Tag Archives: millennials

Women Traveller is a growing segment of travel.

Atlys’ 2025 Travel Trends forecasts 30% surge in solo female travel

Atlys, a visa processing platform, has released its Travel Trends report, encompassing the key patterns that shaped travel in 2024 and offering a glimpse into emerging themes for 2025. Drawing from extensive data across its platform, the report highlights the evolving priorities of travellers and the broader shifts in the global travel landscape.

The year 2024 saw a steady resurgence in outbound travel, building on the momentum of 2023. Travellers sought meaningful experiences, with affordability and sustainability driving decisions. Cultural exploration, solo adventures, and wellness retreats gained prominence, reflecting a growing focus on personal enrichment and mental well-being.

Adventure tourism and event-driven travel, such as major sports tournaments and global music tours, continued to draw significant interest, showcasing a shift toward immersive journeys.

Mohak Nahta, CEO and Founder of Atlys, said, “Tourism continues to grow year after year, and 2025 is shaping up to be a year of meaningful travel. People aren’t just visiting destinations: they’re seeking deeper connections through hidden gems, local cuisines, and transformative adventures. This shift toward more enriching journeys is redefining how we experience the world. We, at Atlys, are committed to helping travellers navigate this evolution, making exploration seamless and memorable.”

Key Travel Trends Shaping 2025
Solo Women Travel: In 2025, solo female travel is set to become a defining trend, reflecting a growing focus on empowerment, personal growth, and exploration. Atlys data reveals that 30% of solo visa applications in 2024 came from women travellers, with projections indicating a 37% increase in 2025. Millennials and Gen Z women dominate this trend, accounting for nearly 70% of solo female travellers aged between their 20s and 40s. The most popular destinations for solo female travelers on the Atlys platform include Bali, Thailand, and Japan, known for their safety, affordability, and immersive cultural experiences. The rise of women-only travel groups and online communities has further fueled this shift toward independent travel, providing women with the confidence to explore the world on their own terms.

Asia’s Tourism Boom: As Asia strengthens its position as a global tourism hub, destinations like Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam, Indonesia are set to witness significant growth in 2025. Thailand is targeting 40 million international visitors, supported by expanded visa-free policies, increased flight connectivity, and its ongoing efforts to legalize casinos, which could boost tourist arrivals during the low season. Japan is expected to draw 28 million visitors, with Expo 2025 in Osaka anticipated to attract 3.5 million international attendees, showcasing its global appeal. Vietnam and Indonesia, with its affordability, rich cultural heritage, and unspoiled natural beauty, continue to gain popularity among travellers.

The Rise of Wellness Escapes and Slow Travel: Travellers are prioritizing wellness-focused trips, with destinations such as Bali, and Taiwan offering yoga retreats, meditation programs, and holistic health escapes. The rising trend of “slow travel” has encouraged longer stays in culturally immersive settings, where travellers can explore local traditions and reconnect with nature.

Trailblazer Hotels: Travellers are increasingly drawn to unique accommodations that blend comfort with cultural immersion. The global boutique hotel market, valued at USD 25.04 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.1% through 2030, reflecting rising demand for properties that offer more than just a place to stay. Countries like Italy, Japan, Morocco, and South Africa captivate visitors with boutique riads, traditional ryokans, and vineyard retreats that reflect the lifestyle and traditions of the region. Many of these properties also provide local activities, such as cooking classes, guided cultural tours, or craft workshops, creating a deeper connection to the destination.
Adventure Travel: Adventure tourism is set to thrive in 2025, as travellers increasingly seek immersive and adrenaline-packed experiences. Destinations like Norway, renowned for its Arctic expeditions, and Peru, famous for treks through pristine wilderness such as the Inca Trail, are expected to draw significant interest. Similarly, Australia, celebrated for its vast national parks and unique wildlife, continues to attract adventure enthusiasts. These offbeat experiences reflect a growing global trend toward experiential travel that fosters deeper connections with nature and the environment.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: 2024 saw a noticeable shift, with travellers increasingly seeking offbeat locations over traditional tourist hotspots. This trend is set to continue in 2025, with more people opting for hidden gems that promise unique cultural and natural experiences. Destinations like Slovenia, Laos, and the Faroe Islands are gaining recognition for their authenticity and charm, offering unspoiled beauty and meaningful interactions with local communities.

