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Tag: Agoda

  • Mumbai’s gig economy: concerts spark hotel booking boom

    Mumbai’s gig economy: concerts spark hotel booking boom

    MUMBAI: The maximum city is fast tuning into a global music hub, with concert announcements triggering an expected fallout: a surge in hotel interest. Data from Agoda show that between February and July 2025, domestic searches for stays in the city during big-ticket shows soared compared with two weeks earlier.

    Travis Scott’s Circus Maximus Tour stop on 19 November fuelled a 110 per cent spike, Enrique Iglesias’ October double-header drove a 160 per cent rise, and Akon’s 16 November gig saw a 20 per cent lift.

    This momentum follows January’s Coldplay bonanza, which sent searches rocketing 3,300 times higher than the week before tickets went on sale.

    “Mumbai’s live music calendar is more diverse than ever, attracting fans from across the country to experience global artists in world-class venues,” said Agoda country director for the Indian subcontinent and Indian Ocean islands Gaurav Malik.

    As more global names plug Mumbai into their tour schedules, the city’s rhythm is resonating well beyond its borders—creating fresh opportunities for hotels, venues and local businesses.

  • Clicks and trips go hand in hand as travel ads chart new routes

    Clicks and trips go hand in hand as travel ads chart new routes

    MUMBAI: When it comes to travel, Indians aren’t just packing bags, they’re packing pixels. In a year when revenge tourism fuelled wanderlust and digital-first habits reshaped holiday planning, Excellent Publicity’s latest report captures a sector that’s going places literally and virtually. Based on over 30,000 campaigns and TAM Media insights, the 2024 Travel & Tourism Advertising Landscape offers a fascinating peek into how brands sold dreams of getaways to a nation ready to escape.

    Total ad spends in the sector rose by 28 per cent in 2024, with digital commanding a staggering 78 per cent of that pie. Video platforms like YouTube and Instagram accounted for over 62 per cent of these digital spends, thanks to their scroll-stopping visuals and seamless influencer integration. The age of the static banner, it seems, is on a one-way trip to oblivion.

    It’s not just metros that are dreaming big 35 per cent of digital ad impressions came from Tier II and III cities, marking a shift in aspiration and affordability. Goibibo, Redbus, and Yatra rode this wave with vernacular campaigns, cashback offers, and destination-led storytelling.

    Short-form videos emerged as the MVP of campaign visibility, with influencer-led Reels and Youtube Shorts growing 45 per cent year-on-year. Micro and mid-tier creators proved to be the hidden gems of the media mix, converting eyeballs into bookings with hacks, hauls, and heartfelt narratives.

    Despite digital’s dominance, traditional formats still held ground. Television retained a 12 per cent share, proving useful in prime-time slots and regional infotainment, especially for family-oriented travel brands. Print (3 per cent) was used for tactical bursts like seasonal guides, while OOH (6 per cent) stayed visible near airports and high-footfall spots. Radio, though a modest 1 per cent of the mix, was used smartly around long weekends and festive peaks.

    Ad activity spiked during April-June (summer holidays) and again from October to December (festive breaks and destination weddings). Destinations like Ladakh, Rishikesh, Udaipur, and Bali drew big bucks from brands focused on adventure, wellness, and cultural experiences.

    Top spenders included Makemytrip, Easemytrip, Club Mahindra, Agoda, Thomas Cook, and Air India together accounting for over 33 per cent of the total digital travel ad budget. Campaigns ranged from AR-powered itinerary planning to influencer-hosted travelogues and loyalty program launches.

    Emotional hooks also proved effective, with storytelling leaning into themes of nostalgia (“first trip post-COVID”) and purpose (“make memories, not plans”). There was a noticeable pivot to experiential travel, with brands showcasing offbeat stays, cultural immersions, and eco-conscious itineraries.

    “The media mix is evolving, but the message remains timeless: travel is emotional,” said Excellent Publicity co-founder & director, Vaishal Dalal. “The brands winning today are those combining data-led precision with creative ambition making the journey to booking feel as exciting as the journey itself.”

    As Gen Z and millennials continue to shape spending habits, travel brands will need to mix immersive formats, voice AI, sustainability and hyper-personalisation to stay relevant and stay booked. Because in 2024, even holidays needed good content.

