Booking.com Names ‘Noctourism’ as India’s Travel Word of the Year for 2025

Booking.com Names ‘Noctourism’ as India’s Travel Word of the Year for 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 18, 2025

Booking.com, one of the world’s leading online travel platforms, in collaboration with Meltwater, has named ‘Noctourism’ as India’s Travel Word of the Year for 2025. The term reflects a growing preference among Indian travellers to explore destinations after dark, choosing experiences such as stargazing, night safaris, illuminated cityscapes, and relaxed evening explorations that allow for deeper, more meaningful travel moments.

The rise of Noctourism points to a clear shift in how Indians are travelling, moving away from rushed itineraries and sunrise checklists towards slower, more immersive experiences. Travelling at night also offers the comfort of cooler temperatures and a chance to see destinations through a completely different lens, making travel feel calmer and more personal.

The research also highlights a wider evolution in travel vocabulary that defined how Indians explored the world. Alongside Noctourism, terms such as Calmcation, focused on rest and rejuvenation, Microcations, centred around short and efficient breaks, and Frolleagues, where colleagues travel together as friends, gained strong traction. Together, these trends underline how emotion, intention, and balance shaped travel choices throughout the year.

Booking.com’s Travel Word of the Year research analysed over 10 million data points from more than 3,00,000 verified sources, including media coverage and online conversations. The findings offer a clear view into how Indian travellers are redefining travel with purpose, personal meaning, and flexibility at the core.

Among the most influential travel terms of the year, Noctourism stood out strongly, with a large majority of Indian travellers showing interest in night-time experiences. Calmcations reflected a growing focus on wellness and stress-free travel, while Frolleagues highlighted the blending of work, friendship, and travel. Eco-scapes emerged as another key trend, showcasing the rising importance of sustainable travel choices, while Bucket-list breaks represented once-in-a-lifetime journeys driven by long-held dreams.

Other emerging expressions such as Solo Group Travel, Gastro-trails, Impulse Escapes, and Microcations further reflected the desire for cultural depth, food-led journeys, spontaneous trips, and better work-life balance through travel.

The research also revealed distinct generational preferences. Gen Z travellers leaned towards individuality, sustainability, and spontaneity, while Millennials favoured meaningful experiences, cultural immersion, and shared travel with colleagues and friends.

Commenting on the trend, Santosh Kumar, Regional Manager, South Asia, Booking.com, said,

“Travel in 2025 marks a shift towards deeply intentional and personalised journeys for Indian travellers. With growing interest in after-dark experiences such as night safaris, stargazing escapes, and vibrant night markets, Noctourism emerged as a powerful expression of how people want to explore destinations differently. Every trip today is about self-discovery, connection, and experiences that align with personal values.”

As travel continues to evolve, Booking.com’s insights highlight how Indians are no longer just visiting destinations, but choosing experiences that feel meaningful, balanced, and emotionally rewarding.


ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 6, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the opening of Storii Jawai in Rajasthan, adding the 11th property to its Storii portfolio. The boutique retreat is designed as a nature-led destination, reflecting the growing interest in experiential and eco-sensitive travel across India.

Located in the Jawai region, the property is surrounded by landscapes known for leopard sightings, granite hills, and the Jawai River ecosystem. The area is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, making it a unique destination for travellers looking to connect with nature and wildlife.

Developed in partnership with 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., the property highlights ITC Hotels’ focus on expanding through collaborations while building immersive travel experiences.

The retreat features 15 keys, designed to blend safari-style elements with modern comfort. Guests are welcomed through a tented reception that leads to a colonial-style bungalow serving as the central lounge and bar. The accommodation is spread across villas set within a preserved natural setting, with features such as private courtyards, plunge pools, and tented structures. The design ensures minimal impact on the environment while offering a stay that reflects the region’s character.

Facilities include an infinity pool set on a hillock overlooking a natural lake, along with spaces for wellness and outdoor activities. The experience is further enhanced with wildlife exploration programmes and curated dining, catering to travellers seeking more meaningful and destination-led stays.

