In a significant move, MakeMyTrip, the popular online travel agency, has joined forces with the Government of Goa to promote the coastal state as a year-round travel destination, going beyond its iconic beaches. This collaboration aims to highlight Goa’s inland destinations and cultural richness, aligning with the ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ vision.

MakeMyTrip’s Role and Goa’s Vision

MakeMyTrip’s Agreement

MakeMyTrip will focus on showcasing Goa’s inland culture and gastronomy through a curated Cultural Map. This initiative aims to offer potential tourists a diverse range of experiences beyond the typical beach destinations.

Regenerative Tourism in Goa

Goa has pioneered the concept of “regenerative tourism,” aiming to minimize the negative impacts of tourism while enhancing the environment and well-being of destinations. This approach goes beyond sustainability, emphasizing restoration and positive contributions to local communities.

Mahindra Holidays’ Expansion Plans

Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India is investing significantly to double its room capacity to 10,000 by fiscal year 2030. This expansion includes setting up new resorts and forging partnerships with state governments, such as Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu, and potentially Odisha.

Insights into Indian Travel Trends

Preference for Middle East Destinations

Over 30% of Indian travelers opt for Middle East destinations, with the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia leading the preferences. Dubai, in particular, attracts a significant number of Indian tourists, reflecting the strong outbound potential of India.

Radisson Hotel Group’s Expansion in Ayodhya

Radisson Hotel Group’s recent signing of a 150-key Radisson Blu hotel in Ayodhya marks its strategic expansion in tier 2 and 3 cities of India. This partnership with Jeewani Hospitality and EaseMyTrip signals a significant investment in the hospitality sector.

Trust in Online Travel Platforms

A survey by Booking.com reveals that 97% of holiday homeowners in India trust online travel platforms for bookings. Factors such as secure payment platforms, reliable booking confirmations, and opportunities for customer reviews contribute to this trust.

Indian Travelers’ Preferences

Indian travelers show a preference for beach houses, followed by farm stays, city apartments, and country cottages. Unique experiences like houseboats, camps, and cozy cabins are also popular choices among Indian tourists.

Air India’s Inflight Safety Video Innovation

Air India’s new inflight safety video, named ‘Safety Mudras,’ incorporates Indian classical and folk dances to deliver safety instructions. This innovative approach aligns with the trend of airlines using cultural elements to enhance passenger engagement and safety awareness.

Western Australia’s Focus on the Indian Market

Tourism Western Australia recognizes India as a priority market, focusing on strengthening partnerships to maximize growth opportunities post-pandemic. The region’s recovery and increasing visitor numbers highlight India’s significance as a key market for Western Australia.

MakeMyTrip’s collaboration with the Government of Goa reflects a broader trend of sustainable and culturally immersive tourism initiatives. As the travel industry evolves, partnerships between online travel agencies, governments, and hospitality providers play a crucial role in shaping travel experiences and destinations.