Tag Archives: tour operators

Utah records 5% growth in Indian visitations during 2022; keen to work with trade on special itineraries

During a press briefing in Mumbai last week, the Utah Office of Tourism informed that 8,700 Indians visited the destination in 2022, recording a surge of 5% over pre-Covid year of 2019 as per data from Tourism Economics. During 2022, Indians spend USD 8.7 million during their trips.

Talking to the media, the Utah Office of Tourism representatives Rachel Bremer, Global Markets Director, and Zach Fyne, Global Markets Specialist said that this year they will be working with the Top 5 tour operators from India for designing special itineraries for Utah.

According to forecast, a 42.6% growth is anticipated in visits and a massive surge of 203.9% in spending by Indian visitors by 2027.
Terming India as a primary emerging market, Bremer said, “India is one of the most stable tourism markets despite global uncertainties.” She said that the Utah Specialist Academy, has seen 250 completions of the programme, out of the 700 registrations, and the aim to narrow the gap this year.

Besides the Mighty 5 National Parks, Utah boasts of 28 scenic driving routes, glamping facilities, and Dark Sky Parks. Mansi Oza, Account Manager – India, Utah Office of Tourism, said that they are keen to diversify their outreach in India, to create a perception among varied kind of travellers across India.

TBO’s Tek Travels acquires Spain’s Jumbonline Accommodations & Services

TBO Tek Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, Tek Travels DMCC, has acquired 100% shareholding of Spain’s Jumbonline Accommodations & Services S.L.U., which has been demerged as an online business from Jumbo Tours Group. With this acquisition, TBO intends to further increase its presence in Europe.

Jumbo Tours Group offers a range of services and products to tourism operators and travel agencies worldwide. The Jumbonline business distributes an extensive range of products for wholesalers and tour operators all on one single platform. The advanced API solution provides access to over 120,000 hotels with 15,000 hotels directly contracted in an unbeatable response time. Complementing this business, there are two other brands, Jumbobeds, the leading online wholesaler for Travel Agencies and Jumbotransfers which offers a wide range of transport services at great prices.

Gaurav Bhatnagar, Co-Founder & Director, Tek Travels DMC, said, “This acquisition will give us not only access to Jumbo’s clientele but quality content from across prime destinations in Europe right down to the Caribbean. We continue to expand our global footprint by staying true to our commitment to simplifying global travel”.

Ginés Martinez, CEO, Jumbo Tours Group, added, “We are very excited with this partnership and look forward to leveraging TBO’s strengths in travel distribution across the world, specifically Middle East & APAC. Their tech, talent and growth have been very impressive, and we are happy to be a part of the TBO family”.

Gabriele Burgio, President and CEO of Alpitour World has commented “we strongly believe that there is a big potential in this alliance, TBO is a great partner in technology and highly specialised in the online business, while Jumbo Tours Group is a great provider of operations, contracting, local knowledge and representation in the destinations, we are sure both parties will get the most out of this joint project.”.

 

‘The Indian market has successfully reached the targeted spending amount of JPY 200,000’

Japan is keen to entice the Indian traveller with its varied landscape, geographical spread, food & beverage offerings, and natural wonders. Bunno Ryo, Executive Director, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Delhi Office, spoke to TravelBiz Monitor about their inbound numbers from India, potential source markets for 2024, and multi-faceted marketing strategies to reach the desired visitor target.

1. What are the India statistics for JNTO until September 2023 as compared to the target numbers listed for the year?

The Indian market holds immense potential and significance for Japan’s tourism industry. Over the past years, we have witnessed a growing interest from Indian travellers in exploring the unique cultural, historical, and natural wonders that Japan has to offer. In 2019, we saw over 1,75,000 Indian visitors. To meet the 2019 milestone is our objective for 2023. So far, from January to June 2023, we have witnessed close to 79,500 visitors to Japan from India.

As we continue to strengthen our ties with the Indian travel industry and tailor our initiatives to the preferences and needs of Indian tourists, we remain optimistic about the bright future of Japan’s tourism market in India.

2. As per the 2023-2025 tourism plan, Japan is looking to boost per-person spending to USD 1,500 (JPY 200,000) through aggressive marketing efforts, kindly elaborate on the strategies being planned or implemented?

We are delighted to announce that the Indian market has successfully reached the targeted spending amount of JPY 200,000. This achievement stands as compelling evidence that visiting Japan holds undeniable value for Indian consumers, known for their discerning emphasis on value for money. To further bolster our aim of achieving a per-person spending target of USD 1,500 (JPY 200,000), our current marketing strategies are strategically tailored to resonate with the discerning Indian travellers. This includes leveraging digital platforms for targeted advertising, collaborating with prominent Indian travel agencies, promoting exclusive cultural experiences, and introducing tailored travel packages that highlight Japan’s unique offerings. Additionally, we are exploring strategic collaborations with popular Indian influencers and implementing personalised promotional campaigns to enhance the overall tourist experience and encourage higher spending. To achieve the target of increasing per-person spending, we have adopted a multi-faceted approach that includes a mix of strategic marketing efforts including, but not limited to Online, Offline channels, SNS and various collaborations, etc.

