While Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand and Malaysia have laced the wish lists of Indian travellers for long, arduous and even expensive visa processes many have deterred them. But not anymore! Thanks to the post-visa relaxations, recent data indicates that there’s a significant increase in Indian travellers choosing to visit Thailand and Malaysia.
Indian Travellers Are Choosing Thailand & Malaysia All Thanks To Visa Relaxations
According to online travel agency, Agoda’s recent search data, there has been a whopping 44 per cent rise in Thailand searches from India. The searches from India to Malaysia have increased even more. A 49 per cent increase in Malaysia searches by Indian travellers is seen in January as compared to October 2023. As per Agoda’s insights, the recent visa waiver programme is the reason for the same.
Malaysia’s 30-day and Thailand’s 90-day tourist waiver programmes have significantly led to a rise in travel searches for the two nations from India. It has further driven demand for vacations to the two Southeast Asian markets. Moreover, Agoda recently announced that Bangkok is the most popular outbound city destination amongst Indian travellers. Ever since the visa relaxations came up, the Thailand capital stole the crown from Dubai.
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Reduction In Paperwork Will Beckon More Indian Travellers To Global Destinations
As per the Henley Passport Index, Indian travellers from 62 nations are now enjoying the benefits of visa-free access. Other Asian markets also announced changes in their policies for Indian and Chinese travellers. Krishna Rathi, Country Director India at Agoda, called the visa relaxation an accelerator for India’s outbound travel landscape. He further states that the paperwork reduction will encourage Indians to opt for international travel destinations. Also, Krishna Rathi stated that Southeast Asia’s allure will only grow stronger thanks to the visa waivers in Malaysia and Thailand.
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Well, Thailand’s pristine beaches and Malaysia’s scintillating cities beckon Indian travellers. And with the visa relaxations, would you also want to travel to these destinations?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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