased." Watch | Will Artificial Intelligence be the end of mankind? | This World × "The person was part of a larger foreign travelling party. Another member of the travelling party who was at the scene located the person and alerted the emergency services," a police statement said. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store termed the deaths "a tragic start to Easter". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Deadly avalanches in Norway kill four, including tourists, sweep house into sea

The Indonesian island of Bali has witnessed an uptick in the number of Russian and Ukrainian tourists since the beginning of what Moscow has described as its “special military operation” in Kyiv. The reports of bad behaviour and criminal activities allegedly committed by Russian and Ukrainian tourists include overstaying their visas, working illegally as hairdressers, unauthorised tour guides and taxi drivers, reported CNN.&nbsp;

The incidents have reportedly prompted Bali Governor Wayan Koster to propose that a visa-on-arrival policy for visitors from the two aforementioned countries be terminated. “I have written a letter to the ministries (Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry and Law and Human Rights Ministry) requesting that the visa facility be revoked for Russians and Ukrainians”, said Koster, as per local media reports.&nbsp;

According to the Indonesian government, nearly 60,000 Russians visited Bali in 2022 after it lifted its Covid-related restrictions while 22,500 people from Russia have arrived on the island since the beginning of this year alone. On the other hand, over 7,000 Ukrainians arrived in 2022 while some 2,500 came to Bali in the first month of this year, reported CNN.&nbsp;

Indonesia allows citizens of&nbsp;certain countries including Russia and Ukraine to apply for a visa on arrival&nbsp;in the country, while others have to apply before departure. Meanwhile, the country’s Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said that the number of tourists from Russia and Ukraine “who have...caused problems is not yet significant”. He added,&nbsp;that any plans to change visa rules must be “carefully reviewed” and will be discussed with all the stakeholders.

While the reports of misbehaving tourists are not necessarily new in Bali, it seems as though Balinese authorities wish to make an example out of the tourists from the two countries, as per CNN. “Why these two countries? Because they are at war so they flock here,” Koster had said in a news conference previously.&nbsp;

According to a report by Bloomberg, Indonesia has deported some 47 people from the popular tourist destination amid a crackdown on foreigners for misusing their visas to work, out of which 13 were Russians.&nbsp;Reports also suggest that the Bali government is planning to ban tourists from renting motorcycles following a series of road accidents. Notably, in January, a Ukrainian and Russian visitor died in a vehicle collision.

According to local media reports, Koster has announced a province-wide crackdown on misbehaving foreigners which includes driving without a licence, not wearing a helmet, or driving dangerously. Furthermore, the Bali police, last week also launched a five-day special operation where over 475 police personnel will closely monitor foreigners in Bali. The officials have also reportedly assured that well-behaved visitors to Bali have nothing to worry about.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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The Indonesian island of Bali has witnessed an uptick in the number of Russian and Ukrainian tourists since the beginning of what Moscow has described as its “special military operation” in Kyiv.