  • Agoda ropes in Ayushmann Khurrana as AI-powered Mr. Vacaywala for travel planning stunt

    Agoda ropes in Ayushmann Khurrana as AI-powered Mr. Vacaywala for travel planning stunt

    MUMBAI: Agoda has packed its bags and brought Hindi cinema to the boarding gate. The travel-tech brand launched its limited-time AI Vacation Planner for Indian travellers, fronted by actor Ayushmann Khurrana who plays a charming new character — Mr. Vacaywala, chief wellness officer.

    Built in collaboration with Google, the platform promises holiday solutions on command. It combines Gemini and Imagen technologies with Agoda’s travel inventory to generate tailor-made itineraries, complete with dazzling visuals and Ayushmann’s AI-voiced commentary — calling users by their first name, no less. The AI Vacation Planner is live on AgodaVacationPlanner.com till 30 June.

    “Travel is all about discovery and inspiration. Agoda’s use of AI to create personalized recommendations and stunning visuals makes it easier for people to dream, plan, and book their next adventure”, said Khurrana. “We take away the stress of putting together an itinerary, because we do it for you!”

    Users enter their preferences, and within seconds the platform assembles custom plans, cherry-picked from Agoda’s five million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities. Imagen renders this into an interactive visual story, and Mr. Vacaywala narrates the itinerary using text-to-speech.

    Agoda country director for India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, Gaurav Malik said, “We’ve redefined the travel planning experience to be both personal and inspiring”.

    Google’s Pulkit Lambah added, “We collectively embark on a journey to truly reimagine travel – moving beyond simple bookings to instantly personalized, vividly inspiring journeys”.

    The campaign also showcases the work of Kulfi Collective and AI studio Truefan, with promotional pushes planned across Youtube and Meta. Through hyper-targeted ads and a Hindi cinema twist, Agoda’s AI-powered journey into Indian hearts is already on the runway.

  • Paytm travels further with Agoda for seamless hotel bookings

    Paytm travels further with Agoda for seamless hotel bookings

    MUMBAI: Booking a dream stay is now just a tap away, as Paytm Travel has partnered with Agoda to offer seamless hotel bookings directly through the Paytm app. This collaboration marks a major expansion for Paytm Travel, which already provides flight, bus, and train bookings, now giving users access to Agoda’s extensive portfolio of accommodations across India and international destinations.

    By integrating Agoda’s vast selection of hotels, resorts, and budget stays, Paytm Travel is positioning itself as a one-stop solution for travel needs, offering exclusive deals, seamless itinerary management, and cost-effective travel options. Frequent travellers and businesses looking for a streamlined experience will benefit from this partnership, which simplifies both booking and payment processes.

    Paytm Travel, CEO, Vikash Jalan stated, “This partnership strengthens Paytm Travel’s position as a comprehensive travel platform, ensuring users have access to quality accommodations with affordability and convenience at the core. Our goal is to make travel planning seamless, and Agoda’s expertise allows us to enhance that experience for millions of users.”

    Agoda, chief commercial officer, Damien Pfirsch said, “By joining forces with Paytm Travel, we’re making it easier for Indian travellers to explore the world at the best prices, with a hassle-free booking and payment experience.”

    With Paytm Travel’s IATA accreditation, customers can expect a trusted, secure, and reliable booking experience, complemented by perks like free cancellations, instant refunds, travel insurance, and exclusive discounts through Paytm’s banking partnerships. 

  • Ayushmann Khurrana returns in new Agoda campaign

    Ayushmann Khurrana returns in new Agoda campaign

    Mumbai: Digital travel platform Agoda launched a new campaign featuring India’s global superstar Ayushmann Khurrana. It marks the third collaboration between Ayushmann and Agoda, after the successful ‘fridge magnets’ video and an innovative AI campaign.

    In the new video, Ayushmann once again showcases his many travels. Flaunting his wall filled with travel photos, Ayushmann shows his versatility and impresses his friends by rapidly speaking in different accents from the locations he has visited. Ultimately, he explains that these trips are made possible thanks to Agoda’s affordable prices. The video marks Agoda’s second TV ad in India.

