Author: harshal shah

What Kind Of a Travel Friend Are You?

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.

Isn’t that true? The best memories we make with our friends are always during travelling. Remember when you found yourself lost in the middle of nowhere during a vacation? Yes, your friends came to rescue you. Remember how they always took your embarrassing pictures before saving you? Yes, that’s their love for YOU! You know, how they always have a plan B? even if its non-existent and just made on the spot? They just always have our backs! Sigh! Best friends are truly the best thing that could ever happen to us.

And you must agree! The memories we make with them during a vacation are truly the best!

You see them at their best, and you see them at their worst. Travel just has a way of stripping back any pretence, of revealing your friends and partners for who they really are.

So, whether you’re organising a coastal cruise or preparing to jet off to your favourite destination, keep in mind that the following types of companions can help you increase the ante on your next journey.

Chatterbox Friend

It’s been 20 minutes and you haven’t spoken a word cause this chatterbox friend of yours just cannot seem to stop! She’ll strike up talks with the locals and make sure the two of you are seeing everything there is to see. She marches to the beat of her own drum, but she’ll be the bestie you’ll want by your side!

Influencer friend

It’s up to the blogger to take the ‘Gram to new heights. Any spot, view, flower, or wall is incomplete without them having a picture of themselves taken. But you gotta agree, no one will help you capture anything better than the blogger in your group. They’ll make sure you take a picture of your food before you bite in, and they’ll assist you in posing for those perfect Mediterranean photographs. Ahh, they are the reason behind the 200 likes on your Instagram!

Wanderlust friend

Things go more smoothly when you have a plan, but it’s OKAY to deviate from it sometimes. When it comes to stopping in the middle of nowhere, checking out the most exotic locations or just crashing a random house, travelling with a wanderlust friend is a terrific way to move outside of your comfort zone.

ALERT: YOU CAN NOT REALLY HAVE PRE-BOOKED ACCOMMODATIONS WITH THEM!

Mom Friend

The one friend your parents can send you anywhere in a blink of an eye! This mom friend is a walking itinerary! She always has a Google Calendar on and has an answer for everything. They exactly know all the gas stations, restaurants and places of interest you all will encounter in your road trip. This is an underrated profile but, at the same time, a very important one in a road trip.

Adventure Friend

They are the ones who insist on getting an adrenaline high on every trip they take! And while you may be a little less brave, they always seem to drag you in with them. Bungee jumping, scuba diving, parasailing, river rafting, and terrifying roller coasters are just a few things they will always get you into. They don’t spare anyone in their pursuit of this irrational love. So much for de-stressing!!

Lazy Friend

These people can’t seem to get up in the morning. You’re all set to start the day and finish the sightseeing as soon as possible so you can chill in the evening, but you’re greeted by a tired voice on the phone or someone who is still showering when you finish your breakfast. They always have the best of excuses for being late and back out of plans!

So be it whoever guys! A group is never complete without any of these!! Which one are you? Share this with all your friends and family and what are you waiting for? PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP!

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.

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Melbourne to Delhi|Qantas– Singapore Airlines (Return) — Flights from Melbourne to Delhi

Delhi India — Flights from Sydney to Delhi

Tags Adventure Friend, Chaterbox Friend, Coastal Cruise, Friends, Influencer Friend, Lazy Friend, Mediterranean, Mom Friend, Travel Friend, Wanderlust Friend

Flight Deals

Travel Home In Luxury & Comfort!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

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 2^nd. 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 9^th
August 16^th
August 23^rd
30 August 30^th!

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

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Business Class, covid-19, Entertainment, Home, India, India to Australia, Pandemic, Sri Lankan Airlines

Events

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE WITH TRIVIA’S!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

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 75^th 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

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Exciting Prizes, Gift Voucher, Independence, India, Jawaharlal Nehru, Lucky Winners, Melbourne, Sydney

Flight Deals

Melbourne Welcomes International Travellers through Sydney

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

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

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

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Hotel Quarantine, India, International Student, International Travellers, Melbourne, Sydney, Victoria

Why Gaura

A YEAR OF UNSTOPPABLE CHARTER FLIGHTS!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

It is true when they say that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. When we began our charter journey, we had only one mission in our hearts – to reunite you with your loved ones. Who would have thought that a whole year later, we would have flown another 60 charter flights?

It’s been a rollercoaster alright. A rollercoaster of emotions, challenges, restrictions, and elation of seeing families together. And we have nothing but endless gratitude in our hearts for you all. Thank you for making this possible! It’s been a crazy year, and that definitely deserves a recap!

MARCH 2020

The pandemic that struck the world was unprecedented but none of us knew then that the world would never be the same again. When COVID-19 pandemic officially hit Australia, the country went into a lockdown like many others. The world came to a stop and people were forced to isolate in their homes. Numerous flight restrictions, domestic and international took effect. This included travel between India and Australia. Families were separated, borders were shut, and anguish overtook the world.

APRIL-MAY 2020

We knew we had to do something. We couldn’t give up. Our team at Gaura Travel banded together and created a COVID-19 response plan. We were still operating 24×7 and left no stone unturned to answer calls, fulfill refunds and be there for the community.

