It was only recently that Yatra Online CEO Dhruv Shringi could be heard talking about how Indian carrier IndiGo’s fierce pricing squeeze had led to a drop in revenue.
08.10.2024 - 07:35 / skift.com / Peden Doma Bhutia / Travel Podcast / Saniya Zanpure / Peden Doma
In this episode of the Skift India Travel Podcast, Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia is joined by Saniya Zanpure, research analyst at Skift, to explore India’s inbound tourism landscape. Last month, the Indian government announced initiatives aimed at boosting tourism, including offering 100,000 free visas. Despite surging outbound travel, inbound recovery has been slower, making these measures critical. Catch them discuss factors behind this disparity, such as safety concerns, visa issues, and infrastructure challenges, as well as untapped opportunities to enhance India’s appeal.
Strong Growth in India’s Outbound Tourism: India’s outbound tourism has shown robust growth, with international departures up 14% in the first half of this year compared to 2023. This growth is 12% higher than 2019 levels, reflecting a sustained recovery and increased travel enthusiasm among Indians post-pandemic.
Spending Power and Diverse Travel Preferences: Indian travelers are spending an estimated $19 billion overseas this year, driven by increased disposable income and affordability of international travel. Trends show a growing interest in off-season travel, package deals, and exploring newer destinations beyond traditional favorites like Dubai and Saudi Arabia.
Challenges in Inbound Tourism Recovery: Despite a strong domestic and outbound market, India’s inbound tourism is still lagging, reaching only 90% of 2019 levels. Factors include safety concerns, limited international marketing efforts, visa complexities, and cuts in promotion budgets.
Opportunities for Boosting Inbound Tourism: India can leverage its diverse tourism offerings — cultural experiences, adventure, wellness, and luxury — through targeted and aggressive international marketing. Hosting large-scale events like the G20 summit and the World Cup has already shown potential for driving foreign interest.
Importance of Infrastructure: Improving infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and airports, is crucial for enhancing the tourist experience. Better connectivity within India, through expanded rail networks and new airports, is essential to ensure a positive experience for international visitors, especially those looking beyond major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
Perception and Safety Concerns: Addressing safety concerns and changing negative perceptions about India is critical for attracting more tourists. Negative global headlines about isolated incidents can deter potential visitors, making it essential for India to emphasize safety and hospitality in its messaging.
Targeted Marketing for Specific Segments: Tailoring marketing campaigns to specific interests and demographics, such as the Indian diaspora or niche segments like honeymooners and luxury
It was only recently that Yatra Online CEO Dhruv Shringi could be heard talking about how Indian carrier IndiGo’s fierce pricing squeeze had led to a drop in revenue.
American Cruise Lines is building two new coastal ships: American Maverick and American Ranger.
One of the challenges of living in a prominent transit hub like New York City can be navigating your way to and from its airports.
Good morning from Skift. It’s Tuesday, October 15, 2024, and here’s what you need to know about the business of travel today.
Minimalism, for Gautam Munjal, the founder of Minimalist Hotels, is more than a buzzword — it’s about offering a high-quality experience without excess, appealing to travelers who are increasingly eco-conscious. In the latest episode of the Skift India Travel Podcast, catch Munjal in conversation with Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia as he talks about integrating hybrid spaces that cater to both work and leisure needs, while aiming to tap into the growing demand for flexibility among young urban travelers. He also sees food and beverage as an essential part of the guest experience, introducing unique concepts like craft cocktail bars and cozy cafés.
American Airlines is making a slew of changes to its domestic network.
Japan is a key expansion market for Airbnb, which launched a marketing campaign there Friday.
The global tourism industry is bouncing back in 2024. International arrivals increased 16% between January and August, compared to 2023, according to travel intelligence firm ForwardKeys. The company’s insights, presented at the World Travel and Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Global Summit in Perth, highlighted the pivotal role of the Asia-Pacific region in driving this resurgence.
China’s travel sector is making a strong comeback, following a challenging period during the pandemic.
In a year marked by regional instability and war, Saudi Arabia’s inbound arrivals have continued to grow.
2024 marks a new era for the travel industry beyond the depths of Covid-19 and the volatility of the post-pandemic world. Skift Research’s State of Travel 2024 brings you 350+ insights into the current state of travel, consumer behavior, and sector-specific trends.
Booking through Chase Travel just got more rewarding with several new promotions for eligible cardholders.