    Ayushmann Khurrana, who recently traveled to New York City with Agoda, stated “Both in travel and in acting, I always look to push boundaries. I love that Agoda enabled me to do both. I received such a positive response to our first collaboration with the ‘See The World For Less’ campaign, and I’m very excited to share this new video with Indian audiences.”

    Agoda senior country director India subcontinent and Maldives Krishna Rathi shared, “Agoda is rapidly gaining the reputation in India as the platform with great value deals and an extensive selection of accommodations, flights, and activities. Having Ayushmann as our brand ambassador has contributed to even more awareness of our great prices. The new campaign is charming, fast-paced, and most of all, fun. All qualities that perfectly match Ayushmann’s talents and Agoda’s brand aspirations.”  

    Agoda has been active in India since 2008 and connects both Indian travelers and international tourists with over 4.2 million holiday properties globally.

  • Agoda: More Europeans searching for travel to Asia this summer

    Agoda: More Europeans searching for travel to Asia this summer

    Mumbai: As Europe’s summer approaches, travel insights from digital travel platform Agoda reveal that Asia is a top choice for European globetrotters. Asia not only ranks as the most popular non-European region, but its popularity is increasing compared to last year, with Agoda noting 52 per cent more accommodation searches by Europeans for travel to Asia. Interestingly, Agoda noted 26 per cent more accommodation searches by Europeans for travel to India.

    According to Agoda’s data, the top destinations in Asia for European travelers are Thailand, Indonesia, and Japan respectively, followed by Malaysia and the Philippines. This reflects the wide appeal of Asian destinations to travelers with a variety of interests. Whether seeking the vibrant street life and historic sites in Bangkok or riding the rolling waves on the surf-friendly coasts of Bali, European tourists are looking to explore what Asia has on offer. The European markets with the most searches for travel to Asia are the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands.

    India ranks as the ninth most popular destination for Europeans. Accommodations in India are most searched for by travelers from the United Kingdom, followed by holiday-goers from Germany, Spain, France, and the Netherlands.

    Agoda senior country sirector India subcontinent, Sri Lanka, and Maldives Krishna Rathi shared, “The increase in searches compared to last year indicates Asia’s growing popularity as a holiday destination among Europeans. The effects of this trend are visible not only in Southeast Asia and Japan but also in India. It’s great to see more and more Europeans exploring these amazing destinations during their getaway periods.”

    Lonavala, New Delhi, and Chennai are the most searched locales in India by Europeans. These destinations offer a mix of leisure, adventure, and cultural experiences, appealing to travelers seeking to make the most of their long-distance summer holiday.

    Travelers continue to plan and prepare for their next adventure. Agoda is committed to helping them see the world for less with great value deals on over four million holiday properties worldwide, plus flights and activities.

  • Agoda survey: 87 per cent of Indians care about sustainable travel

    Agoda survey: 87 per cent of Indians care about sustainable travel

    Mumbai: As Indians venture to explore new horizons, they are increasingly mindful of the potential impact of their choices. According to a survey conducted by digital travel platform Agoda, 87 per cent of Indian travellers care about more sustainable travel. Respondents highlighted that financial incentives, the availability of sustainable travel packages and clearer guidance on sustainable travel practices could encourage them to make more sustainable choices on their next trip.

    Over ten thousand respondents were polled on Agoda’s platform, from ten markets across Asia. Almost 8 in 10 travellers stated their willingness to make more sustainable travel choices: with 18 per cent of respondents indicating that they would always make every effort to ensure they travel more sustainably. Still, 22 per cent of travellers rarely consider sustainability in their travel decisions – with Japan’s travellers least concerned (45 per cent) versus only 8 per cent of travellers from the Philippines.

    Financial incentives could play a key factor in making more sustainable choices

    Agoda’s Eco Deals Survey also asked respondents for the key factors that could help encourage them to make more sustainable travel choices. In all markets, financial incentives came out on top, with an average of 45 per cent of respondents highlighting incentives like discounts as the key factor. This sentiment was particularly strong in Singapore (58 per cent), Taiwan (54 per cent) and Indonesia (47 per cent). 41 per cent of Indian travellers opted for incentives or discounts as a core driver.

