OFFBEAT Destinations

IRELAND


Ireland offers a treasure trove of experiences from stunning natural landscapes to ancient heritage sites. From the rugged coastline to the lush green countryside, every corner offers a tableau worthy of capturing. Whether you're wandering through historic streets, trekking along picturesque trails, or soaking in the essence of traditional music and storytelling, Ireland beckons with promises of discovery and enchantment at every turn.

Travel & Visa - From India, you can fly to Dublin Airport (DUB) with connecting flights available from major international airports. Indian citizens require a visa to enter Ireland. Apply for a short-stay tourist visa (Type C) well in advance of your trip through the Embassy of Ireland in India or through the Visa Application Centre.

Best Time to visit -

The best time to visit Ireland for photography is during the late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant.

Ideal Duration: 3-4 days

Tentative Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Dublin

  • Morning: Arrival at Dublin Airport.
  • Afternoon: Check into your accommodation in Dublin and explore the city's iconic
  • landmarks, such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
  • Evening: Capture the sunset along the River Liffey or from the vantage point of the
  • Samuel Beckett Bridge. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Irish pub.

Day 2: Dublin to Cliffs of Moher

  • Morning: Depart from Dublin and head west towards the Cliffs of Moher. It's approximately a 3.5-hour drive.
  • Afternoon: Arrive at the Cliffs of Moher and spend the afternoon photographing the breathtaking coastal scenery and dramatic cliffs.
  • Evening: Explore the nearby village of Doolin or Lahinch for dinner and accommodation.

Day 3: County Kerry

  • Morning: Depart from the Cliffs of Moher and drive south to County Kerry, known for its stunning landscapes.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that offers panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and coastline. Stop at picturesque locations such as Ladies View, Moll's Gap, and Ross Castle for photography.
  • Evening: Overnight stay in Killarney or Kenmare. 

Day 4: County Wicklow and Return to Dublin

• Morning: Depart from County Kerry and drive back towards Dublin, stopping in County Wicklow, also known as the "Garden of Ireland."

  • Afternoon: Explore the Wicklow Mountains National Park and capture the natural beauty of its valleys, lakes, and forests. Visit Glendalough, an ancient monastic site nestled in a picturesque valley.
  • Evening: Return to Dublin, where you can spend your final evening exploring the city.

ICELAND


As photographers who have had the privilege of exploring Iceland's captivating landscapes, we can attest to its unique appeal for travelers seeking adventure and discovery. From our firsthand experiences, we've beheld the majestic beauty of cascading waterfalls, towering glaciers, and rugged volcanic terrain that define Iceland's dramatic scenery. Venturing across this land of contrasts, we've marveled at the sight of steaming geothermal springs and immersed ourselves in its otherworldly landscapes. Our journey was made even more unforgettable by witnessing the mesmerizing dance of the Auroras across the Arctic sky and the enchanting spectacle of rainbows stretching over Iceland's vast horizons. Each photograph captured reflects not just the beauty, but also the profound sense of wonder and exploration that Iceland evokes, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its pristine vistas and unforgettable experiences.

Travel & Visa - From India, you can fly to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Iceland. Major airlines offer connecting flights with layovers in European cities like London, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam. Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to enter Iceland. Apply for a visa well in advance of your trip.

Best Time to visit -

May to September - Long daylight hours and the Midnight Sun phenomenon make it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Ideal Duration: 4-5 days

Tentative Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik

  • Morning: Arrival at Keflavik International Airport.
  • Afternoon: Transfer to Reykjavik, Iceland's vibrant capital city. Explore Reykjavik's
  • colorful streets, visit Hallgrimskirkja Church, and stroll along the waterfront.
  • Evening: Rest and prepare for the next few days

Day 2: Golden Circle

  • Morning: Embark on the Golden Circle tour, visiting Thingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Witness the stunning Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal area of Geysir.
  • Afternoon: Explore the volcanic landscape of Haukadalur
  • Evening: Return to Reykjavik and relax in the city. Consider visiting the Blue
  • Lagoon for a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters.

Day 3: South Coast Exploration

  • Morning: Depart from Reykjavik and head towards the South Coast. Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, where you can walk behind Seljalandsfoss for a unique perspective.
  • Afternoon: Explore the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and marvel at the basalt sea stacks of Reynisdrangar.
  • Evening: Continue your journey to Vik or nearby town for accommodation.

Day 4: Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

  • Morning: Drive to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you can witness icebergs floating serenely in the glacial lake.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs washed ashore glisten like diamonds on the black sand.
  • Evening: Return to Vik or nearby town for another night's stay. 

Day 5: Return to Reykjavik

  • Morning: Begin your journey back to Reykjavik, taking in any sights you missed along the way.
  • Afternoon/Evening: Depart from Reykjavik


JORDAN


Jordan has long been on our bucket list for pre-wedding shoots. Its blend of ancient history and stunning landscapes offers captivating backdrops for unforgettable photos. From the iconic ruins of Petra to the vast desert vistas of Wadi Rum, Jordan provides a wealth of enchanting settings to capture moments of intimacy and romance. Nestled in the heart of the Middle East, this small yet enchanting country boasts a treasure trove of historical sites, breathtaking desert vistas, and therapeutic mineral waters.

Travel & Visa - 8-hour flights via Oman & Abu Dhabi. Indian citizens require a visa to enter Jordan. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport or apply for an e- visa before your trip.

Weather

Summer (June to August): Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30° during the day. However, evenings can be cooler, especially at higher elevations.

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November): Pleasant temperatures, ranging from around 15°C to 25°C These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Winter (December to February): Cool and rainy, with temperatures averaging around 10°C

Ideal Duration: 5-6 days

Tentative Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Amman

  • Morning: Arrival at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman.
  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel and rest for a while.
  • Evening: Explore downtown Amman, visit the Citadel and the Roman Theatre.
  • Capture the sunset over the city from the Citade.

Day 2: Amman to Petra

  • Morning: Depart for Petra, it's about a 3-hour drive from Amman.
  • Afternoon: Arrive in Petra and check into your hotel.
  • Evening: Visit the Petra Archaeological Park and explore the iconic Treasury at
  • sunset, it's a magical experience for photography enthusiasts.

Day 3: Petra

  • Morning: Spend the entire day exploring Petra, including the Monastery, Royal Tombs, and other significant sites. Start early to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting conditions for photography.
  • Afternoon: Depart for Wadi Rum, it's about a 1.5-hour drive from Petra. Arrive in Wadi Rum and embark on a desert safari excursion. Capture the stunning desert landscapes, rock formations, and perhaps enjoy a camel ride.
  • Evening: Spend the night camping under the stars in Wadi Rum, perfect for astrophotography.

Day 4: Wadi Rum to Dead Sea

• Morning: Depart for the Dead Sea, it's approximately a 4-hour drive from Wadi Rum.

  • Afternoon: Arrive at the Dead Sea and check into your hotel or resort. Float in the buoyant waters and cover yourself in the mineral-rich mud, which makes for some fun and unique photography.
  • Evening: Relax and watch the sunset over the Dead Sea, capturing the changing colors of the sky and the reflection on the water.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Depending on your flight time, you may have some time for leisure activities at the Dead Sea.
  • Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for your return flight to Mumbai.

All images are representative and part of an online research for these destinations.