Mumbai Hotels Ready to Profit From Coldplay’s India Concerts

Millionaires, they're just like us.

Real estate services company JLL estimates that by the end of this year, hotel transactions in India will amount to a total of $413 million. Last year, the industry saw investments worth $401 million.

When you think of destinations that affluent jet setters might frequent, the likes of London, Paris, and New York's Hamptons probably come to mind.

For a U.S. state with just over 4.5 million people, Louisiana punches above its weight when it comes to tourism. In 2023, the state brought in 43 million visitors. 

India’s wedding season is around the corner, and this year, about 4.8 million weddings are expected, according to a study by Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT). That could mean revenue of $70.4 billion.

A trio of prestigious hotels have just been awarded the AAA Diamond Program’s highest distinction of Five Diamonds, cementing their reputations as leading in luxury hospitality. Namely, the Waldorf Astoria Chicago; The Setai, Miami Beach; and Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco.   

In this episode of the Skift India Travel Podcast, Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia talks to Mehul Sharma, CEO and founder of Signum Hotels and Resorts, about the demand-supply gap in India’s hospitality market. Sharma goes on to talk about the growing demand for religious tourism in India and what makes religious destinations such a strong investment for hospitality companies.  

For all the buzz around India tourism, arrivals from foreigners in the first six months of 2024 were underwhelming: just under 4.78 million. That’s nearly 10% less than arrivals of 5.3 million in the same period in 2019.

We’re getting closer to the completion of Vistara’s merger with Air India, which will combine fleets, routes, and — most importantly for frequent flyers — loyalty programs.

Coldplay is the latest music juggernaut to cause a tourism frenzy. Mumbai felt the effect this week when tickets went on sale for their January shows, and Abu Dhabi in the UAE was next.

Tourism accounts for nearly a quarter of Thailand’s economy and a tenth of Turkey’s. For India, the contribution is just 5%. But the plan is now to double that contribution.

Fall is finally here. As we embrace the chillier months, travel brands are already preparing for the upcoming holidays. Just in time for spooky season, Extra Holidays is offering up to 20 percent off resort stays located in cities with Halloween spirit, activities vary from family-friendly to completely frightful—you've been warned. Marriott Bonvoy is having a Fall Flash sale where members can save up to 20 percent off of weekend hotel stays, perfect for those looking for a regenerative staycation or who want to attend an away game this football season.