Fueled by a thriving and rapidly growing economy, India is poised to become a significant global source market for leisure travel. India is currently the world’s fifth largest economy with a population of over 1.4 billion, overtaking China as the world’s largest. It also has a young population, with an average age of 27.6 years, more than a decade younger than most major economies. Moreover, consumption of goods and services, including leisure and recreation, is projected to double by 2030. Combined with a strong post-pandemic travel recovery and a growing desire to travel internationally, these factors point to significant potential for Indian international travel.
India is currently the world’s fifth largest economy and has a population of over 1.4 billion, overtaking China to become the world’s largest.
This article explores trends and opportunities in the Indian travel market through nine charts. Selected country examples highlight how destinations can strengthen their value proposition to attract and delight Indian travelers.
Destination Matchmaking: 5 Ways to Add Value
Destinations that want to capitalize on the full potential of the growing Indian market can consider aligning their value proposition with one or more of the five key decision points that travelers use to decide where to go: Destinations can ask the following questions to determine which factors align with what Indian travelers are looking for when planning a trip.
Research. How attractive and popular is the destination for Indian tourists? Access. Is it easy to get a travel visa? Connectivity. Are there convenient flights connecting India with the destination? Booking. Is the destination affordable for Indian travelers and does it have enough hotels in the right price range? Travel Experience. What is the local experience like for Indian tourists, including the weather, attractions, whether the locals speak English, etc.?
Namaste, India!
India is a growing source market with high potential for leisure travel. Destinations looking to attract Indian leisure travelers can consider targeted marketing, expanding affordable options, and on-site, customized hospitality tailored to Indian tastes. Destinations may need to take steps now to build a strong value proposition and differentiate themselves as a preferred destination. To do so, they can take steps in the following areas:
Destinations looking to attract Indian leisure travelers will need to consider targeted marketing, expanding affordable options and customized on-site hospitality.
Connect. Make travel seamless by simplifying visa application procedures, offering direct connections, etc. Attract. Offer affordable packages with a variety of choices that appeal to specific groups, such as families, couples, and solo travellers. Welcome. Provide a traveler-friendly experience, such as offering appropriate food and beverage options, including vegetarian and Indian cuisine. Attract. Design targeted campaigns that showcase the experiences Indian travellers want and disseminate the information using the right channels, such as leveraging over-the-air partnerships and social media. Unlock. Include MICE (meetings, incentive travel, conferences, and exhibitions) and business tourism segments in your marketing efforts to generate interest in leisure travel.
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