The Indonesian island of Bali has witnessed an uptick in the number of Russian and Ukrainian tourists since the beginning of what Moscow has described as its “special military operation” in Kyiv. The reports of bad behaviour and criminal activities allegedly committed by Russian and Ukrainian tourists include overstaying their visas, working illegally as hairdressers, unauthorised tour guides and taxi drivers, reported CNN. The incidents have reportedly prompted Bali Governor Wayan Koster to propose that a visa-on-arrival policy for visitors from the two aforementioned countries be terminated. “I have written a letter to the ministries (Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry and Law and Human Rights Ministry) requesting that the visa facility be revoked for Russians and Ukrainians”, said Koster, as per local media reports. According to the Indonesian government, nearly 60,000 Russians visited Bali in 2022 after it lifted its Covid-related restrictions while 22,500 people from Russia have arrived on the island since the beginning of this year alone. On the other hand, over 7,000 Ukrainians arrived in 2022 while some 2,500 came to Bali in the first month of this year, reported CNN. Indonesia allows citizens of certain countries including Russia and Ukraine to apply for a visa on arrival in the country, while others have to apply before departure. Meanwhile, the country’s Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said that the number of tourists from Russia and Ukraine “who have...caused problems is not yet significant”. He added, that any plans to change visa rules must be “carefully reviewed” and will be discussed with all the stakeholders. While the reports of misbehaving tourists are not necessarily new in Bali, it seems as though Balinese authorities wish to make an example out of the tourists from the two countries, as per CNN. “Why these two countries? Because they are at war so they flock here,” Koster had said in a news conference previously. According to a report by Bloomberg, Indonesia has deported some 47 people from the popular tourist destination amid a crackdown on foreigners for misusing their visas to work, out of which 13 were Russians. Reports also suggest that the Bali government is planning to ban tourists from renting motorcycles following a series of road accidents. Notably, in January, a Ukrainian and Russian visitor died in a vehicle collision. According to local media reports, Koster has announced a province-wide crackdown on misbehaving foreigners which includes driving without a licence, not wearing a helmet, or driving dangerously. Furthermore, the Bali police, last week also launched a five-day special operation where over 475 police personnel will closely monitor foreigners in Bali. The officials have also reportedly assured that well-behaved visitors to Bali have nothing to worry about. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bali mulls over terminating visa-on-arrival for Russians, Ukrainians. Here’s why

China will reopen its borders to tourists and resume issuing all visas on Wednesday after a three-year halt during the pandemic as it sought to boost its tourism and economy.

China to issue plethora of new Visas to resume overseas travel

Tourists in large numbers, on bike or foot, streamed across a narrow path which connected the edge of Lake Garda to a small island, a clear example of northern Italy being hit by a winter drought. &nbsp;

The rocky white beaches of San Biagio island dotted with cypresses were accessible only by boat in the past. However, the lake’s historically low waters have brought out a sand and stone causeway, allowing tourists to flock to the site.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-scientists-in-italy-raise-concerns-after-venice-canals-run-dry-heres-why-564929">Explained | Scientists in Italy raise concerns after Venice canals run dry. Here’s why</a>

"It's a beautiful sight, but sad at the same time, because it's caused by drought. We hope it will be short-lived," said Alberto Pampuri, a tourist who cycled to the island along with his wife and two friends.

The "Floating Piers" installation which was created by artist Christo in 2016 was recalled by the unusual phenomenon when people place yellow floating footbridges across nearby Lake Iseo.

"But they were artificial bridges, whereas this is a natural work of art," Agata Carteri, a 48-year-old teacher, said. Warm temperatures, no spell of rain in six weeks and declining snow in the surrounding mountains have resulted in the decline in water levels of Garda, which is the largest lake in Italy, to its lowest level in winter in the span of 30 years.

Over the last few decades, the waterline has receded to 60-70cm, which is below the average. Five years ago, Matteo Fiori had waded his way to San Biagio island, which is also called the Island of Rabbits, while keeping his rucksack on his head to keep it dry.

"The water came up to my chest, it was an adventure," said the social worker, while surveying the newly-emerged causeway.

WATCH | Italy faces threat of another drought

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Mayor Flaviano Mattiotti said, “The island has become a popular out-of-season attraction. But if the level of the lake doesn't rise in the spring, we are ready to dredge the harbours to allow access for tourist boats, which would be a first."

"It's like walking on water," said another tourist, Afra Vorhauser, after walking to the uninhabited island through the causeway.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tourists in large numbers, on bike or foot, streamed across a narrow path which connected the edge of Lake Garda to a small island, a clear example of northern Italy being hit by a winter drought.

