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Five Travel Trends to Watch Out for in 2024

Naveen Bothra, Head – Airlines Touchpoint Products & User Experience, Amadeus India

The travel industry is always changing, adapting to the latest technological advancements, societal shifts, and emerging trends that promise to reshape the way we traverse the globe. As 2023 comes to an end, 2024 is all set to bring some big changes. These trends are like puzzle pieces forming a picture of a travel world full of new ideas and fun experiences. As we look forward to a new year, we can expect some exciting developments that will redefine the way we explore the world.

1. Music Tourism: A Blend of Harmony, Travel, and Entertainment
After a prolonged period of pandemic-induced isolation, when bands and music artists were unable to perform for months, there is now a growing desire for connection and shared experiences which is fueling the rise of music tourism. Travelers are increasingly journeying to destinations to partake in music events, be it concerts or festivals. Music tourism boosts the local economy, culture, and tourism industry, as well as creates unforgettable memories for travelers. The Amadeus Travel Trends 2024 Report revealed that music tourism significantly influences travel searches and bookings, especially when popular artists announce their tour dates. For instance, tour dates by renowned artists like Taylor Swift has already had a substantial impact on travel patterns. In the summer of 2023, Coachella festival in California brought about 500K attendees and contributed approximately $1.5 billion to local economy.

2. Influencers: The New Travel Ambassadors
Social media influencers have evolved into influential travel ambassadors who wield considerable sway over travelers’ decisions. With large and devoted followings, these influencers not only inspire and inform travelers, but also facilitate direct bookings by offering their followers exclusive deals, discounts, or access to their travel platforms. Travel influencers are organizing and hosting their own group trips, leveraging technology-enabled e-commerce platforms to streamline booking links directly on their social media profiles and process payments. These influencers are not just showcasing picturesque destinations; they are also guiding travelers through the complex realm of travel technology. From recommending the best navigation apps to highlighting the benefits of contactless payment solutions, influencers play a crucial role in demystifying and simplifying the use of technology for their audience.

3. Electric Skyways: A Leap Towards Sustainable Air Travel
As urban areas grapple with congestion and environmental concerns, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are emerging as a promising sustainable solution for eco-conscious travelers. Companies like Volocopter are pioneering electric air taxi networks, aiming to introduce these innovations for major global events and expand services across Asia, while providing low-emission travel options within cities, to satellite airports, and across countries and islands. The transition to electric aviation has the potential to emerge as a powerful solution for mitigating the environmental footprint of air travel in the future, complementing advancements like sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

4. Intelligent Concierge: Personalized Travel Planning at Your Fingertips
The integration of Generative AI (Gen AI) into travel planning is revolutionizing personalized assistance for travelers. GenAI is already adding tremendous value to the online travel planning and booking experience for consumers, as search and advice become hyper-personalized and more intuitive. Chatbots and AI-powered virtual assistants now cater to customer needs, offering tailored recommendations and facilitating instant bookings. This intelligent technology not only enhances travel planning but also alleviates the burden on human resources, allowing for more personalized and specialized customer support. Expedia has already launched ChatGPT plug-in to serve as a virtual travel assistant. It attentively listens to customer requirements and promptly provides hotel and itinerary suggestions along with booking links.

5. Business Luxe-Lite: Accessible Premium Travel Experiences
An emerging trend in air travel focuses on offering more affordable yet luxurious ‘unbundled’ business class fares. Business class passengers today don’t necessarily adhere to the traditional suit-and-tie attire. Whether they are a Gen Z entrepreneur, a Gen Y digital nomad, or a Boomer vice-president, the demographic makeup of business class has diversified. Social media has played a significant role in fostering a common desire for lifestyle optimization across age groups, particularly among those under 50. The aspiration for more luxurious experiences is on the rise, and individuals are keen on achieving them, be it through points, credit, or savings.

Conclusion
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of travel, these anticipated trends for 2024 are set to transform and enhance the travel experience for all. With travelers eagerly anticipate the unfolding of these trends in the year ahead, the evolving world of travel is poised to deliver innovative, immersive, and tailored experiences, ensuring that the allure of exploration continues to thrive in this ever-evolving journey of discovery.

J&K’s vision document envisages promoting cultural tourism

In a significant move to capitalise on the thriving tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir, the government is set to explore and promote cultural tourism in the region. A recently accessed vision document outlines an ambitious plan for the next 5-10 years, with the primary goal of showcasing the area’s rich culture to visitors.

The vision document details the government’s commitment to offer unique cultural tourism experiences, including traditional village home stays, artisan workshops, and cultural festivals. These initiatives are designed to immerse tourists in the vibrant and diverse cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

In line with the broader goal of diversifying tourism in the region, the government is set to introduce new types of tourism experiences. These encompass adventure tourism, eco-tourism, and cultural tourism, with the aim of attracting a wider spectrum of visitors to the Union Territory.

