Visa-free countries: Visa-free countries, offbeat places, travel for food, festivals: old and new trends to define travel in 2024, say travel companies
Mumbai: After two years of travel-demand fluctuations due to the pandemic, the year 2023 finally saw a reduction in volatility. Travel companies say this trend is expected to continue in the coming year. with this travel trends which is expected to gain traction event based travel, wellness tourismVisa-free travel to destinations, curated travel etc. Among the trends that have remained strong and are expected to persist are travel to offbeat destinations, adventure tourism And travel to enjoy sports, food, festivals, etc.
“As we move into 2024, strong travel sentiment remains, and we anticipate continued growth in demand from the dynamic Indian market. The inexhaustible appetite for exploration among Indian travelers is evident,” said Rajeev Kale – President and Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited. Thomas Cook conducted a data analysis to identify the key trends that are likely to gain popularity among Indian consumers in 2024 and SOTC looked at trends that have remained strong over the past several years and are expected to remain so. hopefully. Daniel D’Souza, President and Country Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel said that in 2024, a dynamic change is expected in the global travel landscape, blending sustainable trends with exciting new trends.
Here are some of the patterns emerging in travel.
1) Event-Based Travel:
It is emerging as a significant trend, driven by the enthusiasm of young India’s millennials, young professionals and Gen Z. His keen interest in live concerts, events and the thrill of cultural immersion is poised to become a driving force for travel. the coming year, the company said. This demographic seeks immersive experiences that go beyond traditional tourism, reflecting a desire for dynamic and culturally enriching trips. As we look ahead, we expect this trend to not only persist but also evolve, shaping the preferences and choices of the contemporary Indian traveller.
2) Sleep Tourism and Wellness Retreats for Rejuvenation:
The present generation, burdened by work fatigue, looks for opportunities for rest and refreshment. Trends like sleep tourism, which expand beyond uninterrupted sleep to include activities like yoga, swimming and spa wellness therapy, are gaining widespread popularity. As a result, accommodations offering soundproof rooms, sleep consultations, recorded sleep meditations, pillow menus, sleep kits and concierge services are seeing a rise in demand. Notable destinations for such experiences include Goa, Coorg, Mysore, Kodaikanal, Alleppey and Puducherry.
Additionally, more people are choosing wellness retreats for peace and well-being. This has led to a significant increase in yoga and meditation tourism in places like Rishikesh, Mysore and Pondicherry, which shows how people today prefer a holistic approach to travel.
3) Personalized and Curated Travel:
According to Thomas Cook, demand for fully customizable private holidays is growing, particularly among discerning travellers. This trend caters to those looking for premium, experience-based travel with a focus on a destination’s history, culture, food and leisurely exploration of hidden gems. It is expected to attract the interest of high net worth individuals (HNIs), multi-generational families, ad-hoc groups of friends and honeymooners/couples, reflecting a preference for exclusive and customized travel adventures.
4) Rise of visa-friendly destinations:
Recent announcements of visa free travel to countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Kenya are expected to increase interest among Indian travellers. Access to easy visa and visa on arrival options in these destinations contributes to the growing appeal for hassle-free international travel.
Among the trends that remain strong are:
1) Hidden Gems and Unique Destinations:
Exploration of unique and less explored destinations is gaining momentum with travelers looking for authentic and unique experiences beyond traditional tourist destinations. Domestic destinations like Meghalaya, Ziro, Ponmudi, Sandakphu, Gokarna, Halebidu, Patan, Varkala, Mandu, Tawang, Hampi, Jawai and many more will continue to feature in the itineraries of travelers looking for a more unconventional journey.
2) Adventure Tourism:
With increasing demand for experiences like trekking, wildlife safaris and adrenaline-pumping activities, the thrill of adventure is a constant driver for Indian travellers. Destinations that will continue to meet this demand include Rishikesh, Manali, Aamby Valley, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Goa, Kovalam, Auli, Bir Billing, Gulmarg and Vagamon.
4)Sports Tourism:
The intersection of sports and travel continues to be an important trend, with enthusiasts traveling to watch major sporting events, tournaments and championships around the world.
5)Travel for festivals:
Cultural celebrations and festivals from around the world attract Indian travelers who want to immerse themselves in diverse traditions and celebrations.
6) Luxury Travel:
There is continued interest in luxury travel experiences, with discerning travelers seeking exclusive accommodations, personalized services and lavish amenities.
