Indian Parents Visiting USA

Travel Insurance for Parents Visiting USA from India

2024-04-30T10:01:00.000-04:00

Are you planning to bring your elder relatives or senior parents to visit you here in the United States in 2024? Then it is very important that you review and buy a good visitor insurance for parents for their travel to America. Requirements for Indian parents visiting USA have not changed a whole lot, but certain steps have recently updated due to changes in the US immigration policies. Indian parents visiting the USA on tourist purposes generally need to apply for a B-2 tourist visa. This tourist visa normally allows Indian citizens to visit friends and family members living in the United States, attend events and other family gatherings, and travel to different tourist places in the USA, and also seek health treatment and medical assistance, if needed.

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— Visitor Insurance Services of America (VISOA) (@VisitorsInsure) March 7, 2024

Application of B-2 tourist visa needs an online visa completion of (DS-160) form that includes visa fee and interview schedule at the nearest U.S embassy or Consulate. In order to process the visa, your parents should provide supporting documents like valid passport, photographs, financial proof to cover their expenses during the visit, proof of ties to India such as property ownership, business affiliation, current employment, and/or other family ties that bind their roots to their home country.

After completion of the visa application process, they need to attend the interview at the U.S embassy. During the interview, your parents may be asked about the purpose of their visit, their ties to India and their travel plans in the US. Also recent additions include biometric verification that includes fingerprints and photographs. A point to remember, always keep all your necessary documents in place and up to date to ensure a smooth and early acceptance and approval.

Most importantly, your parents are recommended to purchase visitor insurance or visitors insurance to cover medical emergencies like accidental injury, normal sickness, any hospitalization admission or any other unwanted events that occur during their visit to the USA. Ensure that you review and select the best travel insurance for parents visiting USA from India. Also have the best medical insurance for parents visiting USA from India policy taken for your parents so they need not worry about their healthcare or any other sudden sickness or injury while in America, and spend a happy and memorable stay in the U.S.

Tips on Landing for Parents Visiting USA

2020-01-24T13:03:00.000-05:00

Indian parents visiting USA has increased with the increased number of Indian IT professional working in the US inviting their relatives or parents to visiting them in America. Many Indian parents have not traveled outside India, so this journey can be a little overwhelming for them. This article helps in providing tips for them when they land in the United States.

Review/buy #VisitorsInsurance for Parents Visiting USA on https://t.co/dVRGCelQ21 #VisitorInsurance pic.twitter.com/SZClyWxLzh
— Visitor Insurance Services (@VisitorsInsure) January 23, 2020

Customs & Immigration at Port of Entry

The Customs form will be provided right before the plane touches American soil and they need to fill the basic details regarding passport number, flight details, foreign currency, and types of goods you are carrying into the country. All this information will be verified at the immigration desk once you land at the Immigration Counter. The counters are divided into two – one for U.S. citizens and U.S. Green card holders, and the other for visitors to USA. U.S. B-2 visa holders as tourists need to to go the visitors queue.

Get Wheelchair Assistance for Elder Parents Visiting USA

Many parents visiting their children abroad tend to ask for wheelchair assistance as this not only reduces the hassles of walking, but also has a shorter line for the immigration check. Most airlines do not charge anything extra for this service, so it is prudent to call the airline well in advance for the flight to include this. The person accompanying you with the wheelchair will assist your relative or parent you till the drop-off point where you can meet them. Keep in mind that wheelchair assistance needs to be requested while booking the flight ticket and again at your port of boarding.

Keep your Passport & Papers Handy

Your passport is your best friend and your identification as soon as you land in the US. Make sure to keep it handy at the airport as you’ll be often asked to show it to concerned authorities. Also keep other flight information including boarding cards to present to the immigration officer when asked.

Pick your Checked-in Luggage at Baggage Claim

Once you are done with the customs, you’ll go to baggage claim to get your luggage. As elder parents here you can either choose to carry your own belongings or you can hire a porter to carry your luggage for you till the exit doors or lobby where your relatives and children would be waiting for you with open arms!

Points to Remember during your Stay in USA

It’s important to remember that your parents would want to experience the world just as much as you do. So take them around as much as you have time to hangout with them.

It’s also important to remember that your parents will need rest, just as much as they need entertainment and so they need a lot of downtime. So sit with them and spend hours listening to your childhood stories and their experiences.

It is also very important to remember that they are 20+ years older to you and take good care of their health. So you need to buy the best visitors insurance that offers well-rounded visitor health insurance coverage for entire stay in US to take care of any unforeseen illness or medical emergency.

Give them a pleasant and safe stay in US...

Pre-Departure Tips for Parents Visiting USA

2020-01-21T10:30:00.001-05:00

Preparation for travel to America begins well before the flight takes off for your first-time travel to USA. If this your elder parents or senior relatives, it cannot be emphasized more, you can take these steps well in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey for them.

Valid Passport & U.S. Visa Stamped

Make sure that your parents have a valid passport and the expired date is well into the future. To start your parents first trip to USA, they need to take care of things on their end by first visiting the U.S. consulate to ensure the necessary paper work which should include a passport and application to obtain a U.S. visa permit (B2 tourist visa) and approval his necessary even to board the flight.

