As outbound travel from India becomes more segmented and experience-driven, destination specialists are rethinking how they scale, engage and diversify. For Travstarz Global Group, 2026 is shaping up as a year of calibrated expansion — blending new geographies, renewed cruise engagement and deeper trade partnerships to stay ahead of evolving demand.
In this conversation with Pankaj Nagpal, Managing Director of Travstarz Global Group, we discuss the company’s expansion roadmap, destination trends gaining traction, and how its trade engagement strategy is evolving beyond traditional formats.
What are Travstarz’ key expansion or product-development plans for 2026?
Pankaj Nagpal: In 2025, we strategically expanded our operations to Japan and Georgia, receiving a positive response in both markets alongside our existing 21 Destination Management Company locations. We are also re-entering the cruising sector through our recent partnership with Worldwide Cruise Associates, a Florida-based marketing and operations firm that works directly with leading global cruise lines, including river cruise operators.
This collaboration allows us to access cruise inventory more effectively and target charters, MICE and wedding groups, in addition to leisure group bookings. Since WCA operates directly with cruise lines, we benefit from better availability, pricing flexibility and the operational support required for group and charter movements.
Which destinations or segments do you see gaining the most traction next year?
Pankaj Nagpal: In 2025, we saw strong renewed interest in destinations such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Georgia, Japan, Egypt and Vietnam, and we expect these to continue performing well. Traditional markets like Turkey and Greece are also showing signs of resurgence.
Cruise tourism from India, particularly river cruises, is another segment we believe will gain momentum. It is still at a relatively early stage, but interest is growing, and in 2026 we plan to introduce a wider range of cruise options to support this demand.
How will Travstarz enhance its engagement with travel agents in 2026?
Pankaj Nagpal: Before the pandemic, our engagement was largely centred around major trade shows. Since 2022, we have shifted towards more focused formats through our own networking events and roadshows. In 2025, we conducted over 14 such engagements.
In 2026, we plan to host around 18 workshops and events across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. These platforms allow for more meaningful, direct interaction with agent partners and help us better understand their requirements while clearly communicating our product strengths.
Anything else you would like to add?
Pankaj Nagpal: In 2026, we are also looking to partner with emerging tourism boards as their preferred B2B marketing partner. These collaborations will help introduce both new and established destinations to our agent network and further strengthen our offering.
Moving forward
With a renewed cruise strategy, selective destination expansion and deeper trade engagement beyond metros, Travstarz is positioning itself to align closely with how India’s outbound travel market is evolving — measured, niche-focused and partnership-led.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.
