In a rapidly evolving travel landscape, Indian travellers are gearing up for 2024 with a definitive focus on redefining the value of their experiences. The latest insights from the Travel Trends Report for 2024 by SkyScanner, uncover a dynamic shift in priorities and aspirations, where experiences take precedence over mere itineraries. Let’s delve into the multifaceted dimensions that shape the travel choices of Indian globetrotters.
In the pursuit of wanderlust, Indian travelers are displaying an uncompromising spirit, with a remarkable 86% planning equal or more trips abroad in 2024 compared to the preceding year. This eagerness for exploration is not solely motivated by conventional factors like cost; it’s woven intricately with the intangible allure of a destination’s ambiance. A significant 43% now weigh the overall ‘vibe’ of a place as pivotal in their decision-making process.
While the cost of flights remains a decisive factor for 26% of Indian travelers in choosing their destination, a compelling revelation emerges—a staggering 63% have budgeted to allocate more funds for their travel escapades in 2024. This surge in budget allocation speaks volumes about the evolving mindset that values experiences and is willing to invest accordingly.
Trending Destinations in 2024 for Indian Tourists
The travel compass for Indian globetrotters is steering toward a blend of nearby retreats and far-flung escapades. Short-haul travel dominates the itinerary, with destinations like Krabi and Mahe Island spotlighting the yearning for relaxation and sun-soaked getaways. However, the allure of distant lands beckons, evident in the incline towards places like Osaka and Auckland, offering unique cultural experiences and tantalizing cuisine.
| Destination | % increase in searches |
|---|---|
| Da Nang, Vietnam | +1141% |
| Almaty, Kazakhstan | +501% |
| Baku, Azerbaijan | +438% |
| Osaka, Japan | +435% |
| Hanoi, Vietnam | +396% |
| Krabi, Thailand | +390% |
| Budapest, Hungary | +371% |
| Mahe Island, Seychelles | +356% |
| Auckland, New Zealand | +329% |
| Vienna, Austria | +316% |
Food transcends being merely sustenance; it’s a portal to culture and heritage. For 71% of Indian travelers, food is an essential factor in holiday planning. A notable 59% have even booked a destination purely to savor a specific restaurant’s offerings. While fine dining might seem dauntingly expensive, there are hidden gems in these trending destinations that offer exceptional dining experiences within a reasonable budget.
The pursuit of comfort and luxury need not break the bank. Indian travelers are keen on upgrading their travel experiences without exorbitant expenses. While 37% seek upgrades to business or first-class flights, 44% plan to indulge in airport lounge passes, setting the stage for a luxurious start to their journeys.
The inclination toward luxury stays without exorbitant price tags is emerging as a prevailing trend among Indian travelers. With an eye for opulence at reasonable rates, this cohort of travelers, often referred to as “Luxury Stay in Less Price Seekers,” seeks accommodation that offers a blend of indulgence and affordability. These travelers crave the finer experiences without compromising on quality or breaking the bank.
Estimated Average Pricing for Luxury Stays in the Trending Destinations:
- Da Nang, Vietnam: Approximately INR 10,000 – 20,000 per night.
- Almaty, Kazakhstan: Around INR 15,000 – 25,000 per night.
- Baku, Azerbaijan: Roughly INR 20,000 – 30,000 per night.
- Osaka, Japan: Expect prices around INR 25,000 – 40,000 per night.
- Hanoi, Vietnam: Approximately INR 12,000 – 25,000 per night.
- Krabi, Thailand: Around INR 15,000 – 30,000 per night.
- Budapest, Hungary: Roughly INR 18,000 – 35,000 per night.
- Mahe Island, Seychelles: Expect prices around INR 30,000 – 50,000 per night.
- Auckland, New Zealand: Approximately INR 20,000 – 40,000 per night.
- Vienna, Austria: Around INR 25,000 – 45,000 per night.
These estimates are based on a combination of factors such as the general cost of luxury accommodations in these destinations and the typical pricing range for high-end hotels. For precise and up-to-date pricing, it’s advisable to check reputable hotel booking websites or directly contact the hotels for the most accurate information regarding rates and any ongoing promotions or deals.
In a landscape where experiences trump mere sightseeing, the Indian traveler of 2024 embodies a fusion of adventure and discerning taste. The pursuit of value is redefined, intertwining cost considerations with a hunger for authentic cultural experiences and gastronomic delights. As these trends continue to shape the travel industry, it’s evident that the Indian traveler’s journey is no longer just about the destination—it’s about curating moments that linger as cherished memories.
The evolving traveler seeks to explore, indulge, and bask in the unique tapestries of diverse lands while ensuring that every rupee spent resonates with the essence of the experience. This evolution marks a paradigm shift, where the pursuit of value is not solely confined to price tags but encompasses the richness of experiences that transcend borders and budgets.
The travel trends of 2024 herald a new era—an era where value is redefined through experiences that etch themselves into the traveler’s heart, painting vibrant tales of exploration, discovery, and unbridled joy.
