Business - More Indian tourists head abroad

With growing disposable incomes, more Indians are travelling abroad for leisure or business and Asian countries are the most sought after destinations, according to Nielsen India Outbound Travel Monitor 2008, conducted in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

About 72 per cent Indians visit Asian countries. Of this, about 64 per cent had sightseeing on the agenda while others travelled to explore new places, seek a change from daily routine, de-stress and visit family and friends, the report stated. "With consumption-driven economy and a population keen to explore the world, India is ready for the booming travel and tourism industry," said Vatsala Pant, associate director, The Nielsen Company.

Nature and the environment, culture and art, safety and hygiene are among the important factors considered when selecting a travel destination. Singapore would emerge as the most common travel destination for Indians (24 per cent) in the next 12 months, followed by Dubai, Australia, and Malaysia, each at 17 per cent.

On an average, Indians spend nearly $1,789 per person per leisure trip. Other than travel and accommodation, most Indians spend on global branded goods. Accessories, electronics, local souvenirs, fragrances and fashion rank high on their shopping list. And most often, Internet is the preferred source of information on destinations after travel agents and tour operators. While 12 per cent make their bookings through online travel agents, a majority go through regular travel agents or tour operators. About a fifth of travellers book directly through friends and relatives in the destination country.