JULY 2020 (22^nd of July – 1^st Charter Flight)

Numerous hurdles came our way, but nothing stopped us from our mission to reunite people with their loved ones. Finally, on 22 July our first charter flight departed from Australia to India. We were ecstatic, but we knew it was just the beginning.

FEBRUARY 2021

Months later, on 5th of February, after tremendous grit, planning and efficiency, we reached a milestone of re-uniting 10,000 families, the largest repatriation flight operation to India. 8 months after that first charter flight and 40 subsequent charter flights later… we became the leader in repatriation Charter Flights between Australia and India. Celebrations were afoot and we enjoyed the success in the presence of the reputed Indian High Commissioner and many eminent members of the community who supported us in our journey.

There was joy in the air, but the directors of Gaura Travel, Ashwini Sonthalia and Abhishek Sonthalia, knew that more had to be done. They resonated with the longing of those stuck in India, and on 27 February 2021, we announced the great news of special charter flights from India to Australia!

MARCH 2021

Flight after flight, the mission of repatriating people back from India became stronger and on the 19th March, we crossed another benchmark of operating 50 charter flights! Keeping customers at the forefront, we did everything we could to be your best way home. In collaboration with Singapore Airlines, the 50^th charter flight took off from Melbourne Airport carrying 200 people to New Delhi.

Soon after, we repatriated 12,000 families! This is till date, the largest private charter operation between Australia and India.

APRIL 2021

In April, India faced a second wave of COVID-19, and cases sky rocketed. Unfortunately, on 27th of April Australia announced a ban on travel from India, leaving many heartbroken, and more stuck… we knew another battle had begun. Our flights were cancelled, borders were shut – but amidst all the chaos, we pulled up our socks and did what we had to, to see you reunite with your families.

MAY-JUNE 2021

After months of dormancy due to the raging pandemic, Australia geared up for a return to some normalcy with borders reopening to India and essential travel being permitted.

Australia opened its borders to India on 15^th May, and gave a green signal for the travel operations between India and Australia to resume. More than 11,000 people were stuck, and we knew we had to get them back home.

JULY 2021

The road wasn’t easy. We faced challenges after challenges, but we overcame them all! Our flight from India to Australia took off on 13^th of July and nothing made us happier as this marked as our 60^th Charter Flight in our repatriation journey. This wouldn’t have been possible without your trust in us. We made it possible in the past, and we did it again!

Our next flight from India to Australia is on 02 August! Hurry! As only 9 seats are left now! Other flights on sale are scheduled on 09, 16, 23 and 30 August! Yes, we can’t stop and won’t stop!

WE ARE WITH YOU!

Travelling can be challenging in these uncertain times. We understand you and your worries. That is why we are with you at every step of your journey.

This one year taught us that the road of life twists and turn, and no two directions are ever the same. Yet our lessons come from the journey, not the destination. The tests we faced in this journey revealed our weaknesses but also helped us discover our inner strengths. We can only know how strong we are when we strive and thrive beyond the challenges we face.

We can proudly say, we did it! And yes, in the end it was worth it!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, covid-19, Gaura Travel, India, Pandemic, Reuniting Families, travel restrictions

Travel Guide

FASTEN YOUR SEAT BELTS CAUSE WE ARE BACK!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

It is true when they say, the road to success is never easy. You will fall. You will fail. You will struggle, but in the end, this difficult road will lead you to beautiful destinations.

Every day, we at Gaura Travel, wake up with only one mission in our hearts, to be your best way home. Yes, we faced a million challenges. Our flights got delayed and cancelled due to Australia’s travel ban with India. We had to push all our bookings to the next available flights. Yes, we were stuck. But guess what? not anymore.

We have done it in the past, and we will do it again! When we ran the first and largest repatriation flights from Australia to India, we never thought we would reunite 12,000 families but we did! We left no stone unturned to make it possible! And now it is time to do it again.

Australia’s travel ban with India

In April, India became the epicentre of the global pandemic when the second wave of COVID-19 overwhelmed the whole country. On 27 April, to prevent the spread of coronavirus, Australia shut its borders with India. Even travellers from India—including citizens—were barred from entering the country.

On one hand, we struggled with the India travel ban and on the other, our flights with transits in Malaysia and Singapore were disrupted as the respective countries decided to close their borders with India as well. Unfortunately, with a heavy heart we had to reschedule our flights and wait for things to get better. When Australia decided to lift the travel ban with India, only Qantas was permitted to fly the passengers from India to Australia. We still waited to get our green signal to operate our charter flights from India to Australia.

We knocked the doors of several airlines so that we could work around something, we just knew we couldn’t give up. Finally, after pulling out all the stops, we were fortunate to collaborate with Srilankan airlines and Indigo airlines to carry out our flight operations from India to Australia.

Yes, they are right when they say that tough times never last, but tough people do. Its time to rejoice guys! We know you have waited long for this. Fasten your seatbelts because it is time to get you back to the land down under!

Our flight from India to Australia just departed!

60 CHARTER FLIGHTS

We are extremely joyous to share that our flight from India to Australia took off on 13^th and 16^th July! Nothing makes us happier as this marks as our 60^th charter flight in our repatriation journey. This wouldn’t have been possible without your trust in us.