Pop Culture Pilgrimages: Travel inspired by pop culture is expected to thrive in 2025, as fans continue to plan trips around their favorite movies, shows, and music events. Popular series and influencer-led travel content are fueling excitement for destinations, encouraging travellers to explore local cuisines, traditions, and unique experiences tied to the regions featured. These journeys allow fans to immerse themselves in the worlds they admire, seamlessly blending entertainment with cultural discovery for a truly memorable experience. According to Atlys, there has been a significant surge in visa interest for destinations linked to global media phenomena, with a notable example being Singapore’s Disney Cruise, which is predicted to see a 27.12% rise in demand in 2025.

Nature’s Greatest Shows: Natural spectacles will continue to captivate travellers in 2025, offering extraordinary opportunities for awe and inspiration. Destinations like Iceland and Norway, renowned for the Aurora Borealis, and Egypt, with its prime locations for witnessing solar eclipses, are expected to see a surge in interest. Bioluminescent beaches in Puerto Rico and the Maldives are also drawing visitors with their magical glow. These journeys offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration, creating visually stunning and meaningful experiences. According to Atlys data, demand for visas to destinations famous for their natural wonders is on the rise, with Iceland predicted to see an 18.37% increase and Egypt a remarkable 43% increase in 2025.

Culinary Tourism: Culinary tourism is rapidly growing, with the market projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.78% between 2024 and 2031. Iconic events like Italy’s Truffle Festival, Thailand’s Songkran Food Festival, and the Cheese Festival in France are drawing travellers eager to explore local flavors and traditions. Destinations such as Japan, renowned for its sushi and ramen, and Turkey, celebrated for its baklava and traditional meze, are also gaining traction. Social media platforms, especially Instagram, have fueled this trend by showcasing vibrant food festivals and unique dining experiences, making gastronomy a key driver of travel decisions for 2025.

Shifting Demographics and Preferences:
Indian travellers, a critical segment for Atlys, exhibited unique preferences in 2024 that are shaping 2025 trends:
Youthful Wanderlust: 60.74% of Atlys users in 2024 were under 35, demonstrating Gen Z’s and millennials’ dominance in travel.

Increased Mobility: Business and leisure travel hybrid (bleisure) saw significant growth, with 24% of travellers opting for extended stays to explore beyond work commitments.

The growing middle class and the emergence of tier 2 and tier 3 cities paved the way for more international travellers seeking authentic, budget-friendly travel experiences abroad.

Cities that travelled the most: Bangalore lead the way, with Delhi and Mumbai following.

Looking ahead, travel will continue to evolve with a focus on personalization and convenience. As technological advancements streamline the planning process, travellers will benefit from more efficient, tailored experiences.

Thomas Cook India opens franchise outlet in Chennai’s Chromepet

Thomas Cook (India) Limited has inaugurated its new franchise outlet in Chromepet, Chennai – to leverage the high-growth market of the city and its surrounding catchments.

Chromepet is a preferred residential locality in Chennai – with proximity to the airport and connectivity to prominent areas, including IT and business parks. The new Chennai outlet expands Thomas Cook India’s network to 9 locations in the city and 15 across Tamil Nadu.
In its commitment to enhance access and convenience, Thomas Cook’s new outlet will address diverse customer segments – families, couples, Young India’s, millennials & Gen Z, business professionals and seniors.

This outlet offers end-to-end travel services: International & Domestic Holidays (Group Tours, Personalised Holidays, Cruises, etc.), Value Added Services like Travel Insurance, etc. Additionally, Thomas Cook’s AI booking platform assists customers in planning their personalised vacations in real time by checking availability, and making reservations in a matter of minutes.

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, said, “Chennai is an important source market for us, and we are witnessing a significant demand from the city. Hence, we are delighted to announce the opening of our Gold Circle Partner franchise outlet at Chromepet. Strategically chosen for its central location, this new outlet will enhance our ability to serve the growing and diverse needs of customers in the region, offering easy access and seamless services to our customers – right at their doorstep! We also have exclusive Tamil group tours with co-travellers from the State, accompanied by a Tamil speaking expert Tour Manager and the comfort of select Tamil cuisine while on tour.

On behalf of my Team, I extend a warm welcome to our customers from Chennai. My Team and I look forward to co-curating memorable holidays for each of our customers – both within India and international.”

