This Independence Day long weekend witnessed a sharp rise in international travel among Indians. According to a report by Atlys, a visa processing platform, there was a 32% rise in visa applications over the long weekend as compared to a regular weekend. The data highlighted how long weekends are increasingly turning into peak travel periods for many. Read to know more details.
Rise In International Visa Applications On Long Weekend
This year Independence Day fell on a Friday, and Indians enjoyed a three-day long weekend. Travel lovers made the most of this time and according to Atlys’s report, over 60% visas were booked for short-haul destinations such as Bali, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Dubai, and Thailand. People preferred these locations because of quick flight connections and simple visa procedures, making them ideal for last-minute plans.
Another factor that influenced people’s choices of vacation destinations was social media. Social media posts showcasing Bali cafés, Vietnam’s bike tours, and Dubai’s nightlife encouraged many travellers to pick these destinations for a quick international getaway.
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Tier Two Cities Drive Travel Demand
As per the report, bookings from tier 2 cities like Surat, Jaipur, and Mohali reported a 35% increase compared to normal weekends. Meanwhile, major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore led, like always. Interestingly, millennials emerged as the largest group of travellers over the long weekend, making up for about 57% of travellers. The second-largest group was Gen Z at 22%.
Commenting on the travel trend, Mohak Nahta, Founder & CEO of Atlys, said, “What we’re seeing is a mindset shift. Indians are no longer waiting months to plan a holiday. A long weekend is now enough reason to cross a border.” He further added, “The destinations driving this surge, from Bali to Dubai, all share easy visa access, and that convenience is redefining how India travels.” Atlys is making international trips easily accessible for Indian travellers.
Making the best of long weekends has become an important new travel habit for Indians. Where did you travel to on this Independence Day? Let us know in the comments below!
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Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ kstudio & Canva Pro/ Bloodua (Representative Image)