Flight Tickets & Travel Itinerary

Make sure to book the tickets well in advance to get the best price and seats, planning ahead is the way to go. Flights to the USA from most metropolitan locations in India can be cumbersome and quite tiring for elder folks, as they take at least 18 hours, and sometimes even up to 28 hours even with normal layovers. Ensure that you book the flight with the best timings and ensure you get the the best seats for ample leg space for comfort and mets the weight limits in carry-on and checked-in luggage per airline allowance. Do not keep hazardous items like mobile power banks in your check-in luggage, ensure the airline rules and follow the same.

Prescriptions & Medications: Keep Handy

Older parents should always carry their prescription medication along with them, as long as it is in its original packaging they would not be questions. Also remember to keep the doctor prescriptions to produce if asked. Sometimes, they need to carry not only all prescribed medicines, but also surplus supply, as it might not be available in the USA or the cost of filling prescription in America may be costly.

Parents visiting USA in 2020? Plan to buy #visitorinsurance from America based https://t.co/dVRGCelQ21 pic.twitter.com/iWbgkMh6V6
— Visitor Insurance Services (@VisitorsInsure) December 19, 2019

Review & Buy Visitors Insurance

Most often, elder parents are presented with the change in climatic conditions and this may cause frequent health concerns as they not adjust to these changes easily. USA has some of the best medical facilities available in the world, but access to these hospitals is costly. Hospitalization is very expensive in America, so it is prudent to review and purchase the best visitor insurance from an America based provider for the duration of stay outside India. US-based visitors insurance plans could come to their aid during sickness or injury while in the United States. A good visitor health insurance plan will help them in the event of any medical emergency and also offers financial protection against illness or injury during their visit.

Bringing Indian Parents as Visitors to America

2019-12-06T12:17:00.001-05:00

The topic of convincing and arranging to bring your parents from India to visit the U.S. is important and close at heart for many Indian IT technology or health professional working in the United States. This blog article elaborates the issues and the importance of buying the best visitors insurance for parents visiting USA from India also.

Understand the Parents Point of View

Children are always concerned about our elder parents while taking every decision in our life. Especially if being the only child of your parents, its always a major responsibility and more for a girl child, though it's similar to a boy too, and often we keep thinking over it as to how to manage their old age. Many times right from you decide to go for your higher education till you get married, US residing children get stuck between career and responsibilities. Parents can stay in India and do their advisory work as long as they don’t need anybody to look after them. Problem arises only when they need somebody’s presence 24×7! You may convince them to move to USA then.

Some Indian parents are very hard to convince, in such case suggest and educate your parents that why you can’t leave them alone and why you can’t come back. I know parents will not understand this at that age, as they have strong bonds with India. With time and careful coaxing, you can win their hearts and they will agree to visiting you in America.

Plan Short-term Travel to USA

Then you have to bring them to USA for a long period, say for the duration of their US visitor visa (B-2 Visa) of usually 6 months, and try to convince them not to go back. Promise them to take them to India once in a year and keep your promise. As they are strongly attached with India it is just impossible for them to leave the place at once. Few trips to India and then back to USA will help them to adjust and soon they will realize your importance. They will be happy watching their grandson or granddaughter growing up in America, and they will miss him or her when they are back in India.

Spending Quality Time with Parents Visiting USA

At this point of age, money and materialistic comfort is not that important as emotional comfort is required. It is important to provide them the same. Don’t just keep your schedule office and work but spend some time with them. Taking them to tourist spots nearby to where you live for a weekend, this will not work as much as you and your family spending time with them and chatting.

Kill their Loneliness, Keep Them Not Bored

Most of the parents when brought from India to USA feel lonely and this is the major factor why parents don’t wish to settle in USA. Try to spend as much time as you can with your parents so that they don’t feel alone in USA. If possible take a break from your job for about a month or so and spend all the time with them. Later when they are adjusted to America, you can go back to job. Parents sacrifice for their kids, so once they understand you and see that you left job just to be with them, they will understand and will settle in USA.

Always Buy Parents Visitor Insurance

Now that we have taken the responsibility to bring them to America and the process of which might even take a few years with frequent visits. During this time the most important is their health, a small sickness will also cause utmost tension and bring all your efforts back to square one. Compare, review and buy the best suitable visitors insurance for parents plan to keep them safe and attended to at any point of time with the best of medical services.

How to Keep Mothers Visiting USA Busy and Not Bored

2019-11-14T13:33:00.001-05:00

Your mother is your single most favorite woman in the world, and the two of you share a bond like no other. Through your childhood she has cared for you, nurtured you and guided you. She's brought you where you are today. But now that you're all grown up and a beautiful woman or handsome man, and all settled in the US, it's time to reconnect with your mom. So once she has decided and taken time off to spend with you, all you have to do is get her the flight tickets and spend a whole lot of quality time with your visiting mother or even both your parents.

Here are a few activities for you to ponder that will definitely bring you a little closer together.

Is she here to help you with your new born child?

Many Indian parents or mothers or mother-in-law come to help their sons or daughtrs living/working in America. If she is here to help you take care of your new born child, this is a blessing and endeavor of love. I am sure she as the grandmother would be thrilled to do this selflessly.

Does she love reading?

If a community library is nearby, may be she can spend some time when you guys are off to work. Else may be weekends, you can bring in many books for her to read through the week. Or even get her a magazine or newpaper to keep her occuped and reading.

