South East Asia on most Indian travellers’ to-visit list

You are not the only one. Yes, we know that incredible travel package ad has caught your eye and you’ve not been able to concentrate at work all day. A 4-night, 5-day trip to Thailand for an unbelievable price is a common ad now. And a high percentage of Indians are vacationing at South East Asia. Count hot destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore, Malaysia, Krabi, Koh Samui, Honk Kong, Macau, Penang, Langkawi, Bali, Cambodia, Shenzen, Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam among others. Himanshu Singh, managing director of Travelocity, admits, “We do see a trend, towards more short breaks or weekend getaways instead of one long holiday. There’s a fair share of Indians travelling overseas for holidays, thanks to attractive airline and hotel deals. We have seen very good growth in short haul international trips to Singapore, Bangkok, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.” Manvendra Singh, vice president of Vacation Exotica, says that Indians today are spending a much higher proportion of their income on travel than before. “The Indian traveller today ranges from an extremely budget one to a super high-end one. It has become imperative to keep introducing new and exciting options. Although group travel is most preferred, the shift to individual holidays is also taking place rapidly.” True that, as Praveen Patel, a corporate professional, confesses he’s been doing an annual trip to a South East Asia destination for the last three years. “This year, I have Bali on my agenda. I have already done my bookings, thanks to the great travel deals,” he says excitedly. Rupen Vikamsey, managing director, Orbitz Corporate, agrees that Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia are evergreen destinations for the Indian traveller. “International destinations such as Koh Samui, Krabi, Chang Mai, Singapore, and Hong Kong are hot favourites right now.” He adds that most Indian travellers prefer international holidays now. “More and more people are now looking at international holidays, as destinations abroad become more affordable compared to many Indian destinations,” he explains. So, where will you be travelling this winter? From shopping silly to gorging on great food, trekking or beach-bumming, options are galore in South East Asia. All you need to do is pack your bags and go! ?Jayeeta Mazumder 22 Sep 2011 http://www.dnaindia.com/lifestyle/report_south-east-asia-on-most-indian-travellers-to-visit-list_1590136