How 'frolleagues' and streaming platforms are redefining travel in 2025
But, irrespective of how close you are to your work friends, 65 per cent of Indians still prefer travelling with multigenerational families, 60 per cent with their partners, and 10 per cent opt for solo trips, the report states.advertisementRajeev Kale, president and country head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., said, "Indians are not only travelling more, but also increasing spends - choosing depth, discovery and emotion over traditional sightseeing tours. While multigenerational family segments continue to lead, we are seeing a strong emergence of new travel subsets like 'frolleagues' and solo travellers."The survey incorporates insights from over 2,500 respondents recorded over a month's time across digital platforms. And this comes at a time when there's a growing demand for experiential travel and that accounts for 75 per cent, the survey further states. The growing aspirational value of travel is in tandem with the rise of experiential, event-based, and phenomenon-based travel, too.Rising travel trends of 2025As mentioned earlier, there's a growing demand for experiential travel, which includes phenomenon-based trips like chasing the Northern Lights or visiting Japan during cherry blossom season. Event-led tourism has also seen a sudden boom. All the Swifties, Diljit Dosanjh fans, and Coldplay followers are testament to this trend. A rise of about 20 percent has been observed, driven by global concerts, sporting events, festivals, and more.Apart from these, wellness tourism and gastronomical experiences have significantly impacted travel as well.Minications, luxury stays, smart planningIn this digital-first scene, social media, OTT, and AI are catalysts for travel and planning. '60% of respondents indicated that social media, OTT platforms, and movies are increasingly shaping their travel decisions,' the survey finds.As 85% plan to increase their travel frequency and 84% are ready to spend 20–50% more, both mini-vacations and long getaways are on the cards. Travellers are ready to leverage long weekends, public holidays, and mini-moons to unwind and reconnect. On the other hand, 36 per cent are willing to extend stays and opt for premium experiences like cruises, upscale hotels, heritage properties, etc.New-age travellers are all set to increase their travel in 2025, and Europe tops the list of preferred international destinations. In India, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand have secured the top place in the Indian travel bucket list.Trending Reel
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
9 minutes ago
- News18
Kashmir's Tourism Is On The Path Of Revival
Last Updated: The Pahalgam terror attack was a brutal reminder of the threats that still linger, but it also highlighted the evolution of Kashmir and its people By carrying out the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 civilians, mostly tourists, dead, Pakistan made a desperate attempt to break the backbone of Kashmir's economy. It was a direct assault on the tourism industry of the Valley, which has flourished since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The attackers had sinister designs; they wanted to hit the tourism industry hard and trigger communal clashes in the country. However, they didn't succeed in their nefarious intentions, as the people of Kashmir, for the first time in three decades, staged protests against Pakistan and the terrorists sponsored by it. These spontaneous protests reflected a larger transformation underway in the region. The youth of Kashmir, who are more focused on jobs, education, and entrepreneurship, now see peace as essential for progress. The response of the people sent a clear message—not just to Pakistan, but to the world—that Kashmiris want to be part of India's growth story, not victims of its conflict history. Pakistan tried to strike at Kashmir's backbone. Instead, it ended up strengthening its spine. On the other hand, at the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 6, Indian armed forces launched 'Operation Sindoor" and within 22 minutes destroyed nine terror camps deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The skirmishes between India and Pakistan continued till May 10, as the Pak Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) reached out to his Indian counterpart and requested a ceasefire, which has been holding good since then. But India has made it clear that any act of terror against its citizens will be considered as an act of war and will get a befitting reply. After the Pahalgam terror attack, the tourism industry in Kashmir took a massive hit as hotel bookings were cancelled and the tourists who had planned to visit Kashmir changed their minds. The hotel occupancy in Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and other places fell to zero. The Dal Lake, which used to remain abuzz with tourists, presented a desolate look after the attack. The tourism industry drives Kashmir's economy as it feeds thousands of people. The government has been trying to get