Power of Indian outbound

Considering that Indian outbound travellers are now a world force in terms of business provided, should they not leverage it to get a better overall deal?

Inder Raj Ahluwalia

Mahendra Vakharia, President, OTOAI

Countries around the world are aware of India’s enormous outbound tourism potential, and are gearing up to ensure they get a share of this lucrative pie. India doesn’t just generate numbers, but also huge spending, particularly in the MiCE and weddings business. Host countries need to sensitise and educate their staff about Indian habits and preferences. They have to accept the fact that Indian travellers attach importance to issues such as language and food preference, including vegetarian and Jain food, time schedules, information about Indian embassies and associations, desire to share rooms with their children, etc. The time has come when host countries realise that Indians need a somewhat special reception.

Nikhil Dhodapkar, Chief Executive Officer, TUI India

While most countries with high Indian traffic do acknowledge the growing presence of Indian travellers, it isn’t always easy to give special contracted rates to a particular nationality. This is the function of the tour company, to drive customers to a particular destination and hotel. Several overseas hotels are attracting Indian travellers with what is called ‘Indian Standards’, offering Indian-style breakfasts and Indian greetings. Basically, the tour operating companies have to negotiate pricing for hotels, meals, transportation, and sightseeing. What can be done further is creation of airport and government museums, and Indian traveller-friendly opportunities like signage in Indian languages.

CP Sharma, President, Neptune Travco

With the phenomenal growth of Indian outbound traffic over the years, Indian travellers have become a force to reckon with. The host countries should do much more for Indian visitors. Hotel rates is one important area, both for leisure and MiCE travellers. With increase in traffic, more room nights are being generated by Indian travellers and accordingly, hotels should offer better rates

Homa Mistry, Chief Executive Officer, Trail Blazer Tours India

With India becoming a huge outbound market for many countries and the number constantly increasing, a lot of support is coming in for tour operators from many partner countries, particularly in the MiCE sector. Some countries come forward to help in visa facilitation as well as provide financial support for corporate houses. There are tourism-friendly countries that sponsor gala dinners or subsidise their costs. Many countries partner in advertising promotion campaigns and share the expenses, thereby helping in increasing the numbers.

Pankaj Nagpal, Managing Director, Travstarz Global Group

India being the fastest growing tourism economy in the world should use this clout with other countries to get special benefits for its travellers. Many countries have already noticed this and taken initiatives like visa-on-arrival for Indians, but we can negotiate for much more, especially for sectors like MiCE and destination weddings where spending is very high. Government must work closely with trade associations like OTOAI to understand exactly how Indian travellers can benefit by negotiating with host countries.

Chitra Bhatia, Managing Director, Aashman Travel

The Indian outbound market is growing rapidly, and needs proper and personalised attention from the host countries. While almost all travel segments are increasing, Indians now seek experiential holidays. Some host countries have come forward and are paying special attention to Indians. One major area is the food department. Indian food is now readily available, and traditional Indian-style welcomes are also in use. That said, much more needs to be done in terms of offering special packages and incentives to Indian visitors.

Himanshu Patil, Director, Kesari Tours

Given the fact that Indians are high spenders and contribute enormously to various segments, especially shopping, they certainly deserve the best from the host countries. While pricing is alright, the general treatment meted out to Indians is not good enough. The treatment given to tourists should not be based on skin colour. Indians should be treated on a par with European and American visitors. Indian visitors have earned respect and should be given that.