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<keyword id="19895061" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="goa" source="keywords">Goa</keyword> is a popular tourism destination in India and is known for its gorgeous beaches, nightlife, and food. The popular destination hosts millions of tourists every year and for some, it is just a couple hours of drive away. However, international travellers don't find it that easy to get to the destination, as per a new PTI report. The report says that even though Goa is increasingly a popular choice for international travellers, it requires government support to make it more accessible to foreigners. In a media statement, the department said that charter flights from key markets like Russian cities Moscow and Ekaterinburg, London, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, support international arrivals. A Polish charter flight is also set to arrive in the coastal state on November 8. The statement added that this international interest extends beyond Goa’s iconic beaches, with tourists increasingly exploring areas like Dudhsagar Falls and scenic hinterlands. To further boost connectivity, Goa is collaborating with airlines and seeking government support to improve flight routes, creating a more globally connected tourism landscape. "However, establishing robust direct international connectivity requires further support from the Government of India, which we are actively seeking to make Goa an even more attractive, accessible, and globally connected destination," a spokesperson said. He added that after pandemic disruptions, Goa’s international tourism is rebounding, with over 450,000 foreign arrivals recorded in 2023. Alongside domestic visitors, totaling over 8 million this year, the state’s tourism sector is also thriving. Addressing challenges like limited direct flights, Goa’s tourism officials are working to secure new airline agreements, ensuring an easier journey for international visitors. He also talked about the challenges that the tourism destination is facing, including limited connectivity by air. "Goa does face some challenges. For example, limited scheduled international air connectivity. The state government is working closely with the Centre to relook at point of call and additional seat entitlement for Goa, to establish more robust international connections," he said. (with PTI inputs)

This Indian state is attracting international tourists via chartered flights, needs support to make itself more accessible

Mumbai is set to experience a "Sky Full of Stars" moment as Coldplay fans from around the world prepare to descend upon the city for the band’s highly anticipated January 2025 concert. The return of the British pop-rock sensation, which hasn’t performed in India since 2016, already sent a wave of excitement among fans — most of whom paid a hefty price for the highly sought after tickets. And now, it’s time for the hoteliers in the city to mint money. The return of Coldplay seems to have triggered a surge in hotel bookings and accommodation searches. A September <a href="https://www.livemint.com/news/india/coldplay-india-mumbai-hotel-rates-soar-to-1-lakh-a-night-dy-patil-stadium-coldplay-tickets-11727087010459.html">report</a> said that five-star hotels within a 20 kilometre-radius of the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, where the British band is set to perform, are charging almost ₹1 lakh per night during the concert dates. Data from the digital travel platform <keyword id="20081252" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="agoda" source="keywords">Agoda</keyword> reflects the same enthusiasm among fans. According to the platform, hotel searches in Mumbai soared by an incredible 33 times immediately after the concert was announced. Further, domestic searches for accommodations jumped 45 times on the day of the announcement. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114422542" title="Coldplay concert chaos aftermath: PIL filed in Bombay HC to demand stricter controls over online ticket sales" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Director for the India Subcontinent and MEA at Agoda, emphasised the appeal of this event: "Earlier this year, we saw Indians flock to Thailand to watch Coldplay perform live in Bangkok. The band’s popularity among Indians suggests that Mumbai is about to be the stage for something really memorable, and we are thrilled to help travellers find the perfect stay for the event.” Evidently, it isn’t just Indian fans driving this trend. This demand also extends to international fans, with top searches coming from France, the UAE, the UK, Spain, and Australia. Coldplay’s global fan base reflects a broader trend in the music and tourism sectors, where major concerts often transform host cities into tourist hotspots. In 2022, a similar surge was seen in Seoul when BTS held their live concerts, drawing fans from over 100 countries and pushing local accommodations to their limits. As anticipation for the Coldplay concert builds, Agoda is advising fans to secure accommodations early to take advantage of the competitive rates and options. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113665893" title="It is cheaper to watch Coldplay perform in Abu Dhabi than to pay scalpers for Mumbai tickets" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

Coldplay concert 2025 signals massive travel boom; triggers 33x increase in Mumbai hotel searches: Agoda

