Agoda Unveils Preferred Destinations for Indian Travelers During March's Consecutive Long Weekends

Agoda Unveils Preferred Destinations for Indian Travelers During March's Consecutive Long Weekends

By Author

Published on February 28, 2024

March 2024 is set to be an exhilarating month for Indian travelers, as they gear up to make the most of the consecutive long weekends created by Holi on March 25 and Good Friday on March 29. Agoda, a leading digital travel platform, has revealed through its search data insights that Dubai and Goa are the top international and domestic destinations, respectively, for Indians looking to capitalize on this extended break.

Domestic Delights and International Escapes:

Agoda's analysis showcases the top 5 domestic and international destinations that have captured the interest of Indian travelers for the upcoming holidays. Domestically, Goa leads the pack, followed by Mumbai, Udaipur, New Delhi & NCR, and Jaipur. On the international front, Dubai is the most popular choice, with Singapore, Bangkok, Bali, and Phuket completing the top five.

image

Why These Destinations?

The preference for Dubai could be attributed to its luxurious lifestyle, iconic skylines, and shopping experiences. Singapore's clean urban exploration, Bangkok and Phuket's benefit from Thailand's visa waiver policy, and Bali's serene landscapes and cultural immersion are key factors driving their popularity.

Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Director for India Subcontinent and Maldives at Agoda, emphasizes the unique opportunity these consecutive long weekends present for extended vacations. "It’s a great time for Indian travelers to explore both domestic and international destinations, further fueled by recent visa waiver policies," he commented.

What Makes These Domestic Spots Shine?

Goa remains a favorite for its beaches and nightlife, Mumbai captivates with its street food and landmarks, Udaipur offers a peaceful retreat with its lakes and palaces, while Delhi NCR and Jaipur are known for their vibrant markets and historical architecture.

image

Seize the Opportunity:

With direct flights enhancing connectivity - such as IndiGo's new daily routes between Hyderabad and Bangkok - traveling has never been more accessible. This March, Indian travelers are not just looking to relax but to enrich their experiences, exploring new cultures and destinations.

Whether opting for the tropical beaches of Goa, the bustling streets of Mumbai, or the exotic allure of Dubai, Indian travelers are poised to make the most of this March's travel-friendly calendar, turning these long weekends into memorable adventures.

Published on February 26, 2024, this insight into travel trends among Indian travelers showcases a blend of traditional and emerging preferences, highlighting a growing enthusiasm for both local and global explorations.


Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 18, 2025

What do the moon and manta rays have in common? They both play a crucial role in one of the ocean’s most breathtaking natural spectacles—the mass gathering of manta rays in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Thanks to the groundbreaking research of the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme, based at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, travelers now have a scientifically backed chance to witness these gentle giants in action. The team has combined two decades of manta tracking, moon phase analysis, and tidal movements to predict the Manta Hot Dates for 2025—the optimal times when these marine marvels are expected to congregate in vast numbers.

2025 Manta Hot Dates

  • May 10 – 14 | May 25 – 29
  • June 9 – 13 | June 23 – 27
  • July 8 – 12 | July 22 – 26
  • August 7 – 11 | August 21 – 25
  • September 5 – 9 | September 19 – 23
  • October 5 – 9 | October 19 – 23
  • November 3 – 7 | November 18

A Front-Row Seat to the Ocean’s Grand Performance

With over 4,477 manta sightings recorded in 2024—alongside 26 whale sharks and nine devil rays—the waters around Landaa Giraavaru offer an unparalleled marine adventure. Guests visiting during the Manta Hot Dates can join the exclusive Manta Watch experience, which includes:

image

Manta-on-Call speedboat safari – Get alerted via a personal phone the moment mantas are sighted nearby.
Dolphin cruise – Witness playful dolphins leaping across the Indian Ocean.
Coral frame propagation – Contribute to marine conservation by helping restore coral reefs.
Round-trip shared seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport.
Daily breakfast at Café Landaa or Blu Restaurant.

For those who prefer spontaneity, the resort’s Manta-on-Call program offers a real-time adventure—guests receive a direct call the moment manta rays are spotted, allowing them to rush to a speedboat and snorkel with these oceanic giants on their terms.

