TravTalk India Online Magazine
Qabuli in Oman, vegetable strudel in Austria, grilled prawns in Thailand, smoked salmon in Norway! These are some of the delicacies Indians love during their overseas journeys. Experts from tourism boards share their views on the food habits of Indians.
Inder Raj Ahluwalia
Christine Mukharji, Director, Austrian Tourism Board, feels the food preferences of Indian outbound travellers depend entirely on their personal tastes, but their horizon is expanding, and they are becoming more adventurous. “While first-time travellers still prefer Indian food, experienced travellers are aware of Austria’s rich culinary traditions, and trying out Austrian specialities and sweets. While Austria is known for its signature items like wiener schnitzel and sacher torte, there are also good vegetarian, and even vegan options to explore. A favourite for Indians is vegetable strudel, which is similar to the famous apple strudel,” she says.
Akmal Aziz, Deputy Director, Tourism Malaysia – India, says they recognise India’s value as a tourist generator, and have worked to create an overall environment suited to Indian visitors. Cuisine plays an important role in this. “Malaysia’s strong point is that, being a melting pot of cultures, it offers a wide range of dishes. The fact that Malaysian and Indian food are similar, makes it easier for Indians when they visit Malaysia,” he says.
Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head, South African Tourism, thinks food is all-important for tourists, and plays a major role in their assessment of destinations and holidays. “Food has emerged as being among the top three factors in the tourism sector. This is a great asset and advantage for South Africa. The country is an understated food story, and its length and breadth offers cuisine to please almost all tourist categories. Those fond of their meats have a huge choice, but there is also plenty for vegetarians,” she says.
Pinki Arora, Consultant, Tourism Authority of Thailand, feels today’s Indian travellers have evolved, and are keen to explore local food. “This is a positive trend. When it comes to food, Thailand is a world-leader, and has a wide range to offer visiting Indians. Now that Thai food is popular in India as well, travelling Indians are now increasingly eating Thai food during their visits. Awareness is also growing about the fact that Thai food isn’t just about tangy taste and unique flavours, but is also a healthy cuisine,” Arora says.
Anika Tandon, Manager Sales and Marketing, German Tourism Board, feels Indians travelling overseas are now eager to experience different cuisines, and Germany is high up in their list. “Indian visitors to Germany have now graduated to a state where they want to look beyond Indian cuisine. They are now actively seeking out multi-cuisine options and authentic German dishes to try at every new place they visit. Germany’s great plus point is that almost every region in the country offers it own, distinctive type of cuisine. For those keen on Indian food, there are over 2,000 Indian restaurants to fall back on,”
Tandon says.
Arjun Chadha, Country Manager, Oman Tourism India Office, is upbeat. “Food is a huge factor for Indians, whose tastes, preferences and distinct palates vary depending on their home regions. While some prefer to explore local cuisine, for others familiar flavours are a must and they look out for Indian restaurants while planning their holiday,” he says.