It is a moment of glory, that we are the first travel agents in Australia to operate a charter flight after the upliftment of Australia’s travel ban with India. Just like we were the first to repatriate 12,000 people last year!

New Flights from India to Australia

Our next flight from India to Australia is on 02 August! Hurry! As only 09 seats are left now! Other flights on sale are scheduled on 09,16,23 and 30 August! Yes, we can’t stop and won’t stop!

Travelling can be challenging in these uncertain times. We understand you and your worries. that is why we are with you at every step of your journey.

Additional Benefits

Our 24×7 call centres are always open to answer all your queries and be there for you be it 1pm or 1am in the night.

If you are worried about your change of plans, then let us take your stress off! Our tickets are completely refundable and flexible! you can always modify them accordingly.

With our multiple cities option, you have the choice to book your ticket from whichever city you prefer, be it Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, or Hyderabad.

We understand how frustrating it can be to fit everything under 30kgs! It is never enough! But with us, you get additional 5kgs…because we know every kg counts, right?

If this is not enough, with the globally renowned hospitable service of Sri Lankan Airways, we will make sure your flight is nothing but seamless! Wondering about the in-flight facilities? The In-flight entertainment will be available for you and delicious vegetarian meals will be provided.

We know you have waited a lot for this! So what are you waiting for? Book your flight with us today and let us be your best way home! Keep an eye out on our flights as they get booked out in minutes! We are prepared for all the challenges, we are ready! We can’t stop and won’t stop!

For more details on the flights please visit our website – www.gauratravel.com.au

It’s time to be positive guys! Let our perseverance be the engine and hope our fuel. We will make it.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Bangalore, Chennai, covid-19, Delhi, Guara Travel, Hydrabad, India, Indigo, Malaysia, Mumbai, Pandemic, Qantas, reunite people, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Vegetarian

Travel Guide

How is the World Dealing with COVID-19?

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

How is Australia dealing with COVID-19?

Travel is all set to make a comeback. As countries reach a new phase of the pandemic based on their vaccination coverage and policies, plans to open travel are taking place around the world. This involves a change drifting away from border closures or lockdowns and going in favour of coercive tactics and incentives to get people vaccinated. This also includes easing quarantine restrictions for those who have received the vaccine.

Australia has been one of the world’s COVID success stories, with infection rates approaching zero and most people going about their daily lives as usual. Australia’s tough conservative strategy has undoubtedly saved lives, but there are fears that same approach may now leave it isolated in comparison to other countries.

Known as the land of adventure, fun and beauty, concerns are that with the prolonged shut down from the world, Australia might lose its character of being an open and free country. Ernst and Young, an accounting firm, estimates that Australia’s economy is losing A$7.6bn (£4.18bn; $5.9bn) a month from the closed borders. With this, not only Australia is facing struggles with the economy but also its eminence around the globe.

How are other countries dealing with COVID-19?

Countries like England, Canada and Singapore have reached a good number of vaccinations with Canada fully vaccinating 14% of its population, Singapore 35% and England 47%. Unfortunately, Australia had a slow roll out of the vaccine and is lagging with only vaccinating 3.3% of its population.

In France, some visitors –including Australians – no longer have to even take a COVID test as long as they are fully vaccinated with an EU-approved vaccine. From early July Canada is expected to exempt quarantine for fully vaccinated travellers, including non-Canadians. Amid this, claims are that Australia will not open its borders until mid-2022, implying a two-year plus period of isolation.

What’s next for Australia?

Tim Soutphommasane, a political expert at the University of Sydney says, “Australia is a trading nation; it’s an immigration nation. Our society, culture and economy are bound up in a globalized world. Australia should not be turning its back on the world now and become a hermit nation.” A country having more than 30% of its population as multicultural, it’s a challenge for the people to stay away from their families for so long. As Australia grapples with an uneasy tension, calls for a clear plan to reintegrate it into the world are mounting. People are demanding an exit plan to be implemented as they are in a limbo about their future.

The Prime Minister of Australia, Scott Morrison however has other views about the re-opening of borders. In a recent interview, he expressed the country could not use vaccinations alone as a reason to reopen borders. Asked if he would only open the borders when the entire world was vaccinated, the Prime Minister declared it a “moving situation” because “we can’t control what is happening in the rest of the world”.

Surely, we cannot control what is happening in the rest of the world, but we can learn to live with the virus and prepare for the new normal, perhaps.

World health organisation, which declared COVID-19 pandemic believes countries should keep borders open, trade & people moving despite coronavirus.

With the countries learning to open again and move on with the virus, do you think it will be too late for Australia to join in?

We believe Australia will ramp up its operations and soon we will be able to reunite all of you with your loved ones. When there’s hope, there is always a way! And nothing can stop us in being your best way home.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Canada, covid-19, Economy, England, India, Lockdown, Quarantine restrictions, reunite people, Singapore, University Of Sydney, Vaccination, World

Travel Guide

Stranded children in India can now be escorted home to Australia as restrictions ease

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

There are more than 209 children stuck in India today, separated from their parents due to COVID-19. It has been nothing but heartbreaking for the parents and children to stay away from each other.