Tourists in large numbers, on bike or foot, streamed across a narrow path which connected the edge of Lake Garda to a small island, a clear example of northern Italy being hit by a winter drought. The rocky white beaches of San Biagio island dotted with cypresses were accessible only by boat in the past. However, the lake’s historically low waters have brought out a sand and stone causeway, allowing tourists to flock to the site. ALSO READ | Explained | Scientists in Italy raise concerns after Venice canals run dry. Here’s why "It's a beautiful sight, but sad at the same time, because it's caused by drought. We hope it will be short-lived," said Alberto Pampuri, a tourist who cycled to the island along with his wife and two friends. The "Floating Piers" installation which was created by artist Christo in 2016 was recalled by the unusual phenomenon when people place yellow floating footbridges across nearby Lake Iseo. "But they were artificial bridges, whereas this is a natural work of art," Agata Carteri, a 48-year-old teacher, said. Warm temperatures, no spell of rain in six weeks and declining snow in the surrounding mountains have resulted in the decline in water levels of Garda, which is the largest lake in Italy, to its lowest level in winter in the span of 30 years. Over the last few decades, the waterline has receded to 60-70cm, which is below the average. Five years ago, Matteo Fiori had waded his way to San Biagio island, which is also called the Island of Rabbits, while keeping his rucksack on his head to keep it dry. "The water came up to my chest, it was an adventure," said the social worker, while surveying the newly-emerged causeway. WATCH | Italy faces threat of another drought Mayor Flaviano Mattiotti said, “The island has become a popular out-of-season attraction. But if the level of the lake doesn't rise in the spring, we are ready to dredge the harbours to allow access for tourist boats, which would be a first." "It's like walking on water," said another tourist, Afra Vorhauser, after walking to the uninhabited island through the causeway. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tourists throng island as causeway surfaces in Italy’s Lake Garda due to winter drought

The Himalayan hill side town of Joshimath has been dubbed India’s sinking town. Once, bustling with tourists, today, Joshimath is a cautionary tale of what years of rampant infrastructure development in an ecologically sensitive region coupled with climate change can do to a place and its people. Can Joshimath be saved?

Inside South Asia | India's sinking town: A cautionary tale

Kashmir Valley witnessed a fresh spell of Snowfall across various districts. Tourist resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam received a fresh snow and thousands of tourists thronged the hill stations.

Gulmarg, Pahalgam receives fresh snowfall, Kashmir packed with tourists

WION Dispatch: Gulmarg, Pahalgam receives fresh snowfall, Kashmir packed with tourists

The first direct flight from China since the pandemic shut borders arrived in Thailand on Monday (January 9), a day after Beijing dropped COVID border controls that had largely prevented its 1.4 billion residents from travelling for three years.

Watch: 269 Chinese tourists land in Thailand after Beijing drops border curbs

Dubai has scrapped a 30% tax on alcohol and will no longer charge tourists or expats for permits to buy alcoholic drinks as the emirate tries to attract more foreign workers and visitors.

WION Fineprint: Dubai scraps 30% tax on alcohol

While speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Maldives' new high commissioner to India Ibrahim Shaheeb has pitched for stronger connectivity between the two countries and more tourists from India.

WION Dispatch Maldives envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb seeks more connectivity & tourists from India

In the wake of recent increase in cases of coronavirus in China and other nations, India’s international tourist hotspot, the Taj Mahal, has been put on alert. The Covid alert in the Taj Mahal was confirmed by Agra’s District Health Information Officer.&nbsp;According to reports, the samples of tourists visiting the Taj Mahal are being tested for coronavirus by Agra’s health department, especially of those visitors who are coming from foreign countries.

As per reports, the Taj, one of the wonders of the world, has been welcoming foreign and domestic tourists in huge numbers every day. Meanwhile, testing of coronavirus is being carried out by health officials at bus stands, airports and railway stations in Agra.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-registering-a-million-cases-5000-deaths-a-day-says-report-plans-to-cut-quarantine-for-travellers-545676">China has 1mn Covid cases, 5k deaths a day, claims report as it plans to cut travellers' quarantine</a>

Agra’s District Health Information Officer Anil Satsangi said, "The health department has already started the tests to prevent the spread of infection. As the alert is on, the tests have now been made mandatory for all the visitors."

