How do you decide on your travel destination? A report by Booking.com shows that Indians are now planning their holidays based on movies, celebrities and TV shows, looking for destinations, experiences and foods that they have seen on screen.
“The mindset of Indian travellers has evolved beyond simply visiting a destination. They now seek experiences inspired by what they watch, follow and admire,” said Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com.
The survey collected responses from over 32,000 people in 32 different markets across the world, including 1,800 respondents in India.
Travel trends for 2024 show that 44% of Indian travellers are looking to TV shows or movies for travel inspiration. Whether it’s walking in the footsteps of their favourite movie character, tasting a dish from a series or visiting a famous restaurant, many Indians want to recreate these real-life moments in real life.
Here is what the survey reveals:
* 61% of Indians are motivated to try foods they have seen on TV or in movies.
* 59% are inspired by shows and films to choose their next destination.
* 58% are captivated by iconic landmarks that appear on screen.
* 57% want to discover the culture represented in shows or films.
* 49% are eager to participate in activities they saw in a movie or TV show.
* 46% are looking for accommodations that offer an experience close to that of their favorite on-screen characters.
How Social Media Shapes Travel Choices
Television and movies aren’t the only factors influencing travel choices. Social media has become a major force, with 66% of Indians using platforms to gather travel ideas. From Instagram to Facebook, Indian travellers are increasingly relying on their feeds to plan their next adventure.
* 76% are inspired by social media posts from friends and family.
* 63% are attracted by travel advertisements on various social media platforms.
* Celebrities also have an impact, with 55% of travelers influenced by famous personalities and 46% by content from niche influencers.
* 50% of travelers are inspired by the brands they follow on social media.
Beyond social media, Indians still rely on more traditional sources to plan their trips. About 57% of respondents said they seek advice from family or friends, while 52% turn to search engine results, travel booking sites or guides for inspiration.
While social media and celebrities can be a source of inspiration for travel destinations, planning a trip remains a headache. According to the report, 42% of respondents find it difficult to organize their trip, leading to a growing demand for travel options that allow them to book multiple elements of their trip in one go.
* 62% prefer to book flights and accommodation together.
* 50% want to reserve their table at the restaurant in advance.
* 52% are in favour of bundled offers combining flights, accommodation and local activities.
* 48% want to book car rentals, while 50% are interested in pre-booking train tickets and taxis.
First published: September 24, 2024 | 4:29 p.m. IST