Flight disruptions and Australia’s border regulations on travel to and from India have been obstacles for parents wanting to reunite with their children. For the past 18 months, they have been looking for endless ways to bring their children back.

Finally in some good news, changes to Australia’s travel restrictions comes as a ray of hope for the parents. The easing of restrictions provides more options for parents to bring their stranded children back home to Australia.

The Department of Home Affairs recently made revisions that expand travel exemptions to include people accompanying an Australian child back to Australia from India if the child’s parents are currently in Australia. This also allows people to apply for an exemption to travel from Australia to India to escort an unaccompanied minor back home.

According to an Australian Border Force official, “suitable people” could accompany Australian children back to their homes. They added, the adult should be a family member who knows the child and can take care of them “through their full duration of journey back to Australia.”

The families who have been granted an exemption to have their children brought from India to Australia expressed they are extremely relieved but wish for the procedure to be made easier for others.

Australian media has reported on a number of parents relying on people who have agreed to act as the child’s guardian during the flight. “The world is getting through this pandemic with kindness and humanity..I’m thankful to the person who got my child back”, says Harpinder who was separated from her child for 15 months.

It is a beautiful gesture of people to accompany someone else’s children during the travel. After all, “the greatness of humanity is not in being human, but in being humane.”

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Children, covid-19, Double Doses, Home Affairs, India, International Student, travel exemptions, travel restrictions, Vaccine

News

The Power of Social Media!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

The true power of social media lies in its power to influence. Every aspect of life now exists online as well as “in real life.” Year after year, communication and organisation between people becomes easier, faster and more powerful. Social media helped us stay connected with our loved ones when the pandemic hit, it helped brands grow and helped people become stars overnight, how crazy is that? The power of social media is truly undeniable!

In today’s times of social distancing, it is social media that socially connects us with everyone around the word. Be it interacting with the Insta family, seeking for jobs or education on LinkedIn or even posting dance tik-toks…there’s a place for everyone to be themselves in this world of social media.

When COVID-19 disrupted our lives, it was social media that helped Gaura Travel still be your best way home. Be it informing you about our chartered flights, sharing inspirational messages and visuals of our beloved community or even sharing joyful moments at the airport… it helped us stay strong and connected to you, no matter what.

World Social Media Day was launched by Mashable on June 30, 2010. It was born as a way to recognize social media’s impact on global communication and to bring the world together to celebrate it. It made reconnecting with classmates, past work associates, and even ancestors a reality!

The Internet has always loved food, and social media is no different. Using Pinterest, Tumblr, and WordPress, one can share and socialize about the latest accessible and exciting food trends. This may be the most addictive part of social media. One moment a picture of a perfectly baked cake comes across your news feed and in the next instant, a complete video detailing the recipe of this delicacy in 17 easy steps is provided for you. One tweet later and you are off to the baker. In a Snapchat -Instagram -Tumblr hour, you destroy your kitchen and end up with a Pinterest board titled “They Lied!” Jokes apart, social media is now truly a part of our lives.

In the end, the benefits and drawbacks of social media are determined by how we utilise it. Social media, when used correctly, can be a tremendous tool for change and communication.

While social media can help us interact with friends and family more effectively, it’s astonishing how reading comments and watching online material can also provide a fresh viewpoint. One of social media’s triumphs is breaking preconceptions and changing the way we think.

Social media and Gaura Travel have something in common – they both continue to make distances irrelevant in the world we live in.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Communication, covid-19, Guara Travel, India, Instagram, Pandemic, Social Media

Events

This Yoga Day, lets work IN and not OUT!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

We often find people diving onto their Yoga matts and transporting into a different paradigm. Into a different world. A world overflowing with positivity and peace. So, the question is, how do they do this? And what exactly is yoga? Is it just a form of exercise? Is it a religion, a philosophy, an ideology? or is it something completely different? Gosh! The list doesn’t end.

The word “yoga” literally means “union”. Derived from the Sanskrit word “yuji,” meaning yoke or union, yoga is an ancient practice that brings together the mind, body and soul. Have you ever imagined experiencing the entire universe inside of you? Well, that is EXACTLY what yoga does. It unites you with your inner soul, your inner world.

This International Yoga Day, lets make Yoga all about working in and not out. We all deserve it after coming out of a deadly pandemic right? Now is the time to open our hearts and focus our awareness into our inner selves.

Here, we give you 10 reasons to love yoga!

