Bengaluru’s travel enthusiasts are being courted by international tourism boards as summer vacation begins. Singapore, Switzerland, and Australia are popular destinations, with Bengalureans spending more on accommodation and seeking unique experiences.
Bengaluru: As summer vacation has begun, the world is coming to Bengaluru — not for a break, but to invite Bengalureans on a trip! International tourism boards are setting up shop, hoping to capture the imagination of the city’s travel-hungry crowd by showcasing stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
TOI interacted with different tourism boards in the run-up to the holiday season:
Singapore
Singapore remains a favourite among people of Bengaluru, ranking among the top five Indian cities travelling to the island nation. “Indians spend an average of 6.5 days in Singapore — significantly longer than the global average of 3.5 days. Markus Tan, regional director of the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) for India, the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa, said: “Strong air connectivity has also cemented Singapore’s status as a preferred transit hub for Bengalureans.Most Bengalureans travel for business and extend their stays for leisure.
Beyond retail therapy, Singapore constantly reinvents itself to keep visitors engaged. Recent attractions include Universal Studios which undergoing an expansion and Harry Potter: Visions of Magic. The S.E.A. Aquarium is also undergoing a transformation into the Singapore Oceanarium, tripling its current size. Additionally, Singapore serves as a key stopover hub for travellers heading to Australia, the US, and Canada.
Switzerland
Ritu Sharma, deputy director of Switzerland Tourism India, said: “After Delhi and Mumbai, Bengaluru ranks third in demand for Swiss travel, especially among solo backpackers.” She highlighted that Bengalureans seek novelty, adventure, and luxury. Popular choices include glamping in Laax and wellness retreats in Vals.
“Compared to other Indian travellers, Bengalureans are more inclined toward outdoor activities like paragliding, biking, and hiking in scenic locations such as Geneva,” she added.
Australia
Bengaluru has become a crucial hub for Tourism Australia as well, ranking as its third-largest Indian market after Delhi and Mumbai. According to them, travellers, mostly aged between 25 and 44, are tech-savvy, family-oriented, and seek immersive, premium experiences with stay-time of two weeks on average.
Nishant Kashikar, country manager, Tourism Australia, said, “Direct flights from Bengaluru and hassle-free visa process have made the destination increasingly accessible.”
Travellers are not just visiting the usual cities, but are exploring offbeat regions like Tasmania, Kangaroo Island, and the Northern Territory.
The city also plays a significant role in the booming cricket tourism trend. “When the Indian cricket team toured Australia recently, a sizeable number of fans from Bengaluru travelled to watch the matches live. With upcoming T20 and ODI matches scheduled around Diwali and the Indian wedding season, Tourism Australia expects even more visitors from the city, especially honeymooners and families, combining sport with leisure,” Nishant added.
Source: Times of India
