Tag Archives: Indian travellers

New data from Destination New South Wales reveals, in 2024, 181,300 Indian travellers visited NSW, spending an average of AUD 2,736 per person translating to over AUD 58 per night across an average stay of 46.8 nights. The report also shows a strong preference for Free and Independent Travel (58%), with nearly half travelling solo (49%).

According to new research from MakeMyTrip, 69% Indian travellers expressed their willingness to choose destinations that actively promote responsible travel, with an emphasis on local sustainability initiatives. Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman, MMT & Chairman, WTTCII, said, “The Market is ready, the challenge now is for the industry to provide the products and services that meet demand.”

The Utah Office of Tourism has appointed Tera Atwood as its new Global Markets Specialist, marking a significant step in strengthening Utah’s presence in key international markets, with a dedicated focus on India. With international travel from India on the rise, Atwood’s role will focus on increasing Utah’s visibility among Indian travellers, strengthening travel trade relationships, and developing targeted campaigns to position Utah as a must-visit U.S. destination. Tera Atwood brings extensive expertise in tourism and destination marketing, and she is eager to engage with the rapidly growing Indian travel market. Sharing her enthusiasm, Atwood said, “I have always been captivated by India’s rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and incredible diversity. With a rapidly growing economy, an expanding global influence, and a diverse community of travellers seeking new experiences, India is an exciting and dynamic market to engage with. My key priority is to position Utah as a premier destination for Indian travellers. By showcasing our iconic landscapes, world-class adventures, and luxury experiences, Utah is the perfect place to satisfy the craving for unforgettable international travel.” The Utah Office of Tourism continues to see a rise in international visitors. In 2024, Utah surpassed 2019 visitor spending and visitation levels, with tourism contributing over USD 12 billion in visitor spending in 2023. Indian travellers alone spent USD 16.7 million in Utah last year, making India one of the fastest-growing visitor markets for the state. With visitor spending from India projected to grow by over 200 per cent from 2019 to 2028, Utah is committed to expanding its brand presence and engagement in the region. With a strong focus on market expansion, Atwood aims to strengthen trade partnerships, enhance media engagement, and develop strategic campaigns …

As per new research by MMGY Travel Intelligence, passport-carrying adults in India intend to spend an average of $4,755 on leisure trips in the next 12 months, pinpointing a 14% increase in spending over the past year. Caroline Moultrie, President, MMGY Global, said, “India is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most influential outbound travel markets.”

Highlighting that many Indian clients are already recognising Oman as a viable choice, Arjun Chadha, Country Manager, Oman Tourism, India, said, “The aim is to increase participation in this market and establish a loyal clientele who frequently host MICE events in Oman. The country also witnessed the rising trend of destination weddings.”

Highlighting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming the go-to tool for Indians, Mohit Joshi, Travel & Destinations Expert, Skyscanner, said, “A remarkable 84% of Indian travellers feel confident using AI tools for planning and booking their travels, with 52% using them for destination research, 50% for flight bookings, 48% for comparing flight and hotel options, and 46% seeking destination inspiration.”

Speaking at their Delhi roadshow, Andrew Hartley, VP Commercial, Cross Hotels & Resorts, said, “India is a key market for us, and we are strengthening our brand awareness for Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Cross Collection, Lumen and Kaura. Our goal is to increase the number of Indian guests by 40% by this year’s end, and we are achieving this through direct channels, forming strategic business partnerships.” The group last year witnessed 275% growth Y-O-Y from the India market, and they are now planning to grow from 28 to 100 hotels by 2030.

This summer, Indian travellers are opting for destinations that provide an escape from the ominous heat while offering visa-free travel. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE & Visa, Thomas Cook India, said, “Visa-free destinations are fuelling outbound travel demand. Countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand, Maldives and Mauritius have seen robust growth due to ease of access.”

With Holi just round the corner, Indian travellers are maximising the extended weekend by opting for a blend of vibrant domestic celebrations. According to Booking.com, Udaipur, Mumbai, and Rishikesh lead as the top three most searched domestic destinations while destinations like Vrindavan, Mathura, Pushkar, Jaipur, Shantiniketan and Hampi are witnessing a surge in searches during the festive period.

UAE expanded visa-on-arrival programme for Indians by including travellers with valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from 6 more countries including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand & Canada. The move permits more Indian passport holders to access the facility at UAE entry points.