Thomas Cook, SOTC see 25% growth in demand for monsoon travel

Indian consumers are displaying sustained interest in travel post the traditional peak summer season. With the onset of the monsoons, ushering in pleasant weather and nature at its best, Thomas Cook (India) Limited and its Group Company, SOTC Travel’s has reported an increase in demand for monsoon travel – with a growth of 25% compared to last year.

Thomas Cook India and SOTC have also announced value-options that make monsoon travel an attractive value proposition for Indians.

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Leisure Travel, MICE, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd, said, “Monsoon travel is seeing growing popularity from Indians. We are witnessing a 25% increase in demand for this monsoon season compared to last year. Short driveable holidays; weekend & extended weekend getaways are witnessing an uptick from young professionals/millennials & GenZ, couples, families. Our customers are showcasing interest in offbeat & adventure experiences like bike trips, hiking, rafting, waterfall rappelling/trekking. To cater to this demand we have curated a diverse portfolio of over 150 monsoon holidays designed to inspire travel hungry Indians.”

Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel, added, “The monsoon season offers travellers a unique opportunity to explore India’s greener locales, cooler and serene wellness retreats. With our rich heritage of 75 years, we firmly believe that no one understands the Indian traveller better than SOTC. India travellers are maximizing their holidays with off-season rates and incredible monsoon discounts to unique monsoon destinations like Ooty, Coorg, Wayanad, Coonoor and Munnar, Western Ghats. Our Monsoon Holidays are curated for customers who want to experience India’s untapped beauty amidst the rains.”

TravClan Collaborates with Resorts World Cruises to Provide Diverse Options for Indian holidaymakers

TravClan, a leading global B2B Travel Tech Platform, has announced its partnership with Resorts World Cruises. Known for its rich Asian heritage and unparalleled dedication to crafting bespoke international voyages, Resorts World Cruises is set to redefine luxury travel experiences. With this collaboration, TravClan is on a mission to make dreamy cruise getaways a reality for Indian families and adventure-seekers, all at prices that won’t break the bank.

TravClan and Resorts World Cruises’ partnership aims to democratize cruise tourism for Indian travellers, traditionally hindered by high costs and limited options for budget-conscious individuals. By providing a diverse array of cruise choices tailored to various traveller preferences, Resorts World Cruises is redefining the cruise experience as more accessible and inclusive. Beyond being a mere cruise brand, it specializes in crafting customized cruise lifestyle products, seamlessly blending luxury, adventure, and the exploration of global destinations.

Speaking about this, Chirag Agarwal, co-founder of TravClan, said, “Cruise tourism has long captivated Indian travellers, yet high costs have deterred many, particularly families, from indulging in this sought-after vacation option. According to industry data, only a fraction of Indian travellers opt for cruises, indicating a significant untapped market. Our groundbreaking alliance with Resorts World Cruises is poised to revolutionize this landscape, making the thrilling and unforgettable cruise experience accessible to all Indian holidaymakers. This collaboration is set to not only broaden their horizons but also significantly impact the cruise industry, tapping into the immense potential of the Indian market.”

Adding further, Naresh Rawal, Vice President of Sales for Resorts World Cruises, said, “With millions of outbound international travellers, India has an incredible market potential for the growth of cruise tourism especially among the millennials who are increasingly looking for novel and luxurious travel experiences. By partnering with TravClan, we hope to reach out to those millions of tourists and familiarize them with the diversity of our offerings. It is a win-win situation for all stakeholders, and we believe that this collaboration contributes to further growth of this sector in India.”

This partnership blends the essence of Resorts World Cruises’ opulent Asian legacy and its dedication to tailored luxury with TravClan’s worldwide proficiency and dedication to empowering travel agents. Beyond the conventional sale of cruise packages, this partnership is geared towards crafting unforgettable moments, discovering uncharted territories, and embracing the allure of marine luxury and exploration.

Thomas Cook, SOTC launch extensive range of cruise holidays

Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s India Holiday Report 2023 highlights unique trends – including a 70% surge in cruise holidays/sea-cations. To capitalise on this significant potential, Thomas Cook (India) Limited and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have launched an extensive range of Cruise Holidays: from short cruise getaways/weekenders, river cruises, Polar cruises (Arctic/Antarctica), round-the-world cruises and more.