Commenting on the launch, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “We are delighted to open the 11th Storii in Jawai. An intimate 15 key boutique retreat that distils the essence of quiet comforts in the wild, Jawai stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of modern innovation and timeless tradition. Storii Jawai is our tribute to the beauty and resilience of this region”.

Bharat Kumar Singh, Promoter, 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., added, “As people from the soil, Storii Jawai reflects our belief in Rajasthani culture and traditions. It has been a humbling experience for us to be able to build a space for fellow travellers to come and immerse in our hinterland. We are grateful to associate with ITC Hotels Limited who reflect our values and vision, and have been with us shoulder to shoulder to make it happen”.

The launch also reflects rising demand for destinations that combine ecological sensitivity with cultural depth, especially in regions like Jawai that are closely connected to local communities such as the Rabari community.


Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited has unveiled Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, marking the debut of the SeleQtions brand in Kanpur, one of Uttar Pradesh’s key commercial and industrial centres.

Highlighting the significance of the launch, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Kanpur, a vital commercial and industrial centre is witnessing rapid growth with its evolving infrastructure and increasing connectivity. The opening of Eternity, Kanpur, IHCL SeleQtions addresses the growing demand from corporate, MICE and social segments.”

Strategically located on NH-91, away from the city’s bustle, the hotel features 104 neo-classical rooms offering views of the cityscape. The property is designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers with a mix of comfort, connectivity, and modern amenities.

Dining options include Célesté, an all-day dining restaurant; Thea, a bar serving European-inspired cocktails along with an exclusive cigar lounge; and Aurumn the Lounge. Guests can also enjoy wellness facilities such as a spa, swimming pool, and a fully equipped gym.

For events and gatherings, the hotel offers expansive banquet and meeting spaces. The largest banquet hall spans over 11,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for conferences, conventions, and social celebrations.

Mr. Jalpreet Sodhi, General Manager, Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, said, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Eternity - IHCL SeleQtions and offering a memorable experience in the culturally rich city of Kanpur.”

Located along the banks of the Ganga, Kanpur is known for its strong industrial legacy in leather, textiles, and manufacturing, making it an important commercial hub in North India. With this launch, IHCL continues to strengthen its presence in growing urban markets across the country.


Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

After weeks of deadlines, financial closures, and the usual rush that comes with March, the Good Friday long weekend arrives at just the right time. Sitting right at the end of the financial year, it offers a chance to step away from routine, take a breather, and begin April with a clearer mind. Whether it’s the calm of a coffee estate, the stillness of backwaters, or the fresh air of the mountains, a short getaway can make all the difference.

At Evolve Back Coorg, the surroundings naturally slow things down. Set amid coffee plantations and rainforest landscapes, the experience here is all about quiet moments. Mornings begin with misty walks, followed by relaxed breakfasts, spa time, and peaceful hours by a private pool, making it easy to switch off from work mode.

image

image

For those who prefer a deeper disconnect, The Tamara Coorg offers forest-lined cottages and sweeping hill views. The calm setting encourages slower mornings and evenings without screens, allowing travellers to gently ease out of the stress of work and return feeling lighter.

image

If a slower pace by the water sounds more appealing, Coconut Lagoon provides a refreshing change. Surrounded by the backwaters of Kumarakom, the experience is simple and unhurried, with boat rides, sunset views, and traditional wellness therapies creating a sense of balance without the need for a packed schedule.

image

For a more complete wellness reset, Ananda in the Himalayas stands out as a destination focused on mental and physical well-being. With meditation, personalised wellness programmes, and the calming influence of the mountains, even a short stay here helps restore focus and energy.

image

Similarly, Six Senses Vana offers a more guided approach to relaxation. Instead of a typical holiday, it focuses on mindful routines and holistic wellness, helping guests return feeling calmer, more balanced, and ready for the weeks ahead.

image

Not every break needs to be long to make an impact. Sometimes, a few days in the right environment is enough to reset both mind and body. With peaceful surroundings and thoughtful hospitality, these retreats offer a simple yet meaningful way to step into April with renewed energy.

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.