Indian outbound travel surges, Vietnam leads destination list
Travel Trends 2024: Breaking Boundaries, said Indian outbound travel to Vietnam skyrocketed by 248% compared to 2019 levels, followed by the US and Japan, with growth rates of 59% and 53%, respectively. These figures, compiled for the January-March 2024 period, also indicate a significant shift in traveler preferences. The emerging trends hold promise for the travel sector, considering that India is expected to see nearly 20 million more people entering the middle class over the next five years, it added.
"We're seeing more international trips from travelers coming from India than at any time in history. India is the fastest growing major market in the world now and, in the foreseeable future, it is likely to be an ongoing (growth) story. The desire for travel, jewellery and high-end clothing options will remain very strong with growing disposable incomes, and an aspirational lifestyle," said David Mann, chief economist, Asia Pacific, Mastercard.
In the first quarter of 2024, Indian airports witnessed a record 97 million passthroughs for both domestic and international air traffic, marking a significant increase compared to a decade ago, when attaining such numbers would have demanded an entire year's time. Additionally, according to the report, Indian travelers have extended their trips by an additional day in the year ended March 2024, compared to the corresponding period of 2019. This trend underscores a burgeoning appetite for immersive and meaningful travel experiences.
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