Bengal Insight

Category: Travel

  • What is the world’s most visited country? Here’s the answer

    What is the world’s most visited country? Here’s the answer

    round the world there are magnificent places which attracts millions of tourists every year.

    Whether its exploring scenic mountains, relaxing on pristine beaches or admiring history, travelling is one of the most popular hobbies. Here are the most visited countries in the world.

    France remains in number one

    As per latest international tourism statistics, the most visited country in the world, with over 102 million international tourist arrivals in 2024, is France.

    It has consistently maintained its position. One of the biggest reasons for this is France’s mix of world-famous landmarks and rich cultural experiences.

    The country offers an unmatched combination of history, art, fashion and natural beauty and this blend keeps France at the top. Visitors can experience the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the picturesque French Riviera, along with a charming countryside, vineyards, villages and cuisine.

    Spain occupied the second spot on the list, with 93.8 million international tourists in 2024.

    It presents a combination of vibrant culture, sun-soaked beaches, lively festivals and historic cities that blend centuries of heritage with modernity.

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    The third spot was secured by the United States of America, with an estimated 72 to 79 million international tourists annually. Popular places include the New York City, the Grand Canyon, Hollywood, and numerous national parks.

  • Taipei Open 2026: Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma and Kiran George reach quarterfinals

    Taipei Open 2026: Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma and Kiran George reach quarterfinals

    India produced an encouraging set of results at the Taipei Open Super 300 on Thursday, with Kiran George, Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma and Devika Sihag securing places in the quarterfinals after convincing performances. Their victories kept India’s challenge alive in both the men’s and women’s singles competitions.

    However, it was a disappointing day for HS Prannoy and Anmol Kharb, who bowed out after second-round defeats.

    Kiran George cruises into last eight

    Experienced campaigner Kiran George delivered a clinical display against fellow Indian Tharun Mannepalli, registering a straight-game victory in just 32 minutes.

    The 25-year-old wrapped up the contest 21-15, 21-16 to move into the quarterfinals without much trouble. Kiran, who has previously won the 2022 Odisha Open, 2023 Indonesia Masters, and 2023 Odisha Masters, will now face fourth seed Yudai Okimoto of Japan for a place in the semifinals.

    Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma and Devika Sihag shine

    India’s women’s singles campaign also gathered momentum as three players advanced to the final eight. Third seed Unnati Hooda came through an all-Indian clash against Tanya Hemanth, winning 21-19, 21-12. The former Odisha Masters champion recovered after a close opening game before taking complete control in the second.

    Teenage sensation Tanvi Sharma continued her impressive run by overcoming Indonesia’s Thalita Ramadhani Wiryawan in a hard-fought encounter. Tanvi sealed the match 21-17, 22-20, holding her nerve in a closely contested second game.

    Eighth seed Devika Sihag also progressed comfortably, defeating Indonesia’s Ni Kadek Dhinda Amartya Pratiwi 21-16, 21-15 to book her place in the quarterfinals.

    India guaranteed a women’s singles semifinalist

    The quarterfinal draw has ensured at least one Indian player will feature in the women’s singles semifinals. Unnati Hooda and Devika Sihag are set to face each other in an all-Indian last-eight contest.

    Meanwhile, Tanvi Sharma will take on fourth seed Supanida Katethong of Thailand as she looks to continue her impressive run in the tournament.

    HS Prannoy and Anmol Kharb exit

    The day ended on a disappointing note for two Indian shuttlers. Seventh seed HS Prannoy was knocked out after a 9-21, 19-21 defeat to Hong Kong’s Jason Gunawan in a match that lasted 39 minutes.

    Youngster Anmol Kharb also exited the competition after losing 10-21, 20-21 to local favourite and second seed Lin Hsiang Ti.

    With four players still in contention, India remains firmly in the hunt for silverware at the Taipei Open Super 300, with the women’s singles draw guaranteeing at least one semifinal appearance for the country.