GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

We all enjoy the occasional getaway to rejuvenate ourselves and break the mundane routine of our day-to-day lives. So often, we find ourselves surfing the internet for hours, trying to zero down on the one place we can go to and relax with our loved ones. But more often than not, we end up not going to these places. And there is no shortage of images on the internet, so we find ourselves looking at them and yearning to be there.

Today we will be looking at six places that will promise you peace and calm on your next getaway.

1. Cherai Beach, Kerala:
Popularly known as the ‘Princess of Arabian sea’, Cherai beach is located about 16 miles from Ernakulam on Vypeen island. This golden beach boasts blue waters and lush green vegetation stretches that are a must-visit for anyone who wants to unwind by a beach. People can enjoy various water sports in this destination. Cherai also hosts a five-day tourism festival that conducts an array of diverse cultural and traditional art forms.

2. Bhimbandh, Bihar:
This hot spring holds great significance in the history of India. Unfolding the pages of the past, during Mahabharat, when the Pandavas had to live in disguise, Bhimbandh was one of the locations that they had chosen. The temperature in this natural spring goes up to 72 degrees celsius. It is believed that Bhim was instrumental in placing slabs across the stream to prevent the water from flowing at high speeds. Hence the name “Bhimbandh”.

3. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh:
India’s Grand Canyon, Gandikota, is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque places in the land. The main attraction is the Gandikota fort and its ruins. Built-in red sandstone, the fort has beautiful and intricate carvings, watchtowers, and a few noteworthy temples. Anyone interested in history should add Gandikota to the bucket list of places to visit.

4. Nagore, Tamil Nadu:
Nagore is a quaint town in Tamil Nadu, known for its famous Dargah, dedicated to Shahul Hamid, a renowned Sufi saint. It also promises a rustic, old-world charm and is a must-visit destination for travellers to enjoy beautiful unspoiled beaches.

5. Netarhat, Jharkhand:
A hill station, covered with thick forests known as the “Queen of the Chotanagpur”. One of the few places famous for its breath taking sunrise, and equally beautiful sunset, Netarhat is about 154 km from Ranchi. This hidden gem is surrounded by pines and orchards, making it the perfect picnic spot to enjoy with family and kids.

6. Idukki, Kerala:
This beautiful place has vast spans of mountains and dense forests. It has the lowest population density in Kerala, so its beauty is untouched and unexplored by many. Famously known as the ‘spice garden of India’. The Idukki dam is also one of the largest dams in the country and is a sight to behold.

We hope these places help you curate your next travel trip. Remember, no matter what the place is, always try to live amongst the locals and get a feel of the local lifestyle and the food. This only adds volumes to your experience and can be something that you will remember for the rest of your life. If you plan on taking a vacation, it is ideal to get your general insurance sorted. A beforehand general insurance policy acts as a safety net against any risks or unforeseen expenses you might face while traveling.

Click HERE to know more about general insurance.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

One of the most expensive assets that an average earning Indian buys in his/her life is a house. A good part of our earnings is spent on buying and furnishing our dream home. Though we pay a lot of attention when purchasing and setting up our house, we often neglect to get it insured from the best home insurance company in India.

Due to a lack of awareness among buyers, many people don’t consider buying a home insurance policy to protect their homes against natural calamities. There is a misconception among insurance buyers that home insurance is costly. However, the fact is that home insurance against natural disasters in India is inexpensive. It is being offered by the best home insurance company in India at a price that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Why buy Home Insurance against natural calamities?

Despite knowing that home insurance against natural calamities is not as expensive as it is perceived, only 1% of people buy the insurance cover.

It is essential to buy home insurance against natural calamity because India is a disaster-prone country. Many regions are prone to experience earthquakes with severe intensity. Also, there are many areas, approximately 12% of India, which is likely to floods. The areas on the Indian coastline are prone to experiencing tsunamis.

The frequency of natural disasters in India has increased in the past few years. According to the World Bank’s estimate, approximately 600 districts in India are calamity-prone. This places a large number of people and their property at a higher risk.

It is thus essential for Indians to buy a home insurance policy against natural calamities from one of the best home insurance companies in India. Moreover, a home insurance policy covers not only the building of your home but also the components in it from damages.

Here is a detailed analysis of why you need to buy a home insurance policy.

It not only protects your home:

• A home insurance policy provides protection not only by covering your home but also the components within.
• You can easily opt for add-ons to protect various components of your house like furniture, valuables, electronics, etc.