7) Food Tourism:
Culinary exploration continues to be a major trend, with travelers increasing interest in exploring local cuisine, street food and culinary traditions.
8)Cruise Holidays:
Cruises remain a popular option, offering a unique blend of luxury, entertainment and the opportunity to explore multiple destinations in a single trip.
“As we move into 2024, strong travel sentiment remains, and we anticipate continued growth in demand from the dynamic Indian market. The inexhaustible appetite for exploration among Indian travelers is evident,” said Rajeev Kale – President and Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited. Thomas Cook conducted a data analysis to identify the key trends that are likely to gain popularity among Indian consumers in 2024 and SOTC looked at trends that have remained strong over the past several years and are expected to remain so. hopefully. Daniel D’Souza, President and Country Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel said that in 2024, a dynamic change is expected in the global travel landscape, blending sustainable trends with exciting new trends.
Here are some of the patterns emerging in travel.
1) Event-Based Travel:
It is emerging as a significant trend, driven by the enthusiasm of young India’s millennials, young professionals and Gen Z. His keen interest in live concerts, events and the thrill of cultural immersion is poised to become a driving force for travel. the coming year, the company said. This demographic seeks immersive experiences that go beyond traditional tourism, reflecting a desire for dynamic and culturally enriching trips. As we look ahead, we expect this trend to not only persist but also evolve, shaping the preferences and choices of the contemporary Indian traveller.
2) Sleep Tourism and Wellness Retreats for Rejuvenation:
The present generation, burdened by work fatigue, looks for opportunities for rest and refreshment. Trends like sleep tourism, which expand beyond uninterrupted sleep to include activities like yoga, swimming and spa wellness therapy, are gaining widespread popularity. As a result, accommodations offering soundproof rooms, sleep consultations, recorded sleep meditations, pillow menus, sleep kits and concierge services are seeing a rise in demand. Notable destinations for such experiences include Goa, Coorg, Mysore, Kodaikanal, Alleppey and Puducherry.
Additionally, more people are choosing wellness retreats for peace and well-being. This has led to a significant increase in yoga and meditation tourism in places like Rishikesh, Mysore and Pondicherry, which shows how people today prefer a holistic approach to travel.
3) Personalized and Curated Travel:
According to Thomas Cook, demand for fully customizable private holidays is growing, particularly among discerning travellers. This trend caters to those looking for premium, experience-based travel with a focus on a destination’s history, culture, food and leisurely exploration of hidden gems. It is expected to attract the interest of high net worth individuals (HNIs), multi-generational families, ad-hoc groups of friends and honeymooners/couples, reflecting a preference for exclusive and customized travel adventures.
4) Rise of visa-friendly destinations:
Recent announcements of visa free travel to countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Kenya are expected to increase interest among Indian travellers. Access to easy visa and visa on arrival options in these destinations contributes to the growing appeal for hassle-free international travel.
Among the trends that remain strong are:
1) Hidden Gems and Unique Destinations:
Exploration of unique and less explored destinations is gaining momentum with travelers looking for authentic and unique experiences beyond traditional tourist destinations. Domestic destinations like Meghalaya, Ziro, Ponmudi, Sandakphu, Gokarna, Halebidu, Patan, Varkala, Mandu, Tawang, Hampi, Jawai and many more will continue to feature in the itineraries of travelers looking for a more unconventional journey.
2) Adventure Tourism:
With increasing demand for experiences like trekking, wildlife safaris and adrenaline-pumping activities, the thrill of adventure is a constant driver for Indian travellers. Destinations that will continue to meet this demand include Rishikesh, Manali, Aamby Valley, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Goa, Kovalam, Auli, Bir Billing, Gulmarg and Vagamon.
4)Sports Tourism:
The intersection of sports and travel continues to be an important trend, with enthusiasts traveling to watch major sporting events, tournaments and championships around the world.
5)Travel for festivals:
Cultural celebrations and festivals from around the world attract Indian travelers who want to immerse themselves in diverse traditions and celebrations.
6) Luxury Travel:
There is continued interest in luxury travel experiences, with discerning travelers seeking exclusive accommodations, personalized services and lavish amenities.
7) Food Tourism:
Culinary exploration continues to be a major trend, with travelers increasing interest in exploring local cuisine, street food and culinary traditions.
8)Cruise Holidays:
Cruises remain a popular option, offering a unique blend of luxury, entertainment and the opportunity to explore multiple destinations in a single trip.