    The availability of sustainable travel packages ranked second, with offerings ranging from guided conservation hikes to supporting local initiatives of more interest to travellers from the Philippines (28 per cent), Vietnam (24 per cent) and Thailand (23 per cent). Clear guidelines on sustainable travel practices (#3), education and awareness on environmental impact (#4), and relevant sustainability policies from the local government (#5) completed the top five.

    Agoda associate vice president Enric Casals said “The message is loud and clear: Travelers want to make more sustainable choices. Agoda’s Eco Deals Program offers travellers a range of great value deals on selected properties, and for every booking, Agoda donates one US dollar to local conservation projects of the World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF). With a total donation target of up to one million US dollars, we are helping travellers to see the world for less, and do their part to give back to the destinations they care about.”

    When asked which sustainable travel practices travellers from India prioritize on their trips, supporting local communities and conservation projects came out on top with 29 per cent of the respondents choosing this practice. The sentiment was the same across Asia, with over a quarter (26 per cent) of the respondents on average choosing this option.

    Across Asia, recycling and waste reduction (20 per cent), like reusing towels and bed linens, was the second-most named preferred action, followed by participating in conservation-focused activities and tours (17 per cent). Other key practices include opting for accommodations with sustainability certifications in the fourth and selecting more sustainable transportation options in the fifth.

    Since the launch on 3 March 2024, World Wildlife Day, anyone travelling to Southeast Asia can book Eco Deals on Agoda. For every Eco Deals booking, a dollar is donated to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) conservation projects aimed at protecting wildlife and conserving critical habitats in Southeast Asia. In addition, travellers can benefit from a discount of up to 15 per cent. More information can be found on 

  • Indians choosing Southeast Asia even more post visa relaxation reveals Agoda

    Indians choosing Southeast Asia even more post visa relaxation reveals Agoda

    Mumbai: The recent visa waiver program introduced by Malaysia and Thailand for Indian travellers is paying off. Agoda search data reveals that the 30-day and 90-day tourist visa, respectively, have further driven demand for travel to the two Southeast Asian markets.

    Holiday-favorite Thailand has only grown in popularity since the recent visa relaxation came into effect with a 44 per cent increase in searches from India. The searches from India to Malaysia increased even more, with a 49 per cent rise in January compared to October last year, according to Agoda’s insights.

    Agoda recently announced that Thailand’s capital Bangkok is now the most popular outbound city destination for Indians, overtaking Dubai since the visa relaxations came into effect. Thailand’s beach destination Pattaya rose from fifth to third place. The top five city destinations are now Bangkok, Dubai, Pattaya, Singapore, and Bali respectively.

    Indian travellers are among the most prominent profiting from a recent wave of visa relaxations in the APAC region. Different markets across Asia recently announced changes to their policies for Indian and Chinese travellers in particular or are said to be considering similar measures. Indian travellers now enjoy visa-free access to 62 countries according to the Henley Passport Index.

    Agoda country director India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives Krishna Rathi stated, “The relaxation of visa norms seems to be an accelerator for India’s outbound travel landscape. More and more destinations are recognizing India’s potential as a key source market. With Malaysia and Thailand leading the way in terms of visa waivers, it’s clear that Southeast Asia’s allure is growing stronger. The fact that many of these destinations can now be visited without having to worry about the paperwork will likely encourage even more Indian travellers to go abroad and explore.”

    Agoda, offering over 3.9 million holiday properties, flights, and activities that can be booked together, is at the forefront of making travel easy and accessible. For Indian tourists looking to explore these top destinations, Agoda’s platform provides an ideal gateway for a hassle-free and memorable travel experience.

  • Agoda: Goa emerges as top destination for Republic Day weekend

    Agoda: Goa emerges as top destination for Republic Day weekend

    Mumbai: As India gears up for the year’s first long weekend, domestic getaways are on the card for travellers. Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed the top locales that Indians will be exploring during the upcoming Republic Day weekend. For the second year running, Goa emerged as the most searched destination, followed by Puducherry, Jaipur, Ooty and Mahabaleshwar.

    Goa is a traveller’s favourite year-round, and the Republic Day weekend will be no different. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife and is home to pristine beaches, alluring forts, and local delicacies. Coming in second after Goa was Puducherry, another coastal destination, which offers a unique blend of French and Indian cultures. The town is home to mesmerising architecture, and stunning beaches, and is a wellness paradise. 