Is your home in a good neighborhood?

If so, may be she can go for walks in the late afternoon and if there are many Indian parents, I bet she will make friends with them without your help. Chit-chatting with neighbors helps her to understand the America she is in and also keeps her involved with the community.

What about Other Parents Visiting USA?

Are there Indian mothers and any housewives or any work from home ladies or parents. May be you can invite them once during weekend and if your mom is comfortable, they can catch up during weekdays in either houses.

What about Indian entertainment options

Do you have Indian channels? Satellite provider Dish Network and Direct TV and other streaming providers has loads of them. Cable too I guess. Else there are lots of internet sites she can see the serials and stuffs she likes. Then there is free YouTube with loads of Indian media content to entertain her.

Is there a home computer she can use?

May be you can teach her the basics, so that she can read newspapers online and magazines she likes. Maybe she can explore her passion of cooking research recepies and make a new dish for you.

Weekends is fun time, enjoy!

Since you guys are busy during the week and mostly find free time only during the weekend, you can take her outing, because all the week she is at home correct? She will love to be outside. You can go to local state parks not many luxury trips but just being outside. Sometimes the best quality time spent need not involve a lot of money, and can be done free too by being a little creative.

Have Game Day like potluck

It can be just snacks and nice games. Yes! You will be amazed how mothers enjoy playing games. But the group should have majority elders, else your mom might shy away.

Check with your local temple or community centers

US Indian temples usually has something for older people. When you visit the temple, church or other religious/social gathering place. Research and you can also find out if she can involve herself in any activities like editing articles for the magazines, preparing anything for a special occasion, making something for the worship, etc. All this keeps her busy and not bored.

Give Her Some Cash in Hand

Give her some cash in hand. Let her do small groceries etc. She can make friends within the neighborhood and they could also go out for small eatery places and have their own fun. Or maybe the grocery store is a few blocks away by walk, she can take a stoll and enjoy being out, weather permiting.

Work-from-home if your Job allows

Lastly make good qwality time for them. They not here to just see US or help you with household stuff. Most importantly, they're here to see you and be with YOU and family. Try to do during her stay "work from home" for 2 days like Tuesdays and Thursdays or something to that effect. So that you can spend time with her at least physically and she will be happy to cook something for you.

Buy the Best Visitors Insurance for Parents visiting USA

It is important to review, select and purchase the best visitors insurance for parents visiting USA. The cost of helthcare is very in the United States, buy coverage for visitors plan to make her stay comfortable and worry-free for you, know that her medical needs are covered for.

Ensure that you have the best of the visitors insurance policy taken for your mother so she need not worry about her health or any other sudden sickness or injury while in America, and spend a happy and memorable stay in the U.S.

Best Places to Travel with Parents Visiting USA

2019-11-13T12:38:00.001-05:00

If your relatives or parents are visiting USA, consider planning a visit to the top tourist spots in USA. They are staying with you in the US for some time, plan to keep them busy and not bored by visiting tourist places in America. Travel and show them the best of USA and make their trip enjoyable.

Top Spots to Visit in USA With Your Parents or Relatives

Here are a few places which should not be missed during their visit to USA.

Boston is very historical if they have an interest in the American Revolution and the colonial period. There are many excellent seafood restaurants and great steakhouses. Visiting Boston and New England in the Fall is a treat to the eyes, They would love seeing the tree colours. You could drive them around Nantucket Island and Cape Cod. ). New England is beautiful in the fall because of the foliage and there are some wonderful beaches on both coasts which are well populated during the warm months.
New York City is exciting to see, so many cultures living in harmony. Some people feel it is crowded and expensive, which is true, but it is the place that has excellent stage productions, fantastic museums, outstanding restaurants and exciting night life. It is not a place to relax because there is always street noise but you would love the energy of the city. The hop on hop off bus is a good way to see all the key places. The high Empire State Building would surely keep them amazed. The horse and carriage around Central Park would be wonderful and they would be blown away by the Times square and would love the Statue of Liberty. Niagara Falls in upstate NY is a driveable side trip north.
Chicago is a the windy city and is located in the midwest region along the shores of Lake Michigan. The city landmarks include Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum Campus, the Willis (Sears) Tower, Grant Park, the Museum of Science and Industry, and Lincoln Park Zoo.
San Francisco in California is one other recommendation and this city is beautiful. I love the views of the bay from the hills, the trolley cars, the Asian food and the thriving waterfront. The bay area has a thriving Indian eaeries and restaurants to splurge on. Explore the city and you would just love being there.
Orlando is located in Central Florida is one of the most visited family travel destinations in the world, and for good reasons. The sunny weather and the huge variety of Orlando attractions for every age group make this a great place to plan a family vacation that will rank in the ‘best ever’ category. Among its principal attractions for parents visiting USA are Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Orlando. Within easy reach too, is the Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral. Miami and Tampa are drivable locations too.
Washington, D.C. is the nations capital and another beautiful city to visit with parents or relatives visiting USA. There are fabulous museums including huge magnificent buildings and, of course, the White House. Georgetown, a section of the city, is my favorite area because it is trendy and has great restaurants.
Seattle is a city in the pacifica Northwest not to missed, if your family enjoys the outdoors then they may like the White Mountain area in New Hampshire and some of the mountains in the western part of the United States including Mt. Rainer in Washington where another favorite city is located. It does rain a great deal of the time but it still is a wonderful place to visit. Vancouver in Canada is a driveable side journey from here.
New Orleans in Lousiana is also a favorite city for many reasons. If your family loves live music, dancing, great seafood and an interesting historic area, then I would recommend this city, especially during the Mardi Gras parade.

