MakeMyTrip’s recently concluded online survey on ‘How India will travel once vaccinated’ indicates that more than 65% of Indian travellers are actively searching and planning a vacation within the next two months. The survey was conducted among 2000+ online respondents.
Till date, more than 70% of the respondents have taken a trip since Phase 1 of Unlock – with nearly 40% of the travellers undertaking one or two mini vacations and 18% taking more than three trips during the pandemic.
Survey results indicate that once vaccinated, 81% of the respondents will be seen travelling for leisure, 55% will travel to visit friends and relatives (VFR), and 46% will return to travelling for business or work. In the months following the unlock, while people preferred travelling with family and spouse, post vaccination – travellers are looking forward to firm up travel plans with their friends (48%), colleagues (20%) and finding solace in solo travel (23%). What’s also interesting is that over 65% of the respondents are comfortable with booking group tours post taking the jab.
“The link between vaccination rollout and travel sentiment is directly proportional and the survey results corroborate that as vaccination programme advances there is a sharp recovery in travel demand. While Indians plan their summer break this year after having to skip it last summer, safety and hygiene remain on top of the mind while making travel or accommodation bookings,” Vipul Prakash, Chief Operating Officer, MakeMyTrip, said.
Amongst destinations, travellers will be seen going after immersive experiences that suit their varied travel mood and interests –with many opting for a natural escape in the hills (67%); relaxing holiday at beach resorts in Goa or Puducherry (63%); soaking in the thrill of adventure tours at national parks or sanctuaries (38%); celebrating magnificence of heritage spots in Jaipur and Udaipur; and visiting popular pilgrimage sites (28%) and more.