The Companies intend to target their diverse range of segments – across Leisure, Corporate, B-Leisure and MICE. Thomas Cook & SOTC’s Cruise Holidays include options from value, premium to uber luxury – starting from INR 22,000.00* for 2-night to over INR 11 Lakhs* on a 14-days Antarctica ice-breaker cruise! *(per person on twin-share cabin basis)

Thomas Cook and SOTC’s consumer data reveals a stark contrast in Indian consumer trends. While globally cruising is predominantly a market for senior citizens, it is Young India’s Gen Z, millennials and young working professionals that are displaying strong appetite for cruises (over 80% vs. pre pandemic). A combination of factors has increased the appeal for this younger demography: an expanded portfolio of sailings in South/S.E Asia – Middle East, range of high adrenaline activities onboard and affordable price points coupled with easy access to financial models.

Domestic sailings have seen rapid revival post pandemic: Thomas Cook & SOTC have emerged as top sellers of India cruises (Cordelia), with over 8,000 customers booked since travel restart.

Additionally, India presents a significant opportunity with its diversity of river-scapes. The Companies have curated unique river cruise + land products: Antara cruises (from Kolkata); also Ganga river cruises like MV Ganga Vilas to explore exceptional routes from Varanasi to the North East. Kerala’s backwater cruises are also in high demand – offering a relaxed/leisurely experience amidst nature.

The Government of India aims at positioning India as a global cruise hub with state-of-art infrastructure for both ocean and river cruises. This is expected to further fuel the growth of the segment.

International cruises have been witnessing accelerated uptick from the India market. To maximise on this demand, Thomas Cook and SOTC were the first to launch a complimentary 3-night premium European cruise experience (Barcelona, Savona, and Marseille) on select European tours – over 1500 passengers booked this summer.

The companies’ range of international cruises include short-haul options like, Costa Toscana voyages (starting December) to the UAE, Oman, Doha; Resorts World Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruises (Singapore; Hong Kong); mid to long haul destinations onboard Royal Caribbean Cruises and Norwegian cruises in Europe (Greece, Italy, Croatia, Spain, Portugal, The Canary Islands and Scandinavia’s fjords). Cruises in the Americas include: Alaskan and Mexican Revieria sailings of the Norwegian Cruise Line.

Thomas Cook & SOTC’s data reflects increased consumer appetite for premium and uber luxury cruises such as Antarctica’s ice-breaker sailings on PONANT that offer an exceptional polar expedition experience; also luxury river cruises like Avalon Waterways.

The India Corporate MICE market is a powerful demand driver for cruises – for reward/recognition incentive programs, CXO meetings, milestone celebratory events and networking engagements. Thomas Cook & SOTC have successfully managed a range of MICE movements of between 50 to over 600 corporates each; with a robust pipeline for the year ahead.

The Companies’ Digital First strategy has seen delivery of an end-to-end online cruise booking platform: empowering customers with the choice to select from a range of cruises/cabins/offers with real-time availability.

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “At Thomas Cook India we are bullish on the cruise opportunity and are witnessing a strong 60% YoY surge in demand. What is noteworthy is that we are seeing appetite across consumer segments from young India’s Gen Z /millennials, couples, multigenerational families and Corporate MICE. There is an increased preference for luxury experiences and higher categories like ocean-view cabins and suites. Our extensive cruise holidays portfolio offers a diversity of products to suit every consumer preference and price-point and we look forward to welcoming our customers onboard!”

Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited said, “Cruise Holidays offer Indians a perfect all-inclusive holiday – onboard a luxurious floating hotel. Our extensive portfolio of Cruise Holidays offers a wide range of cruise experiences, from entertainment and exciting activities, diverse cuisines, wellness-spa, shopping, to exploring new and exotic locales. We are witnessing strong growth emerging from Regional India’s tier 2-3 markets; this is in addition to metros and mini-metros. Our forward pipeline highlights the strong potential for Cruise Holidays and with our extensive partnerships we look to introduce exciting new sailings in the coming months!”

Nalini Gupta, Managing Director, Lotus Aero Enterprises, GSA Costa Cruise India, said, “We are excited to launch the Costa Serena India domestic sailings programme for Indian travellers in Nov & Dec 2023, bringing international cruising at the very doorstep of an Indian guest. The cruise market in India is poised to experience significant growth over the next 5 years and we are very happy to be partnering with Thomas Cook Group for our repertoire of sailings within India, Middle East & Europe.