Replacement of loss

• A home insurance plan not only provides financial safety but also provides for the replacement of the insured subjects.
• You can opt for replacement cost instead of depreciation value when buying a home insurance plan.
• The structure of the building and the various components are insured for their replacement cost.

Home Insurance is inexpensive

• Home insurance plans to protect your home against natural calamities are available at affordable premium costs.
• You can easily buy home insurance from the best home insurance company in India without pinching your pocket.

Protect yourself from lawsuits

• A comprehensive home insurance policy offers you the required peace of mind by protecting you from property-related lawsuits.
• Some insurance plans also cover the medical expenses of a guest who is injured on the premises of your residence.

It offers flexibility

• If you are willing to buy a home insurance plan to protect your property from natural calamities, you can choose between insuring the structure of your home or only it’s content. This offers flexibility in buying a home insurance plan.

Natural calamities cannot be controlled, but you can protect your home. If you still don’t have home insurance, buy one soon from the best home insurance company in India to protect your dream home.

A central air conditioner cools the air in one area, then uses the furnace's air handling skills to circulate the cool air throughout the house. This sets it apart from mini-split systems, window or wall air conditioners, or any other cooling system that needs many units to chill the entire house adequately. The compressor is outside, and the evaporator coil is inside the residence, dividing the device into two main parts.

The central AC installation process.

Now that the fundamentals have been addressed let's go over the detailed procedure for installing central air.

STEP 1: Get a quote.
Find nearby Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) contractors by conducting an online search. The committed residential HVAC technicians may also come to your house to offer you a quote. This procedure includes inspecting any existing air conditioners and the areas of your house where the air ducts will be placed.

STEP 2: Choosing the appropriate central AC unit.
Your HVAC contractor will suggest an AC unit. This depends on elements like your home's size and the climate where you live. The following are the key elements that will help you choose the best AC unit for your house:

Unit size: Because homes come in various sizes and climates, HVAC manufacturers offer systems in multiple sizes. Most of the time, your contractor will assist in determining the ideal size for your property.

Ranking SEER: The performance of an AC system is based on its seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER). For instance, high-SEER equipment will benefit from lower operating expenses, decreased energy usage, increased safety, and quieter operation. High-SEER units frequently cost more upfront. However, they lead to more savings over time and can provide a better return on your investment.

Productivity of the unit: The two main types of AC units that manufacturers provide are package systems and split systems. Since all components are contained in a single housing, the general package systems perform well for an "all-in-one" experience.

STEP 3: The unit is placed on your property.
Proper location is important while installing central AC as they have two drawbacks: they take up room and are noisy. So, where should your unit be placed for the best results? You should put the unit out of sight and away from beds. The side yard, a location near the kitchen, or the laundry room are frequently chosen by consumers. By doing this, you can lessen the noise in the vicinity of the rooms in your house where you sleep, rest, and work.

Step 4A: Check the existing ductwork in step.
Ask your contractor to look over the ductwork if it already exists in your home. Before setting up the new system, they can find any structural damage and replace or fix it.

STEP 5: Installation.
As previously indicated, if a split system is installed, a portion of it will be stored indoors, most frequently in the attic. If new ductwork is necessary for your home, it will be installed by your contractor.

The value of your property can be increased while keeping you and your family comfortable by installing a central air conditioner. To ensure the most seamless installation of your central air conditioner, don't be afraid to ask your installer questions about the process.

Also note that the best home insurance in India will safeguard your home against unforeseeable catastrophes, such as calamities caused by both nature and humans. Some insurance covers the house's structure, while others cover the building and the home's contents. Buy the best home insurance in India and reward your home with seamless protection.

Click HERE to buy the best home insurance in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

The “work-from-home” culture has gained prominence in India since the beginning of Covid-19 in 2020. Now, this culture is picking up pace, and many companies are urging their employees to work from home, knowing its advantages for both employers and employees. However, there are endless distractions at home in the form of answering doorbells, chaos due to daily household chores, and the absence of a proper working environment. Kids can also take up much of your time at home and distract you from your important office work.

So, how can you set up your personal workspace at your home amidst all these problems? Here is a guide to help you design your “work-from-home” office with minimal distractions and more productivity.

