Schengen visa delays cloud Diwali holiday plans

Gujaratis planning to travel to Europe for Diwali holidays are facing uncertainty and delays in getting Schengen visa appointments. Travel operators estimate that those who have already made bookings are paying up to Rs 10,000 per person for expedited visa services. Some travelers are considering changing their destination or paying extra for doorstep visa services. Diwali holiday bookings have increased by 25% compared to last year, with people opting for other destinations due to visa delays. The demand for Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Austria, and Switzerland is high, but visa delays are causing customers to redesign their itineraries.