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India travel trends: Search for spiritual destinations surges 97%, Delhi scores high in inquiries

Spiritual destinations are stealing the show in India's travel market with such locations recording a 97 percent surge in searches in the last two years, according to an analysis by online travel aggregator (OTA) MakeMyTrip. Searches for Ayodhya grew 585 percent, Ujjain by 359 percent and Badrinath by 343 percent in 2023 over the previous year, said the report launched by the OTA on April 22. Tier-2 and tier-3 cities are embracing spiritual journeys, it added. The report also added that people taking more than three trips per year has grown by 25 percent in 2023 as compared to 2019. Where India travels On the international front, 30 percent of all foreign travel searches from India are for Dubai, Bangkok and Singapore, while London, Toronto and New York are the most searched long-haul destinations. Searches for emerging international destinations grew by multi-fold in 2023 and the hot favourites include Hong Kong, Almaty, Paro, Baku, Da Nang and Tbilisi. Travel to unexplored destinations has increased which has led to over 30 percent growth in searches for 16 emerging destinations. As many as 31 unique destinations contribute to 60 percent of searches from all six metros including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai. Delhi NCR and Goa are the most searched destination from all six metros. Delhi has the highest share in terms of searches in 2023 at 11.4 percent, followed by Mumbai at 7.2 percent, Bengaluru at 5.4 percent, and Goa at 5.3 percent. In the domestic flights category, tier II cities have emerged as the highest growth destinations. Lucknow, Thiruvananthapuram Indore and Bhubaneshwar lead with maximum searches. Travel sentiment touched an all-time high in November 2022 with seven out of 10 people planning travel, the OTA said. It added that there has been 45 percent growth in searches as compared to the pre-pandemic period. As many as 100 million people are actively searching for travel on MakeMyTrip platform annually. How India travels Family travel bookings surged by 64 percent in 2023 as compared to 2022, followed by solo travel booking a 23 percent growth. Two people travelling together make for 50 percent of all bookings. Indians continue to make last minute travel plans with a significant portion of travel bookings in India are made spontaneously, with 46 percent of domestic flights booked less than a week before the travel date. On the other hand, about half of all international bookings are made at least two weeks in advance. Only one-third of international bookings are made more than a month before the travel date, suggesting a flexible approach to international travel planning among Indian travellers. For flight bookings, women prefer to pre-book window seats and men pick aisle seats. Tomato cucumber cheese lettuce sandwich is the most ordered in-flight meal on domestic flights. Vegetarian Hindu meal is the most ordered in-flight meal on international flights. Delhi travellers are over-indexed on booking domestic flights less than a week ahead of travel date while travellers from Kolkata have a higher inclination to book flights over three months in advance for both international and domestic destinations. Where India stays Alternative accommodations including homestays and villas recorded 24 percent growth in bookings in 2023 on MakeMyTrip as Indians are searching for stays that provide an emotional connection with culture and nature, the platform said. Hostels and apartments recorded maximum search growth of 39 percent and 31 percent respectively in 2023. For hostels and apartments, the preference is for those properties which cost less than Rs 2,500 per night but for villas, it is higher. Close to 20 percent of family travellers searched for properties with tariffs over Rs 10,000 per night last year. More than 50 percent of the family travellers and 75 percent of the solo travellers booked a property for stay below Rs 4,500 . Weekend getaways emerged as the highest growth destinations in the domestic hotels category. Jim Corbett leads with 131 percent growth in searches on MakeMyTrip followed by Ooty and Munnar. A large number of these hotel customers are driving to these destinations from nearby metros. People from Maharashtra contribute to highest domestic hotel searches. Travellers from Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka searched more for villas while maximum searches were done for hostels in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Goa.

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Traffic warning as 10,000 Sikhs expected to take part in Leicester's Nagar Kirtan parade

About 10,000 Sikhs are expected to join an annual procession across the city this weekend. Every spring, people from across the region flock to Leicester to join the Nagar Kirtan parade. The huge event has been taking place in Leicester for the past two decades and this year's procession will begin on Sunday morning at the temple in Holy Bones, near St Nicolas Circle, on the west side of the city centre. The route will pass over St Nicolas Circle, through the city centre and across to the Spinney Hills area, ending at the back of the Guru Tegh Bahadur Gurdwara in East Park Road. The procession will be starting at about 11.30am and ending at about 3pm, so there will be traffic disruption for several hours on Sunday. The roads where traffic will be halted while the parade goes past include St Nicolas Circle, St Georges Way and St Peters Road. Nagar Kirtan has been celebrated in Leicester since 1986 and involves people in the procession walking from temple to temple, singing hymns and filling up on food at langars, or community kitchens, where it is freely given to those taking part and anyone who wants any. There will be rolling road closures during the parade and some buses will be re-directed for a short time on Sunday. The roads affected by the Nagar Kirtan parade on Sunday will be: Holy Bones Great Central Street Vaughan Way St Nicholas Circle, St Nicholas Place High Street East Gates Gallowtree Gate Granby Street Northampton Street Charles Street St Georges Way Swain Street Sparkenhoe Street St Peters Road East Park Road Leicester Street Rosebery Street

