Lois : 𝙽𝚘 𝙲𝚛𝚞𝚒𝚜𝚎 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚛𝚘𝚕

Embarking on a voyage to India was an idea that hadn’t previously crossed my mind. However, the moment I stumbled upon a Virgin Voyages cruise offering this enthralling destination, I swiftly seized the opportunity to book my cruise!

The cruise itself was part of the Resilient Lady’s ambitious six-week repositioning journey from Europe’s Athens to Australia. Spanning three distinct segments over two weeks each – from Athens to Dubai, Dubai to Singapore, and Singapore to Australia – this voyage promised an odyssey unlike any other.

As someone with a Full time career outside of my Cruise Vlogging and Blogging interests, holiday time would not stretch to 6 weeks in one go, so I decided to book the Dubai to Singapore leg. The best itinerary in my opinion!

When embarking on a journey to tropical climates, understanding visa requirements and any necessary medical precautions is paramount. Virgin Voyages diligently provided guidance on necessary visas, although it’s prudent to double-check, as requirements vary for different nationalities. Securing an Indian visa proved to be an intricate process, demanding exhaustive details about personal history of yourself and your family and past travel experiences over the decade prior to arrival. Despite its complexity, the effort invested in this process was entirely worthwhile!

Applying for an E Visa from India through their government website unveiled a unique procedure. Unlike electronic visas linked electronically to passports (as seen with the ESTA in the US), India required a printed visa presented to every official encountered during the trip. The confirmation arrived promptly after the application with a nominal $25 charge, though some experienced payment hiccups which were reportedly resolved by utilizing PayPal.

Virgin Voyages emphasized the importance of having the right visa’s before embarking on Resilient Lady, leaving no option to bypass this prerequisite. Their proactive reminders ensured an easier check-in process upon arrival at the Dubai cruise terminal. As we cruised towards India, daily form submissions and the Captain’s decision to arrive in Mumbai ahead of schedule, due to anticipated immigration delays, showcased the meticulous planning undertaken for this memorable visit.

Arrival in Mumbai, while picturesque with a bay full of anchored ships, faced an unexpected hurdle – the docking conundrum owing to a tree obstructing the gangway, behind a docked Crystal cruise ship. Witnessing the crew’s and Dock workers determined efforts to resolve this issue highlighted their commitment to ensuring our visit was as unhindered as possible.

Navigating immigration at Mumbai Cruise Terminal, currently under construction, demanded patience amidst the chaotic yet vibrant atmosphere. Fast-track access, primarily for shore excursion participants, facilitated a smoother process, although delays during peak hours were evident. However, a crucial reminder echoed – if one chooses to explore a country known for its chaos, patience becomes a non-negotiable virtue.

Opting for a shore excursion on our first evening in Mumbai, we promptly cleared immigration and boarded a lovely air-conditioned coach. The bustling city streets, packed with shops and restaurants, exuded a captivating yet frenzied vibe. The warmth and friendliness of Mumbai’s inhabitants, spontaneously waving at us with unbridled enthusiasm, left such a happy memory!

The chaos of Mumbai’s traffic and the sheer number of individuals crammed onto mopeds were awe-inspiring. Despite the chaos, an unmistakable sense of cordiality prevailed among the locals, affirming the city’s distinctive rhythm.

An upscale night in Mumbai culminated at a luxurious hotel, Trident Hotel at Nariman Point. They offered local delicacies and a serene atmosphere. Strolling back to the ship amid Diwali celebrations, marked by vibrant colors on the ship’s balcony, added a jubilant touch to the evening.

As we returned to our cabin, eagerly anticipating a full day of exploration in Mumbai, I invite you to stay tuned for Part 2 of this captivating journey. For a glimpse into live footage and more adventures, my Vlog will publish soon on my YouTube channel.

If you’re seeking inspiration for an unforgettable cruise, or have queries about this enthralling experience, feel free to reach out. Stay tuned for future blog posts, including our ventures in Goa – a chapter waiting to unfold in this captivating odyssey. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. 🚢🇮🇳✨

#VirginVoyages #MumbaiAdventures #IndianExploration #TravelDiaries #IncredibleIndia