Can you run five miles but not touch your toes? You are not alone. Try incorporating Yoga in your life and in no time, you can twist like a Rubric cube (bad jokes are allowed). Yoga is all about balance. It increases your body’s flexibility while building internal and external strength. Through deep breathing It connects your body to your mind.
Tired of working long hours and slouching your way through life? Sounds painful. How about standing up straight and honouring your spine’s natural curves? Yoga not only teaches us to stand and sit straight, with shoulders relaxed and chin up but also improves our bodily alignment, eliminating the risk of injuries.
In need for some some blood rush and thinking of hanging your legs up the wall? How about we tell you that some yoga asanas have the power to instantly speed up your blood circulation? Yes! The Yoga asanas help increase circulation throughout the spine, glands and organs, giving our body the much wanted blood and oxygen.
Health is wealth, isn’t it? Today all we are so busy in our past faced lives that often we forget to take care of ourselves. Our bodies deserve to be treated. A few minutes of yoga is the right way to push that recharge button and say bye-bye to stress.
Dreaming about a flat stomach, toned arms and sculpted legs? Count us in too. Not only Yoga makes one more flexible, but also makes us stronger!
*Take a deep breath and relax*. Breathing in and out is the smallest reminder we can give ourselves to beat anxiety. With physical Yoga poses, controlled breathing, and meditation we can together learn to overcome this monster called stress.
“The wound is the place where the Light enters you.” ― Rumi. Yoga holds the power to heal the mind, body and spirit. Yes, it does. Let’s open our hearts and fasten the healing of body. Be it injuries, mental stress or any illness, a few moments with Yoga everyday can leave you healed, rejuvenated, and refreshed.
The best gift your body can give you is a good night’s sleep, right? In fact, practicing yoga before bedtime is the best way to release everything you’re holding onto mentally or physically before sinking in the peaceful sleep mode.
What’s a nicer way to connect with people than a fun yoga class? Yoga can transform your body, your attitude and your awareness. By connecting with people through Yoga, you have the power to exchange energies and refresh your soul.
Yoga is a transformational practice that strengthens the life force within. It teaches us to overcome internal and external obstacles that come with everyday life. It builds that emotional connection with oneself and teaches us to value life.

Enough said right? Now its time to take your yoga off the mat and into your life!!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, covid-19, Guara Travel, India, Lockdown, Melbourne, Sydney, Transporting, Yoga

Travel Guide

Essential Travel Permitted

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

After months of dormancy due to the raging pandemic, Australia is gearing up for a return to small normalcy with borders reopening to India and permitting essential travel.

Australia opened its borders to India on 15^th May, and gave a green signal for the travel operations between India and Australia to resume. This comes as good news to more than 11,000 Australians who are stuck in India and wish to travel back to Australia.

Australian citizens have been grieving the loss of loved ones in India because of border restrictions preventing travel on compassionate grounds under any circumstances. However, with the decline in the COVID-19 cases in India, Australia has now allowed citizens to travel to India for compassionate and care giving reasons.

So if you are in limbo and not sure whether you can travel to India to provide care to your family, the answer is YES!

Who can travel to India from Australia?

Based on current health advice, individuals seeking an exemption to travel from Australia to India will only be approved for the following limited circumstances:

Critical workers providing assistance to India’s COVID-19 response.
People travelling in Australia’s national interest.
People seeking urgent medical treatment for a critical illness that cannot be treated in Australia.
People travelling due to the death or funeral of a close family member.
People visiting a close family member who is critically ill.
People seeking to travel to India to escort an Australian citizen or permanent resident minor back to Australia.

Gaura Travel resumes flights from India to Australia

Even in the devastating phase of COVID-19, our team was 24×7 there for our customers. We know a lot of you have been wanting to travel to Australia and have waited for the borders to reopen. We have amazing news for you, our flights from India to Australia and Australia to India are now open and operating. Flights for the month of July are available to Book Now. Whether you want to fly back to Australia or travel to India from Australia, we are here to bring you one step closer to your home.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Australia, Australia to India, covid-19, Guara Travel, India, India to Australia, Lockdown, Melbourne, Sydney

Travel Guide

Pilot Plan to Welcome International Students in NSW, Will Start in the Second Half of 2021

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet affirmed today that NSW Health and NSW Police had been approved a Pilot Plan to allow International Students to come back to Australia. The plan will start on the second half of 2021, and it will intend to receive 250 International Students fortnightly.

The first students would arrive in August 2021 in Charter Flights, and they would not take seats off from the commercial flights for Australians returning to the country. The students would have the same quarantine requirements as any other returning traveller, but they will stay in a special accommodation with 600 beds and Universities will cover all the costs.

The NSW authorities will aim to increase at the end of the year, the number of students arriving every 2 weeks from 250 to 500 students. The idea is to rescue the $14 billion that the students bring to the state every year.

“Typically, we have more than 250,000 international students studying in NSW each year and they directly supported over 95,000 local jobs prior to the pandemic. If we don’t act fast, students will turn to other overseas destinations, and it could take the sector decades to recover.” said Mr. Perrottet.

“This program has carefully considered the personal, social and academic aspects of our students to ensure they successfully resume their studies and rejoin NSW’s vibrant multicultural community as soon as possible.” said Professor Barney Glover, NSW Vice-Chancellors’ Committee.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

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Tags 2021, Australia, India, International Student, International Students, Lockdown, Melbourne, Multicultural Community, NSW, Quarantine, Students

Travel Guide

India ready to bounce back | Drastic decline in COVID-19 Cases

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

The world has seen unprecedented changes due to Covid -19. When India, the second most populous country in the world was hit by a devastating second wave of COVID-19, it was hard to imagine how the nation would combat it. But how can we forget that India is no ordinary country? Over its rich history, it has showed countless examples of its unparalleled ability to pick itself up and fight back.

A nation of 1.3 billion people battened down their hatches and came together to show enduring resilience in the fight against the pandemic. With the endless efforts of the frontline workers, government, and the courageous citizens of the country, India prepares itself to bounce back!

