Eyeing double digit growth
Maturing of the Indian market has led to expansion of the tourist season and also opening of new avenues, which include impressive growth in MICE movement.
TT BUREAU The
Austrian National Tourist Office in India (ANTO) has built a strong case of double digit growth from 2013 in New Delhi on back of various promotional offers. In fact, as per one of the recently announced initiatives, the Austrian Federal Railways is presently offering a promotional scheme on its rail pass, wherein on buying one, the other pass can be bought at 50 per cent discount and children up to sixteen years can travel free.
“India is an important market and we expect strong double digit growth from it in 2013. In line with our growth targets, we have already conducted roadshow in 3 cities, namely, Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi. They were a huge success with close to 400 agents attending collectively. We also held our annual workshop from February 5-7, 2013, which included delegates from local tourist boards, incoming agencies, attractions and travel partners to showcase Austria as a destination for summer 2013,” said Christine Mukharji, Market Manager, Austrian National Tourist Office India.
We have already conducted roadshows in three cities, namely, Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi
“In fact, we are also seeing willingness among Indian tourists to explore Austria in winter as well. It’s in line with the changes and development being witnessed in India, where there is immense growth being seen in the economy followed by infrastructure development. There is a difference between first time travellers and experienced travellers and Indians today are experienced travellers. They are now keen to go to new destinations and experience the destination they like in different seasons as well,” she added.
The maturing of the India market has led to expansion of the visiting season and also opening of new avenues. As per Christine, the Indian market in early days would be limited to the pattern of school holidays in India, especially in Mumbai and Delhi. But, today, there is sustained growth in terms of arrivals that is evenly spread and will eventually become year round. Moreover, impressive growth in MICE movements has been witnessed.