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Your Trip To Europe Just Got Easier With New Schengen Visa Rules

Previously, obtaining a Schengen visa, which allows travel within the Schengen Area was a time-consuming process. The new rules introduce a "cascade system" specifically for Indian travellers. Here's what this means for you: What Is A Schengen Visa A Schengen visa is a travel document that allows individuals to enter and travel within the Schengen Area. Today, the Schengen Area encompasses most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. The Schengen Area has abolished internal borders, allowing for passport-free movement between member countries. The visa is typically issued for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits. Extended Validity: If you've used your Schengen visa responsibly in the past, you're eligible for longer validity periods. After obtaining and utilising two visas within a three-year timeframe, you can qualify for a two-year multi-entry visa. Following successful use of this two-year visa, with sufficient passport validity remaining, you could even be granted a coveted five-year multi-entry visa! These longer-validity visas essentially translate to more time to explore the diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and vibrant cities of the Schengen Area. Who Does This Benefit: The relaxed visa norms extend beyond leisure travel. Business professionals can benefit from extended stays, facilitating the strengthening of trade ties between India and the EU. Students pursuing higher education in Europe will also find the new rules advantageous. While there is no purpose of travel included in these visas, they do not allow the right to work within the Schengen area.

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Bali urges foreign tourists to get dengue fever vaccines amid increasing cases

The regional government of Bali, Indonesia, is advising foreign tourists to consider getting vaccinated against dengue fever as the number of cases continues to rise in the country. Gusti Ayu Raka Susanti, acting head of Disease Prevention and Control at the Bali Health Agency, emphasised that while dengue vaccines are not mandatory for tourists, it is highly recommended for their health, especially when visiting areas where dengue is prevalent. She stressed the importance of this precautionary measure for both tourists and Balinese residents, emphasising that dengue fever vaccinations can help protect individuals from infections. By encouraging tourists to get vaccinated, the Bali Health Agency aims to ensure the well-being of travellers during their stay in Bali, particularly when entering endemic areas, and to minimise the risk of dengue outbreaks in the region. The increasing rate of dengue fever cases nationwide in Indonesia has sparked concerns about the spread of the disease in Bali. While the Bali regional government doesn't have precise data on the number of tourists affected by dengue fever, the province has seen a significant uptick in cases. From January to April 2024, Bali reported a total of 4,177 cases and five deaths due to dengue fever. This surge in cases has prompted authorities to take proactive measures to address the situation and ensure the health and safety of both residents and visitors to the island. Bali – visa-free for Indian passport holders Indian tourists visiting Bali for less than 30 days do not require a visa on arrival. However, if your stay exceeds 30 days but is less than 60 days, you will need to obtain a visa on arrival, which costs ₹2400. How to reach Bali? Bali, a popular tourist destination in Indonesia, can be reached by air and sea. The most common way to reach Bali is by flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, located in the capital city of Denpasar. This airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travellers from various parts of the world. Many major airlines operate direct flights to Bali from major cities around the globe. Alternatively, travellers can also reach Bali by sea, with ferries connecting the island to neighbouring islands such as Java and Lombok. These ferries depart from various ports in Java and Lombok and arrive at ports in Bali, providing an alternative mode of transportation for those who prefer sea travel. Once in Bali, various transportation options, including taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services, are available to explore the island's attractions.

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Top 5 most affordable international destinations for a summer vacation