The covid cases across the country have witnessed a drop in daily caseload count and several Indian states have started to relax lockdown curbs as coronavirus infections subside.

Initially, the second wave saw India’s daily reported cases spike to more than 300,000 infections daily. However now, with a little over 100,000 new infections across India, daily cases in the country dropped to the lowest level seen in over two months. The seven-day average of new infections in the country has dropped by over 68% from the peak.

The country has so far administered 20,57,20,660 anti-Covid jabs and the recovery rate of patients has increased to 90.34%.

These numbers provide a great deal of relief and hope.

India Unites as One

In the midst of a brutal second wave and a shortage of crucial life saving supplies, India’s COVID-19 patients, and their families turned to social media to save lives. Thousands of people and volunteers amplified the requests of people searching for hospital beds, ventilators and oxygen cylinders on social platforms. Twitter hashtags like #CovidSOS and #CovidEmergency became popular among users. Volunteers set up websites and apps to track vaccine availability. Many people also volunteered to make home-cooked meals for patients quarantining at home while others offered assistance with tasks like grocery shopping. It is amazing to see how the country came together to help one another weather the unprecedented crisis.

Gaura Travel Resumes Flights from India to Australia

Even during the most devastating phase of COVID-19, our team was there 24×7 for our customers. We know a lot of you have been wanting to travel to Australia and have waited for the borders to reopen. We have amazing news for you – our flights from India to Australia are now open and operating. Flights for the month of July are available to Book Now.

Fly back home to Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane! What are you waiting for? Book your tickets today!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Adelaide, Australia, Brisbane, covid-19, Guara Travel, India, Lockdown, Melbourne, Quarantining, Second Wave, Sydney, Ventilators

Flight Deals

Ticked off these 4 destinations from your Bucket List?

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

Book your day trips now.

Ever wondered why domestic travel within Australia scores on top of everyone’s bucket list?

It is a land of colours and contrasts: from the red dusty outback to green lushy landscapes, from tropical rainforests to alpine mountain ranges, from vineyards to the most breath taking beaches in the world -the ultimate land of dreams awaits you.

And its time to holiday here, this year!!

With our special day tours, explore some of the country’s most epic destinations and discover your most relaxing vacation yet.

Blue Mountains

Ever wondered if the blue mountains are actually blue? Oh yes, they are!

One of the most popular and iconic day trips from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a spectacular display of natural New South Wales at its finest.

Leave the concrete jungles behind and breathe in the fresh air and awe-inspiring blue views. Covered with picturesque lookouts, it is a perfect combination of towering forests and dramatic cliffs. Stretching over a million acres of wondrous adventures, you can always count on the blue mountains for a good time.

Blessed with the sights of Three Sisters and Scenic World, as well as the wildlife at Sydney Zoo, Blue Mountains is a trip you will never forget. So what are you waiting for? Let’s witness pure heaven on earth and dive into the blues.

Great Ocean Road

Is it even possible to travel within Australia and not visit the Great Ocean Road?

One of the world’s most spectacular drives, Great Ocean Road winds past pristine beaches, lush rainforests and the iconic Twelve Apostles. Along the drive are some incredibly popular attractions, small coastal towns and an abundance of wildlife. The Great Ocean Road has a plethora of hidden gems, that you can explore time and time again.

Phillip Island

Planning to wind down after a long week? There’s no place other than Phillip Island you’d rather visit. Located around 140kms from Melbourne CBD in southern Victoria, Phillip Island has something special to offer to everyone. Be it the immaculate beaches or the exciting Penguin Parade, the island’s natural beauty is an obvious standout! The stunning beaches, cliffside, wetland and pasture are all jaw-droppingly beautiful. From the nature parks to the hikes, surfing to cycling, there are a lot of wonderful things to do on Phillip Island that involve the outdoors.

Mount Buller

The snow season is upon us which means it’s time to get excited for an incredible day out in the Winter Wonderland, Mt Buller! You’ll always remember your excursion to the most picturesque and adventurous mountains in Australia. You and those magical snowflakes make for a terrific combination! Added to that, skiing and snowboarding down the best slopes, roasting marshmallows in the town fire pits while tuning in to unrecorded music, and a wide range of food and drinks.

If you haven’t been to any of these places, now is the time to tick them off your Bucket List!

Don’t forget to send us photos from your trips.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

https://gauratravel.com.au/flight-deals/

Tags Alpine Mountain, Australia, Day Trip, Great Ocean Road, India, Mount Buller, NSW, Phillip Island, Sydney, Tourism, Tourist, Tropical Rainforests

Travel Guide

Victoria Covid cases: restrictions reintroduced as cluster in Melbourne’s north grows to five

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

Victoria has recorded its fifth case today, which brings in new restrictions in the state. A man in his 60s was identified as the fifth case in the Melbourne northern suburbs outbreak, with Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton concerned the man may have been infectious since at least May 17.

Acting premier James Merlino announced today morning that from 6pm private gatherings in the home will be limited to five people, public gatherings will be limited to 30, and face masks will need to be worn indoors for everyone aged 12 years and older. That requirement includes workplaces within Metropolitan Melbourne. Schools and workplaces will stay open and there are no changes to current density rules.

