2 weeks Ago
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. Bengalureans 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 travel for business and extend their stays for leisure. Bengalureans allocate 19% of their vacation budget to accommodation, up from 16% last year, and 30% to shopping." 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 SEA 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. Turkey From yacht proposals with champagne in hand to hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia, Bengalureans are exploring Turkiye in unique and exciting ways.
Basak Onsal Demir, counsellor for culture and tourism affairs at the Embassy of Turkiye in New Delhi, said: "Bengaluru is one of India's major trade and population hubs, and its GDP figures make it a key market for us." Koray Parilti, director of sales and marketing at Turkiye-based Travel Consultor, observed, "South Indian tourists prefer fun experiences rather than history-heavy tours. If they get bored, they quickly shift focus to shopping.
" Senior citizens are another high-spending segment, with customised itineraries often stretching up to 10 days. Emrah Kok, CEO of 55DM in Turkey, noted, "They prioritise comfort, food, and personalised services, often spending well on shopping and dining. A five-day package in Istanbul, including food and transport, costs around 400–450 Euros.
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