<ul class="summary-list"><li>The Orient Express is preparing for its first launch in decades — a luxury sleeper train in Italy.</li><li>Dubbed La Dolce Vita, the new Orient Express trains will start operating in Spring 2025.</li></ul>There's an old saying that goes, one person's loss is another's gain — and the same can be said for industries.As <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/lvmh-luxury-louis-vuitton-struggles-china-slowdown-2024">luxury brands</a> struggle amid a downturn fueled by dwindling demand in regions like China, another luxury sector is thriving: travel.Brought to a standstill during the COVID-19 pandemic, as demand for luxury brands was nearing an all-time high, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/secrets-for-traveling-like-rich-from-luxury-travel-planner">luxury travel</a> is on the up and up as wealthy and aspirational consumers prioritize experiences over goods.The good times are expected to continue as McKinsey &amp; Company analysis estimates that global spending on luxury leisure hospitality will grow to $391 billion in 2028, a 10% jump from 2023."People are going overseas, and much more experiences are open to them," Amrita Banta, managing director of luxury insights firm Agility Research &amp; Strategy, told Business Insider. Ultra-high-net-worth Chinese consumers have also caught the travel bug, she said, and are increasingly spending in other countries like Singapore, Thailand, and <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/japanese-shoppers-being-less-frugal-good-news-for-luxury-industry-2024-11">Japan</a>.Travel agent Julia Carter, founder of the luxury travel agency Craft Travel, said unique experiences are higher on the priority list of wealthy vacationers than ever."People want things that are curated to them," Carter said. "They don't want cookie-cutter experiences, they don't want to go somewhere where everything feels like it could be AI-generated."<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/whats-behind-china-luxury-goods-slowdown-economy-changing-consumer-tastes-2024-10">This shift in consumer spending habits may be hurting luxury brands</a>, but it's a means for <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/surprises-luxury-overnight-train-venice-simplon-orient-express-2024-2">the Orient Express</a>, a once-defunct train service, to stage a comeback.<h2 id="d492a318-13a1-4cf2-a916-545ad301795f">Back from the dead</h2>Launched 140 years ago by Belgian engineer Georges Nagelmackers, the Orient Express was a luxury sleeper that, at its peak, had trains running from Paris to Istanbul.The brand became so embedded in popular culture that it inspired Agatha Christie novels and, in recent years, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/thor-ragnarok-orient-express-daddys-home-2-box-office-2017-11">Hollywood movies</a> starring <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/judi-dench-impossible-to-learn-lines-vision-loss-2023-2">Dame Judi Dench</a> and Kenneth Branagh.As the draw of slow train travel gave way to speedier options like planes and high-speed railways, Orient Express's golden era ended. It made its last direct trip between Paris and Istanbul in 1977 before a brief revival with pared-back service in the early 1980s.<div type="image" title="An Orient Express advertisement" height="3300" width="4613" msid="114980196" hostid="261" sizebytes="912570"></div>That was pretty much the end of the line for the Orient Express — until now.In partnership with Italian luxury hospitality group Arsenale, the Orient Express is poised for a comeback, opening two new hotels in Italy and six brand-new luxury sleeper trains dubbed La Dolce Vita.From spring 2025, La Dolce Vita trains, which accommodate up to 62 passengers in deluxe and suite cabins, will run across 10,000 miles of track around 14 regions of Italy, including Sicily.Ticket prices start at 3,500 euros ($3,800) for a one-night itinerary in a deluxe cabin.<h2 id="a1489af5-4b42-40ca-9d5a-f7be7c8b578b">The luxury of exclusivity</h2>The timing couldn't be more aligned with consumers prioritizing travel experiences over luxury goods and with the rise of what Samy Ghachem, general manager of La Dolce Vita, calls the "slow cruising" experiential travel trend."You saw a big uptick as soon as COVID was over, Japan exploded, and people were like, 'OK, now let's step out of our comfort zone. Let's go to Asia, let's go to Africa, let's start to do things,'" Ghachem said, adding that tapping into that curiosity and desire to slow down is what La Dolce Vita encapsulates.<div type="image" title="A bedroom on La Dolce Vita Orient Express." height="853" width="1280" msid="114980194" hostid="261" sizebytes="117970"></div>Unlike cruise travel, luxury train travel is also more exclusive, another top priority among wealthy travelers."People want the luxury of space and privacy," Craft, the luxury travel agent, said. "They don't want to be forced into lines and queues and having to take pictures with thousands of people around.""When you talk about luxury cruising, you're talking about 12,000 passengers," Ghachem said. "On our trains," he added, "it's much more intimate."While the company's short-term focus is primarily on Italy, it's also preparing to launch its first sailing superyacht in 2026 and luxury sleeper trains in other regions, including the Middle East.If anything, the Orient Express's revival supports what Ghachem says is one of the biggest trends in luxury travel: "People want to come back from vacation with a story."

The Orient Express is plotting a comeback as the ultra-rich ditch luxury brands for travel

