Both Wendy Wu Tours and Cosmos said they had experienced a “surge” in bookings to the subcontinent nation – whose profile has been further boosted by a new travel TV series by actress Joanna Lumley which aired last night (July 5).
As a result, Wendy Wu has launched a new two-week tour on the back of a 70% rise in bookings over the last 12 months, while forward bookings for India have more than doubled, the operator said.
Wendy Wu’s India product manager Chloe Tower said: “Demand for India has completely skyrocketed this year.
“It’s obvious that the 70th anniversary of Indian independence and Joanna Lumley’s new India television documentary have all helped to create demand for travel to India.
“We’ve risen to this demand by launching our first two-week programme, Inspiring India, which will whisk explorers away on a journey through Northern India, immersing them in the magic and mystery of India at a relaxed pace.”
The operator’s global product director Jonathan Wilson added: “We’ve seen a phenomenal increase in demand for India with a sharp rise in the demand for more authentic travel experiences that give customers more of a sense of adventure.”
Meanwhile Cosmos said it had seen its Indian bookings double year-on-year making the country its fastest-growing long-haul destination.
Rob Goodwin, head of Product and commercial said: “Strong public awareness of the colour, culture and incredible wildlife of India from TV programmes such as Joanna Lumley’s India has had a significant effect on bookings, as customers want to experience this amazing continent themselves. And, there appears to be no sign yet of interest waning.”
He added: “A private tour to see the most iconic sights and wildlife of India is proving a popular option for our customers.”
