As per the India Hotel Market Review 2023 by Horwath HTL, all-India hotel occupancy grew by 4 percent to reach 63.6%. Demand has risen from 94k RPD (Number of Rooms sold Per Day) in 2019 to 112k in 2023, representing a 4.4% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). However, occupancy levels remain below those of 2016-2019, with the widening supply across tier II, III, and leisure markets being a contributing factor; some major markets are still underperforming. 

According to latest GBTA poll, nearly 60% of travel buyers expect more travel in the coming year, with two-thirds anticipating increases in business travel spending. And almost half of travel buyers say the adoption of remote and hybrid workplace models has prompted them to revamp their employee travel policies and programs. 

Singapore received 1.1 million tourists from India last year as the city state’s top dollar-earning sector recorded a 115 per cent increase in the number of visitors in 2023 at 13.6 million from 6.3 million during the COVID-hit 2022, said report. The number of tourists in 2023 met the Singapore Tourism Board’s (STB) forecast of between 12 million and 14 million visitors. 

Rajiv Mehra, President, IATO said, “Every nook and corner in India is covered with foreign tourists; they bring in more foreign exchange and employment. One foreign tourist, directly or indirectly, generates 9 jobs. With the current allocation for overseas promotion, we will lose all that. IATO has written to the Ministry of Tourism to take up this matter with the Finance Minister, highlighting the issue in the overseas budget allocation that needs rectification.” 

According to Naveen Kundu, Managing Director of Ebixcash Travel Services, the allocation of a mere Rs 3 crores for overseas promotion raises concerns. He questions, “Are we doing justice to tourism by only allocating 3 crores for overseas promotion, especially at a time when we are urging every Indian to encourage five tourists to visit India? If we aim to promote cultural, spiritual, and heritage tourism, the budget should be at least in the range of 5 to 7 million dollars. A mediocre tour operator offering tourism products to foreign operators often spends more than this.” 

Pradeep Shetty, President, FHRAI said, “The room rates in India right now are not the problem, it is the high GST levied. This price will not be available anywhere else given the quality of service and amenities India offers. We need reforms in the GST regime to make it affordable. The 18% bracket must be done away and bring everybody into 12%.”   

Aligning with the strategic roadmap for the Indian market, South African Tourism is delighted to announce the 2024 edition of its annual India roadshow. Serving as an essential tool in promoting travel and tourism for the Rainbow Nation, the roadshow for the first time ever will enter the pink city of Jaipur. Scheduled from 12th – 16th February 2024, the event will further move to other significant Indian cities, namely – Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and Mumbai in the respective order. The 20th annual roadshow schedule marks a vital milestone in South African Tourism’s efforts in the Indian market. It will witness the unveiling of the tourism board’s year-long plan to engage with Indian consumers. The novel insights leading to redefined approach will enable the trade partners to tap into India’s growing outbound travel market. Commencing in Jaipur the inaugural roadshow will be complemented by a panel discussion on 11th February 2024 and a gala for more than 150 key delegates and trade partners bringing on ground the sights, sounds, culture, and cuisine of South Africa. India is currently one of the top three focus markets for South African Tourism across the globe and holds a position of strategic importance. Led by Ms. Neliswa Nkani – Hub Head – Middle East, India and Southeast Asia, South African Tourism the roadshow remains an integral tool in attracting ‘more & more’ consumers to the Rainbow Nation. For years, India has been one of the largest source markets to many destinations across the globe. Owing to the recent uptick in its appetite for outbound tourism, the country is impossible to overlook for any tourism board. Commenting on the occasion Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – …

Representatives from 42 nations gathered at the expansive 27-acre construction site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, following an invitation from the Indian Embassy in the UAE. The visit aimed to foster intercultural understanding. The BAPS Hindu Temple is the second largest in the world and it is expected to attract over 3 million visitors in the first year to the UAE, positioning itself as the next significant wedding and MICE destination in Abu Dhabi.   

One of the fastest-growing segments in the tourism sector is the cruise industry, gaining immense popularity among travellers. During FITUR 2024, experts and leaders in the cruise sector discussed the industry’s prospects. Projections for 2024 suggest a promising year, with forecasts indicating that over 36 million people will opt for cruise travel. 

As Valentine’s Day approaches, seize the opportunity to whisk your loved one away to enchanting destinations that paint the perfect backdrop for some quality time. The Philippines, with its diverse landscapes and intimate settings, offers an array of charming and delightful escapes. Here’s a curated selection of dreamy destinations that promise unforgettable moments. Pink Sand Beaches Add a blush of unique allure of pink sand beachesmade possible by the countless particles of crushed red organ-pipe coral, visible in every handful of sand. Explore the pink sands of Santa Cruz Island and Great Santa Cruz Island in Zamboanga City, where the shores blush beneath the sun’s warm embrace. For a more secluded escape, discover the blush-toned sands of Subic Beach in Matnog, Sorsogon, or the hidden gem of Silaqui Island in Northern Samar. Tagaytay Nestled amidst rolling hills and about 90 minutes away from the country’s major entry point– Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Tagaytay stands as a haven for couples seeking tranquility. Share a quiet moment overlooking Taal Volcano, take a romantic boat ride on Taal Lake, and indulge in the cozy charm of Tagaytay’s bed-and-breakfasts. The cool climate and scenic vistas create an idyllic setting for love to flourish. Bohol Bohol, with its lush landscapes and natural wonders, offers a romantic escape for nature-loving visitors. Hop on a cruise along the Loboc River, explore the iconic Chocolate Hills with its verdant slopes that transform into a dreamy hue during this time, and visit the tarsier sanctuary. Additionally, February provides excellent conditions for underwater adventures. Take a dip and dive into the vibrant underwater world with your loved one by snorkeling or diving in Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary teeming with …