India and the United Kingdom have officially concluded a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), ushering in a new era of professional mobility and bilateral trade between the two nations. Signed on May 6, 2025, the agreement aims to streamline visa procedures and support Indian professionals looking to work in the UK.

The FTA provides simplified entry routes for a range of professionals, including contractual service providers, business visitors, investors, intra-corporate transferees, and independent professionals like yoga instructors, musicians, and chefs. The UK has expanded the list of eligible occupations, but applicants must meet stringent criteria regarding experience and qualifications.

One of the most notable provisions is the waiver of national insurance contributions for UK-based companies that second Indian employees. This exemption applies for the first three years, reducing costs for employers and encouraging more cross-border professional placements.

While critics in the UK have raised concerns about possible impacts on local jobs and increased immigration, British authorities have clarified that this FTA does not alter the country’s points-based immigration system. According to Douglas Alexander, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, the agreement strictly pertains to temporary business mobility, not permanent immigration.

The long-term benefits are significant. Bilateral trade is projected to grow by GBP 25.5 billion (approximately USD 34 billion) annually by 2040, signalling stronger economic cooperation between the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world.

Overall, the India–UK FTA is a major step toward mutual economic growth, offering smoother pathways for Indian professionals and fostering deeper trade relationships between the two nations.

The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, India's military strike on terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has sent shockwaves through the domestic tourism industry. With rising uncertainty, flight shutdowns, and safety concerns, Northern India’s tourism has come to a standstill as nearly 90% of bookings have been cancelled.

Peak summer travel plans have been upended, especially in popular destinations across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. Airports in Jodhpur, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Jammu, and Kashmir, all close to the international border, have suspended civilian operations till May 10, severely disrupting travel schedules.

“People who were already vacationing in Himachal Pradesh have cut short their trips. The North is totally out of the question now. Nearly 95% of bookings for northern destinations in May have been called off,” said Virendra Shah, a travel consultant.

The ongoing panic has left tour operators and travel consultants struggling. "This is the worst May we’ve seen in years," one operator said, pointing to widespread refund requests and a sharp drop in new enquiries.

Even tourists currently on vacation are opting to play it safe. Prashant Sharma, vacationing in Uttarakhand, said, “We had a packed itinerary from Nainital, Jim Corbett, and Mussoorie to Rishikesh, but we’ve cancelled everything except Nainital. We are heading back as planned from Dehradun.”

Experts say the mood of the traveller has been shaken. “This conflict has not just disrupted logistics; it has disrupted sentiment. Even journeys planned a month from now are being cancelled out of fear,” said Ankit Bajaj, a travel expert. He added that the industry is facing a 70% revenue loss for existing bookings this season.

The uncertainty is spilling over to international travel as well. While a few tourists are still flying to the UK and Spain, many are cancelling trips to Turkey, Dubai, Bali, Indonesia, and the Maldives at the last minute.

Sanjeev Chhajer, Chairman of GCCI’s tourism committee, added, “Domestic air travel is badly hit due to airport shutdowns. However, international travel is relatively steady, except for a few cancellations by government employees. Turkey and Azerbaijan have seen more cancellations, while others are less affected.”

With no clear timeline on when normalcy will return, the travel industry braces for an extended lull during what was expected to be a high-revenue summer.

In a time where celebrations are becoming more meaningful and curated, Indian couples are making a clear choice: Destination weddings. Through the lens of Mr. Dilbir Sahni—affectionately known in the industry as Bob—this evolving trend comes to life. As the founder of IndoBangkok, a company at the forefront of luxury events and weddings in Thailand, Bob shares insights shaped by two decades of experience creating unforgettable moments for Indian families.

Once considered aspirational, destination weddings are now a conscious decision. The trend is catching on fast—up from 18% in 2022 to 26% in 2024. And leading this dreamy escape? Thailand.

Gone are the days of crowded banquet halls and logistical juggling. Today’s couples are opting for intimate beachfront vows, hilltop pheras, and royal-themed parties at luxury resorts. Thailand, with its postcard-perfect landscapes, warm hospitality, and ease of planning, offers a spectacular stage for love stories to unfold.

Why More Couples Are Choosing Destination Weddings

So what’s fueling this shift? It’s about simplifying the complex. Destination weddings allow couples to focus on what really matters: spending meaningful time with loved ones. With everyone gathered in one location, the chaos of multiple venues fades away, replaced by a relaxed, immersive vibe.

And it’s not just better for the couple—it’s a win for guests too. Think of it as a wedding with built-in vacation vibes. Guests enjoy quality time, beautiful settings, and great food—all while creating memories that go far beyond the ceremony.

The impact is showing in travel numbers. In 2024, Thailand welcomed over 2.1 million Indian tourists, many attending weddings. The message is clear: this is not just a trend—it’s a movement.

Why Thailand?

Thailand has become the ultimate canvas for Indian weddings. Whether it’s a sunset beach affair, a jungle-meets-ceremony celebration in Chiang Mai, or a royal-style event in a palace-like resort, Thailand offers variety without overwhelming complexity.

Short flights, simple visa processes, and English-speaking staff ease the journey. Add to that a robust network of Indian planners, chefs who know their dal makhani from their dal tadka, and venues that are nothing short of magical—and you’ve got a celebration that feels both familiar and fresh.

Best of all? The country offers five-star luxury at surprisingly affordable prices, making premium experiences accessible for a broader range of families.

Weddings as a New Form of Travel

Weddings are no longer just personal milestones. They’re catalysts for economic and cultural exchange. Each wedding brings life to a destination—boosting tourism, creating local jobs, and reviving small businesses. In many ways, these celebrations are a new kind of travel, one rooted in love, community, and shared joy.

Final Thoughts

Thailand isn’t just a backdrop—it’s becoming an integral part of Indian wedding stories. With its blend of beauty, accessibility, and cultural understanding, it’s no surprise that Thailand is emerging as India’s favourite wedding playground.

Because at the heart of every great wedding is a story worth travelling for.