1. Create a separate corner:
Create a separate corner for yourself at home for your personal workspace. It can be a separate room, if available, a corner of a room, or any other space that can be distraction-free. Do not hesitate to tell everyone in the household that this is your personal area for office work, and no one should encroach upon it, especially when you are busy.
Try to put a partition in your working area, such as a glass door, as it will help you keep it noise-free. Other house members will think twice before entering it while you are working, and you can concentrate on your work.

2. Whiteboard / Pin-up area:
Get a whiteboard or a pinboard that you can hang on a wall in your working area. Develop the habit of regularly making a to-do list and jotting down small notes. You can note down what you intend to do the entire day. Setting up small goals inspires you to work harder and achieve them. Also, by doing this, you will never miss any task or forget important things.

3. Make your work-area aesthetic:
Make your workspace at home aesthetic. Get the area painted with vibrant and bright colours that appeal to your senses and help you stay jovial. Decorate the area with small and beautiful showpieces. Make sure your space is well-lit and properly ventilated to give you a fresh feeling throughout the day. All this will help you stay active, sharp, and in a joyous mood, and you can concentrate more on your work.

4. Get a good ergonomic chair:
Working from home can mean sitting in one place for long hours at a stretch. Also, the chair present at your house will most probably not be suitable for work. Go and buy an ergonomic chair that can support your natural posture and help you to reduce the strain on your lower back. Get a good desk along with a chair. A good sitting setup can greatly help increase your productivity and motivation levels.

5. Buy the necessary equipment:
If you intend to create a “work-from-home” office and use it for a long time, you will have to invest in good technological equipment. This may require a high-speed wi-fi network, a good professional laptop, a printer, etc. Also, place shelves and drawers that you will need for keeping your necessary files, folders, and papers. This will make you more organised, oriented, and focused.

Creating a “work-from-home” office at home may appear to be challenging, but it is more fun to do if managed correctly. You need to dedicate your complete focus and concentration to your work. Hence, each family member should cooperate fully and not disturb you while working.

You must secure a separate space at home for your work if you want to continue it for a long time. A home is where you spend most of your time and make memories. While making your home a dedicated workspace, it is also crucial to plan and invest in its safety. Purchase reliable home insurance to protect it against any possible mishap or damage caused by fire, theft, and even natural calamities.

Click HERE to buy the best home insurance to safeguard your valuable asset.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

veryone enjoys travelling and exploring new places, both domestic and overseas. You may be an occasional or frequent traveller; however, irrespective of your travel frequency, it is crucial to get travel insurance to enjoy your trip and put your mind at ease.

Choosing which travel insurance to purchase is never easy for anyone planning a trip overseas. While some travellers prefer purchasing single-trip coverage, others favour purchasing a multi-trip annual protection policy. Generally, those who travel abroad for extended periods (more than 90 days) and those who aren't likely to do so more than once a year should opt for a single-trip policy.

On the other hand, the yearly policy is intended for those who visit foreign countries more than once each year or plan frequent trips within the country. Inconveniences to your travel plans, such as flight delays, trip cancellations, and medical crises, are, nevertheless, covered by these travel protection policies.

Selecting appropriate travel insurance can be tricky for you. Here's how to pick a suitable policy to get the best benefits for your travel needs.

What is the difference between a single trip and a multi-trip travel insurance policy?
The single-trip travel insurance policy offers financial protection against exigencies for only one trip, whether it is domestic or international. This plan provides coverage for only up to 180 days. You can buy this travel insurance for multiple destinations by considering it a single trip. The validity of this plan begins once you board a flight to leave your home country and ends when you return to your home country or when the policy period ends. You can buy general insurance online with different duration of coverage according to your travel needs.

Ask the insurer about the single-trip policy's coverage duration and the benefits you might get. Generally, single-trip travel insurance provides financial support for passport loss, robbery or baggage loss, home burglary protection, hospitalisation expenses, flight delays, and loss of travel documents and personal items.

On the other hand, multi-trip travel insurance plans offer coverage for a specified period, usually for a year. This travel insurance policy provides money to support multiple trips you make under the same plan. It offers coverage for the loss of a passport, emergency medical expenses, and trip cancellation. However, some policies have different coverage periods varying from 30 to 70 days.

What to consider when buying a travel insurance policy?
Both travel insurance policies have similar coverage but differ in duration. It would be best if you chose a general insurance policy depending on the number of trips you want to take in a year. Moreover, consider some factors, like where you go on your trip. Some insurance companies offer separate coverage for some countries and exclude others.

