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By Author
Published on October 2, 2023
ICICI Lombard General Insurance marked World Tourism Day by releasing an insightful consumer study report titled "Research on Travel Behaviours 2023." This report provides valuable insights into the changing landscape of travel insurance and the preferences of Indian travellers.
The study delves into the international travel habits of Indians and unveils some noteworthy findings. It reveals that a remarkable 76% of Indian travellers purchased travel insurance for their most recent trip, and an impressive 92% expressed their intent to acquire it for their next journey. This surge in interest highlights the growing awareness of the need to protect travel experiences. Furthermore, the report indicates that awareness of travel insurance increases as individuals progress through different stages of family life. Notably, married couples with children are the most likely group to purchase travel insurance, with a substantial 78% opting for coverage, followed by married couples without children at 67%, and singles at 66%.
The study takes a deep dive into the mindset of Indian travellers, shedding light on their unique preferences, awareness levels, and behaviours within various customer categories: families, couples, and singles. By conducting this research, ICICI Lombard identifies the challenges associated with organising and executing international travel, unmet needs, and potential solutions that could shape the future of travel insurance in India.
Sheena Kapoor, Head of Marketing, Corporate Communications & CSR at ICICI Lombard, commented on the findings, stating, "These statistics underscore a growing consciousness among travellers to safeguard their travel experiences and protect themselves against unforeseen events. It is indeed encouraging to see that travel insurance is no longer an afterthought but a proactive choice for a majority of respondents. Additionally, the correlation between family stages and travel insurance awareness is a noteworthy discovery, demonstrating that individuals are increasingly recognizing the importance of securing their travel plans, particularly as they progress through various life stages."
The report also highlights interesting trends in travel behaviour. For instance, respondents with children are more inclined to take multiple trips in a year. The middle-aged group, comprising 61% of individuals, tends to embark on two or more trips annually, while this percentage drops to one in three for those aged 45 and above. Respondents who travel once a year typically have slightly longer trips, averaging around 13-14 days, whereas those taking two or more trips average around 11-12 days for their most recent journey.
The study also addresses challenges faced during international travel planning. Among the key findings, customers who are married without children appear to encounter the most challenges in their travel planning, with 48% reporting issues. The younger age group faces significant problems during visa applications and finalising bookings, while the middle age group struggles with airline reservations and coordinating logistics between cities. Travel insurance issues were the least common among both age groups.
Awareness of travel insurance varies depending on how travel is booked. Customers who book through intermediaries tend to have the lowest awareness of travel insurance. However, among those with the highest awareness levels, the purchase of travel insurance increases significantly. For international trips, three out of four respondents (75%) purchased travel insurance for their most recent journey.
The top three factors motivating individuals to purchase travel insurance are safety and financial protection (28%), coverage and claim limits (18%), and the chosen travel destination (16%). Interestingly, the highest level of difficulty in purchasing travel insurance is encountered when the insurance booking is done by someone else, with 80% of respondents reporting difficulties.
Looking ahead, Southeast Asia (47%) and the Middle East (40%) stand out as the top choices for travel destinations among respondents for their upcoming international trips. Notably, 92% of respondents plan to buy travel insurance for their next international journey, with the inclination to acquire travel insurance rising with different family stages: couples with kids (94%), couples without kids (92%), and singles (87%).
ICICI Lombard's report provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of travel insurance in India, emphasising the increasing importance of protecting travel experiences and the diverse preferences of Indian travellers. As international travel continues to grow, so does the need for comprehensive travel insurance, ensuring that travellers can explore the world with peace of mind.
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By Hariharan U
Published on November 29, 2025
This season comes with its own charm, and if you’re looking for places that truly feel festive, here’s a handpicked list of nine restaurants, cafés, and hotels that have gone all out to make Christmas warm, joyful, and experience-driven.