    Jaipur, also known as the pink city, claimed the third spot on the list. Jaipur has captured travellers’ attention because of its rich heritage and the abundance of sightseeing experiences on offer. With culinary delights, shopping experiences at the local markets, and the chance to explore landmark palaces, Jaipur caters to the varied preferences of any travel enthusiast.

    The growing popularity of the other two destinations in the top five – Ooty and Mahabaleshwar – revealed that scenic beauty is an important driver for travel preferences this Republic Day weekend. The two hill stations offer stunning views and unique experiences, from strawberry picking in Mahabaleshwar to exploring the aromatic tea plantations of Ooty. Both cities provide a perfect canvas to travellers seeking a relaxing weekend trip.

    Agoda country director India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives Krishna Rathi shared, “As 2024 kicks off, the first long weekend is clearly marked in the calendars of many Indian travellers. Agoda’s booking data highlights an interest in diverse destinations that offer a mix of cultural, culinary, and local experiences. Mirroring the trend in 2023, Goa, Puducherry and Jaipur have yet again emerged as the top choices for a domestic getaway. We expect to see similar excitement for domestic and international trips from Indian travellers and look forward to helping them see the world for less with the great deals on Agoda’s platform.”

    Agoda, offering over 3.9 million holiday properties, flights, and activities that can be booked together, is at the forefront of making travel easy and accessible. For Indian tourists looking to explore domestically or abroad, Agoda’s platform provides an ideal gateway for a hassle-free and memorable travel experience.

  • Agoda reveals new horizons list for India’s travel landscape

    Agoda reveals new horizons list for India’s travel landscape

    Mumbai:  As the new year kicks off, digital travel platform Agoda, has revealed the top five emerging destinations in India in its “New Horizons List”. The year-on-year search data has highlighted the destinations that have marked growth in traveller interest.

    Ahmedabad led the way, followed by Kodaikanal, Mahabaleshwar, Ooty, and Kochi. These cities reflect a growing interest among Indians to experience local culture and heritage and are increasingly inclined towards picturesque locales. 

    INDIA
    Destination per cent increase in searches 
     
    Ahmedabad 44 per cent
    Kodaikanal 35 per cent
    Mahabaleshwar 22 per cent
    Ooty 21 per cent
    Kochi 19 per cent

    Ahmedabad, the financial capital of Gujarat, has claimed the top spot with a notable 44 per cent increase in searches year-on-year. It is home to the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue and also boasts of a rich cultural and culinary heritage. Ahmedabad has grown in popularity among Indian travellers, and this year it further grew owing to the city being the host of a major sports event, the 2023 Cricket World Cup.  

    Picturesque nature destinations dominate the New Horizons list, with Kodaikanal experiencing a 35 per cent increase and hill stations Mahabaleshwar and Ooty, rising by 22 per cent and 21 per cent respectively. Kodaikanal’s unspoiled natural beauty and serene ambience has experienced a notable uptick in interest and Mahabaleshwar and Ooty are also capturing attention for their distinct attractions, ranging from Mahabaleshwar’s sweeping hill vistas to Ooty’s captivating colonial-era ambiance and tea plantations.

    At number five on the New Horizons List is Kochi, a vibrant port city in Kerala, which witnessed a 19 per cent increase in searches. The state has been a hotspot for Indians, and Kochi is where history and modernity seamlessly converge. It remains a favourite among travellers for its remarkable Dutch and Portuguese architecture, food and spice markets, and traditional cultural experiences.

    Country director India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives Agoda Krishna Rathi, shared, “2023 has proven to be a great year for travel in India. Agoda’s Year-on-Year search data highlighted growth across domestic, inbound, and outbound travel. The New Horizons list features quite a few hill stations and some bustling cities with a mix of food, culture, and interesting activities. As the new year begins, we are excited to see the trends that will shape the preferences of Indian travellers.”

    Agoda’s platform, which offers over 3.9 million holiday properties, along with flights and activities, provides travellers with the convenience of planning and booking a comprehensive adventure. These emerging destinations present an exciting opportunity for travellers to discover new facets of India.

    Disclaimer – The data is based on year-on-year comparisons of searches made on Agoda in November 2022 and 2023.