Airfare hike no bar for tourism

The rise in airfares has not deterred people from taking holidays this summer.

While the airfares in each sector (both domestic and international) are up by 10% due to an increase in service tax, the bookings for air-travel are also up by around 20% as compared to last year. Tour operators said the demand for overseas travel has been high, and they are still booking people for small or big holidays.

"The bookings are up by 15-20% this year. As the bookings are still on, we are expecting a bigger jump," said Jay Bhatia, director, Tulsidas Khimji Travels. "While travel to south-east Asian countries is popular as usual, Europe is a hot favourite among holidayers," he added.

Tour operators said east European destinations like Hungary, Prague and Greece are attracting more tourists from Mumbai this time. "There has been a surge in demand for these places. People who have been to the other parts of Europe are keen to explore these places now.

Also, due to political turmoil in Egypt and the Middle East, east European countries have come up as a good alternative," said Rajesh Rateria, managing director, Cirrus Travels. "The fares to these places are only slightly higher than to Egypt or Turkey," he added.

Another Fort-based travel agent said those who want a shorter holiday, say for 10 days or a fortnight, are also opting for east European or Scandinavian countries. "These places are affordable and also hold an exotic charm," the travel agent said. Also, those who can't spare a long holiday in the US are choosing east Europe as the summer destination.

andnbsp;"Usually, one needs a month to travel in the US. Those looking for shorter trips are opting for these exotic locations. Those who need even shorter holidays of five days or a week, are looking at Singapore and Malaysia," said Bhatia.

Well-travelled holidayers are also turning to less popular, but equally beautiful destinations like Vietnam, Cambodia and the Philippines. "These countries are attracting an increasing number of tourists," a Fort-based agent said.East European destinations like Hungary, Prague and Greece are attracting more tourists from Mumbai this year.

Source = indiatimes