Consider the Weather and Season if Traveling with Elder Parents

Now there is one more topic to be considered for parents visiting USA and that is weather. It can be very cold in the northern part of the United States during the winter months (December -March/April) and quite warm and humid in the southern part (May-August). Even the climate needs to be considered, watch out for hurricane season or other weather related warnings.

Tips to follow for Parents Traveling in USA

Select good small hotels or Airbnbs which are highly recommended.
Purchase books about the places that you would like to visit to get more ideas.
Pack lightly since you will be traveling.
Carry a good thick jackets to beat the chillness and also try to stick to one or two neutral colors with a tie or scarf for color.
Dress casually and blend in with the crowd.
Review maps and destinations, if in doubt, ask someone in authority for directions.
Be aware of popular scams and always be aware of your surroundings.
Always research to spot you visiting in the a map before you leave your hotel room.

Buy the Best Visitors Insurance for Parents Visiting USA

Once they have booked their flight tickets it becomes the responsibility of the children living in America to buy the best suitable visitors insurance for parents from india plan and ensure that any unforeseen health needs due to a sicknes or illness or accidental injury is taken care of with the best possible medical attention.

I hope that this information is helpful and I wish you and your family many wonderful times together as you explore the United States of America.

Tips for Parents Traveling Alone to USA

2019-11-06T09:51:00.001-05:00

Parents visiting USA or relatives travelling alone to America are immensely helped by step-by-step instructions that are given to them prior to departure. These detailed instructions should include steps to follow at the point of departure, during transit, and upon arrival in the USA.

Every year, thousands of elder relatives or senior parents, especially individuals over the age of 65 years travel to USA on their own. You, or even if you are helping your parents too, by using the same good judgment make the journey a breeze. Begin with caution and figure out as you travel what feels right to you. Create conditions that are likely to turn out in your favor, and with a little planning, you'll have a safer, smoother, more enjoyable travel to USA.

Tips and Essentials - Note Impotant Points

Note the below essential points:

Firstly, buy them an international calling card that can be used from anywhere along with instructions on how to use them. This is in case for some reason, their transit flight gets delayed or for any other reason they need to reach you on their way to US.
Secondly, have them carry USD in change to get a cart for their luggage upon arrival in the USA. Having sufficient change ($5) would help them always for any urgent needs.
Lastly, get wheelchair assistance added to your airline ticket. Most airlines accomadate this request at no additional charge or fees, especially for elder relatives or parents visiting USA

Tips and Essentials - Plan for the Journey to USA

A little research on the airport that they are flying out of, and the specific flight they will be taking helps your solo traveler to avoid problems. Call the airline to get this information and any other details you need to make travel decisions for your elderly companion. For example, this information helps you choose a seat with a movable armrest near the accessible restroom. Find out if you need medical forms to bring certain medical equipment on the plane. Your parent can travel with a personal wheelchair, or you can use a free wheelchair at the airport. The airlines wheelchair option is ideal for elderly travelers who can walk but have some mobility issues. Some airlines run out of wheelchairs at busy times, so an advanced reservation ensures you get one, even if it’s busy.

Tips and Essentials - Prepare for Security Check

All passengers must go through screening at the security checkpoint, but you can get some modifications for your elderly passenger.

Here’s what to expect when taking your carry-on bag through security screening when you fly.

Electronics - You will be asked to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin separately for screening.
Food Items - Listen to the instructions of the airport security screening staff. In most cases, food or snacks such as fruit, health bars, and sandwiches can stay inside your carry-on bag. There are special instructions for liquids, gels, and aerosols and medically necessary items.
Packing Foods - If you are preparing food for your flight, be aware that how and what you pack can impact the screening process. Be sure that you check for prohibited items and remember to follow the no carryon liquid rule.

In addition to screening personal electronic devices separately, including laptops, tablets and e-readers. Officers may instruct travelers to separate other items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

We recommend seniors traveling alone to keep your bag organized to help ease the screening process. Avoid carrying a jam-packed, cluttered, overstuffed bag.

Tips and Essentials - Pack these Items Handy

There are plenty of things that can go wrong at the airport. So it is very important that you take care of all points to ensure that when you are traveling alone at the age of 65+ you will have a drama free experience.

These airport tips for senior travelers make their travel easier:

Book a non-stop direct flight to your destination in the U.S.
Carry your medications with you.
Keep a list of emergency contacts on you.
Wear one of the most comfortable dresses with easy access to your mobile.
Wear comfortable shoes that can be removed for confoty during long flight.
Drink plenty of water and pack some snacks, if you have dietery restrictions.
Invest a small amount to upgrade your assigned seats with plenty of leg room.

