Indians flocking to Greece, Kazakhstan, and Georgia instead of Turkey in 2025, following boycott suggestions.
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Indian Tourists Shifting Gears: Exploring New Destinations post Boycott on Azerbaijan and Turkey
Here's a speedy rundown of the latest travel trends.
In the Heart of the Controversy
Following India's recent conflict with Pakistan, many Indian tourists have boycotted Turkey and Azerbaijan due to their allegedly pro-Pakistan stances, post Operation Sindoor. According to Karan Agarwal, Director of Cox & Kings, amidst this frenzy, Indian travelers are now venturing to alternative locations that offer a similar charm and budget. Also, check out Indian Tourists Boycott Turkey, Azerbaijan Over Pakistan Support, Cancellations Spike 250%: Report.
The Tourism Impact
As the boycott calls resurface, travel companies in Turkey and Azerbaijan have either delayed bookings or suspended travel packages. This anti-Turkey and Azerbaijan sentiment has also induced Indian businesses and politicians to express their disapproval. In some cases, demands for a ban on Turkish goods have been put forward.
But why, over the past few years, have Indians shown a rising fascination for travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan? Astonishingly, in 2024, 3.3 million Indians visited Turkey, while 2.4 million Indians stepped foot in Azerbaijan, collectively contributing a staggering ₹69 billion to both countries' economies.
As per Karan, these spots quickly vaulted to the top of the travel bucket list for Indian tourists due to several key factors:
- Affordability and Ease: Both destinations have become Indian travelers' favorite picks in recent times because of their ease of travel and affordable prices.
- Azerbaijan's Attraction: Azerbaijan caught the eye of Indian tourists due to its e-visa facility, quick flight time, and direct connections, making it a convenient escape.
- Turkey's Appeal: Turkey, on the other hand, offers a treasure trove of historical sites, diverse landscapes, and affordable prices, providing a budget-friendly international experience for the Indian traveler.
New Horizons Await
With the current wave of anti-Turkey and Azerbaijan sentiment in India, Greece, renowned for its historical sites and picturesque landscapes, along with Egypt, which offers a rich cultural experience and historical landmarks, are emerging as go-to destinations for Indian tourists.
Kazakhstan, brimming with a mix of traditional and modern culture, and Armenia, famous for its ancient history and cultural heritage, are among the top choices for Indian travelers in the present geopolitical climate and tensions with Pakistan.
Karan stated, "In this shifting political climate, we've seen travelers turning towards alternatives that provide a similar ambiance and budget. Nations like Greece, Egypt, Croatia, and Morocco are filling in for Turkey, while countries like Georgia, Armenia, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan are gaining traction among those who would've otherwise considered Azerbaijan. These places offer similar experiences in terms of culture, heritage, and affordability, and are swiftly capturing the attention of Indian travelers."
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- Amidst the boycott on Turkey and Azerbaijan, Indian travelers are exploring alternative destinations that offer a similar charm and budget, such as Greece and Egypt.
- Indians have been showing a rising fascination for travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan due to factors like affordability, ease of travel, and historical sites.
- As the boycott on Turkey and Azerbaijan continues, countries like Greece and Egypt are emerging as go-to destinations for Indian tourists.
- In the present geopolitical climate and tensions with Pakistan, Kazakhstan and Armenia are among the top choices for Indian travelers.
- Turkish goods have been under pressure due to anti-Turkey and Azerbaijan sentiment from Indian businesses and politicians.
- The Indian tourism industry is witnessing a shift as travelers turn towards alternatives like Greece, Egypt, Georgia, Armenia, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan that offer similar experiences in terms of culture, heritage, and affordability.