The acting premier confirmed genomic sequencing showed the Whittlesea outbreak was “closely related” to a man in nearby Wollert who tested positive earlier this month after returning from hotel quarantine in South Australia.

Health authorities have now identified 10 exposure sites as they race to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. Testing sites serving the city’s north were straining to cope with demand as people heeded public health advice.

“This is a stark reminder that waiting and thinking, ‘I will wait until the end of the year to get the Pfizer jab’… waiting is not an option,” he said. “If people want to avoid the situation we are in right now, there is something that everyone can do. If you are eligible, get vaccinated.”

The restrictions on Greater Melbourne are due to remain in place until 4 June. Four new locally acquired cases were reported on Monday, all from the same family across two households. A fifth case, a close contact, was notified by the Department of Health after midnight.

As a result of the outbreak, South Australian authorities have imposed fresh border restrictions in response to a cluster of four coronavirus cases detected in Melbourne yesterday. SA Police said people who have been to any one of several designated exposure sites at relevant times during the past week are now unable to enter the state.

The latest outbreak snapped Victoria’s 86-day streak without a locally acquired case. Victoria has 14 active cases, with the rest in hotel quarantine, and 14,892 tests in the 24 hours to Tuesday.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

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Tags Australia, Chief Health Officer, covid vaccines, Melbourne, Metropolitan Melbourne, Pfizer, School, South Australia, Victoria, Whittlesea

Events

REAL HEROES DON’T WEAR CAPES, THEY WEAR SCRUBS | INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

As the world still struggles to fight the battle with COVID-19, millions of healthcare workers continue to resiliently put up their lives on the line to protect us. The pandemic has erupted all sides of humanity into sharp focus, yet most of it has shown the undying bravery of our healthcare workers.

In a year defined by what will likely be the biggest health care crisis of our lifetimes, our brave nurses and caregivers have demonstrated exemplary endurance, compassion, and selflessness unlike anything we have seen.

While many of us stayed at home, our real heroes were on the frontline working tirelessly to take care if us. At times when they were exhausted and desired to be home with their loved ones, they donned their PPE kits and went in to support all of us.

“Thank you” does not begin to convey the gratitude we feel for our nurses. We thank them for every extra shift they did. Every dinner they missed with their kids. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank them not only for the sacrifice they continue to make for us all, but the sacrifices their families and loved ones are making in kind. We thank them for showing up every day and night, all in service of saving lives and helping others.

This International Nurses day, give them a shout-out, cheer them on, and do them a favour by washing your hands!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

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Tags covid-19, Healthcare, International Nurse Day, International Student, Pandemic

Travel Guide

India Travel Ban to end on May 15, Scott Morrison confirms

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

Scott Morrison made it clear that this morning he wants repatriation flights to start on May 15 in out of India. “When travel pause begins and I expect to be the finding of National Security of Cabinet today, and I did predict this on last couple of days.” Mr. Clennell said.

Mr. Clennell said. With the 4^th paragraph of press release put up by Health Minister Greg Hunt on Friday night would say that there would be up to 5 years in jail for Australians returning from India without 14 days in a 3^rd country if they may come before May 15. Prime Minister blames media for highlighting that.

PM Blames media amid India Backlash

“I would argue that perhaps you may make a mistake that in emphasising punishment, which is what happened, would you agree was that a mistake?” asked by Mr. Clennell. Prime Minister said that “We didn’t. But media did that. There was a simple statement of what is bio-security act as the way affect. This is not something was said by Greg or me or someone else speak up on. In the media, they highlighted it. There are highly remote and strange from those extensions”.

As Scott Morrison further stated, the government’s controversial ban, which made it as an offence for individuals try to return back to Australia who staying in India within the prior 14 days, began on Monday and finishes by 15^th May. “The original decision to put in place that bio-security order until the 15th of May has proved very effective, and it will run its full course until that time without any change,” he said.

There are 9000 Australians who registered under Department of Foreign Affairs and Trades, Canberra and firstly they will give priority to repatriate 900 of vulnerable cases now. Prime Minister Morrison said they are anticipating another three repatriation flights before end of this month, to get back vulnerable Australians from India.

Currently, every Australians understand that’s decision by national government to try to strengthen Australian quarantine system, they are all aware that it has been so crucial to keep Australia safe during this crisis. However, authorities are expected that recent active cases in quarantine system will be at zero, or close to, by May 15.

No word on Commercial Flights

At the moment, Prime minister did not make any decision about commercial flights from India and would take further action on that next week. Further he mentioned that “What’s important is that the bio-security order that we have put in place has been highly effective, it’s doing the job that we needed it to do,”.

Looking at the brighter side, from May 15, all flights from India to Australia will resume back in operation.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

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Tags Australia, Canberra, Foreign Affairs and Trades, India, Quarantine, Scott Morrison, travel ban

Events

Our Tribute to Mother’s Day – NINDIYA

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

About the song

The song captures the sacred emotion between a mother and her child. Especially when the child grows up and leaves the house (for study, marriage etc.) to live a life of their own. The song shows this through a moment in Lord Krishna’s life when he leaves his mother Yashoda in Vrindavan never to return.Nindiya captures that first night Yashoda spends without her darling Krishna, unable to sleep without her son. And how the all-knowing Krishna reassures her from en route to Mathura that he is always with her.
It highlights a mother’s emotions and her (grown-up) child’s reassurance that the bond they share will never diminish. To the Yashoda in every mother, to the Krishna in every son / daughter.

