From Europe’s heatwave to India’s comfort: A traveller’sshift in priorities.

Ashish Nanda’s summer journey across Europe sparks a renewed appreciation for exploring India’s diverse destinations.

After a ten-day family holiday across Europe during peak summer, Indian traveller Ashish Nanda has decided to put domestic travel above international trips. His experience, marked by soaring temperatures and limited cooling infrastructure, left him reconsidering the value of overseas journeys during July and August.

Nanda shared his reflections on social media, noting that Europe’s heatwave made sightseeing difficult. Temperatures around 35°C often felt closer to 40–42°C under clear skies, turning walking tours into exhausting endeavours. He explained that while caps, umbrellas, and sunglasses offered some relief, the heat’s intensity made outdoor exploration nearly unbearable.

One of his biggest frustrations was the absence of air conditioning in many public spaces. Restaurants, museums, castles, trams, and buses often lacked cooling systems, and even hotels were not consistently equipped with A/C. This forced his family to choose accommodations carefully and adjust their daily schedules. Sightseeing was limited to mornings and evenings, while afternoons were spent indoors to escape the oppressive heat.

The challenges extended to popular tourist activities. River cruises, bus tours, and shopping at open-air markets became uncomfortable, while even outlet malls were designed as outdoor complexes, exposing visitors to the sun. Although occasional showers brought temporary relief, the overall experience left Nanda questioning whether leaving Mumbai’s monsoon season for Europe’s heat had been worthwhile.

Reflecting on the trip, he concluded that future overseas travel would require careful planning and timing. “Better travel India than travel to Europe,” he remarked, emphasizing that India’s varied climates and destinations offer more predictable comfort. He now intends to prioritize exploring within India, reserving international trips for cooler seasons.

His post resonated with many travellers online, who suggested that late September to October, spring, or the Christmas season are better times to visit Europe. Others pointed out how climate change has altered Europe’s weather patterns, with heatwaves becoming increasingly common.

Nanda’s experience underscores a broader shift among travellers: the growing appeal of domestic tourism amid global climate challenges. For many, India’s diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and seasonal advantages may prove more rewarding than battling extreme conditions abroad.