Who does not love to travel? Most of us would give anything to take a long break from our regular work life and travel the world! And if the vacation rental behemoth <keyword id="19900375" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Airbnb" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Airbnb" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Airbnb">Airbnb</keyword> is to be believed, Indians are taking to traveling with renewed vigor. When it comes to international travel right now, most Indians are traveling to Tokyo, largely to witness the momijgari (red leaf hunting), or the autumn tradition where leaves turn red, which makes for a breathtaking sight. For those seeking a little peace and quiet, the Amalfi Coast, off the Mediterranean Sea is in vogue. Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are also being increasingly making their way on the travel wish list of most Indian travellers. Per Airbnb, other countries on this list include Montenegro, Norway, Luxembourg, and Georgia. Closer home, the bustling city of Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh is amongst the top travel destination for most Indians, along with the tropical Lakshadweep. People are also flocking to Ujjain and the hilly, quaint town of Munsiyari in Uttarakhand to take a well deserved break from their hectic lives. Says Vinay Bagri, Co-founder and CEO, Niyo, a travel banking platform"India’s growing middle class and increasing incomes are driving the rise in outbound travel. Additionally, India’s soft power diplomacy is shaping global travel industry trends. According to the Henley Passport Index, there are 62 countries where Indian passport holders can travel visa-free". "Niyo has seen a 60% growth in international travel over the past year. 55% among leisure travelers, 70% in student travel, and 25% in business travel. Interestingly, 40% of the customers we onboarded were first-time international travellers”, he continued. <h2>Be financially prepared</h2>But while it is great to travel, or take that dream vacation or overseas trip, setting aside money for the same can certainly be a herculean task. That's why, the key to a stress-free getaway, irrespective of it being a short break or an extended adventure, lies in making strategic investment choices. Here are some ways in which you can create a healthy corpus for your travelling, all from your savings: Creating a Vacation Budget Establish a comprehensive budget that covers expenses such as travel, currency exchange rates, time off from work, and the number of travelers. Conducting in-depth research on your destination, the best time to visit, and other relevant details can also lead to significant savings. A good idea is to plan in advance the number of vacations you wish to take each year. Deciding and booking your tickets ahead of time can help you save costs. Also, having a dedicated <keyword id="23343124" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Travel-Fund" source="keywords">travel fund</keyword>, separate from your daily expenses, helps you stay focused. Consider using a fixed deposit or a liquid mutual fund to watch your money grow faster. Per Swati Bhargava, Co-Founder of CashKaro and EarnKaro, building a travel fund not only allows you to experience your dream vacation, but also fosters healthy financial habits that prevents debt and maximizes the value of your hard-earned money. Short-term Gains for Quick Access Says Bhuvan Rustagi COO &amp; Co-founder of Per Annum, "By exploring options such as recurring deposits, liquid funds and short-term bonds, individuals can enhance their financial flexibility, which can also help them plan any spontaneous adventures". Don't let your travel fund sit idle in a savings account. You can invest it in various short-term instruments, depending on your risk appetite. In case you want to play it safe, a recurring deposit or liquid funds are a good option. For people willing to take on more risk, P2P lending can also be a good option. Automate your way By setting up recurring transfers from your primary account to a dedicated travel savings account, you can ensure that a portion of your income is automatically saved each month. This disciplined approach will eliminates the temptation to spend impulsively, and will also help you stay committed to your travel goals. During the festive season, which will set in from next month, most online platforms, websites, and aggregators abound with enticing discounts on flights and hotels. Keep a keen eye on these deals, and you can significantly reduce travel expenses and plan your trip more efficiently. During the sales, travel portals often offer exclusive discounts tied to specific banks or release flash sales. That is also a great way to maximize your savings on travel. Many Indians are also turning to <keyword id="23343125" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Cashback-Platforms" source="keywords">cashback platforms</keyword> to maximize their savings on travel bookings. According to reports, the travel sector sees an average cashback rate of 8%, the highest of all sectors. Further clubbed with credit cards you save a lot more on your hotels &amp; flights. No wonder, travel credit cards emerged as the frontrunners, experiencing a remarkable 27% YoY growth in 2023. "For those planning a festive season getaway, combining multiple offers can lead to substantial savings, making your dream destination more affordable”, continues Bhargava So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next travel destination now. With smart investments and budgeting, it might happen for you, sooner than you think!

World Tourism Day: Here's where India is travelling to, and how you too, can join the bandwagon