Collaborating with travel agents and tour operators is an essential part of our strategy. We work closely with our partners to create enticing travel packages to encourage Indian tourists to explore Japan more extensively across segments like leisure and MICE.

The goal to increase per-person spending is not just about driving revenue but also about providing a richer and more fulfilling experience for our visitors. We remain committed to making Japan a compelling destination that offers exceptional value for Indian tourists.

3. The tourism plan also focuses on promoting destinations beyond Tokyo, kindly elaborate and what sets these destinations apart?

Japan is a country known for its remarkable combination of land size and geographical diversity. Japan’s land stretches 3000km from North to South, featuring a climate ranging from the cold zone to the subtropical zone. You can witness the enchanting cherry blossoms as early as January or February in Okinawa and as late as May in Hokkaido. Remarkably, approximately 70% of Japan covered by forestland, making it a remarkably green and environmentally conscious country. Moreover, Japan’s cultural diversity encompasses not only traditional Japanese culture but also the Ainu culture in Hokkaido and the Ryukyu culture in Okinawa.

Japan’s natural beauty extends far beyond Tokyo. The country is blessed with diverse landscapes, from the stunning cherry blossoms of Hirosaki Park in Aomori to the breathtaking landscapes of Hokkaido and the picturesque beaches of Okinawa. Promoting these destinations allows us to showcase the full spectrum of Japan’s natural wonders.

Additionally, the food culture in Japan is incredibly diverse, and travellers can savour regional dishes that are distinct to the area they visit. Whether it is the fresh seafood of Hokkaido, the street food of Osaka, or the kaiseki cuisine of Kyoto, regional food experiences are a significant draw for tourists.

Japan’s regions are filled with historical significance. For example, Hiroshima, with its Peace Memorial Park, is a place of historical reflection, while Nara boasts the stunning Todai-ji temple and the iconic Great Buddha. Travellers with an interest in history find these destinations incredibly compelling.

While Tokyo remains a popular destination, some travellers seek to escape the crowds and experience a more relaxed, authentic side of Japan. Destinations beyond Tokyo offer just that. Visitors can explore historic streets and beautiful landscapes without the hustle and bustle often associated with major cities.

Promoting destinations beyond Tokyo is not only about showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of these regions but also about ensuring that travellers have a more well-rounded and enriching experience during their visit to Japan. We are committed to highlighting the distinctiveness of each region, and our marketing strategies focus on telling the stories and offering compelling reasons to explore the less-visited gems.

4. What are Japan’s top-performing markets as of 2023 and the emerging potential markets for 2024?

As of 2023, Japan continues to welcome travellers from a host of countries. Some of the top-performing markets that have contributed significantly to our tourism industry include China, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, United States of America, Australia, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore and UK.

Regarding emerging potential markets for 2024, we are actively exploring and investing in various regions that show promise in terms of tourism growth like India, Middle East, and Nordics among others. These markets hold significant potential, and it is essential for JNTO to continue our marketing efforts and foster strong partnerships to capitalize on this potential.

Our strategy for 2024 and beyond will include tailored marketing campaigns and initiatives to further tap into these emerging markets. We understand the importance of building strong relationships and we work very closely with travel partners, airlines, and local stakeholders to promote Japan as a preferred travel destination for these potential visitors.

5. Indian travellers today are looking for unique experiences, how does Japan fit in and cater to Indian travellers?

Japan has always been a treasure trove of unique and enriching experiences. We understand that Indian travellers today are looking for more than just the conventional tourist destinations; they seek immersive, authentic, and one-of-a-kind experiences and Japan caters to these requirements.

Japan is known for its rich and diverse culture. Indian travellers can participate in traditional tea ceremonies, witness mesmerizing geisha performances in Kyoto, explore ancient temples and shrines, and even stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) for an authentic cultural experience.

Japanese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its exquisite flavours and presentation. Indian travellers can savour regional dishes unique to different parts of Japan, from the famous sushi of Tokyo to the kaiseki cuisine of Kyoto. Japanese street food is also a hit among travellers looking for quick and delicious bites. And to bring Indians closer to home, Japan has over 2,100 Indian restaurants spread across the country serving authentic and delicious Indian delicacies.

Travellers can soak in hot springs or onsens in places like Hakone, enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring, and marvel at the vibrant autumn foliage. For fans of Japanese pop culture, Japan is a paradise. From visiting anime and manga cafes in Akihabara to experiencing themed cafes and visiting the bustling entertainment districts, there’s a lot to explore for enthusiasts. Adventurous Indian travellers can enjoy activities such as hiking in the Japanese Alps, skiing in Hokkaido, or scuba diving in Okinawa.

