Indian Couples Embrace Destination Weddings, Survey Finds

Indian Couples Embrace Destination Weddings, Survey Finds

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 2, 2024

A recent survey by Skyscanner highlights a growing trend among Indian couples opting for destination weddings. According to the "Destination ‘I Do’" survey, an impressive 85% of Indian respondents have either had or are planning a destination wedding, with Gen Z leading the trend.

The shift towards destination weddings is notably strong among younger couples. Nearly half (49%) of Gen Z respondents wish to marry in a dream location, compared to 33% of Millennials. The influence of high-profile weddings, such as the Ambani wedding, has inspired many to plan grand celebrations, with 66% intending to host lavish pre-wedding events.

Mohit Joshi, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends and Destination Expert, commented, “Destination weddings are capturing the imagination of Indian couples, who are keen on creating unique experiences. Couples are investing in celebrations that reflect their dreams while balancing grandeur with practical planning.”

Top Destination Picks for Indian Weddings

Asia tops the list for Indian couples, with 48% eyeing destinations like Thailand, Japan, and the Maldives. These locations offer beautiful backdrops and are relatively close, making them convenient and cost-effective. Europe remains a favourite as well, with 31% of couples considering romantic spots like the UK, Spain, France, and Italy.

Goa leads as the top choice for a beach wedding, followed by Dubai for its glamorous allure. Bali and Bangkok are also popular for their tropical vibes and cultural experiences.

image

Diverse Wedding Themes

Indian couples are exploring a variety of wedding themes. A romantic beach celebration is preferred by 26% of respondents, while 20% opt for the regal charm of royal palace weddings in Jaipur or Udaipur. Scenic mountain locations such as Mussoorie, Munnar, and Switzerland attract 19%, with others considering glamorous city events in places like Dubai and New York.

Despite their willingness to spend, many couples are mindful of their budgets. Nearly half (45%) are prepared to increase their wedding budgets by up to 50% for a memorable destination wedding but are also exploring lesser-known destinations to avoid high prices. About 83% are open to off-the-beaten-path locations like Gokarna and Kalimpong.

Travel Trends and Wedding Planning

UAE national carriers are expanding their reach, now flying to 606 destinations globally. Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, Air Arabia, and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi are leading this growth. Etihad aims to reach 125 destinations by 2030 and has seen a rise in passengers and fleet size this year.

image

Planning is crucial for destination weddings, with 62% of couples starting their preparations up to a year in advance. While 40% rely on professional wedding planners, 36% seek recommendations from friends and family, emphasizing the value of personal input.

Technology Assisting Wedding Planning

To aid in planning, Skyscanner offers tools like the Savvy Search feature, which helps users find ideal wedding destinations based on preferences. Joshi noted, “Savvy Search simplifies finding your dream wedding spot, acting like a personal planner.”

Anam Zubair, Director of Consumer Marketing at WeddingWire India, shared that there’s been a 13% increase in couples choosing destination weddings year-over-year. WeddingWire India’s platform provides over 73,000 venues and vendors along with free planning tools, ensuring a smooth experience for couples.

As destination weddings gain popularity, Indian couples are balancing dream celebrations with smart planning and budget-conscious decisions, proving that a dream wedding abroad is achievable with the right tools and flexibility.


Jammu & Kashmir Charts Bold Tourism Revival with ₹5,600-Crore Expansion Plan

Jammu & Kashmir Charts Bold Tourism Revival with ₹5,600-Crore Expansion Plan

By Hariharan U

Published on August 17, 2025

Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong comeback, with more than 4 lakh devotees visiting the holy Amarnath shrine this season, a clear sign of the region’s renewed appeal after challenging years.

Speaking at the FAITH Conclave 2025, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted that J&K offers two distinct travel experiences: pilgrimage tourism in Jammu and leisure tourism in Kashmir. He stressed that both require sustained investment and innovation to ensure visitors not only arrive once but return for more.

“My success will not be measured by how many tourists come for the first time, but by how many choose to come back. For that, the quality of their experience is key,” Abdullah said.

To address crowding at popular spots and open fresh opportunities, the J&K Government, in partnership with the Government of India, has launched SPREAD, a ₹5,600-crore transformative project supported by multilateral funding, with hopeful participation from the World Bank. The initiative will develop nine purpose-built, sustainable tourism destinations across Jammu and Kashmir, backed by improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and modern amenities.

Adventure tourism is also on the agenda, with Gulmarg set for upgraded winter sports facilities in collaboration with private partners, aiming to meet global skiing and adventure standards. Trekking routes will reopen following comprehensive security reviews to ensure visitor safety.

The plan extends beyond leisure and adventure to untapped segments like pilgrimage and border tourism in Jammu—going beyond the famous Mata Vaishnodevi shrine to include vibrant experiences such as the Suchetgarh border tourism circuit.