Also, consider what you are going to do abroad. If you do activities like snorkelling or playing football, you will need a particular type of cover. Your travel insurance should also consider your pre-existing medical condition to get coverage for all medical emergencies.

You should also consider the cancellation coverage in your travel insurance plan. It helps you pay for the pre-paid cost of your trip. Consider if the plan offers coverage for lost bags, personal items, and other possessions by your airline. It is crucial to note all the factors before finalising which travel insurance to purchase.

*Pro-tip
Buy general insurance online as it will help you efficiently deal with the duration of the vacation, medical expenses, insurance plan exclusions, period and limits, and trip cancellations to get all-around coverage for your next trip.

When you invest in a travel insurance policy, you have 14 days to ensure that the policy purchased is the right one. Do your best research, compare different options online, and then make the final purchase.

Click HERE to buy general insurance online.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Be it the snow-capped mountains in the North or the golden sands of the Sahara in the West, India promises something for everybody and provides a wide variety of landscapes, flora and fauna. The country also hosts a wide array of activities like paragliding, surfing, trekking etc., to adventure seekers. However, in this article, we will discuss one of the lesser talked about activities, which is bird watching.

Bird watching is not just limited to spotting birds. It also gives you a better opportunity to explore nature, trees and other aspects of nature. Over the past years, owing to the growing number of endangered bird species, India has dedicated various sanctuaries for birds. These sanctuaries host a mixture of domestic and migratory birds.

Bird watching demands patience and perseverance, but the result is rewarding and exhilarating. Bird watching tours can be an excellent way to enjoy your vacations while indulging in new knowledge activities.

Let’s look at a few places in India that promise an impeccable bird watching experience.

1. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat:
Rann of Kutch sees about 300 different species of birds around the year. It is one of the largest breeding grounds for the Lesser Flamingo. Thousands of flamingos are seen flying together, making the skies a beautiful shade of pink. Short-eared owl, Syke’s lark, Greater Flamingo, Great White Pelican are just a few of the many birds that you will spot here.

2. Keoladeo national park, Rajasthan:
The Keoladeo national park is India’s most famous bird-watching site. It is located in the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The small area of about 29 sq km is the feeding ground for over 400 different bird species. The wetlands have naturally formed earthen mounts to provide perching spots for birds to feed on fish and other aquatic species. The best time to visit is between December and February when migratory birds visit the sanctuary.

3. Kaziranga national park, Assam:
Famously known for its one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga also hosts various species of birds. Kaziranga is famous for its unmatched ecological importance. The Brahmaputra flows alongside the area making the river basin a basis for all life in the region. It has also been identified as IBA or Important Bird Area as it hosts a multitude of birds such as Jerdon’s Babbler, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Cinnamon Bittern etc.

4. Nainital, Uttarakhand:
In the Kumaon region of West Central Himalayas, one can see a wide range of different flora and fauna. Nainital is home to over 250 Himalayan bird species. The best time to visit is anywhere between November to May. Few species one can spot in Nainital are Chestnut-headed Laughingthrush, Cheer Pheasant, Greater Yellownape, etc. You can experience several walking trails for bird watching here.

5. Chilika Lake, Odisha:
Chilika bird sanctuary in Odisha is one of the most extensive winter grounds for migratory birds. It hosts some of the unique species, such as Purple Moorhen. It also hosts one of the largest breeding grounds for flamingos. The best time to visit is between October to March.

These are a few of the many opportunities you can consider to enjoy bird watching for your next vacation. As mentioned above, bird watching can seem like a tedious exercise, but the results are mesmerising. Keep in mind that you must always carry food, water, and first aid while going birding, as most of these spots are inside jungles or above hills.

Traversing through these terrains might present itself with certain challenges as well. Another essential thing to consider is to invest in general insurance plans before planning to travel. General insurance is sure to add value to your experience while also acting as a safety net for any unforeseen expenses you might face during your trip.

Click HERE to know more about general insurance plans.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Travelling is the best way to explore new places and experience things you've never tried before. But often, when it comes to female travellers, it is restricted due to safety reasons. It is understandable how security is a concern for women but don't let it get in the way of your explorations.

The finest places to visit aren't always the most travelled or popular ones. Hence, we have listed some of the loveliest destinations to visit alone or with your girl gang!

1. Bali:
Bali is one of the most amazing locations for female travellers. Besides cultural tours, it is also a great destination to enjoy a beach vacation. The town's laid-back and tranquil ambience makes it safe for single female travellers. The region has a terrific atmosphere that allows you to reconnect with your inner self.

