South Goa, Athens top picks for upcoming Holi, Easter getaways

Hyderabad: With the upcoming subsequent weekends making space for Holi and Easter holidays, there has been a 330 per cent increase in searches for South Goa, one of India’s most popular getaways. This was revealed in the latest search data from Airbnb, showing a surprising shift in preferences among Indian travellers.

Whether it’s the tranquil beaches of South Goa or the historic charm of European cities like Athens and Istanbul, Indian travellers are broadening their horizons, driven by the desire for diverse and enriching travel experiences.

Domestic destinations like Varanasi, Jaipur, Mussoorie and Manali have also seen a surge in searches for stays for long weekends as Indians focus on beach getaways, cultural exploration and mountain retreats.

According to data, domestically, South Goa has emerged as the top Indian destination with a nearly 330 per cent increase in searches for stays for the upcoming long weekend. Additionally, the cultural allure of Varanasi, Jaipur, and Pondicherry as well as popular hill stations like Mussoorie, Ooty and Manali are also driving diversified interest for short getaways during the upcoming long weekend.

Choosing Athens, Bangkok for international trips

On the international front, Athens leads the way with an approximately 400 per cent spike in searches, earning its place at the top of the travel wish list for Indian explorers, closely followed by Istanbul, Bangkok, and Rome.

These cities represent a blend of historical richness and cultural vibrancy that resonates deeply with Indian travellers.

Beachfront stays most preferred

The quest for beachfront stays, amazing views, and amazing pools dominated the search trends, pointing towards a collective yearning for scenic beauty and relaxation. An approximate 70 per cent increase in bookings for non-urban destinations and around a 20 per cent rise in family-centric searches underlined a significant shift towards tranquillity and shared experiences.

“Indian travellers are increasingly seeking unique and memorable experiences, moving beyond traditional holiday seasons to embrace every opportunity for exploration,” stated Amanpreet Bajaj, general manager at Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.