More Than a Spectacle—A Conservation Mission

Since its inception in 2005, the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme has played a vital role in protecting manta rays worldwide. Project Manager Elspeth Strike explains,

“Seeing a guest’s face light up as they spot a manta for the first time is unforgettable. At Landaa Giraavaru, we combine conservation with education—offering managed experiences that allow people to connect with these incredible creatures while helping ensure their future.”

Manta sightings are seasonal and subject to weather conditions and the moods of these gentle giants.

To book your Manta Watch adventure at Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, click here, email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com, or call +960 66 00 888.


Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 16, 2025

The Business Travel Show Asia Pacific is set to make its debut in Singapore on April 16-17, 2025, at Marina Bay Sands, uniting over 200 corporate travel buyers from across Asia Pacific, the US, the UK, and Europe with 50+ top-tier exhibitors from the global travel industry. Backed by BTN Group’s 30 years of expertise in corporate travel events, this launch marks a significant milestone for the region’s booming business travel sector.

A World-Class Corporate Travel Event

The Asia Pacific region is the world’s fastest-growing corporate travel market, with spending projected to hit $900 billion this year. Business Travel Show APAC is more than just a trade show—it’s a critical platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and stay ahead in an evolving landscape.

Exhibitors include some of the most influential names in the travel industry, such as Oneworld, Wings, Wego, Amex GBT, BCD, Amex Card, Emburse, and more. The event promises meaningful business meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and exclusive networking opportunities for buyers and suppliers alike.

Exclusive Hosted Buyer Programme

Senior corporate travel decision-makers can apply for the hosted buyer programme, which includes:

  • Complimentary travel and accommodation
  • Curated one-on-one meetings with key suppliers
  • VIP access to event sessions and networking lounges

Corporate travel managers and procurement professionals handling business travel programmes are encouraged to register early to secure their spot.

image

Expert Panels & Cutting-Edge Industry Insights

Spanning two days, the event features 16 free-to-attend sessions covering:

  • Sustainability in corporate travel
  • Enhancing traveller experience
  • Innovative travel technology
  • Supplier sourcing strategies
  • Cost-cutting and resilience in travel programmes

Speakers from Avis Budget Group, MSD International, IKEA, Rheinmetall, Crisis24, HN Consulting, and Align Tech will share their expertise.

Business Travel Innovation Faceoff & APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award

For the first time in APAC, the Business Travel Innovation Faceoff will showcase game-changing solutions set to redefine corporate travel. Additionally, the APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award will honor a regional leader in corporate travel innovation.


CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

By Author

Published on March 10, 2025

CGH Earth Saha has launched its ninth villa, Coorg Wild Walk, adjacent to Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. Nestled within a lush coffee estate near Kutta’s Nanachi Gate, this secluded four-bedroom villa offers travelers an intimate and immersive experience in one of India’s most pristine wildlife reserves, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and a thriving bird population.

Designed as a peaceful retreat, the villa blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Expansive picture windows frame uninterrupted views of the coffee plantation and forest, while the semi-open lounge and dining areas allow guests to stay connected to nature. Infused with Kodava craftsmanship, the interiors add a touch of local charm to the space. Guests can book individual rooms or reserve the entire villa for a private escape.

image

The experience at Coorg Wild Walk extends beyond the villa. Guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and safaris in Nagarhole offer thrilling encounters with wildlife. The on-site culinary offerings celebrate the flavors of Kodagu and Karnataka, with locally sourced ingredients shaping an authentic dining experience.

"We are thrilled to welcome guests to Coorg Wild Walk. Nestled within a coffee plantation and just minutes from the Nanachi Gate of Nagarhole National Park, this retreat offers an unmatched connection with nature. Whether it's waking up to bird calls, sipping estate-grown coffee on the verandah, or embarking on curated wildlife experiences, the thrill of the forest is ever-present," said George Joseph, Vice President, Operations – CGH Earth.

image

With a strong focus on sustainability and cultural authenticity, CGH Earth Saha continues its legacy of crafting meaningful travel experiences. Coorg Wild Walk promises a unique blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal getaway for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.

More details at CGH Earth Saha

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.