For A Few Dollars More ...

...was the perpetual grouse of the erstwhile business traveller from India who went about his overseas visits with little or no foreign exchange, thanks to the FERA rules that governed all forex-related activity. In stark contrast, today an Indian who travels abroad specifically for business is allowed upto US$ 25,000 per trip without so much as an endorsement on the passport! This has not only led to less flouting of rules but has made life much easier for the business traveller who is today ready to take-off at short notice. No waiting in queues outside forex bureaus, no delays in endorsement or procuring traveller’s cheques, a traveller is now ready to fly with just a piece of plastic (credit card) in his wallet, of course with an international validity. The new dimensions that forex has taken on and the range of options that are now available for alternate currency has ensured that uninhibited globe-trotting becomes part of corporate lifestyle - hopefully you will find that our cover story this month answers all the queries that you may have on travel-related foreign exchange requirements. We have also tried to unravel the travails of travel around Delhi - the Indian capital - which could make all the difference between a successful or disastrous business trip to the city. “40 minutes sir,” is the standard reply from a local to a query on time taken from any point to any point in the city. If you can learn the quickest way around Delhi, you certainly are blessed! And while the focus is on big cities, New York is our international destination this issue, a hustling-bustling megapolis which is back to business with a vengeance. Post the 9/11 tragedy and the resultant after-shocks, this world business capital is on its feet again and raring to go, a real tribute to the spirit of humanity.

Sheldon Santwan
Editor - FeBusiness Traveller

Sheldon can be reached at editor@businesstravellerindia.com