New Delhi [India], August 4 (ANI): India's <keyword id="21307504" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="outbound-tourism" source="keywords">outbound tourism</keyword> market is expected to reach USD 18817.72 million (USD 18.81 billion) in 2024 and grow at a <keyword id="20256055" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="CAGR" source="keywords">CAGR</keyword> of 11.4 per cent in the decade between 2024 and 2034 to reach approximately USD 55388.41 million (USD 55.38 billion), highlighted a FICCI-Nangia knowledge paper. The paper titled '<keyword id="22661864" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Navigating-Horizons" source="Orion">Navigating Horizons</keyword>: <keyword id="22661865" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="The-Rise-and-Future-of-Indian-Outbound-Tourism" source="Orion">The Rise and Future of Indian Outbound Tourism</keyword>', released during the '3rd Outbound Tourism Summit' here in the FICCI office earlier this week, asserted that few emerging markets and opportunities for outbound <keyword id="19916662" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="travel" source="keywords">travel</keyword> include various Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, African and Eastern European countries. India's online travel market, which consists of sales of travel services through online channels, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5 per cent between 2024-29, from USD 17.24 billion to USD 28.40 billion. International travel has thus been eased by the steady growth in affordable technology, states the paper. It further states that the government administration and the tourism industry stakeholders in India may undertake various strategic interventions to promote the outbound tourism market. These include bilateral engagement; improved connectivity; support to travel industry stakeholders; marketing of international destinations; curated packages; and hospitality partnerships, among others. Speaking at the launch of the report, Mary M Mutuku, Deputy High Commissioner of Kenya to India said that Kenya is not only committed to deepen the relations between India and Kenya but also promoting Kenya as a preferred tourist destination. "Currently, the India market is among the top 5 Kenya's key sources of tourists, and this has the potential to grow even further," she said in her brief address. To attract more <keyword id="110519" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-tourists" source="Orion">Indian tourists</keyword> to Kenya, Mutuku stated that Kenya has put in place the necessary infrastructure to ease travel in the country. "With an increase in the number of flights between the two countries along with the opening of the Nairobi Expressway, tourists will have more convenience traveling in Kenya. A new cruise terminal at Mombasa port is a major boost to cruise tourism. The berth targets to enhance passenger handling capacity as well as allow for an increased volume of cruise ships arrival at the port," she added. Seitenov Darkhan, Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of Kazakhstan to India had said, "We have huge potential for mutual and beneficial cooperation in the tourism sector. There has been significant growth in the number of tourists coming to Kazakhstan from India which is also due to offering 14 days visa-free regime for Indian tourists along with an increase in a number of direct flights." While highlighting the investment potential for Indian industry, Darkhan further said that in order to meet the needs of Indian tourists in Kazakhstan, it would be advisable to consider building a network of Indian hotels and restaurants in the major cities in Kazakhstan. "We invite major Indian investors to participate in implementing these initiatives in our country," he added. Geshan Dissanayake, Minister Commercial, High Commission of Sri Lanka in India said, "The strong shared heritage between India and Lanka forms the bedrock of our bilateral relationship. India alone stands out as a key source market for Sri Lanka. The integration of the Indian UPI payment system with 'LankaPay' has made simplified payment options for Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka," he added. Dissanayake further stated that to fully realize the potential of outbound tourism there is a need to focus on marketing and promotion of various offerings by Sri Lanka; infrastructure development; promoting sustainable tourism and further streamlining the visa process. Working together, we can unlock the potential of outbound tourism between India and Sri Lanka," he added. Jyotsna Suri, Past President, of FICCI and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group stated that any country has to have healthy inbound and outbound tourism. "<keyword id="644076" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-tourism" source="Orion">Indian tourism</keyword> has witnessed a major growth in the last few years and while we are at the threshold of massive growth, we must be cognizant of sustainability as well," she added. Ankush Nijhawan, Chairman, of FICCI Outbound Tourism Committee and Co-Founder, TBO.com and MD, of Nijhawan Group said that the global travel and tourism industry is expected to reach USD 2.6 trillion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 8.2 per cent. "Traveler preferences are becoming increasingly diverse, and demand tailor-made travel services. Demographic boost, government support, increased connectivity, and niche segment growth are powering India's outbound travel boom," he added. Representatives from the Embassy of Madagascar to India, the Embassy of Georgia to India, the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, Singapore Tourism Board also shared their perspectives during the session.

Indian outbound tourism to reach USD 18817.72 million, grow at over 11% CAGR through 2034: FICCI-Nangia report

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s rank on the <keyword id="20020435" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Economic-Forum" source="keywords">World Economic Forum</keyword>'s <keyword id="21747126" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Travel-Tourism-Development-Index-2024" source="Orion">Travel &amp; Tourism Development Index 2024</keyword> has risen to 39th place, with global tourism activities returning to pre-pandemic levels, the annual report showed on Tuesday. While the US topped the list, India is ranked highest in South Asia and among the lower-middle-income economies, the <keyword id="102110" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="WEF" source="Orion">WEF</keyword> said. India was ranked 54th in the previously published index in 2021, though changes made to the index parameters limit its comparability to earlier years. After the US, Spain, Japan, France and Australia figure among the top five in the 2024 list. The index, prepared in collaboration with the University of Surrey, showed India is highly price-competitive (18th) and boasts competitive Air Transport (26th) and Ground and Port (25th) infrastructure. In particular, India's strong Natural (6th), Cultural (9th) and Non-Leisure (9th) Resources help drive travel, and the country is only one of three to score in the top 10 for all the resource pillars, the WEF said. Moreover, despite a decline compared to 2019, the country still scores well for <keyword id="2173225" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="travel-and-tourism" source="Orion">travel and tourism</keyword> demand sustainability, especially thanks to more sustainable long stays among inbound visitors. It further said that as with many economies, travel and tourism enabling conditions in India have been impacted by global inflationary supply-side trends for the sector, with price competitiveness declining, while air transport and tourist services infrastructure are yet to recover to the 2019 level. As a result, the country's overall TTDI (Travel and Tourism Development Index) score is 2.1 per cent below its 2019 level. High-income economies in Europe and Asia-Pacific continued to lead the index. "International tourist arrivals and the travel and tourism sector's contribution to global GDP are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels this year, driven by the lifting of COVID-19-related travel restrictions and strong pent-up demand," the WEF said. The Middle East had the highest recovery rates in international tourist arrivals (20 per cent above the 2019 level), while Europe, Africa and the Americas all showed a strong recovery of around 90 per cent in 2023. The biennial index analysed the travel and tourism sectors of 119 countries around a range of factors and policies. Germany was ranked 6th, followed by the UK, China, Italy and Switzerland in the top ten. The results highlighted that high-income economies generally continue to have more favourable conditions for travel and tourism development. This was helped by conducive business environments, dynamic labour markets, open travel policies, strong transport and tourism infrastructure, and well-developed natural, cultural and non-leisure attractions.

