Safe Travels Ahead: ICICI Lombard's Insights into Indian Travellers

Safe Travels Ahead: ICICI Lombard's Insights into Indian Travellers

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.


Abhay Prabhavana Celebrated as a Must-Visit Destination on World Tourism Day

Abhay Prabhavana Celebrated as a Must-Visit Destination on World Tourism Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 30, 2025

On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Abhay Prabhavana Museum & Knowledge Centre has been recognised as one of India’s most distinctive cultural destinations. Conceptualised as a “Museum of Ideas,” it offers an immersive journey into India’s heritage, spiritual traditions, and enduring values that continue to inspire civilisation.

Spread across 65.5 hectares on the banks of the Indrayani River, Abhay Prabhavana is counted among the largest private museums in the world. It features over 30 galleries, 350 commissioned artworks, monumental sculptures, and storytelling spaces that connect visitors to the roots of Indian thought in a modern, engaging format. From recreations of ancient heritage sites like Dholavira and Jal Mandir to interactive galleries on Indic philosophy, the museum seamlessly blends history and innovation.

image

Highlights include the 13.2-metre Art Deco-style statue of Rishabhdev, regarded as the first teacher of civilisation, the 30.5-metre Manastambh symbolising humility, and the Plaza of Equanimity, a reimagined four-faced temple where values take precedence over form. Visitors can also enjoy high-quality vegetarian cuisine at the Sattva Food Court, making the destination a complete cultural retreat for families, students, and spiritual seekers.

image

Reflecting on the occasion, Dr. Abhay Firodia, Founder of Abhay Prabhavana, said, “Tourism, at its best, is about discovery, learning, and reflection. Abhay Prabhavana was created to be a destination where visitors can connect with India’s timeless values, understand the wisdom of our traditions, and take away insights that enrich their own lives. On Tourism Day, I invite travellers, students, and seekers of all ages to experience heritage as living knowledge, something to be felt, remembered, and carried forward.”

Every aspect of Abhay Prabhavana has been designed to engage both the eye and the mind. Expansive galleries use storytelling and design to enhance understanding, while sculptures and spaces inspire balance and reflection. Technology complements the experience without overshadowing it, allowing visitors to move seamlessly between history and imagination.

For travellers, the museum is more than just a stop on an itinerary, it is a lived journey that deepens their understanding of India’s cultural and spiritual spirit.

About Abhay Prabhavana Museum

Located on the outskirts of Pune, the Abhay Prabhavana Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting timeless Indic values inspired by Jainism. Spread across 65.5 hectares, it is among India’s largest privately owned museums. Conceptualised as a “Museum of Ideas,” it showcases Indian heritage through philosophy, art, history, and interactive storytelling. With curated exhibits, guided tours, and immersive experiences, the museum serves as a hub of inspiration for students, scholars, travellers, and cultural enthusiasts. More than a repository of history, it is a living space of learning, reflection, and dialogue that fosters deeper connections with India’s legacy.


Mumbai Airport Records 6.3 Million DigiYatra Users, Boosts Digital Travel

Mumbai Airport Records 6.3 Million DigiYatra Users, Boosts Digital Travel

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 29, 2025

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has reported remarkable growth in digital adoption, positioning itself among India’s most advanced airports. The rise of self-service options reflects the wider industry shift toward technology-driven, contactless travel.

Between April 2024 and August 2025, more than 3.86 million boarding passes were printed using self-check-in kiosks. IndiGo led the adoption with 2.58 million, followed by Air India with 1.09 million and Air India Express with 53,301. Among international carriers, Air France accounted for 90,902 boarding passes, ahead of Emirates at 18,356 and Lufthansa at 18,017. In August 2025 alone, 264,414 boarding passes were printed, a 41.8 per cent increase compared to April 2024.

The airport’s 32 self-baggage drop (SBD) units processed over 7.15 lakh bags during this period, with average processing times of 17–20 seconds. Domestic airlines accounted for nearly 6 lakh bags, while international carriers such as KLM, Air France, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Swiss collectively handled over 70,000. SBD adoption grew steadily, with international use rising from 4.15 per cent in April 2024 to 13.9 per cent in August 2025, and domestic use increasing from 5.26 per cent to 6.28 per cent.

Biometric-enabled travel also surged, with 6.3 million passengers using DigiYatra e-gates between April 2024 and August 2025. Adoption rose from 12 per cent in April 2024 to 32 per cent by August 2025. With 46 e-gates and 40 facial recognition pods across both terminals, DigiYatra allows passengers to clear checkpoints in just 2–3 seconds.

This progress is supported by the airport’s modernised Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC) and Aviio, an AI-powered platform by Adani Airports, which boosts predictive analytics, operational efficiency, and real-time collaboration. Additional innovations include autonomous cleaning robots, with upcoming plans for smart washrooms and expanded AI/ML applications.

With strong passenger response and continued investment in digital infrastructure, CSMIA is advancing toward global best practices, setting a new benchmark in efficiency and passenger experience.


SpiceJet Gets Second Credit Rating Upgrade in a Month as Acuité Boosts Outlook

SpiceJet Gets Second Credit Rating Upgrade in a Month as Acuité Boosts Outlook

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 24, 2025

SpiceJet has received another boost to its financial credibility, with Acuité Ratings & Research upgrading the airline’s long-term credit rating to BB (Stable) from BB- (Stable). This marks the company’s second upgrade in just a month, underlining its improved liquidity, stronger financial discipline, and clear operational roadmap. The short-term rating has been reaffirmed at A4+.

The upgrade comes after Acuité considered fresh details provided by the airline. Earlier, the rating agency had already raised SpiceJet’s rating to BB- (Stable). The latest revision reflects greater confidence in the airline’s turnaround efforts, including new aircraft inductions, settlements with key lessors, and structured financial planning.

A major driver of the improved outlook is SpiceJet’s revival strategy. The airline is preparing to induct new leased aircraft, nearly triple its daily flights to around 280, and return grounded planes to service. A recent settlement with Carlyle Aviation Partners is also expected to strengthen liquidity by offering cash credits for future maintenance, while restructuring lease debt by converting part of it into airline ownership.

Acuité noted the importance of SpiceJet’s seasoned leadership in shaping this progress. Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh, with over 15 years in aviation, has been credited with steering past turnarounds and strengthening the company’s growth path. The agency also highlighted the airline’s diversified revenue model as a strong foundation for long-term resilience.

Sharing his views on the development, Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer at SpiceJet, said:

“The back-to-back upgrades in our credit ratings are a strong validation of SpiceJet’s consistent efforts to strengthen its financial foundation and build a resilient future. With fresh aircraft inductions, restructured agreements with lessors, and a focused strategy on growth and profitability, SpiceJet is well positioned to expand operations, enhance customer experience, and create long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Acuité further added that SpiceJet’s diversified revenue streams and expanding fleet capacity are set to support the airline’s revenue profile in the near to medium term, reflecting a positive outlook for India’s aviation market.

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.