Buy the Best Visitors Insurance for Parents Visiting USA from India

Planning is key and essential to have a confortable and worryfree stay in America. Above all , remember to buy a proper visitors insurance for parents visiting USA. These plans are more a necessicity, especuially if you plan to saty with your sons or daughters living in the US. Cost of healthcare is very high in the United States or Canada, buy visitors voverage that covers from the start date and end date right from the time they step into the airport, to the day you return back. These plans cover sickness or injury, and may be a life saver considering the steep bills even for a short stay for care received at the emergency room or hospital. Visitors Health Insurance plans ensure relatives visiting USA a peaaceful stay as you know that your coverage is available when needed.

Tips for First Time Flyers from India to USA

2019-10-31T11:24:00.000-04:00

Flying for the first time could be very exciting! Once your travel dates are finalized ensure you review, analyze and buy a proper visitors insurance to cover your entire stay in USA. Here are some tips to help one make his/her first flight experience good.

Many elder relatives or parents visiting USA for the first time find this process quite stressful, especially if the traveling international for the first time. Educating and guiding them of these few simple steps goes a long way in helping them feel comfortable and make their journey less stressful.

Reach the Airport at-the-least 3 hours prior to boarding time as this is your first time. You don't need the stress, so plan a bit and keep a schedule. Airlines are very strict about their boarding time, so try to check online and confirm for any changes.

At the International Airport in India

Procedure that is followed at most of the airports in India:

Show your ticket copy / sms to the security guard at the terminal entrance along with one photo identity proof in original.
Once you enter the terminal, go to your respective airline counter to get the boarding pass and to check-in luggage. Show your ticket copy at the counter. Make sure your total luggage weight is in the limits, otherwise be ready to pay extra for additional kilos. Once you get your boarding pass, confirm the gate number which is written in your boarding pass.
Once you get the boarding pass and have given all your luggage (except hand baggage) for check-in, you can now proceed for security check. Follow directions at the airport to reach the security check spot for your gate. Once you reach the security check, empty your pockets (except the boarding pass) and keep everything in your hand baggage. Laptops needs to be kept separately from its backpack. Trays will be provided to keep your belongings. A security personnel will scan your body and put a seal of security check on your boarding pass.
Now the security check is done. You can now proceed to the respective gate. Follow the directions at the airport to reach the right gate.

Boarding the Flight on your journey to USA

Wait for the announcement to board. About half an hour prior to takeoff, the gate attendant will announce the boarding time. Boarding is done in groups, Check your boarding pass to see which group you belong to and wait to be called.
Get your boarding pass checked. After waiting in line for boarding, there will be a gate attendant next to the entrance waiting to check your boarding pass. You will need to show your passport again at this point. Keep your boarding pass out after having it checked, as you may need to show it to an additional flight attendant on the plane.
Walk down the hallway that leads up to your plane. While most hallways are short, there are some gates who may have line hallways much longer and curvier than others. Sometimes a bus would take you to the aircraft.
Enter the aircraft. There is typically a buildup of passengers after the boarding pass check, so you may have to wait in line again before boarding the plane. Check your seat to make sure you are headed in the right direction, and keep a lookout for your row number.
Stow your carry-on items. When you have located your seat, place your smaller bag under your chair, and look for available space in the overhead bins for your larger carry-on.
Get settled in. You’re all done! Now it’s time for you to sit back and relax while you are carried away to USA in luxury. During the flight, you will sometimes be offered a free drink and food (depending on the carrier and length of the flight). If needed, there are restrooms in the front and back of the plane. Any other questions can be directed towards flight attendants.

This is your first flight and most probably you won't meet anyone that you encounter on airport or plane after that again. Enjoy and hug your near dear ones before entering airport, Follow these simple guidelines and your flight will not only be easy but enjoyable. You will arrive at your destination feeling relaxed and good about yourself. Have Fun and Bon Voyage!!

Diwali Celebration Ideas for Parents Visiting USA

2019-10-23T10:45:00.002-04:00

Diwali or Deepavalli is the biggest and the brightest of all Hindu festivals celebrated in India and by Indians living in USA or other nations. It is the festival of lights where the word "deep" means "light" and avalli "a row", so the word Deepavalli becomes "a row of lights". Diwali is marked by four days of celebration, which literally illuminates the country with its brilliance and dazzles people with its joy.

Diwali as we know is the most awaited festival for Indians all across the world every year. It is celebrated with lighting diyas, firing crackers, distributing sweets, and wishing good health and wealth to near and dear one’s. A triumph of good over evil, the festival brings great enthusiasm and energy to all around.

Origins of Diwali, the Festival of Lights in India

In northern India, they celebrate the story of King Rama's return to Ayodhya after he defeated Ravana by lighting rows of clay lamps.
Southern India celebrates it as the day that Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura.
In western India the festival marks the day that Lord Vishnu, the Preserver (one of the main gods of the Hindu trinity) sent the demon King Bali to rule the world.

Diwali Celebration in USA

Diwali celebration in USA goes a long way in building team spirit as people from different nations actively participate and thus are able to network and get to know more about the Indian festival.
Celebration provides stronger connection between the workplace and enhances their experience as valued employees while depicting the richness of Indian culture.

Parents from India often utilize this holiday season and travel to USA to spend the festival with their children or other younger generation of their family living in America. Diwali calls for a grand celebration with the entire Indian community and others.