Cultural tourism has been on the rise in India, attracting high-end tourists who have a keen interest in exploring the cultural richness of various states. Rajasthan stands out as a prime example of a destination that has successfully drawn visitors from across the world through its cultural offerings.

The government has also taken a significant step toward the preservation of architectural heritage sites. This year, it launched the “restoration of Architectural Heritage” scheme, with the first phase focusing on the restoration of 16 architectural buildings, including shrines, temples, churches, and Gurudwaras in Kashmir.

To promote cultural tourism, the vision document highlights the implementation of sustained online campaigns and offline events. These initiatives are intended to create awareness about lesser-known destinations within Jammu and Kashmir, bringing these hidden gems onto the tourism map.

A key strategy outlined in the document is the identification of specific tourism themes to enhance tourist flows to various destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. This approach involves creating circuit maps that include these themed destinations as part of a broader itinerary. The ultimate aim is to decentralize the focus from heavily visited traditional destinations, thus spreading tourism more evenly across the region.

The government’s comprehensive plan to promote cultural tourism is poised to not only boost the region’s economy but also provide tourists with an enriching and diverse cultural experience, ultimately showcasing the hidden treasures of Jammu and Kashmir to the world.

Europe’s Outletcity Metzingen appoints AVIAREPS as Sales & PR Representative in India

With an aim to strengthen its presence in the Indian market, Outletcity Metzingen, a luxury shopping outlet in Europe, has appointed AVIAREPS as its Sales and PR representative in India. The dedicated team of tourism experts at AVIAREPS will be responsible for curating and implementing cross-channel promotional strategies for Outletcity Metzingen with an ultimate goal to increase visitor numbers and spends from India.

A home to over 150 premium and luxury brands, Outletcity Metzingen is the only place in the world that gives the feeling of walking amongst the great designers themselves. The true-to-the-original interiors of the many flagship outlet stores confirm Metzingen as a City of Fashion for guests from all around the world. The affordable designer trends are as international as the cosmopolitan guests, representing 185 nations in a city which speaks one language: fashion.

Commenting on the appointment,. Angela Rieger, Senior International Partnership Manager at Outletcity Metzingen, said, “We chose AVIAREPS as our marketing representation for India due to their exceptional track record in the travel industry, coupled with their in-depth knowledge of the Indian market. This strategic partnership will enable us to effectively penetrate the Indian market, leverage AVIAREPS’ extensive network and expertise to attract a broader audience, and establish a strong brand presence in this significant region.”

Speaking on the company’s diverse and expanding product portfolio, Ellona Pereira, Head, AVIAREPS India, said, “We are extremely proud to add Outletcity Metzingen to our portfolio of esteemed clients. Outletcity Metzingen offers an incredible shopping experience that has the potential to create an everlasting memory in the most rewarding way. Our team will work towards the development and implementation of effective sales and PR strategies to create awareness about Outletcity and its unique offerings amongst Indian travellers. Our aim is to reach out to the right target audience that will ensure Outletcity’s firm positioning on the itinerary of every Indian fashion enthusiast visiting Germany.”

Outletcity Metzingen is located in SouthWest Germany – just 30 minutes by car from Stuttgart, 1 hour from Baden-Baden and 2 hours from Munich, Frankfurt and Zurich. A magnet for fashion lovers and hometown of Hugo Boss, it attracts over 4 million visitors per year.

Nepal’s Dwarika’s Group of Hotels & Resorts appoints One Rep Global as India Representative

Nepal’s premier hospitality brand, Dwarika’s Group of Hotels & Resorts that operates Dwarika’s Hotel Kathmandu and Dwarika’s Resort Dhulikhel, has appointed One Rep Global as India Representative, exclusively for sales and marketing outreach.

Host to international celebrities, royalty and official dignitaries, both properties are epitome of luxury complemented with authentic Nepali hospitality, finesse and grace.

René Vijay Shrestha Einhaus, Executive Director, Dwarika’s Group, said, “The Dwarika‘s Group of Hotels and Resorts is extremely excited to start our journey with One Rep Global tapping into the Indian luxury tourism market. We believe to have found the perfect partner, that understands & shares our values and that will allow us to maximise our sales potential in the Indian market. Due to Nepal’s deep cultural connection with India, the beauty of the Himalayas, the close proximity and Nepal’s pleasant climate, we are certain that the Indian market offers a huge scope. We are eager to explore this scope with One Rep Global.”

Hemant Mediratta, Founder – One Rep Global commented, “I visited Dwarika’s Kathmandu and Dhulikhel properties almost 20 years ago and I instantly fell in love, charmed by its grandeur, beauty and heritage. It reflects escapism and harmony in a picturesque natural setting. The evolved Indian luxury traveller would truly appreciate the value that Dwarika offers. Dwarika’s Kathmandu and Dhulikhel are the perfect combination for an experiential 5-night Nepal itinerary, ideal for HNI FITs, family travel, small corporate groups and high-end incentives.”