Growing affluence giving wings to Indians

Alan D’Mello takes a short break from work almost every month.

His family hits the road on extended weekends to destinations in Maharashtra, Goa and Gujarat. The D’Mello family also undertakes a long holiday every year and visits international destinations.

Similarly, Supriya Mishra with her husband recently had a short vacation in Bangkok. The Mishras take 5-6 short holidays in a year of which one is international and others are domestic.

The practice of multiple short holidays against one long holiday appears to have picked up phenomenally in the last couple of years. The travel fraternity is of the opinion that the emerging middle class, increase in disposable income and awareness are key factors that are contributing to this trend.

Kashmira Commissariat, chief operating officer - outbound division, Kuoni India, said, “Along with long holidays, Indians are increasingly taking short holidays whenever possible.”

In fact, travel and leisure sectors have seen immense growth in the last two decades as domestic and international travel has come within the reach of large sections of Indians. The industry is witnessing higher double digit growth (20% to 25%) mainly owing to a huge domestic tourism market and an ever growing outbound travel.

The profile of travellers driving this trend comprises executives with high stress level, professionals and DINKS (double income no kids).

Karan Anand, head-relationships, Cox and Kings, feels there is a huge demand for short duration holidays as newer destinations are springing up. “Our estimate is that this market is growing significantly and clocking higher double digit numbers,” he said.

In terms of frequented destinations, the past few years have seen an increased number of travellers opting for short breaks to Thailand, Dubai, Malaysia, Maldives and Mauritius. Within India places like Ooty, Goa, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh are popular.

“A short break typically comprises a holiday up to four days and three nights or a slightly longer duration. The reason being, during a short holiday the idea is to spend time in leisure, recreation and a bit of exploring around rather than to undertake itineraries,” said Commissariat.

While domestic destinations are pretty much in demand from travellers for their mini breaks during the year, a section of the travellers are increasingly choosing foreign destinations too.

“They time it with festivals. For example, Thailand is hosting a shopping festival later this month and we have been witnessing good traction for Thailand holiday packages. On the domestic front, sustained promotions to the extent of offering complimentary (free) stays as a part of the package helps boost business,” said Anand.