India rises to rank 39th on WEF's Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, becomes highest ranked South Asian nation

<keyword id="20102333" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-tourists" source="keywords">Indian tourists</keyword> can now add another perk to their <keyword id="22004118" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Thailand-travel-itinerary" source="Orion">Thailand travel itinerary</keyword>: a <keyword id="20166205" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="visa-free-entry" source="keywords">visa-free entry</keyword> to the ever-alluring Land of Smiles! Starting June 1, the Thai government has rolled out a revamped visa policy, granting Indian nationals a hassle-free entry and an extended stay of up to 60 days, a doubling of the previous 30-day limit that was valid until May 2024. This change is part of a broader initiative by <keyword id="11905404" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Thailand" source="Orion">Thailand</keyword> to attract more tourists and remote workers. The Thai cabinet has expanded its visa-free and visa-on-arrival options, increasing the list of eligible countries from 57 to 93, with India prominently included. This extension not only caters to tourists, but also targets remote workers, graduate students and retirees, who can now stay for up to 60 days. Remote workers, in particular, benefit from a five-year visa that permits stays of up to 180 days at a time, and retirees see reduced health insurance requirements. Thailand is already a popular destination among Indian tourists. Before the pandemic, India was Thailand's third-largest tourist market, with nearly 2 million visitors in 2019. Although 2023 saw a slight dip with 1.6 million Indian tourists, making it the fourth-largest source market, the new visa regulations are expected to boost these numbers significantly. This visa relaxation comes as a strategic move by Thailand to rejuvenate its tourism sector, which has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. The tourism industry, a vital part of Thailand's economy, had seen a sharp decline in international arrivals due to pandemic restrictions. But now, these new measures aim to reverse that trend, with Thailand hoping to attract a larger influx of tourists to stimulate its economy. Renowned for its budget-friendly appeal and diverse attractions, Thailand remains a top choice for travellers worldwide. From breathtaking beaches and nature reserves to bustling cities rich with culture and delectable cuisine, the Southeast Asian country offers a unique blend of experiences that continue to draw visitors. It also boasts vibrant nightlife and affordable, high-quality accommodations, making it an irresistible destination for all kinds of travellers. In 2023, Thailand welcomed around 24.5 million international visitors, generating significant economic benefits. Impressively, the first quarter of this year alone saw 9.4 million tourists contributing approximately 454.6 billion baht (1,030 billion INR) to the economy. With the introduction of these new visa policies, Thailand is ambitiously aiming to attract a record 40 million tourists this year — a target that approaches its pre-pandemic peak in 2019.

Planning a Thailand trip? You won’t even need to apply for a visa anymore! Here’s why

New York [US], May 21 (ANI): International tourist arrivals and the <keyword id="2173225" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel-and-tourism" source="Orion">travel and tourism</keyword> sector's contribution to <keyword id="572312" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-GDP" source="Orion">global GDP</keyword> are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels this year, driven by the complete lifting of COVID-19-related <keyword id="19916662" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="travel" source="keywords">travel</keyword> restrictions and strong pent-up demand, as per the new <keyword id="20020435" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Economic-Forum" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="World Economic Forum" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="World Economic Forum">World Economic Forum</keyword> travel and <keyword id="19997361" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourism" source="keywords">tourism</keyword> study, released on Tuesday. Topping the 2024 list of economies are the US, Spain, Japan, France and Australia. The Middle East had the highest recovery rates in international tourist arrivals - 20 per cent above the 2019 level, while Europe, Africa and the US all showed a strong recovery of around 90 per cent in 2023. <keyword id="21745194" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Travel-and-Tourism-Development-Index-2024" source="Orion">Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024</keyword> (TTDI), a biennial report published in collaboration with the University of Surrey, analysed the travel and tourism sectors of 119 countries around a range of factors and policies. "This year marks a turning point for the travel and tourism sector, which we know has the capacity to unlock growth and serve communities through economic and social transformation," said Francisco Betti, Head of the Global Industries team at the World Economic Forum. "The report offers a forward-looking window into the current and future state of travel and tourism for leaders to navigate the latest trends in this complex sector and sustainably unlock its potential for communities and countries across the world." The <keyword id="840423" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-tourism" source="Orion">global tourism</keyword> industry is expected to recover from the lows of the COVID-19 pandemic and surpass the levels seen before the crisis. As per the report, this is largely being driven by a significant increase in demand worldwide, which has coincided with more available flights, better international openness, and increased interest and investment in natural and cultural attractions. However, the report painted that the global recovery has been mixed. While 71 of the 119 ranked economies increased their index scores since 2019. Although the sector has moved past the shock of the global health crisis, it continues to deal with other external challenges, from growing macroeconomic, geopolitical and environmental risks, to increased scrutiny of its sustainability practices. In addition, labour shortages are ongoing, and air route capacity, capital investment, productivity and other sector supply factors have not kept up with the increase in demand. This imbalance, worsened by global inflation, has increased prices and service issues. Out of the top 30 index scorers in 2024, 26 are high-income economies, 19 are based in Europe, seven are in Asia-Pacific, three are in the Americas and one (the United Arab Emirates) is in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA). The top 10 countries in the 2024 edition are the United States, Spain, Japan, France, Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Italy and Switzerland. The results highlight that high-income economies generally continue to have more favourable conditions for travel and tourism development. This is helped by conducive business environments, dynamic labour markets, open travel policies, strong transport and tourism infrastructure, and well-developed natural, cultural and non-leisure attractions. "It's essential to bridge the divide between differing economies' ability to build a strong environment for their travel and tourism sector to thrive," said Iis Tussyadiah, Professor and Head of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Surrey. "The sector has big potential to foster prosperity and mitigate global risks, but that potential can only be fully realized through a strategic and inclusive approach." If managed strategically, the travel and tourism sector - which has historically represented 10 per cent of global GDP and employment - has the potential to emerge as a key contributor to growth, it said. (ANI)