Gaura Travel’s Association with the Song

Mother is the most beautiful word on the lips of mankind. If we were to express the love and gratitude we have for our mothers, we would be at a complete loss for words.
We know the pandemic has been a testing time for all of us. However, it has been the hardest for our mothers. There is nothing more painful for a mother than to be away from her children during such uncertainties.

We felt their pain. We felt their angst and their yearning to see their children.

Hence, we left no stoned unturned in reuniting thousands of mothers with their loved ones. At Gaura Travel, “Reuniting families” solely became our motto to serve our community.

This mothers day, to celebrate and cherish the love of our mothers, we are collaborating with Siyer – The composer and singer of Nindiya, a song dedicated to the real pillars of our families. The real MVP’S.

Listen, love and share!

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

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Tags Australia, Charter Flights, Gaura Travel, India, Lord Krishna, Mothers Day, NINDIYA, Reuniting Families, Tribure, Vrindavan

Travel Guide

Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirms India travel ban to end

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed the India travel ban imposed on 3 May will likely come to an end on May 15.

According to the ban, from May 3, Australians who travelled to India in the last 14 days will be prohibited from entering Australia due to concerns over India’s escalating Covid-19 pandemic, which nearly saw 400,000 cases in a single day on Sunday.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said any individual who overlooked the new restrictions would confront five years’ imprisonment, a fine of $66,600, or both.

Australian Government received a backlash for implementing the travel ban

The Australian government has come under the scrutiny and faced a major backlash for their act not just from the Indian community but also the members of the government. Media houses addressed, it is the first time that Australians have been criminalized for attempting to get back to their nation. No comparable measures were set up at the height of the Covid-19 epidemics in the UK and the US.

Speaking to sunrise, Morrison said the purpose of the temporary travel suspension was to give Australia time to prepare to safely repatriate and quarantine returned travellers.

“We needed to take a pause to make sure we put Australia in a safer position to bring people safely home,” he explained. Morrison also added that, the ban was a temporary two week pause and not a four months lockdown. All they wanted to ensure was the country does not face a third wave of COVID-19.

Prime Minister defends the Travel ban

Responding to the criticism faced over the travel ban, he defended the government’s policy and all accusations against it. “There is a raging pandemic, and we need to just continue to make decisions that are in the best health interests of Australia”

There are an estimated 9000 Australians stranded in India with a hope of returning to Australia. “At least open the doors for us … By closing borders, you have just killed our hope,” says Pankaj Sharma who is stranded in India for the past 8 months.

Looing at the brighter side, from May 15, all flights from India to Australia will resume back in operation.

Gaura Travel flights will be running as scheduled. The current dates available are 28 May, 4 June and 11 June.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

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Tags Australia, Australian Government, covid-19, Gaura Travel, India, Pandemic, Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, travel ban

Travel Guide

International Students likely to be allowed to enter Victoria next month

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

Victoria is expected to welcome back more than 120 international students and workers 24 May onwards, under a state government plan to support its COVID-19 economic recovery.

Acting Premier James Merlino wrote a letter to Prime Minister Scott Morrison, addressing that the program would function on an “industry/user-pays model”. Relevant industries such as tertiary institutions, stage and screen productions and major event organisers, will provide funding for the operational costs.

“We’ve always said that we would work to welcome back international students when it is safe and reasonable to do so,” Mr Merlino said.

Where will the returned students quarantine?

The students would be staying in a separate hotel quarantine facility to returned Australians, with the arrangements identical to those made for the Australian Open.

The cost of the quarantine programme will be “in addition to” the $3000 fee charged by returning Australians for one adult. After consulting with related industries, a final fee will be determined. Victoria’s international passenger limit of 1000 arrivals per week will be unaffected by the international students.

Mr Merlino added, studens would arrive “where possible” on commercial passenger flights, subject to “operational guidelines to be developed in consultation with COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria”.

What health measures will be taken?

The program would be subject to the same health and safety measures as the system for returned Australian arrivals. The staff will wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the same standards as those in the health and complex care hotels. Workplace App would also be used for tracing purposes.

What do others have to say?

The Victorian opposition’s Higher Education spokesman Matt Bach appreciated the program proposal, but said it had come six months’ late.

“The government can hastily put together a plan to get international tennis stars into the state, some of whom were actually COVID positive, but when it comes to our most important export industry that’s worth $14 billion a year and supports 80,000 Victorian jobs, it’s taken six months,” he said.

Mr Merlino has requested the Commonwealth Government to continue to expedite and issue visas and exemptions to travel restrictions to support the program.

However, people will be allowed only from a selected countries for now which have low number of covid cases.

A final decision will be made after a meeting of health officials later today.

Travelling in 2022 with Gaura Travel

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Tags Australian, covid-19, International Student, Operational Guideline, Quarantine, Victoria

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No word on Commercial Flights

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What health measures will be taken?