TBM Staff - Mumbai With a rapidly changing profile, Indian tourists are now exploring off beat destinations, off peak seasons, more adventure, more luxury as well as local culture which is exactly in line with Switzerland Tourism’s long-term strategy for long-haul destinations.
At a recently held press meet organised by Switzerland Tourism, at Martin Maier, Consulate General’s Residence in Mumbai, CEO, Switzerland Tourism, Martin Nydegger; Christian Schoch, Director India, Switzerland Tourism, and Ritu Sharma, Deputy Director and Marketing Head – India, Switzerland Tourism threw light on the diversity of the country across seasons.
Traditionally, Indian tourists have preferred summer as their go-to season, especially amongst families, due to school holidays. Most Indian travellers usually travel to Switzerland in the May-June period to also escape the heat in India. However, over the past few years, there has been a change in preferences as well as the profile of the typical tourist, who is now travelling to Switzerland throughout the year. Moreover, a second peak is being seen in the autumn and early winter seasons. The profile of the Indian tourist has evolved with couples, friends and solo travellers also growing along with the more typical family traveller. These travellers are now open to travelling to Switzerland in Autumn to see the changing colours of Fall, and also during their winter holidays, to especially enjoy local Christmas markets and other winter experiences (not necessarily skiing but sledging, snow-shoeing, etc.)
Switzerland Tourism has also introduced the ‘Travel Better’ campaign which emphasises on quality travel over quantity and encourages sustainable practices while travelling. These include extended stays that allow tourists to discover local culture and experience the country’s unique offerings, using the efficient Swiss Travel System.
As of 2023, 602,000 hotel overnights were generated from India. This number is expected to grow to 907,587 overnights over the next five years as there has been a robust growth in the overnight’s figures from India and the demand just seems to be growing exponentially. With the focus on new seasons, there will a better chance of overall growth in numbers.
“The right people, in the right place, at the right time. ‘Travel Better’ – this is our strategy for the future for long haul markets. India has always been a very important market for us. We aim to keep the market growing by steering the traction towards longer stays, extension of seasons, promoting the Swiss Travel System as well as encouraging individual travellers and small groups to visit the country,” said Martin Nydegger, CEO Switzerland Tourism.
“Switzerland is a popular summer getaway for Indian tourists, but we believe it’s also the perfect autumn and winter destination. We see the potential of Indians loving these seasons especially since large parts of India do not experience a typical Fall season. We are also showcasing the wonders on winter travel to India which, until now, has been seen typically only as a season for skiing. Since most Indians don’t ski, this season was overlooked, but now we want to show Indian tourists that there is much to do in Switzerland even for the non-skiers!’’ said Christian Schoch, Director India, Switzerland Tourism.
Attendees at the event were briefed on the various seasonal offerings and attractions of the most popular destinations by representatives of Zurich, Lucerne and Interlaken.