the tourists back. Though the footfall remains below pre-attack levels, the gradual increase in numbers is a reassuring sign. The resilience of the tourism sector, supported by the unwavering will of the local people and decisive government intervention, is slowly steering the region back on track. The tourism sector contributes significantly to Kashmir's GDP and provides employment to lakhs of people directly and indirectly. It is trying to once again stand on its own feet. From houseboat owners to souvenir sellers, many are grappling with an uncertain future once again, through no fault of their own. Understanding the gravity of the economic impact, the Jammu and Kashmir administration, in coordination with the central government, swiftly launched a campaign to revive tourism. Tourism roadshows were organised in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other major cities. Travel operators and influencers were roped in to rebuild trust among potential visitors. In addition, security was beefed up across tourist circuits. Special security forces were deployed in Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and along the Amarnath Yatra route. Tourists were assured of safety through visible security presence and seamless coordination between civil administration and security agencies. The April 22 terror attack may have temporarily bruised Kashmir's economy, but it failed in its core objective—to break the spirit of the people and plunge the Valley back into turmoil. Instead, it marked a turning point. The public condemnation of Pakistan and the local outcry against terrorism reflect a society that no longer wants to be held hostage to an imposed narrative of fear. Kashmir is changing, and this change is irreversible. The people have made a choice—for peace, prosperity, and progress. The Indian government's policy of development, coupled with a firm security doctrine, has created an ecosystem where terror is being increasingly rejected by the very population it once tried to exploit. The Pahalgam terror attack was a brutal reminder of the threats that still linger, but it also highlighted the evolution of Kashmir and its people. Pakistan's attempt to sabotage the Valley's economic revival failed, not only because of India's military response but because of the resolute spirit of the Kashmiri people. Kashmir's tourism industry may have stumbled, but it will rise again—stronger, safer, and more resilient. The Valley will continue to blossom as a beacon of harmony and heritage. Sheikh Khalid is a Kashmir-based columnist, author, and BJP leader and is presently heading the International Centre for Peace Studies (ICPS). Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. First Published: July 31, 2025, 17:19 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Why Ireland and New Zealand are winning big with student-friendly study abroad policies
Why smaller study abroad destinations are winning big among students In a rapidly shifting global education landscape, two smaller countries are punching well above their weight. Ireland and New Zealand, though modest in size and intake capacity, are becoming surprisingly strong contenders in the study abroad race. In 2025, as visa rejections rise, living costs soar, and job market anxieties loom large in traditional destinations like the US, UK, and Canada, many students are rethinking their options. They're choosing places where the rules are clear, the welcome is warm, and the pathway beyond graduation feels stable. Enter Ireland and New Zealand: countries that may not take in lakhs of students each year, but consistently deliver on quality, affordability, and opportunity. Here's what's behind their quiet yet powerful rise. Study Destinations Compared: Which Country Is Growing Fastest for Students? Small in size, big on promise Ireland and New Zealand host fewer students than the US or Canada, typically between 5,000 to 10,000 annually, but what they lack in volume, they make up for in value. Students often report higher levels of satisfaction, better academic support, and more one-on-one engagement. In smaller university systems, you're not lost in a crowd of 300, and professors often know students by name. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Are you from Bangladesh? The Prices of Solar Panels Might Surprise You Solar Panels | Search Ads Get Info Undo For Indian students used to large classrooms, this shift can be transformative, learning becomes more interactive, collaborative, and career-focused. Policies that go beyond the classroom Both countries have carefully positioned themselves as student-friendly nations, and that's not just marketing. Their governments have: Streamlined visa processes with fast-track approvals Generous post-study work visas (up to 3 years) Clear pathways to permanent residency, especially for in-demand fields like IT, healthcare, engineering, and business Unlike some other destinations where international students feel like temporary visitors, Ireland and NZ treat them as future contributors to the economy offering real prospects to stay, work, and