Thứ Bảy, 15 tháng 6, 2013

Dipping Re can burn a hole in overseas traveller"s pocket


Planning to take a trip abroad? Get ready to shell out more. Tour operators have increased their package rates to counter the impact the rupee depreciating against the dollar, upsetting the travel plans of many.



The cost of tour packages has been pushed up by 8 to 10 per cent from last month’s rates, say tour operators. A dollar, which was at Rs 53 a year ago, is now at Rs 57.5.



“Travel to destinations such as US, UK and Europe would cost more by around 8 per cent extra on the package which can affect the overall budget of the traveller,” Sunil Hasija, Executive Director, TUI India.



Many travellers are looking at shortening the duration or downgrading accommodation options. For instance, instead of choosing 5-star hotels they are looking at premium mid-segment properties and are shortening a seven-day trip to 4 or 5 days.



Vikram Malhi, Country Head, Expedia, expects that the impact of rupee depreciation and rise in tour costs may lead to a slump in outbound travel.



Online travel portal Yatra.com has seen a sudden dip in travel preferences to US and Canada in the past 10 days.



Boost for S-E Asia



While the fall in the value of the rupee has impacted the overall cost of travel and has made people change their minds regarding their travel to western countries, it has also opened up huge opportunities in the domestic and South-east Asian markets.



“Countries such as Thailand offer Visa on arrival to the Indian citizens which acts as an additional incentive for the Indian travellers. Even the budget travellers are getting lucrative deals in South-east Asia,” said Sharat Dhall, President, Yatra.com.



slew of offers



To help travellers combat the rising cost, tour operators are giving a slew of offers. Expedia is offering discounts up to 50 per cent on packages for South-east Asian regions such as Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. Yatra.com is offering special packages such as a 4 nights-5 days trip to Thailand for Rs 23,599.



To spur demand in a price sensitive market, Thomas Cook India has launched special campaigns such as ‘Holiday pe Holiday’ and the ‘Amazing Asia Tour – Child Travels Free’.



nivedita.ganguly@thehindu.co.in




Dipping Re can burn a hole in overseas traveller"s pocket

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