Monday, November 25, 2024
Rising hotel expenses and surcharges are driving Mangaluru residents to favor international vacations over domestic trips, as overseas travel often turns out to be more budget-friendly.
Travel industry experts reveal that many Mangalureans are skipping domestic holiday plans and instead exploring destinations like Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. They are particularly drawn to countries offering visa-on-arrival or free visa facilities, making international travel more accessible and cost-effective.
Dubai has also emerged as a popular choice among travelers. The preference for international destinations is largely driven by the steep expenses of Indian holiday spots, which become significantly higher during peak travel seasons.
Eulalia D’Souza, owner of Lia Travels and Tours, recounted an instance where a group of seven young travelers sought her assistance in planning a weeklong domestic trip to Rajasthan and nearby states. The estimated cost per person was approximately ₹1.23 lakh, with ₹35,000 allocated solely for airfare. In comparison, when they explored international options like Sri Lanka and Malaysia for the same duration, the expenses were considerably lower. For instance, round-trip airfare to Colombo was approximately ₹20,000.
Elevated domestic airfare, soaring hotel rates, pollution, and traffic congestion are key factors discouraging Indians from choosing to travel within the country. A portion of these high costs is driven by wedding season demand, making domestic destinations less appealing. In comparison, international spots like Phuket or Sri Lanka often offer better value, making them more affordable alternatives to popular Indian locations like Goa.
