Booking.com recently released its APAC Travel Confidence Index (TCI) for 2023, shedding light on the mindset of travellers in the Asia-Pacific region and the influence of economic and global uncertainties on their travel decisions. Among the 11 surveyed APAC markets, India emerges as the country with the second-most confident travellers, closely following Hong Kong. China takes the third spot, followed by Singapore and Taiwan.

Despite the complex challenges posed by global issues such as inflation, geopolitical instability, climate change, and supply chain disruptions, this year's research reveals a remarkable paradox. A striking 86% of Indian travellers express optimism about their future travel plans, with 61% having no intention to postpone their trips in the next 12 months.

What's even more notable is that over half (59%) of these travellers plan to maintain or even increase the number of trips they take, while 68% intend to allocate a higher travel budget for the upcoming year.

Santosh Kumar, the Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Indonesia at Booking.com, highlights the survey's findings, stating, "The research demonstrates that despite global and economic obstacles, travellers maintain a prevailing sense of positivity and enthusiasm. A significant 84% of respondents are actively planning their next trip within the next 12 months. Our Travel Confidence Index 2023 shows that despite macroeconomic challenges and fewer COVID-19 restrictions, APAC travellers' adventurous spirit and their desire to create lifelong travel memories remain strong and unwavering. With this zest and enthusiasm for travel among people, we are confident that the travel sector will continue to thrive in the years to come."