Worldwide tourism and its contribution to global GDP to return to pre-COVID levels this year: WEF study

For us Indians, summer is not just about sultry weather and parched lands. It's also about nostalgia with two-month-long vacations, travel with family, and exploring new places every year. Summer travel is a time-honoured tradition that beckons adventurers, families, and sun-seekers alike to embark on journeys of discovery and relaxation. Whether it's basking on sun-kissed beaches, trekking through mountains under clear skies, or immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of cultural experiences, summer offers a plethora of opportunities to create unforgettable memories. As travellers eagerly pack their bags and plan their escapades, the data around these plans also tells a story. And the popular travel portal Make My Trip has now revealed some interesting trends in its report “<keyword id="17059737" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Summer-Travel-Trends" source="Orion">Summer Travel Trends</keyword>”! The report gives a peek into the evolving preferences and behaviours of travellers across India. From the bustling streets of <keyword id="826" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Goa" source="Orion">Goa</keyword> to the serene landscapes of <keyword id="6354931" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ayodhya" source="Orion">Ayodhya</keyword>, summer 2024 travel trends encompass a dynamic mix of traditional favourites and emerging destinations. Spiritual tourism remains vibrant, with pilgrimage sites like Puri and Varanasi drawing considerable interest. Additionally, the influence of external factors such as elections on travel patterns reflects the interconnectedness of travel and societal events. As one delves into the data, intriguing insights are evident not just on destinations but also on shifting trends in accommodation preferences and the duration of travel. Here are a few key takeaways from the report: <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Goa remains top destination and Ayodhya is catching up" comment="subhead" text="Goa remains top destination and Ayodhya is catching up">Goa remains top destination and Ayodhya is catching up</cmsannotation> Goa retains its position as the top searched destination for travellers this year as well. However, Ayodhya has seen the sharpest growth in search volumes, attributed to the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. Following Ayodhya, interest in travel to Lakshadweep and Nandi Hills also shows noticeable increases. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/article/best-beaches-to-visit-in-goa/articleshow/109728267.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Best beaches to visit in Goa in 2024</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Spiritual tourism shows no decline" comment="subhead" text="Spiritual tourism shows no decline">Spiritual tourism shows no decline</cmsannotation> This summer, Puri and Varanasi emerge as the most searched pilgrimage destinations. Travellers are showing keen interest in exploring the spiritual and cultural richness offered by these revered sites during their summer journeys. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Travel behaviour during elections" comment="subhead" text="Travel behaviour during elections"><keyword id="21579458" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Travel-behaviour-during-elections" source="Orion">Travel behaviour during elections</keyword></cmsannotation> Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and CEO of Make My Trip says they have seen a surge in traffic and bookings on redBus during election dates. People prioritise visiting their hometowns to cast votes, reflecting a significant trend in travel behaviour during electoral periods. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Growth in family and solo travel" comment="subhead" text="Growth in family and solo travel">Growth in family and solo travel</cmsannotation> In 2024, the family travel segment experienced a remarkable 20% growth compared to summer 2023. Solo travel also sees a significant uptick, with a 10% increase over the previous year's numbers, following the trend set by family travel. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Mountains over beaches" comment="subhead" text="Mountains over beaches">Mountains over beaches</cmsannotation> Places with cool mountain terrains emerge as the top choices for domestic holiday destinations this summer. Travellers show a preference for destinations offering refreshing mountain landscapes, highlighting a trend towards seeking cooler climates for summer getaways. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="These international destinations saw the highest growth" comment="subhead" text="These international destinations saw the highest growth">These international destinations saw the highest growth</cmsannotation> Baku, Almaty, and Nagoya are witnessing the highest growth in searches among international destinations. Travellers are showing increasing interest in exploring these diverse and vibrant cities, reflecting a shift in preferences for their summer travel plans. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Average travelling days" comment="subhead" text="Average travelling days">Average travelling days</cmsannotation> On average, domestic travel durations range from 3 to 5 days, offering shorter yet fulfilling getaways. In contrast, international travel tends to span longer periods, averaging between 8 to 10 days, allowing travellers to immerse themselves more deeply in their chosen destinations. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Most booked domestic packages" comment="subhead" text="Most booked domestic packages">Most booked domestic packages</cmsannotation> The most booked domestic tour packages today include <keyword id="6358126" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Himachal-Pradesh" source="Orion">Himachal Pradesh</keyword>, Kashmir, Goa, Kerala, and the Northeast region. These destinations offer diverse experiences ranging from serene mountain escapes in Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir to tropical beach getaways in Goa and Kerala, along with the enchanting cultural and natural beauty of the North East, attracting travellers seeking a variety of experiences. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Mid-range is preferred but premium accommodations show the highest growth" comment="subhead" text="Mid-range is preferred but premium accommodations show the highest growth">Mid-range is preferred but premium accommodations show the highest growth</cmsannotation> The tariff range of INR 2.5K to 7K per night constitutes approximately 45% of all homestay bookings. However, homestays and villas with tariffs exceeding INR 20K per night are experiencing the highest growth. Similarly, in the hotel sector, the INR 2.5K to 7K range remains preferred, but notable growth is observed in the INR 10K to 15K category, indicating a trend towards premiumisation. The summer travel landscape of 2024 presents a tapestry of diverse destinations and evolving travel behaviours. While Constant favourites like Goa continue to reign supreme, the rise of destinations such as Ayodhya and the growing interest in spiritual tourism demonstrate a nuanced shift in traveller preferences. The surge in family and solo travel, coupled with the increasing popularity of mid-range to premium accommodations, underscores the evolving dynamics of the Indian travel market. As travellers seek refuge in the cool mountain terrains or go on soul-searching journeys to pilgrimage sites, one thing remains clear – travel is not just about reaching a destination but also about embracing the experiences that enrich our lives along the way. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/international/webstories/ahmedabad-makes-it-to-the-top-8-global-destinations-for-slow-travel-see-the-list/slidelist/109916139.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Ahmedabad makes it to the top 8 global destinations for slow travel; See the list</a>