Varun Chadha, CEO, TIRUN, said, “Our Association with Thomas Cook and SOTC, goes back nearly 30 years. Together we have introduced many destinations to the Indian consumer, from the Bahamas and Caribbean to Alaska, closer to home in Singapore, and the ever favourite Mediterranean. We are very excited as newer ships and newer experiences in private islands, are coming into our fleet across all our brands, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, SilverSeas and Azamara too, and to present these to Thomas Cook and SOTC’s customers. We are also excited about like-minded travel groups and the MICE segment along with continuing to grow repeat cruisers, as we open up the world.

Further we rely on their packaged tour business and hope to continue to work with them, with all their experience and expertise to grow this side of the business, as this is a great way for new to international/ cruise customers to become our advocates.”

Julie Roger, Director of Sales, Asia Pacific said, “PONANT’s association with SOTC and Thomas Cook India has proven crucial over the years in establishing a solid foothold in the Indian subcontinent. As global leaders in Luxury Polar Expedition, this partnership has enabled excellent business outcomes for PONANT in India and an exceptional customer experience. The impact is evident in this ongoing and ever-growing collaboration for journeys across the Arctic, Antarctica, Japan, Africa, and so much more between the two poles.”

Jurgen Bailom, President and CEO of Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd, Cordelia Cruises, said, “We are thrilled to witness the growing enthusiasm for cruising among travelers across segments. Our partnership aims to provide travellers with unparalleled experiences onboard the luxurious Empress, where they may embark on a journey filled with excitement, adventure and rejuvenation. At Cordelia Cruises, we recognise the value of creating cherished memories with loved ones and our diverse portfolio of Cruise Holidays promises to cater to every guest’s unique preferences. From exploring captivating destinations to venturing to new and exotic ports, we offer a delightful array of experiences that will surely captivate all hearts. With the collective expertise and commitment of Cordelia Cruises, Thomas Cook India, and SOTC Travel, we look forward to elevating the cruising experience and inviting travellers to embark on an extraordinary journey at sea.”

 

Thomas Cook & SOTC Travel unveil domestic holidays to meet high demand for Republic Day weekend

With Republic Day falling on a Thursday, the second last week of January offers an ideal opportunity for an exciting extended weekend getaway. Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel are seeing a brisk demand of over 25% from families, young professionals/millennials and couples. To capitalise on this opportunity, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, have introduced a range of holidays with special offers across domestic and international destinations starting at INR 12,549.00* for 4 days.

Thomas Cook and SOTC’s consumer data reveals growing demand for short holidays/mini-cations – with 63% of respondents displaying a keen interest in the upcoming Republic Day long weekend. Over 70% of the respondents indicated a preference for domestic locales, while 30% were open to short-haul international options.

To tap into the extended weekend demand Thomas Cook India and SOTC have launched a holiday range to favourite Indian locales including Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and the North East; also beach destinations like Goa and Andamans. Closer-to-home and easy visa destinations like South East Asia’s Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia; also Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Maldives and Mauritius are in demand for this extended weekend.

Thomas Cook and SOTC’s extended weekend holidays include a range of ready-to-book and personalised experiences: outdoor and adventure, including safaris, biking, hiking/trekking, camping, river rafting and paragliding; lunch in the midst of an apple orchard and stays in coffee plantations/tea estates; visiting nearby locales, spa-wellness getaways and cruise holidays; also spiritual tours. Additionally, cultural experiences such as Odisha’s Konark Eco Retreat, Varanasi Tent City, Jal Mahotsav in Madhya Pradesh and Rann Utsav in Gujarat.

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, said, “With Republic Day falling on Thursday, customers are offered a great opportunity of an extended weekend getaway! To help our customers plan a memorable holiday, we have launched an exciting range of tours across domestic and closer-to-home destinations with an attractive offer like Buy One Get One Free – Companion offers across select India and international destinations. Customers can select from our array of options: safari-outdoor-adventure, wellness getaways, cruises and plenty more.”
Additionally, our unique omnichannel network offers customers the convenience of selecting their preferred mode of contacting us: via our holiday apps, virtual holiday store, portal, call centre or extensive retail outlets pan India.”

Daniel D’souza President & Country Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited, said, “Public holidays that are closer to the weekend can be utilised for an exciting holiday getaway. For this upcoming long weekend of Republic Day, we are seeing a 25% increase in travel demand from various segments including families; millennials/young professionals and couples to explore both domestic and international locales. Our long weekend getaways include unique experiences at attractive price points to a range of favourite destinations including Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Goa, Andamans and the North East; South East Asia’s Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia; also Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Maldives and Mauritius.”