Biometrics deferred until further notice

Further to my blogs about the changes to the Indian Visa process there is now more clarification to be found on the VFS Global website.  They confirm that the collection of ‘biometric data’ has been deferred until further notice but the scheduling of appointments is now mandatory.  Postal applications are still accepted – select ‘London’ as the mission and send to their Hounslow Centre (this is for all postal application no matter where in the UK you live). 

Cocktails only available at 5 star hotels in Kerala

Just when we thought that the alcohol situation had been resolved – it has returned.  The latest news is that the Kerala Government have returned to the idea that only 5 star hotels should be allowed to serve a full range of alcohol.  This means that Heritage as well as 4 and 3 star hotels can only offer their customers wine and beer.  The hotel and tourist industries are again fighting this ruling and just in case we understand that there are a number of hotels applying for 5 star recognition