1. Late Checkout*Late Checkout* in Lower Parel takes on a beautiful holiday mood with soft lights, rich festive colours, and a cosy vibe that instantly feels welcoming. Set inside a restored textile warehouse, the space blends industrial-chic interiors with snug corners and a lively cocktail room. Whether it's a quiet festive date or a fun group night out, the easygoing atmosphere encourages guests to linger, sip winter cocktails, and enjoy the season comfortably. With its design-led aesthetic and warm Christmas spirit, it makes for a perfect holiday hangout.
2. JW Marriott Mumbai SaharJW Marriott Mumbai Sahar brings the festive season alive with elegant décor, warm lighting, and a cheerful Christmas atmosphere. JW Café rolls out indulgent festive brunches, while AUTM JW Lounge serves winter-inspired cocktails that match the mood of the season. The hotel’s hospitality, seasonal menus, and comforting ambience come together to create a setting that feels refined yet homely, making it one of the most charming Christmas destinations in the city.
3. Della Resorts & AdventureDella Resorts & Adventure introduces its Christmas Festive Package for 2025, designed for a relaxed, feel-good holiday. The two-night stay begins at ₹34,000 and focuses on small, thoughtful experiences—slow mornings, comforting breakfasts, and an Adventure Day Pass for playful fun. Guests also get access to The Vegas Noelat, the resort’s annual Christmas production, and festive drinks at Café 24. A hearty Christmas Brunch, a traditional pudding takeaway, and kid-friendly highlights like Santa Meet-and-Greet and gingerbread decorating add warmth to the holiday. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a quiet but festive break away from the city rush.
4. Sofitel Mumbai BKCSofitel Mumbai BKC takes on a glowing, cosy holiday look with festive décor and cheerful accents. Guests can pick from a variety of Christmas dining experiences—brunch at Pondichery Cafe, Indian festive dinners at Jyran, or traditional thalis at Tuskers. Each menu is crafted with seasonal flavours that bring out the essence of the holidays. Add to that relaxing spa sessions and Sofitel’s signature hospitality, and you get an experience that feels warm, indulgent, and perfectly festive.
5. Harajuku Tokyo Cafe & BakehouseHarajuku Tokyo Café turns into a colourful Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights and bright installations that match its playful Japanese-inspired look. The Bakehouse showcases desserts that are almost too pretty to touch, and their exclusive Christmas cocktail menu adds to the holiday excitement. It’s the ideal spot for those who love aesthetic corners, festive photos, and sweet, comforting treats.
6. Amelia BKCAmelia BKC brings a bold holiday vibe with its dramatic interiors—deep reds, black accents, unique lighting, and statement décor. With warm Christmas lights and luxe festive touches blending seamlessly into the space, it becomes a striking backdrop for dinners, celebrations, and stylish December nights. If you're looking for a place that feels festive yet modern, Amelia stands out beautifully.
7. ToriiAt Torii in Khar, festive elegance takes centre stage. The restaurant’s rich textures, sculptural elements, and warm lighting get an added Christmas glow, making it perfect for intimate dinners or quiet festive gatherings. The décor remains refined and tasteful, giving the place a soft, holiday-ready charm throughout the month.
8. SthambaSthamba Brewery in Versova turns up the Christmas energy with bright decorations, playful lighting, and a buzzing ambience. Known for its upbeat crowd and industrial-cool interiors, the brewery adds a festive twist with a special Christmas menu and lively music. It’s a great pick for year-end outings, cheerful nights with friends, and celebrations that are full of warmth and fun.
9. MoussestruckMoussestruck embraces the season with cosy décor, a warm festive glow, and a delightful spread of strawberry specials and winter desserts. The space is aesthetic and inviting, perfect for anyone who enjoys sweet treats and holiday-themed cafés. Whether you’re visiting for the desserts or the festive vibe, Moussestruck makes for a lovely Christmas outing.
SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel Travel and Tourism Company, has opened its first franchise outlet in Anand, Gujarat, expanding its retail presence to five locations across the State. Anand has emerged as an important travel source market with strong interest in world-class holidays, prompting SOTC to strengthen its footprint in the region.