Speaking about the precautionary measures, Chief Medical Officer of Agra Dr AK Srivastava said that in the wake of increasing cases of Covid-19 in China, there is enough reason to adopt precautionary measures.

WATCH| WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China

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He added that Agra hosts the most popular tourist destination of the country, the Taj Mahal, and hence receives foreign visitors in large numbers and in this winter too, the city is witnessing tourists in huge numbers as it is the tourism season’s peak.

The official further stated that the officials are testing around 500 to 1000 samples daily at different locations, which include the district hospital’s testing centre and that plans are being made to increase the number of samples being tested daily if there is a need in future.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the wake of recent increase in cases of coronavirus in China and other nations, India’s international tourist hotspot, the Taj Mahal, has been put on alert. The Covid alert in the Taj Mahal was confirmed by Agra’s District Health Information Officer.

In the wake of recent increase in cases of coronavirus in China and other nations, India’s international tourist hotspot, the Taj Mahal, has been put on alert. The Covid alert in the Taj Mahal was confirmed by Agra’s District Health Information Officer. According to reports, the samples of tourists visiting the Taj Mahal are being tested for coronavirus by Agra’s health department, especially of those visitors who are coming from foreign countries. As per reports, the Taj, one of the wonders of the world, has been welcoming foreign and domestic tourists in huge numbers every day. Meanwhile, testing of coronavirus is being carried out by health officials at bus stands, airports and railway stations in Agra. ALSO READ| China has 1mn Covid cases, 5k deaths a day, claims report as it plans to cut travellers' quarantine Agra’s District Health Information Officer Anil Satsangi said, "The health department has already started the tests to prevent the spread of infection. As the alert is on, the tests have now been made mandatory for all the visitors." Speaking about the precautionary measures, Chief Medical Officer of Agra Dr AK Srivastava said that in the wake of increasing cases of Covid-19 in China, there is enough reason to adopt precautionary measures. WATCH| WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China He added that Agra hosts the most popular tourist destination of the country, the Taj Mahal, and hence receives foreign visitors in large numbers and in this winter too, the city is witnessing tourists in huge numbers as it is the tourism season’s peak. The official further stated that the officials are testing around 500 to 1000 samples daily at different locations, which include the district hospital’s testing centre and that plans are being made to increase the number of samples being tested daily if there is a need in future. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus spike alert: No entry for visitors in the Taj Mahal without Covid testing

Christmas is in fact just around the corner. So how different cities around the world are celebrating and preparing for this big celebration, watch the video to know more.

Christmas around the world, locals and tourists enjoy festive atmosphere

Tourists in huge numbers from across the world are stranded in Machu Picchu as protests escalated in Peru and an emergency was declared across the nation, following former president Pedro Castillo’s dramatic arrest which ignited massive protests across the country.

As per the statement released by the authorities at least 15 people have till now lost their lives in the protests.

In the wake of escalating tensions, the train line, which is the only route to reach the UNESCO World Heritage site, has been sabotaged and blocked off by protesters, which has left around 800 tourists stranded at a mountain’s foot, with their essential supplies dwindling with the passing of time.

Requests for helicopters have been made by the local officials to evacuate tourists, while consular assistance is being provided by the Foreign Office to British nationals in the country.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peruvian-former-president-castillos-jail-term-extended-by-18-months-543537">Former Peru president Pedro Castillo's jail term extended by 18 months</a>

“Our hotel informed us that they’re going to cut back on food supplies and offer just eggs and coffee until supplies come to town because the markets are running low,” Diane Thao, an American tourist present in Aguas Calientes, said.

Aguas Calientes is the place where the train to Machu Pichu arrives. Meanwhile, Israeli tourist Gale Dut said, "I'm with my kids. For me, it's a problem.”