build a life. Visa stability: A key decision-maker With Canada tightening rules, the UK restricting dependents, and the US increasing scrutiny, many Indian families are looking for less risky, more stable options. Ireland and New Zealand have emerged as low-drama destinations. High visa approval rates, quick turnaround times, and consistent immigration frameworks make them a comforting choice for students who want clarity and control over their future plans. The affordability factor While Ivy League tuition fees or London rent prices can break the bank, Ireland and NZ offer a more affordable study experience. Tuition is competitive, and living costs, though rising, are still manageable compared to metros like New York, Toronto, or Sydney. Many students also work part-time, supported by flexible rules that allow up to 20 hours a week during term time. In smaller cities like Wellington or Cork, students report better housing access, affordable groceries, and reliable public transport, all major stress points in other study destinations. Long-term thinking: Careers, residency, and citizenship Students aren't just choosing countries for the classroom anymore. Post-COVID, they want a long-term return on investment. Ireland and New Zealand both offer smoother, more realistic routes to work visas and permanent residency, especially in sectors with talent shortages. Graduates with the right skills, from data science to nursing, are often absorbed into the workforce quickly. Unlike in countries where job-hunting can be competitive and uncertain for foreign graduates, these nations treat international students as future employees, not just temporary guests. A shift in the study abroad mindset Gone are the days when prestige and university rankings were the only factors driving student choices. In 2025, students are getting smarter and more strategic. They want affordability, safety, post-study security, and a welcoming culture. Ireland and New Zealand tick all these boxes, and are doing it with consistency, clarity, and care. For students preparing their applications this year, it might be time to look beyond the obvious. Because in today's global education map, smaller destinations aren't just rising — they're leading the way. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
NDTV
2 hours ago
- NDTV
Schengen Visa Is Going Fully Digital: What It Means For Indians Travelling To Europe
Gone are the days when your Schengen visa used to come as a sticker in your passport. In a historic shift, the European Union (EU) is saying farewell to the traditional Schengen visa sticker, replacing it with a secure digital barcode. And this is not the only change Indians and other travellers heading to Europe would experience. This comes after European Union foreign ministers adopted a change to shift the process of applying for visas to visit the Schengen area to an online platform in November 2024. Digital Schengen Visa: What Has Changed The European Union officially decided to pull out the traditional Schengen visa sticker and replace it with a digital barcode in June 2023. The aim of digitalising the visa was to make procedures more tech-savvy. Officially referred to as a "secure 2D barcode", EU is growing toward digital innovation. It is one of the biggest overhauls to the Schengen visa system in decades. This step will make the security tighter, processing faster, and provide a fully digital travel experience. Upon arrival at the border, travelers will scan the barcode, which links directly to a centralized EU visa system, providing immigration officers with immediate access to visa validity and personal data. The EU had issued 70,000 digital Schengen visas for individuals attending the 2024 Paris Olympics as a trial. Instead of a sticker, the visitors got a digital barcode. According to the official press release, the digital Schengen visa will allow travellers to upload documents, pay visa fees online, track application status and receive a digitally signed barcode visa. People visiting Europe on a Schengen visa will need to submit their biometrics in person the first time, but frequent travellers will find it faster and seamless. New Digital Border Controls: EES and ETIAS The EU is introducing two new border control systems to strengthen security and modernise travel procedures: The Entry/Exit System (EES), set to launch in October 2025, will replace traditional passport stamps with biometric checks, including fingerprint and facial recognition. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to go live by 2026. It will require visa-exempt travellers, such as those from the US or UAE, to complete an online application before entering the Schengen Area. The Digital Schengen Visa will become fully operational for all EU member states by 2028. What Does It Mean For Indian Travellers Indian travellers will experience several benefits, including: Digital visa will streamline entry through biometric e-gate access. The aim is to reduce the need for paperwork, which aligns with the Digital Scheme of the EU. The process will now be faster, especially for frequent travellers.
