TravTalk India Online Magazine
Paris Region is stepping up efforts to attract Indian tourists with streamlined visa processes, enhanced vegetarian options, and the legacy of the 2024 Olympics. Key initiatives include promoting weddings, improving connectivity, and offering unique experiences, aiming to position the country as a top destination for Indian travellers.
Janice Alyosius
Paris Region continues to capture the imagination of international tourists as one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations. The destination has been making special efforts to further enhance its appeal among Indian travellers. Sharing her views the bond between India and Paris Region, Alexandra Dublanche, Vice President of the Paris Region and President at Choose Paris Region, said, “I think there is a mutual love; French people appreciate India, and Indian people admire France. Among international tourists to the Paris Region, Indians make up just 1.3 per cent, which is approximately 300,000 visitors a year. I believe, we can do much more.”
Paris Region has taken several steps to enhance the experience for Indian travellers. Among the key steps are improving visa processing times, expanding vegetarian and vegan food options in restaurants, and positioning Paris Region as a premier wedding destination. The efforts are already bearing fruit, with Indian arrivals increasing by 70 per cent in 2023.
The Olympic effect
The Paris 2024 Olympics served as a global showcase for Paris Region, with captivating imagery of events held at iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower and Versailles. Alexandra Dublanche highlighted the legacy of Olympic and Paralympic, noting that the event facilitated infrastructure improvements like the expansion of the Paris Region networking transports, which includes more than 350 km of new lines and 139 additional stations. “These developments are expected to improve accessibility and draw tourists to lesser-explored areas of the Paris Region,” she emphasised.
Beyond iconic landmarks
While the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre remain top attractions, Alexandra Dublanche revealed a growing trend among Indian travellers; the desire for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. “Returning tourists are seeking to live like Parisians—exploring hidden gems, interacting with locals, and venturing outside of Paris to explore castles and impressionist landmarks along the Seine,” she said.
Weddings and MICE
Paris Region is also intensifying efforts in the weddings and MICE segments. The region, attracting 50 million visitors annually, sees 25 per cent of its tourism driven by MICE, though the share of Indian MICE travellers remains small. “We aim to combine leisure and business tourism,” she elaborated.
Leveraging trends and tie-ups
Partnerships with major players like Accor are being discussed to expand MICE offerings tailored to the Indian market. Alexandra Dublanche said, “We recently met with OYO to discuss potential collaborations. Since January, we have opened a new office in Mumbai, highlighting our commitment to the Indian market.” She added, “Leveraging Bollywood is another priority, as destinations featured in films often see a surge in popularity among Indian audiences.”
Looking ahead
Reflecting on 2024, Alexandra Dublanche mentioned the success of hosting Indian tourism professionals in Paris Region, including a specialised event for wedding planners. In 2025, the much-anticipated reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral is expected to draw global attention. Paris Region will continue focusing on promoting lesser-known experiences and improving practical aspects. “The aim is not just to sell Paris and its region but to showcase the wealth of experiences that already exist but are less known,” she said.