Summer is just around the corner, and if you're dreaming of an international getaway without breaking the bank, we've got you covered. From the historic streets of Baku to the tropical paradise of Bali, here are the top five most affordable international destinations to consider for your summer vacation: Baku, Azerbaijan: Unveiling a blend of history and modernity Baku, Azerbaijan, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by budget-conscious travellers. With affordable hotels and a convenient local transport system, Baku offers a perfect blend of history and modernity. Stroll through the ancient lanes of the Old City (Icherisheher) and marvel at the futuristic skyscrapers that line the cityscape. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture by visiting local mosques and landmarks. Don't miss out on trying the local delicacies available at pocket-friendly prices. To get around the city without breaking the bank, explore hidden treasures on foot or hop on a local bus or metro. Phuket, Thailand: Island paradise at an affordable price Phuket, Thailand, is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Budget travellers will be happy to find affordable beachfront resorts and budget-friendly accommodations. Phuket is a great base for exploring nearby islands like Phi Phi Island and James Bond Island, where you can soak in the natural beauty without spending a fortune. Indulge in delicious street food available at pocket-friendly prices to experience the true flavours of Thailand. Colombo, Sri Lanka: Budget traveller's paradise awaits Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a dream destination for budget travellers. With visa-free entry, affordable direct flights, and low-priced accommodations in the city centre, Colombo offers a hassle-free and cost-effective travel experience. Immerse yourself in the blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions, from exploring beautiful beaches to visiting historical sites like the Colombo National Museum. Treat your taste buds to budget-friendly local cuisine and street food, offering a delightful culinary experience without breaking the bank. Bali, Indonesia: Affordability meets beauty in Bali Bali, Indonesia, is synonymous with beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Easy visas and low-cost flights make Bali an attractive destination for budget travellers. Whether you're relaxing on the pristine beaches or exploring Balinese temples and local markets, Bali offers a plethora of affordable experiences. From hotels to villas, accommodation options in Bali cater to every budget, ensuring a memorable stay without overspending. Hanoi, Vietnam: Explore Vietnam's charm on a budget Hanoi, Vietnam, offers a charming exploration experience for budget travellers. Explore the charming Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, where affordable accommodations, including budget hostels and boutique hotels, await you. Dive into the vibrant street food culture with iconic dishes like pho and banh mi, tantalising your taste buds without burning a hole in your pocket. Don't miss the opportunity to visit nearby attractions like Halong Bay by exploring affordable tours, adding an extra dimension to your Hanoi experience. Concluding the perfect summer escape: These five international destinations offer the perfect combination of affordability and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, beach relaxation, or culinary adventures, these budget-friendly destinations have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for a summer vacation that won't break the bank!

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International air travel from tier-2, -3 cities soars

Indian aviation is witnessing a boom in international travel from smaller cities, with tier-2 and -3 hubs experiencing a significant surge in passenger traffic. According to data provided by the Airports Authority of India, cities like Trichy (15.1 per cent increase), Calicut (11.3 per cent increase), Amritsar (30 per cent increase) and Varanasi (6.7 per cent increase) saw impressive growth in the financial year 2023-24 (April to March) compared with the previous year. Notably, Indore witnessed a staggering 175.3 per cent rise in passenger traffic and Surat’s traffic grew by a substantial 126.2 per cent. Gaya, another fast-growing tier-2 city, reported a 47.6 per cent increase in international travellers. Airlines’ observations This trend aligns with observations from major airlines. Air India Express reports a “significant surge in passenger traffic from these markets, especially to the Middle East and Southeast Asia,” exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Tara Naidu, VP of International Business at Air India Express, elaborates, “Our passenger carriage has not only rebounded to pre-COVID levels but has surpassed them, displaying a robust recovery.” To meet this demand, they’ve bolstered capacity on these routes by 10 per cent and introduced new flight routes like Hyderabad to Dammam, Lucknow to Muscat, Surat to Dubai, Thiruvananthapuram to Doha and Mangaluru to Jeddah. Indigo mirrors the tier -2/3 city focus. An Indigo spokesperson said, “We expect the demand for air travel to remain robust, and the overall operating environment to remain conducive. Our international ASKs grew by 47 per cent YoY in the quarter ending December 2023. We see significant potential in tier-2 markets for international travel, as these cities are emerging as gateways to global destinations. Our share of international travel rose to 27 per cent of ASK in FY24 from 23 per cent in FY23.” The airline is expanding its international network, currently flying to 33 destinations from both major metros and 12 non-metro cities in India. Experts believe this surge is driven by a confluence of factors. Increased disposable income among the expanding middle class in tier-2 and -3 cities fuels a desire for leisure travel. Improved infrastructure in these regions, including airports and transportation links, makes international travel more accessible. Sunny Sodhi, Managing Director of FCM Travel India explained that tier-2 cities, now business hubs with startups, lacked direct flights. Business travellers had to connect through metros. This shift in options aligns with airlines targeting the Middle East and Gulf regions popular for business travel from these cities. Meanwhile, Cleartrip data confirms this trend, showcasing a significant rise in bookings for international travel from Vizag, Pune, Patna, Nagpur, Lucknow and Jaipur. Fares from these cities have increased by 6 per cent for summer travel, but bookings have skyrocketed by a factor of 1.85 times.

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