2. Hong Kong:
Regarded as one of the cities with the least crime rates globally, Hong Kong is a must-see destination for all tourists. It has reasonably priced lodging, which is a perk. The city also has one of the quickest modes of transportation, making it a travel-friendly location for solo female travellers in every manner.

3. Meghalaya:
Meghalaya gains fame from its natural splendour, but what distinguishes this state is how smoothly the matrilineal system runs here. Meghalaya treats its ladies with great respect. Not only do you feel protected in this Northeastern state, but you also get to view society from a new perspective.

4. Melbourne:
Melbourne is a secure city for women and one of the trendiest destinations to visit globally. The great cafe culture of the city makes it an attractive choice for cheerful summer holidays. This could be a perfect place for your all-girls vacation since it gives you access to luxury, peace and fun altogether.

5. Switzerland:
It's safe, gorgeous, and full of options for female travellers. Switzerland's attractions include its beautiful mountains and picturesque magnificence. The core of Switzerland is seeing the big cities and observing the cultural fusion.

6. New Zealand:
New Zealand is a beautiful island country scattered in the Pacific Ocean and one of the most fabulous destinations for women to visit alone. Its pride and glory is its stunning terrain, adorned with spectacular beaches and volcanic gems. New Zealand is a piece of heaven on Earth and one of the most fantastic places for single female vacations.

One should never face curtailment in experiencing the different cultures and people worldwide. We hope this article helps you choose the destination for your next trip with your girl gang.

But remember, wherever you travel in the world, your safety and security are in your hands. Always take the necessary precautions and carry travel insurance to cover damages to luggage, theft and other concerns that you might face while travelling. You can check the general insurance online quote from different insurance companies for competitive premiums and additional features. It is crucial for women travelling solo to protect their trip with full travel insurance to stay safe.

Click HERE to get general insurance online quote

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Nobody likes to anticipate any worst-case scenario, but we still prepare for them. However, people investing in home insurance in India are as low as 1%. This shows the lack of awareness about the importance of home insurance which makes Indians highly susceptible to financial and property losses that take years to recover. Every individual who wants to secure the future of their family and property must invest or buy home insurance.

Once you buy home insurance, you can recover from household losses more efficiently. However, purchasing a reliable insurance policy is not enough. It is crucial to abide by the strict regulations involved in your home insurance. Every individual must follow the entire list of dos and don'ts of the insurance policy.

To avail the benefits of your home insurance successfully, you must know some of the critical points that can nullify your home insurance.

1. Renting your home:
While you may think you have the complete liberty to rent out your home, this could jeopardise your insurance policy. Several home insurance companies reject the idea of insuring a shared house. Renting out your home or registering it as a homestay on hotel booking sites can become a risk as insurance companies look at it as sharing your property with someone you don't know well. They might consider this threatening enough to cancel your insurance plan altogether.

2. Exaggerating the value of your home:
If you exaggerate or overestimate the value of your home, it can lead to the cancellation of your home insurance plan. Insurers always cross-check the details given by the homeowner and verify them. To help this, you can show an inventory of all the things you own and their actual monetary and market value. It is good to save receipts of appliances, furnishings, etc., to provide evidence.

3. Practising illegal activities:
Illegal activities like the consumption or sale of narcotics can be grounds to cancel your home insurance policy. No company wants to deal with individuals going against the law. Insurance companies provide policies based on the homeowner's character. Practising illegal activities can be a solid red flag. They may nullify your home insurance policy on the grounds of suspicion. Filing fraudulent claims to gain funds from the insurance company is another illegal activity to steer clear of.

4. Long periods of absence:
If you plan to be absent from home for an extended period, you must check the insurance policy's requirements before you leave. Home insurance policies usually have terms for how frequently they need an adult individual to check on the house's conditions. You must request a trusted individual to check on the condition of your home as per the required intervals. This helps verify that the house is protected against any unknown damage, break-ins, or theft. Contact your insurance company before leaving for an extended period to avoid confusion.

Although most Indians are aware of the dangers of earthquakes, natural calamities and other security threats for their homes, they still do not buy home insurance. You may choose an insurance company to buy home insurance online India that provides you financial security with the additional benefit of covering your insured belongings.

So, check the above set conditions and other guidelines of your insurance contract to avoid your policy getting cancelled.

Click HERE to buy home insurance online India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy