The travel recovery in Asia is witnessing a remarkable surge driven by Indian travelers. While discussions around travel revival in the region often revolve around Chinese tourists, it is the Indians who are displaying the strongest search interest in international trips, according to Agoda’s CEO, Omri Morgenshtern. The outbound travel searches from India have skyrocketed by an impressive 225%, outpacing the growth in other Asia-Pacific countries.
India’s economic growth has played a significant role in the resurgence of its travel industry. Hotel and flight searches from Indian travelers have seen a substantial increase for destinations like Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and even Vietnam, which has recently gained popularity. Improved connectivity between India and Vietnam, along with its proximity and appeal as an ASEAN destination, has contributed to its rising popularity among Indian travelers.
Interestingly, Indian travelers are displaying a willingness to spend more on their international trips, with a perception that their economic power matches that of Chinese travelers when visiting Asian countries. They tend to opt for higher-end accommodations and branded hotels, as well as explore local restaurants, indicating a preference for quality experiences.
As travel interest in Southeast Asia continues to surge, there are indications that East Asian destinations may regain their appeal in the near future. The United States and the United Kingdom are also among the popular choices for Indian travelers.
Overall, the robust recovery of the Indian travel market not only reflects the country’s economic rise but also highlights the potential for growth and its significant impact on the broader Asian travel industry.