Japan is an incredible shopper’s paradise, offering something for every shopper, with Yodobashi Camera and BIC Camera catering to tech enthusiasts, while Don Quijote and DAISO – 100 YEN cater to budget-conscious consumers. The iconic Uniqlo and upscale shopping in Ginza, Tokyo, further enrich the diverse shopping experience, making Japan a shopaholic’s dream.

Japan is known for its safety and the warm hospitality of its people. Indian travellers can explore the country with a sense of security and be welcomed with open arms. We understand the evolving preferences of Indian travellers and continue to adapt our offerings to meet their desires for authenticity and uniqueness.

 

VisitBritain to host trade mission to India from Nov 19-21 in Delhi, first in three years

British travel trade and industry suppliers are set to show why Britain is the must-go-now destination to buyers from across India as VisitBritain hosts its first trade mission to the country in more than three years.

Destination Britain India, taking place from November 1 9 to 21 in Delhi, will see dozens of British industry suppliers from across the nations and regions meet with 75 top buyers from India to do business.

The three-day trade event will see thousands of pre-scheduled one-to-one business meetings. The suppliers set to attend include hotels, retailers, visitor attractions, tour operators, transport providers and local destinations from across Britain.

Patricia Yates, CEO, VisitBritain, said, “We are delighted to again be hosting this flagship trade event to India, a timely and valuable opportunity for British tourism suppliers and destinations to get their products in front of top buyers, driving bookings to Britain.”

“India is one of our most important inbound visitor markets, also boasting strong airline connectivity including to regional destinations and we know there is pent up demand for travel. Working with the travel trade in India is crucial to ensuring they are ready to sell Britain, as well as broadening travel itineraries to encourage visitors to explore further and stay longer.”

Delegates will also have the opportunity to meet with the wider Indian trade at networking receptions and attend product seminars, including from West Midlands Growth Company, Marketing Manchester and Visit Cumbria, to hear about the latest market developments and trends. VisitBritain will also be showcasing its GREAT Britain ‘See Things Differently’ campaign promoting the fresh and exciting experiences on offer, inspiring visitors to explore more of Britain, to travel across the seasons and to come now.

Visitors from India spent a record GBP 764 million in the UK in 2022, exceeding 2019 levels by 2%. This growth has continued in to 2023. India is forecast to be a GBP 1 billion inbound visitor market by 2024, making it one of the UK’s fastest growing major tourism markets.

Airline seat capacity from India to the UK is also showing strong recovery and growth. Looking at September 2023, seat capacity was up 53% compared to the same month in 2019.

As well as its Destination Britain India trade mission, VisitBritain continues to work closely with industry and partners in market to promote Britain’s outstanding tourism offer and experiences that visitors can only have here.

 

Ajman Tourism bullish on India opportunity; conducts three-city networking event

Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) completed three-city networking evening series aimed at promoting travel and tourism opportunities in the emirate. The events took place in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.

H.E. Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General, ADTD, was present at each event, showcasing his commitment to fostering strong relationships with key decision-makers in India’s travel and tourism sector. His attendance further highlighted the importance placed on enhancing cooperation between both parties to encourage more Indian tourists to visit Ajman.

These evening events brought together travel agents, tour operators, media partners, and industry partners to discuss the potential for tourism development in Ajman.

Elaborating on plans for the Indian market he said, “Celebrating the vibrant tapestry of cultures, ADTD extends its heartfelt gratitude to the people of India for the overwhelming success of our recent event. Through this unique cultural exchange, we’ve woven threads of friendship that bind our nations together. We look forward to nurturing this bond further and creating more unforgettable moments in the realm of tourism and hospitality”.

Neeti Sharma, Director of Intrepid Marketing and Communications added, “We are delighted to showcase Ajman to the travel fraternity in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad and Mumbai through the three city networking evenings. It has been an absolute honour for us to have H.E Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi grace the occasion and convey Ajman’s readiness for the India market. Ajman is a host to luxury accommodations, experiences very close to nature and holidays that can be enjoyed at one’s own pace. A perfect place to enjoy a short honeymoon, a family holiday or hosting an Indian wedding, Ajman caters to all. In the coming months we aim to successfully establish Ajman’s footprint in India.”

Chalo DMC, Albatros Travel Africa’s host 10-day FAM trip for tour operators from India

Chalo DMC and Albatros Travel Africa’s South Africa recently conducted a 10-day familiaristaion (FAM) trip to foster strong relationships and showcase the nation’s rich diversity. Over 10 days, the tour operator partners from India explored Johannesburg, indulged in wildlife and luxury lodges at Kariega’s eastern parks, traversed the Garden Route, and savoured the vibrant energy of Cape Town.

Siddharth Jain – Founder Director, Chalo DMC, said, “Chalo DMC in partnership with Albatros Travel Africa is dedicated to nurturing its tour operator partners, year after year, with an immersive journey of South Africa’s diversity and beauty.”

Pranav Kapadia – Director Sales & Marketing, Global Destinations, added, “It was our first trade familiarisation trip post Covid hence the importance of the trip for our trade partners to get a first-hand experience of South Africa and Chalo DMC & Albatros service levels”.