Known for its growing economy, prominent educational institutions, and rising urban affluence, Anand offers strong potential for travel-related businesses. The new outlet is designed to serve both leisure and business travellers with a wide portfolio of offerings, including domestic and international group tours, personalised holidays, cruises, and value-added services like travel insurance, making holiday planning simpler and more convenient.
Top domestic and subcontinent destinations: Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andaman, Bhutan, Sri Lanka
Top international destinations: Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Bali, Japan, South Africa, Egypt
Emerging interests: luxury cruises, Northern Lights experiences, self-drive holidays, island stays (Maldives, Mauritius), and adventure trips to Ladakh and the North-East
Top customer groups: multi-generational families, honeymooners, working professionals, millennials, and Gen Z
Average holiday duration: 4–6 days for domestic or short-haul, 10–12 days for long-haul trips
SOTC Holiday World OutletNarayan Empire, No. 103–104, Beside Panchal Hall,Anand–Vidyanagar Road, Anand, Gujarat 38800
Speaking about the launch, Rakesh Bawa, Senior Vice President & Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited, said, “Opening our first store in Anand is a strategic step in strengthening SOTC’s presence in Gujarat. Anand’s growing economy, strong educational base and rising affluence make it an important hub for travel demand. By expanding here, we are addressing the evolving needs of customers who want convenient, world-class holiday solutions. Gujarat is a key growth market for us, and Anand will play a significant role in driving our future expansion in the region. My team and I look forward to welcoming our customers at this new location and delighting them with exceptional travel offerings.”
About SOTC TRAVEL
SOTC Travel Limited, a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings through Thomas Cook (India) Limited, is a leading omnichannel travel company operating across leisure, incentive and business travel. Established in 1949, SOTC has built a legacy of more than 75 years and has served millions of travellers across India and the world.
The brand has won multiple industry accolades, including the PATA Gold Awards 2025, MaxiiiMICE Awards 2025, SATTE Awards 2025, and recognitions at World Travel Awards 2024, E4M Maverick Awards 2024, and ET Travel & Tourism Awards.
For more information, visit the official website.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on November 23, 2025
Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have taken their partnership forward with the launch of a new codeshare agreement. This move builds on Etihad’s recently introduced Abu Dhabi–Hanoi service, creating smoother travel options between the UAE and Vietnam.
With this partnership, Etihad guests can now book onward journeys to major domestic destinations in Vietnam as well as popular cities across Asia, all on a single ticket. Travellers also benefit from one check-in and automatic baggage transfer, making Abu Dhabi an easy connection point to the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: "This partnership with Vietnam Airlines delivers significant value to our guests by unlocking access to some of Asia's most dynamic and popular destinations. Our new Abu Dhabi-Hanoi service has been warmly received, and this codeshare agreement transforms it into a gateway to Vietnam's most exciting cities. Combined with our frequent flyer partnership, which enables loyalty members of both airlines to earn and redeem miles across our combined global networks, this collaboration underscores our commitment to providing our guests with greater flexibility, broader reach, and superior travel experiences."
From Vietnam Airlines’ perspective, this collaboration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier. Nguyen Quang Trung, Director of Corporate Planning and Development, Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines is pleased to advance our partnership with Etihad Airways through this new codeshare agreement, following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024. The collaboration offers seamless access to Etihad’s network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, while allowing more travellers to experience Vietnam Airlines’ signature warmth and hospitality. Together with our expanded frequent-flyer partnership, this agreement enhances convenience, broadens destination choices, and strengthens tourism and economic ties between Vietnam and the UAE.”
The rollout of the codeshare will take place in phases. As it expands, passengers of Vietnam Airlines will gain access to six destinations beyond Abu Dhabi, Athens, Addis Ababa, Bahrain, Muscat, Cairo, and Istanbul, opening up a wider network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through Etihad’s strong connectivity.
Etihad and Vietnam Airlines already have a frequent flyer partnership in place. Launched in July 2025, it allows Etihad Guest and Lotus Miles members to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ networks. This loyalty integration adds more value to the newly announced codeshare, giving travellers broader options and smoother travel experiences.
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