OUTBOUND TRAVEL Shifting Goalposts!

The post-COVID outbound market in India has sprung many surprises and some notable shifts and changes. Today, there is a growing tribe of travellers willing to travel at whatever cost to their bucket list of aspirational destinations. TTJ spoke to some dynamic industry players to understand how 2023 was for companies and what is new for 2024.

- Gurjit Singh Ahuja

Major Shifts and Changes 

Aspirational and experiential travel are ruling the roost today. The traveller has now evolved and is more willing to explore newer destinations and create experiences and memories rather than just travel for the sake of a vacation. They are now opting for longer and unique itineraries that offer the real essence of a destination. Pankaj Nagpal, Managing Director, Travstarz Global Group, explains, "Shopping, which used to be a very important factor for the Indian traveller, has now taken a back seat. Travellers today prefer to spend on better hotels, food, and the distinct experiences that a destination has to offer. We have seen this new trend even with senior citizens who are now keen travellers looking to enjoy their golden years.”

Tejbir Anand, Founder, and Managing Director, Holiday Moods Adventures, elaborates, "Earlier, not many Indians were heard travelling to places like Antarctica and Greenland, but now every year there are over a hundred passengers visiting these destinations. Destination weddings overseas are also a great new trend that has caught up, with a lot of celebrities leading the way. Rohit Shorey, Founder and CEO, Kazin DMC, also added, “There has been a growing interest in offbeat and experiential destinations with an increased inclination towards wellness and adventure tourism. The choice of destinations that we represent and their proximity to India, combined with limited visa hassles, appeal to the Indian traveller, enhancing business for these countries.”