Diwali celebration ideas to have a little more “JOY” with visiting parents:

Organize fun contests in your local Indian Community -You can have a fortune cookie related session for all your friends. You can also ask them to complete the sentences with a funnier version of Ramayana Dialogues with “If this were said now!” There can be thali decorating, Diya making, rangoli competition, and bay decorations also.
Get some Henna artists for Indian ladies - We bet women will love this surprise more than the chocolates. Bring a bunch of henna artists and see their faces lit up with glee and hands filled with awesome mehandi designs.
Organize a best ethnic wear contest - This goes without saying but you can surely arrange a competition for the youngsters. You can also have a ramp walk session, articulate a question for the final round and ask them to show a small piece of their talent. The one who wins gets a beautiful crown and the title Miss. Diva
Have a fun photo booth session - You can also create a photo booth area, wherein, you can keep various props like a big mustache, a big crown, wigs, and praying beads, etc. Friends can click photos here and also put their social media accounts for fun.
Potluck or free lunch, You choose? - You can organize a potluck or take their day’s lunch on yourself. Everyone loves to hog on some delectable food, so make everyone enjoy the feast.

Spread the joyous spirit of Diwali around

This light festival brings peace to people. It brings the light of peace to the heart. Diwali certainly brings spiritual calmness to people. Sharing joy and happiness is another spiritual benefit of Diwali. With so much of ideas on how to celebrate Diwali, Its fun Visiting friends, relatives and children in USA during this festival of lights which brings happiness to one and all. Now you can plan your relatives or parents travel to USA, but always remember to buy a proper visitors insurance coverage from US based companies for them to avoid any unexpected sickness or injury, while you are enjoying the festival time and happy in company of friends and family, eating good food, and enjoying fireworks.

One cannot imagine the delightful contribution of this glorious festival. It is certainly one of the greatest festivals in the world.

Packing List for Parents Visiting USA

2019-10-17T10:04:00.005-04:00

Packing of baggage for parents visiting USA is very tough task, especially when you traveling for a long term to stay in USA with your sons or daughters or other family member's living and working in the USA.

Now that you have made your travel plans, flight tickets booked, required visas stamped, necessary visitors insurance purchased, and you are about to start packing. Planning to pack your baggage for visiting USA can be daunting task, but with a little planning and a methodical approach, this can be tackled very easily.

Where and How to start with the Packing List for Parents Visiting USA?

To start with, ask these three basic questions to evaluate and compete your packing list for visiting USA:

What should I pack and carry to USA?
What would be available to purchase in USA
Will my suitcase meet the limits and accommodate?

What Needs to be Packed for my Visit to USA?

Frankly speaking , everything is available in the US just with some minor price variation. If you start converting USD to INR, then you will find everything too expensive here, but that's a habit you should get rid of over time. It will also depend upon which place you are going to stay and the weight limit of the check-in luggage you can carry. But however these are few of the important things needed especially for elderly parents visiting USA.

Clothes: You might need warm clothes depending on what time of the year you have been visiting so I would suggest you carry at least one coat and a few woolens. Tip: Wear the jacket in the airport which you are planning to bring. You will save the luggage weight which can be utilized for something more useful. Parents often need to carry some Indian traditional clothes and footwear. There are Indian festivals where you need to go properly dressed.
Food: you might want to carry some basic spices, although you will find everything in most urban places in America. Most often, as parents you do want to make your traditional Indian flavored foods for your family.
Medicines: On this one I would suggest, carry your basic medicines and don't forget to carry a prescription from a reputed doctor who would be ready to write some basic antibiotics or medicines for you. Dental is very costly. Get all you dental fixes done in India before flying to US. Specs are slightly costly here, so get 1-2 extra. Lenses are cheap and of good quality, if you have a vision insurance plan. It is very much advisable to take a US Visitor insurance plan after analyzing and reviewing your needs before you board the flight.
Electronics: You need to get hold of an adapter for US, flat 2 pin plugs, to help you charging your mobile and laptops.

What is Available to be Purchased in the U.S.?

Evaluate the weight limit vs the need of the material. I will not recommend taking decisions based on cost of the item, but rather its availability in US (except medicines, they too are available but at a sky high prices). You need to check if there are many Indians in the place where you are going to stay. If there is a large community, then it is highly likely that there will be an Indian stores where you can buy all your needs. You even get ready made powders by MTR, Everest, etc brands in US, so you do not need to carry. Visitors insurance is very essential for relatives or parents visiting USA, this comes handy to overcome any unforeseen health conditions including when you are in transit and also during your short-term stay in America. Buying coverage lets you be more comfortable, and knowing that you are protected when you take it from a US vendor as you have all the support and immediate assistance.

Will my Suitcase Meet the Airline Baggage Limits and Fit Everything I need?

Most airline baggage limits for Economy class are commonly, the total linear dimension (length + height + width) of each checked in baggage should not exceed 62 inches (158 cm)., and weight of each checked-in baggage should also not exceed 23 kg (50 lbs). Premium and Business classes may usually allow higher limits, it is always a good idea to check the airline website for details.

Almost all the airlines allow two checked in luggage and one cabin bag and one laptop bag. But to be on the safer side we should always check this while booking airline ticket. You should also get TSA approved locks for the bags. Sometimes when authorities check your luggage, you may find a notice that your baggage has been inspected. Ensure baggage locked with TSA locks so that the contents are not stolen, broken or mishandled.

