Indian travelers are increasingly showing interest in countries offering visa-free, easy visa, and e-visa options, especially for short trips. This trend is particularly noticeable as more Indians plan weekend getaways or ‘minications.’
India’s outbound tourism is growing rapidly, with annual growth rates of 11%. Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head of Holidays, MICE, and Visa at Thomas Cook India, shared with Skift that there is a noticeable rise in interest for countries offering simplified visa processes.
Several countries have made it easier for Indian passport holders to travel. Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, for instance, have announced visa waivers for Indians in recent months, responding to this growing demand.
One significant development came from the Philippines, which fully launched its e-visa system for Indian travelers on October 28, 2023. The system, which had been in a beta phase since August, allows Indians to apply for short-term visas for tourism, business, leisure, and medical purposes. By the end of October, over 7,000 e-visas had been issued.
In addition, Indians holding visas or permanent residence permits from countries like Japan, the U.S., Australia, Canada, the UK, Singapore, or Schengen Area countries can now enter the Philippines without a visa.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Delhi, along with Consulates in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, has launched the “Super Saturdays” initiative to reduce visa wait times. This program allows applicants to attend in-person visa interviews on Saturdays. More than a million visas have been processed across India this year alone.
In another move, South Africa announced it will replace its current e-visa system with a new electronic travel agreement visa system. Malaysia, which implemented a visa-free entry for Indian and Chinese travelers, saw a 155% increase in visitor numbers from both countries in the first half of 2024. Sri Lanka, which introduced a free visa program for travelers from seven countries, also experienced a 62% growth in tourist arrivals during the same period.
Air India Expands Fleet with 100 Additional Airbus Aircraft
Air India has confirmed an order for 100 Airbus aircraft, comprising 10 widebody A350s and 90 narrowbody A320s. This new order is part of the airline’s broader transformation plan, Vihaan.AI, which aims to position Air India as a global leader. With this addition, the airline’s Airbus fleet will expand to 350 planes, complementing its previous deal for 470 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing.
The A350s, already in service on non-stop routes to London and New York, are part of Air India’s push to modernize its fleet and enhance its global connectivity. In addition to the aircraft, the airline has upgraded its brand, business-class cabins, and cabin crew uniforms to offer a world-class flying experience.
Wyndham Hotels Launches Wyndham Garden in India
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has opened its first Wyndham Garden hotel in India. Located in Sonipat, Haryana, the 81-room hotel marks the debut of the brand in the country. This is the ninth Wyndham brand in India, following the recent launch of Microtel by Wyndham. Wyndham is focusing on expanding its midscale brands to meet the growing demand for affordable accommodations in India.
IndiGo Adds New Flights to Religious Tourism Destinations
IndiGo, India’s budget airline, will begin daily direct flights between Bengaluru and Ayodhya starting December 31. The airline will also resume daily services between Bengaluru and Gorakhpur. This move comes amid growing religious tourism, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, which is investing over INR 850 billion ($10.2 billion) to develop spiritual tourism spots. The state expects its annual tourist footfall to reach 850 million by 2028.
Agoda Predicts Travel Trends for Indians in 2025
Online travel agency Agoda has shared its predictions for Indian travelers in 2025. Based on a recent survey, Agoda identified family travel as a major trend, with 80% of travelers citing relaxation as the main reason for their vacations. Budget remains a key factor for 70% of Indian travelers, while technology plays an important role, with many using travel apps for booking.
Additionally, Agoda noted a rise in the trend of “digital nomads,” where travelers combine work and leisure. Theme parks are also expected to be a significant attraction, with over 5% of respondents planning trips specifically for theme park visits.
Vietjet Thailand to Launch Mumbai-Bangkok Flights
Vietjet Thailand will begin daily flights between Mumbai and Bangkok on December 23, 2024. This is part of the airline’s broader expansion in India, following the launch of weekly flights from Bangkok to Bodh Gaya, Bihar, in October 2023.
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