Another Belgian tourist Walter said that he is unclear about how he is going to return home if he is not able to reach Cusco in time so as to catch a flight to Lima. The only transport service available between the famed Incan temple site and Cusco is the 70-mile train.&nbsp;

WATCH|&nbsp;Peru declares nationwide state of emergency amid protests

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Machu Picchu’s mayor appeals for humanitarian help 

On Tuesday, trains were suspended as an indefinite strike was called by agrarian and indigenous organisations as part of protests against Castillo’s arrest, which has swept the entire nation.

The Mayor of Machu Picchu Darwin Baca asked the government to provide humanitarian help and appealed for helicopters for the evacuation of tourists. However, tourists are not only stranded in Machu Picchu. In Ollantaytambo, an Australian tourist confirmed that he was trapped along with other Britons and Australians.

They shared photographs of protesters demonstrating on the streets and police riot vehicles deployed on standby.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tourists in huge numbers from across the world are stranded in Machu Picchu as protests escalated in Peru and an emergency was declared across the nation, following former president Pedro Castillo’s dramatic arrest which ignited massive protests across the country.

Tourists in huge numbers from across the world are stranded in Machu Picchu as protests escalated in Peru and an emergency was declared across the nation, following former president Pedro Castillo’s dramatic arrest which ignited massive protests across the country. As per the statement released by the authorities at least 15 people have till now lost their lives in the protests. In the wake of escalating tensions, the train line, which is the only route to reach the UNESCO World Heritage site, has been sabotaged and blocked off by protesters, which has left around 800 tourists stranded at a mountain’s foot, with their essential supplies dwindling with the passing of time. Requests for helicopters have been made by the local officials to evacuate tourists, while consular assistance is being provided by the Foreign Office to British nationals in the country. ALSO READ| Former Peru president Pedro Castillo's jail term extended by 18 months “Our hotel informed us that they’re going to cut back on food supplies and offer just eggs and coffee until supplies come to town because the markets are running low,” Diane Thao, an American tourist present in Aguas Calientes, said. Aguas Calientes is the place where the train to Machu Pichu arrives. Meanwhile, Israeli tourist Gale Dut said, "I'm with my kids. For me, it's a problem.” Another Belgian tourist Walter said that he is unclear about how he is going to return home if he is not able to reach Cusco in time so as to catch a flight to Lima. The only transport service available between the famed Incan temple site and Cusco is the 70-mile train. WATCH| Peru declares nationwide state of emergency amid protests Machu Picchu’s mayor appeals for humanitarian help On Tuesday, trains were suspended as an indefinite strike was called by agrarian and indigenous organisations as part of protests against Castillo’s arrest, which has swept the entire nation. The Mayor of Machu Picchu Darwin Baca asked the government to provide humanitarian help and appealed for helicopters for the evacuation of tourists. However, tourists are not only stranded in Machu Picchu. In Ollantaytambo, an Australian tourist confirmed that he was trapped along with other Britons and Australians. They shared photographs of protesters demonstrating on the streets and police riot vehicles deployed on standby. (With inputs from agencies)

Protests strand 5,000 tourists in Machu Picchu gateway city

Tourists, in huge numbers, are flocking to catch a glimpse of the Hawaiian volcano Mauna Loa's flowing lava which began erupting this week for the first time since 1984. After the Emergency Management Agency of Hawaii stated that no signs of lava threatening the populated areas were visible, dozens of tourists, including families along with their children, started reaching the summit.&nbsp;

Tourists have been seen setting up their sacks and camping chairs from their vehicles to watch nature's wonders for some hours. Local artists are also reaching the place to paint the eruption in its full glory.&nbsp;

The authorities stated that the flow of lava from Mauna Loa has slowed down and is spreading out, and continue to flow three miles away from a highway.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-implement-emergency-level-censorship-over-zero-covid-protests-report-539404">China to implement ‘emergency’ level censorship over zero-Covid protests</a>

In its latest bulletin on Mauna Loa, the US Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said that the lava is flowing at the speed of .025 miles per hour (40 metres per hour). They added that seismic tremors can still be detected in the area, which means that the fissures are still receiving the magma and "activity is likely to continue as long as we see this signal."

Mauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano, lies 13,679 feet (4,169 metres) above the Pacific Ocean. The volcano had last erupted in March and April of 1984, which led to lava flowing within five miles of Hilo, the largest city in Hawaii.&nbsp;

The Emergency Management Agency of Hawaii stated that two shelters have been opened on the island as part of precautionary measures, but no evacuation orders have been issued. 
&nbsp;

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Tourists, in huge numbers, are flocking to catch a glimpse of the Hawaiian volcano Mauna Loa's flowing lava which began erupting this week for the first time since 1984.

Tourists, in huge numbers, are flocking to catch a glimpse of the Hawaiian volcano Mauna Loa's flowing lava which began erupting this week for the first time since 1984. After the Emergency Management Agency of Hawaii stated that no signs of lava threatening the populated areas were visible, dozens of tourists, including families along with their children, started reaching the summit. Tourists have been seen setting up their sacks and camping chairs from their vehicles to watch nature's wonders for some hours. Local artists are also reaching the place to paint the eruption in its full glory. The authorities stated that the flow of lava from Mauna Loa has slowed down and is spreading out, and continue to flow three miles away from a highway. Also read | China to implement ‘emergency’ level censorship over zero-Covid protests In its latest bulletin on Mauna Loa, the US Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said that the lava is flowing at the speed of .025 miles per hour (40 metres per hour). They added that seismic tremors can still be detected in the area, which means that the fissures are still receiving the magma and "activity is likely to continue as long as we see this signal." Mauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano, lies 13,679 feet (4,169 metres) above the Pacific Ocean. The volcano had last erupted in March and April of 1984, which led to lava flowing within five miles of Hilo, the largest city in Hawaii. The Emergency Management Agency of Hawaii stated that two shelters have been opened on the island as part of precautionary measures, but no evacuation orders have been issued.

Hawaiian volcano Mauna Loa's glowing lava attracts tourists in huge numbers

Japan has reopened its doors to tourists after two-and-a-half years of tough Covid-19 restrictions, with officials hoping an influx of travellers enticed by a weak yen will boost the economy.

Tourists return to Japan after more than two years of pandemic isolation

Japan fully reopens to tourists after two years of COVID-19 restrictions. However, shuttered shops and a shortage of hospitality workers threaten the country's hopes for a tourism boom.

Japan reopens borders after two years of pandemic isolation

From tourists flocking to Japan to the 80th birthday of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, here are some impactful images from around the world on 11 October, 2022.

World in Pictures: Tourists flock to Japan; 80th birthday of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan

As the pound hits record low against dollar for some tourists it's a good opportunity to seek more value for their money.

WION Business News | London tourists relish Pound slump as residents worry

The tourism industry in Iraq is hoping to re-launch itself, part of this is based around Hatra which was reclaimed by Iraqi forces in 2017 from the Islamic s=State and is now being reopened to visitors.

Iraq: Ancient ruins of Hatra open to tourists

The underwater monuments that have reemerged in Spain as a result of a severe drought include a centuries-old church and a massive megalithic complex.

Tourists flock as severe drought in Spain uncovers submerged monuments

The EU has been urged to introduce a travel ban on Russian tourists with some member states saying visiting Europe should be a privilege. Eric Njoka tells you more.

WION Fineprint | How a sanctions loophole is letting Russians enter the EU

Following two years of the pandemic, Tourist numbers have rebounded in Cyprus. Bars in the resort town are hosting foam dance parties.

Tourist numbers rebound in Cyprus following two years of the pandemic

Bhutan is all set to welcome foreign tourists after two years of Covid hiatus. But travellers will have to shell out $200 per day, up from $60 in the last three decades. Is Bhutan using its tourism potential to shore up its foreign exchange reserves? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary | Bhutan increasing daily tax on tourists

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