Praising the region’s timeless charm, Abdullah remarked,“Kashmir was heaven on earth long before Kerala was God’s own country. The road ahead is now filled with light, and with the support of industry partners and associations like FAITH, we will continue to grow stronger.”

From the world’s tallest arched railway bridge to snow-covered ski slopes, rich spiritual heritage, and pristine landscapes, Jammu & Kashmir is positioning itself as a year-round destination. The government’s approach blends infrastructure development with sustainable practices, keeping hope, optimism, and faith at the heart of its tourism vision.


Bird Travels Partners with AEGEAN to Launch Direct Flights from New Delhi & Mumbai to Athens in 2026

Bird Travels Partners with AEGEAN to Launch Direct Flights from New Delhi & Mumbai to Athens in 2026

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 13, 2025

Bird Travels has announced its exclusive collaboration with AEGEAN, Greece’s flag carrier, to operate direct flights from New Delhi and Mumbai to Athens beginning in the first quarter of 2026. The flight schedule and ticket sales will be officially unveiled by the end of September.

AEGEAN will introduce two new Airbus A321neo XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft, boasting a range of up to 10.5 hours. These aircraft feature enhanced comfort with only 138 seats, including 24 Business Class Suites equipped with fully lie-flat beds, aisle access, and modern amenities such as 4K inflight entertainment screens, satellite Wi-Fi, USB charging, and spacious overhead bins designed for long-haul comfort.

The airline plans to operate five weekly flights to New Delhi starting March 2026, followed by three weekly flights to Mumbai from May 2026. Bird Travels will act as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for AEGEAN in India, managing sales, marketing, customer service, and distribution.

Roland Jaggi, Chief Commercial Officer of AEGEAN, said, “We are delighted to partner with Bird Travels as we prepare to launch direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Athens. This marks a significant milestone in AEGEAN’s international expansion and reinforces our commitment to strengthening ties between Greece and India. The addition of the new Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft allows us to enhance our service offering for long-haul routes, providing Indian travellers with a premium gateway to Europe and beyond.”

Gaurav Bhatia, Executive Director of Bird Group, commented, “Our partnership with AEGEAN heralds exciting times for Indian travellers. AEGEAN’s reputation for quality service and connectivity perfectly complements our expertise in the Indian aviation market. Together, we look forward to offering seamless and elevated travel experiences from New Delhi and Mumbai to Athens and further into Europe.”

About Bird Travels and AEGEAN

Bird Travels, the flagship airline management company of India’s Bird Group, has over five decades of experience across airline representation, travel distribution, ground handling, and hospitality services. As AEGEAN’s exclusive GSA in India, Bird Travels will promote and manage the airline’s services across sales, marketing, and customer support.

Founded in 1999, AEGEAN is Greece’s largest and fastest-growing regional airline, serving 152 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa with a fleet of 83 modern Airbus aircraft. A member of the STAR ALLIANCE, AEGEAN has been named Europe’s Best Regional Airline by Skytrax 14 times in the past 16 years, underscoring its commitment to service excellence.

For more information, visit www.birdtravels.com.


Exclusive Shopping & Stays for Your Long Break

Exclusive Shopping & Stays for Your Long Break

By Hariharan U

Published on August 13, 2025

August 15th brings more than a mid-week breather, it’s your cue to pause, reset, and indulge in travel that lingers long after you return. Whether it’s barefoot luxury by the sea, alpine stillness, or the charm of a storied European city, these curated escapes promise to make your long weekend unforgettable.

Asia's Laidback Luxury in Nature’s Embrace

image

The Legian Seminyak, Bali

An oceanfront icon where timeless design meets Balinese soul. From vivid sunsets to indulgent spa rituals, every moment here feels like it’s just for you.
Explore The Legian

image

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
Manta ray encounters, sunrise sandbank yoga, and villas designed for your pace. Even time slows to match your rhythm here.
 Discover Maamunagau

Europe - History, Heritage & Hidden Corners

image

De L’Europe Amsterdam
A landmark blending old-world charm with modern culture. Riverside calm, art, and the best of Amsterdam—right at your feet.
 Discover De L’Europe

image

Hotel Bellevue, Lošinj, Croatia
Modern Mediterranean luxury wrapped in pine-scented air and crystal Adriatic waters.
View Hotel Bellevue

image

Boutique Hotel Alhambra, Lošinj, Croatia
An adults-only escape where refined heritage meets Adriatic elegance.
Explore Alhambra

image

Kulm Hotel, St. Moritz
 An Alpine legend where understated glamour meets crisp mountain air and Swiss tradition even in summer, Explore Kulm Hotel

Exclusive Shopping – Parisian Elegance

image

Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann
More than a department store—private salons, designer previews, and curated fashion experiences tailored just for you.
Luxury Shopping Experience

Plan Your Bespoke Break
Make this Independence Day weekend count. Whether you dream of oceanfront tranquility, alpine retreats, or cultural immersion, we’ll curate a journey that feels entirely yours.

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.