Booking.com released the 10th edition of its annual Sustainable Travel Report that explores consumer attitudes and intentions with regards to the social and ecological impact of travel. The report reveals how Indian travellers are leveraging their travel choices to empower local communities and support sustainable tourism. Highlights: 59% of Indian travellers are now conscious of travel’s impact on communities as well as the environment and 63% want to leave places better than when they arrived. This year, travelling more sustainably remains important for most Indian travellers (96%) and a remarkable 99% say they want to make more sustainable travel choices 74% of Indian travellers feel that tourism has a positive impact overall on the place where they live. This year the report explores not just how the travellers feel but how, as residents they perceive the impact of tourism on their communities With insights from 32,000 travellers in 34 countries, including India and amid growing discussion of the impact of tourism on destinations, the research shows a shift in traveller perceptions of what sustainability encompasses. For the first time, more than half of Indian travellers (59%) are now conscious of travel’s impact on communities as well as the environment and 63% now want to leave places better than when they arrived. The research takes a community-centric lens this year. Asking respondents not just how they travel but how they also experience inbound visitors where they live, this approach sheds light on the benefits and challenges of tourism from their perspective as both travellers and locals. The report reveals that while 74% of Indian travellers feel that tourism has a positive impact overall on the place where they live, adjustments are …
Read More »Indian travellers spend over AUD 58 per night in NSW, stay nearly 47 nights on average
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%).
Read More »69% Indians willing to visit green destinations; industry needs to meet demand: Deep Kalra
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.”
Read More »Tera Atwood to endorse Utah for Indians as Visit Utah’s Global Markets Specialist
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 …
Read More »Indians to spend $4,755 on leisure trips in next 12 months, 14% rise over past year: MMGY report
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.”
Read More »‘We aim to position Oman as MICE & destination wedding hub for Indians,’ says Arjun Chadha
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.”
Read More »84% Indian travellers turning to AI for planning & booking their travels: Skyscanner
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.”
Read More »Cross Hotels & Resorts targets 40% growth from India market, says VP, Andrew Hartley
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.
Read More »Visa-free destinations fuelling outbound travel demand; Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand see robust growth: Thomas Cook India
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.”
Read More »BlackTurtle to represent JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa in India
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa collaborates with Black Turtle to welcome more discerning Indian guests to their resort. The Maldives has long been a favoured destination for luxury Indian travellers, and with Black Turtle’s expertise, the property anticipates bettering their presence in India and crafting memorable experiences for valued guests – Srijith R, Director of Sales & Marketing – JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. Nestled in the pristine Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents everything one needs for a luxurious stress-free family vacation with enriching experiences for the body, mind and spirit through a journey of genuine family friendly experiences, crafted culinary offerings and warm and intuitive service. A luxurious multigenerational retreat, it caters perfectly to couples, families, and friends looking to craft timeless memories. With 60 expansive villas each featuring a private pool and stunning Indian Ocean views-guests can choose between stylish beachfront or overwater accommodations. Each villa is complemented by the attentive services of a personal Thakuru (butler), ensuring a bespoke and seamless experience. Indian Travellers mainly food enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice at the resort’s five exceptional restaurants and three full-service bars, each offering a diverse array of global cuisines and unique dining experiences. A thoughtfully curated vegan menu ensures plant-based palates are equally indulged. The stunning overwater Spa by JW features six couple’s treatment rooms and a deluxe treatment suite, offering tailored treatments designed to rejuvenate both mind and body. Indian Guests eager to explore the vibrant marine life can embark on diving, snorkelling, dolphin-watching, and f fishing excursions through the resort’s dive centre. Young explorers can immerse themselves in the wonders of island life at FAMiLY by JW …
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