Most major cities in the USA have Indian grocery stores. So you should be able to get all the spices and flours and back from home that you want. I would also guess that many of the things from back home that you might want (books, music, videos, etc) are probably available online if not in Indian shops here. So just don’t worry too much, take it easy and go with the flow.

Bon voyage and have safe journey and fun-filled stay in America!

Pack your bags comfortably, and also remember to buy the best visitors insurance for parents visiting USA and have a safe trip. Good Luck!!

Indian Masala to Carry by Parents Visiting USA

2019-10-14T13:08:00.000-04:00

Masalas from India spice up your food plate. Be it any dish you make in USA a little bit of masala will imbue a generic Indian flavor to the dish under preparation. Masala or curry powders generally mean a mixture of spices that bring a soothing taste to the curry. However each Indian spice will serve a specific purpose and will be related to both health and taste. Masalas can also be added at the end of cooking or even sprinkled on a dish when serving. It just makes your cooking flavor filled Indian dishes.

What are the most common masalas that parents visiting USA would prefer to carry?

Garam Masalsa - It is the most popular spice mix in India which involves grinding cloves, cumin seeds, black cardamom, cinnamon, coriander/cilantro seeds, bay leaves into a fine powder and is used in many curries.
Chole Masala - Also called as Chana masala is a blend, a simple and flavorful recipe that will definitely give a special touch to your kitchen pantry.
Biryani Masala - It makes the best tasting biryani and your kitchen will have its beautiful aroma as biryani is cooking
Chaat Masala - As the name suggests this masala is used with the Indian street food called chaat.
Tandoori Masala - It is a mixture of spices specifically for use with a tandoor, or clay oven, in traditional north Indian and Pakistani cooking.

Where do I get these masalas?

Masalas can be home made by reaching out to recipes from grand-moms or even those found on the internet. Although you can buy this masala powder from stores, but the homemade masalas are always are the best and fresh. Making these masalas at home are very easy. Just gather the spices, clean and check if any bad ones or worms in it. Then simply dry roast for couple of minutes and grind into powder. The spices in each are designed to not overpower, but compliment the ingredients that are being cooked with. Masala spice is in powdered form and so can be varied in exact proportions and this is necessary for the Indian curry.

Parents visiting USA, how to pack curry masala?

Foremost thing to pack your masalas is to first check if the spices are allowed to be carried to USA. The plastic zip lock bags are perfect. Just be extra sure that the contents are not leaking from the pack by securing it with a tape. Use the brown one which is used to seal cartons. However, don’t fully cover the pack with the tape so that no one can see the contents. There are also pre-packaged branded masala mixes that can be carried.

Check if the brand of masala is locally available in the US?

Nowadays, these masala powders are extensively available at many local India grocers or food stores/markets, and if you have a close-by store carrying your favorite brand, the whole point of bring this along is moot. But if you prefer your home made versions, this would be worth carry with you.

Relatives visiting USA, masala packed and all set to go!

I realized not only do I love to cook, but I love to cook for the people I love and care for. Feeding the appetites of your friends and family is a way of saying “I love you”, “Thank you”, “I’m sorry”, “Get Well Soon” and “Happy Birthday”. One of the most rewarding ways to cultivate a relationship and nurture someone is to cook for them. Now that you are ready with required masalas to make yummy Indian dishes for your children and grandchildren just pack your bags and get onto the flight.

Buy Visitors Insurance for parents visiting USA

With bags packed, tickets and passports/visa ready, and before you embark on your journey to the U.S, don’t forget to take a proper visitors insurance to protect you for sickness or injury during your stay in the host country. Now if you become sick or injured, with coverage for visitors, you can visit a doctor or hospital to take care of this if this is an eligible covered expense by the plan.

Tips to Secure Best Airfare Deals for Visiting USA

2019-10-10T13:10:00.000-04:00

To get best airfare deals for cheapest flights, for India to USA travel, understand and keep few points in mind at the time of booking.

Airfares are generally the highest for India to USA travel in August to early September, because that is when loads of students make their way to America. Fares are generally the lowest for second half of November when the US shuts down for the long Thanksgiving weekend and business comes to a stop.

Get your US Visitor Visa before buying airline tickets:

Now that you have hot your US visitor visa (B1/B2 visa), you are ready to find the best deals for airline tickets to America. Comfort is needed by everyone but the cost of achieving it matters a lot. Online flight booking is not a mind boggling task but to crack the best deals is really breathtaking. Finding cheap and genuine deals may be challenging but not impossible.

Useful tips for online ticket booking to get cheapest airfares to USA from India:

Pick non-refundable airline tickets as cheaper: Non-refundable airline tickets are always cheaper than the refundable one. Therefore, it is advised to book flight ticket online only when you are sure of your travel dates. Also prefer to book a round trip rather than a one-sided trip.

Skip Weekend dates as they tend to be more expensive:

This is another way to get cheap online flight tickets. Weekend is generally meant for fun and holidays and so the flight charges might be higher than usual. So, make your program on weekdays and save money on the same. Apart from this, late night and mid-day flights are usually cheaper than the early morning one. So, in order to save money, you can book the late night flight tickets. We also sometimes find travel on Tuesdays much cheaper than others.

Book as early as possible as fares are expensive closer to travel dates:

It is a tested fact that the closer you get to your travel date, higher the price you’ll have to pay. So, make sure that you book your flight tickets at least 30 to 45 days in advance and 60 days or earlier might be ideal.

Be actively informed for price drops or fare changes:

We need to keep a regular check on the airline websites as sometimes they offer attractive discounts, sales or deals. Apart from the websites, you need to stay active on Google Flights, Facebook, Twitter and other social media where the airline companies can announce the cheapest deals.

Also, compare prices from different airline and travel aggregator or agent websites and then book from the best one where you are getting reasonable prices. Once the flight booking is done, your travel plans are now all set.

Buy Visitors Insurance to cover sickness or injury in USA:

Also, in the quest for the cheapest fares, for you and /or family as a tourist, or if relatives or parents visiting USA, don't forget to review and buy the best visitors insurance for the complete travel dates outside of India, and ensure that all individuals visiting USA are medically covered as cost of healthcare is very high.

Enjoy a memorable stay with your near and dear ones.

Navratri Celebrations in USA by Indians

2019-10-07T13:01:00.000-04:00

Navratri is amongst the most important Hindu festivals. This auspicious festival is celebrated with great zeal and devotion throughout India. The literal meaning of 'Navratri' is 'nine auspicious nights'. Navaratri is a pious festival celebrated in the honor of nine different forms of the Goddess Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati for nine continuous days.

The two main stories for celebrating Navratri are:

The Nine Divine Forms of Devi: During the nine nights, nine different forms or avatars of the Devi are worshiped, a different form each night.
The Legend of Ram: Another legend says that Lord Ram worshiped Goddess Durga’s nine forms over nine days. As a result, he was granted the strength to kill the evil Ravan and free Sita.

Navratri Celabrations with Garba, Dandiya and more

Tenth day of Navratri is usually celebrated with colourful and mind blowing dances like Garba and Dandiya. Garba has devotional appeal and it is performed along with bhajans and chants, praising the many divine forms of the Goddess. It is done before the aarti. On the other hand, Dandiyais are usually played during the late evening, as part of the merriment, after the aarti pooja is done.

Golu Pooja celebrated by South Indians

People from south Indian origin living in USA also celebrate with Golu during Dussehra, where festive display of dolls and figurine are arranged in steps. This is often referred to as Bommai Kolu in Tamil, or Bommala Koluvu in Telugu, or Bombe Habba in Kannada languages. It is a part of the annual Dasara-Vijayadasami Hindu festival where women display dolls, figurine, court life, everyday scenes along with the divine presence of the Goddesses Saraswati, Parvati and Laxmi in the Tamil, Kannada and Telugu households during Navaratri or The Nine nights.

Plan for parents or relatives from India visiting USA

Parents and relatives usually in India take this long vacation as an advantage and travel to USA to spend the festival with their children. We have many dance festivals happening in California, Illinois, Washington, and New Jersey and lots of youngsters participate. This is the one of the most awaited festivals of Indians in US and people flock together in colorful beautiful dresses to showcase their talents. Flight tickets are also very expensive during this time and hence parents and relatives visiting USA must plan their travel in advance, and also buy visitors insurance way before to ensure a worry-free, happy and peaceful stay in USA.

The significance of the festival of Navaratri

The warmth and togetherness we feel when we gather around our family and friends for nine days is unimaginable. It is a time filled with joy, love, and devotion. The aim of celebrating this festival is to remind people of the real goals of human life and also make them understand the value of doing good and condemning evil.

Planning Tips for Parents Visiting USA

2019-10-03T15:17:00.000-04:00

Parents of individuals who are on H1b or F1 visa status can invite their relatives or parents to visit USA. As of current date, their parents can apply for a visitor B1/B2 Visa which is valid for a temporary visit. This tourist visa is typically issued for a validity of 10 years, with an option of multiple entry, although sometimes the validity might be for a lesser duration. They can stay for a maximum period of six months during each visit. The only way for them to be able to live permanently in the US is to become an immigrant with a green card.

Requirements to get a US Visitor Visa

A lot of planning is required before your parents board the flight to America. The two most important tips are meet the preconditions necessary before applying for a visitor visa for relatives or parents visiting USA are as below:

Parent’s Passport - Your Parents must have a valid passport for at least 6 months. If your parents do not have a passport, then the first step is to apply for one. Nowadays there are Passport Seva Kendras set up in most cities and the process is very simple and usually takes 30 days. If you have an emergency you can apply in Tatkal quota and get it in 7 days.
Bank Statement - This is very important for a person sponsoring a visa for parents visiting USA , So start saving as early as possible to show the required balance in the official bank statement to cover their expenses during their stay in US with you. You need to ask parents to visit their local bank branch and ask them for a bank verification letter or bank statement showing the current balance. Each bank will have their own format and will mention things like when the account was opened and the current bank balance.

Next Steps - Buy Airline Tickets and Visitor Insurance

With these two items ready, you can follow a step-by-step process to get a visitor or tourist visa for relatives or parents visiting USA at the US consulate. Once approved, shop around and buy their two-way air tickets along with return dates set. Don't forget that cost of health care is very high in the US, review and buy a visitors insurance plan to cover sickness or injury outside India. Following these planning steps helps them spend a happy and memorable time with you during their visit to America.