Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel reveal long weekend trends for Holi
Indians are embarking on travel adventures like never before, as observed by Thomas Cook (India) Limited and its subsidiary, SOTC Travel. Consumer data reveals a notable increase in demand for short breaks and “minications,” particularly during the upcoming Holi week. This period offers a unique opportunity to combine two consecutive long weekends by taking just three days off, resulting in a nine-day holiday. Compared to last year, bookings for the Holi weekend have surged nearly fivefold.
Holi Travel Trends:
- Spiritual Journeys: This Holi, besides traditional temple visits, Indians are exploring destinations associated with the life and legacy of Lord Krishna. Places like Brij Bhoomi for the renowned Holi celebrations, Nandgaon for the ‘Lathmar’ ritual, Barsana for ‘Ladoo Mar’ festivities, and revered temples like Banke Bihari in Vrindavan are witnessing increased footfall. Culinary enthusiasts are relishing local delicacies such as mathura ka peda and thandai.
- Drivecations: A significant 25% rise is seen in trips to nearby drivable destinations, with travelers extending their stays to five or seven days. Destinations around Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu are popular choices for road trips.
- Outdoor Adventures: There’s a 30% surge in interest for outdoor and adventure activities like biking trips, white water rafting, paragliding, camping, trekking, snowboarding, and safaris across various regions in India.
- Short-Haul International Travel: Visa-free access and easy visa regimes have led to a 30% increase in demand for international destinations such as Sri Lanka, Thailand, Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam-Cambodia, Abu Dhabi-Dubai, Oman, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan.
- Direct Connectivity: Direct flights to places like Baku, Amalty, and Vietnam are facilitating spontaneous travel decisions.
- Increased Spending: Indians are spending 25% more this Holi compared to the previous year.
- Airfares: Domestic airfares have seen a 6-10% drop compared to last year, making popular domestic destinations more accessible. Similarly, airfares to Kathmandu and Colombo have witnessed a 5% decrease, encouraging air travel in the subcontinent.
- Domestic Destinations in Focus: Domestic travel is predominant this Holi, comprising 70% of the total travel share compared to international destinations.
Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head of Holidays, MICE, Visa at Thomas Cook (India) Limited, noted the significant rise in demand and increased spending, attributing it to the longer duration of the holiday week. Daniel D’souza, President and Country Head of SOTC Travel, emphasized the potential for week-long vacations during the Holi-Easter period, with a surge observed not only from major cities but also from tier two and three cities. Air-inclusive holidays and drivecations are particularly popular choices during this extended holiday period.
Source: Hotelier India