Goa remains top, spiritual tourism remains hot, premium accommodations grow fast — MMT’s summer travel trends for 2024

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Careers in luxury-travel advising are growing as travelers seek stress-free, high-end experiences.</li><li>Gen Z and millennials are driving the growth, seeing vacation spending as a worthy expense.</li></ul>The internet has revolutionized the way people research and book travel. Travelers now have access to hotel- and flight-booking platforms, travel content on social media, travel blogs, and travel publications.Today's travelers, especially those seeking luxury experiences, don't always want to wade through all that information. Consequently, the travel-advisor industry has experienced <a target="_blank" href="https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5939779/online-travel-agent-global-market-report">significant growth in recent years</a>, especially among <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/travel-agents-back-gen-z-millennials-vacation-planning-overseas-resorts-2024-6">Gen Z and millennial travelers</a>. According to Grand View Research, the global luxury-travel market is worth an estimated $1.3 trillion and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/luxury-travel-market">expected to grow 7.9% from 2024 to 2030</a>.Luxury travelers are not necessarily looking for the best deals but the best way to plan a trip without the hassle. This is where a luxury-travel advisor comes in. Agents can provide personalized itineraries, access to upgrades and selective experiences, and support throughout the trip.Business Insider talked to three luxury-travel advisors about the industry's growth and how to transition into travel advising.<h2 id="d0bc394b-7621-4fa4-a0f8-32d935c8b8b2">Why the luxury-travel industry is booming</h2>Diana Hechler, the owner of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.dtourstravel.com/">D. Tours Travel</a>, said the luxury-travel industry has grown because travelers have access to more luxury-level properties, and more people are willing to pay luxury prices. Also, a vacation is seen as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/cook-chef-manager-amusement-parks-gen-z-attendant-experience-economy2023-11">a necessity for Gen Z travelers</a>."People are booking vacations more than ever and want them to be stress-free and restorative. And nothing does that better than luxury travel," Hechler told BI. "Despite the higher prices, the segment of travelers that want luxury and are willing to pay for it has grown as well."<div type="image" title="Diana Hechler smiling against the backdrop on a scenic landscape" height="480" width="640" msid="111319030" hostid="261"></div>Angela Adto Tepper, the owner of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.azaluxurytravel.com/">AZA Luxury Travel</a>, said that the shift toward luxury travel had increased since the pandemic, with more Americans prioritizing travel."The luxury-travel sector has evolved to prioritize wellness, health, sustainability, and transformative experiences, and people are now prioritizing meaningful travel experiences and pursuing bucket-list trips," Tepper said. "Advisors have adapted by curating journeys tailored to each client."<h2 id="e8bab25d-5ff3-4403-9e08-2486bf69f866">Why travelers work with advisors</h2>One of the biggest advantages of working with a travel advisor is that it helps travelers cut through the noise and information overload. Traveler agents work on commission, getting a percentage of hotel, cruise, or tour costs, which is paid after a trip is over. Many agents also charge an up-front fee for research and planning."The internet was supposed to be the death of advisors, and instead, it's made us more valuable than ever," Hechler said. "While some people love to spend time researching their vacations and doing it themselves, many don't have time to 'waste' on the internet starting from scratch. Saving time is problem-solving for almost everyone; anytime you can solve people's problems, you can have a successful business."Travel advisors can also offer complimentary upgrades and have access to experiences that might not be available to the public."Working with a travel advisor can be summarized by three E's," Tepper said. "We can provide expertise and insider knowledge, extras with personalized service, and emergency assistance."<div type="image" title="Angela Adto Tepper headshot" height="800" width="800" msid="111319028" hostid="261"></div>With the prevalence of Instagram and TikTok, it might seem like everyone is going to the same places. So booking luxury hotels or making reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants is no longer enough; travelers want advisors to curate one-of-a-kind experiences."The luxury-travel sector is not just about opulence and indulgence but also about creating meaningful, enriching experiences that leave a lasting impact," Maurice Smith, the founder and CEO of the luxury-travel agency <a target="_blank" href="https://www.eugenetoriko.com/about/mauricesmith">Eugene Toriko</a>, said. "Sustainable and regenerative travel practices are becoming increasingly important, focusing on preserving and enhancing the destinations we visit."<h2 id="9b6f140b-dd8b-4170-8551-bcd2b8a53375">Tips for transitioning into travel advising</h2>If you're ready to move into the industry, it's worth taking stock of your skills first. For example, Tepper said people with event-planning experience might transition well into travel advising since itinerary planning and familiarity with booking platforms are part of the job. She added that soft skills, like interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and adaptability, would also come in handy.Tepper recommended contacting an advisor before switching over. "If you're considering the career change, one of the best things you can do is secure a reputable mentor," she said. "A mentor can offer invaluable guidance, accelerating professional growth and enhancing skill development, leading to greater success and higher earnings."It also helps to study travel trends, have a deep knowledge of a destination, and build expertise around types of travel, such as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/multigenerational-family-cruise-vacation-kids-grandmother-2024-4">multigenerational trips</a>, cruises, or honeymoons. Tepper said that prospective advisors must also remember that they're not necessarily looking for the "best discounts" for clients but creating tailored trips with impeccable customer service."To maintain the quality of our personalized work, we occasionally have to turn away a client," Tepper said. "Not every client is the right fit for our service. This selectivity ensures that we can devote the necessary time and attention to crafting great experiences for everyone while upholding the high standards we have put in place."<h2 id="20ff0366-89dc-464a-b1bb-6d985f7819cf">The benefits of travel advising</h2>Travel advising provides valuable services to travelers, but agents can also receive perks like complimentary trips sponsored by hotels and tourism boards and travel discounts."One of the biggest perks of this job is the opportunity to explore the world and indulge in my passion for travel," Tepper said. "Imagine waking up in a new city, tasting exotic cuisines, and immersing yourself in diverse cultures while doing what you love. For me, it's a career that blends passion and purpose."The job also comes with a few challenges. Smith said that agents must stay on top of ever-changing travel regulations to ensure the safety of their clients. But ultimately, he said, it's a rewarding career that prioritizes relationships."Travel advising offers flexibility and the potential to work remotely, allowing for a good work-life balance," Smith said. "Additionally, the satisfaction of helping clients create unforgettable memories and the joy of turning their travel dreams into reality is incredibly rewarding."

Luxury-travel advisors are in demand as Gen Z and millennials splurge on stress-free, meaningful vacations

Mumbai, The domestic air passenger traffic is expected to surpass the pre-Covid levels of 141.2 million and reach 150-155 million this fiscal, registering an estimated growth of 8-13 per cent, credit ratings agency <keyword id="19908266" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="icra" source="keywords">Icra</keyword> said on Wednesday. Icra also projected a significant reduction in industry's net loss for the next two fiscals and was also of the view that supply-chain challenges and engine failure issues may remain near-term headwinds. Icra maintains a "stable" outlook on the domestic aviation industry, amidst the continued recovery in domestic and international air passenger traffic, and relatively stable cost environment, it said. The momentum in traffic growth is expected to continue in FY2025 as well, with a similar estimated year-on-year growth, aided by rising demand for both leisure and business travel and improving airport infrastructure, it said. The international passenger traffic for Indian carriers surpassed the pre-Covid levels in FY2023, although it trailed the peak levels of 25.9 million witnessed in FY2019, according to Icra. It is expected to cross this level in the current fiscal, with an estimated 25-27 million passengers, representing a <keyword id="19921444" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="yoy" source="keywords">YoY</keyword> growth of 7-12 per cent, the ratings agency said, adding the same is expected to further grow by 7-12 per cent to 27-29 million in FY2025. "The industry has witnessed improved pricing power, as reflected in increase in yields and thus the spread between revenue per available seat <keyword id="20544428" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kilometre" source="keywords">kilometre</keyword>-cost per available seat kilometre (RASK-CASK) for the airlines. "The same is expected to remain favourable, aided by a decline in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices and the relatively stable foreign exchange rates," said <keyword id="20849526" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="suprio-banerjee" source="keywords">Suprio Banerjee</keyword>, Vice President and <keyword id="20225498" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sector-head" source="keywords">Sector Head</keyword> for corporate ratings at Icra. The industry is thus estimated to report a significantly lower net loss of Rs 300-4,000 crore (Rs 30-40 billion) in FY2024 and FY2025 compared to Rs 170-175 billion in FY2023, he added. According to the ratings agency, the ATF prices and indian rupee-US dollar movement have a major bearing on the airlines' cost structure. The average ATF price stood at Rs 103,547/KL in the April-February period of FY2024, which is a YoY decline of 15 per cent compared to Rs 120,978/KL in FY2023, it said. However, this was 60 per cent higher compared to an average of Rs 64,715/KL during FY2020, as per Icra. Fuel accounts for around 30-40 per cent of the airlines' expenses.

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