Cost savings across accommodation and daily expenses
Indian travellers can save 20-40% by opting for emerging destinations, according to Pavan Kavad, Managing Director of Prithvi Exchange (India) Limited.
“Mid-range hotels in Vietnam are often 30-40% cheaper than comparable stays in Goa, while a city break in Eastern Europe can cost nearly half of what a weekend in Edinburgh would,”
Meals, local transport, and activities are similarly more affordable in these regions, offering better value than saturated tourist hubs.
Currency dynamics further amplify these savings.
A ₹1 lakh budget may barely cover four nights in Paris, whereas in destinations like Georgia or Poland, the same amount can fund a full week of accommodation, dining, and sightseeing.
Kavad noted that Indian travellers have experienced outbound costs rising 8-15%, sometimes even 18%, when the rupee weakens against the
Smart travel planning enhances value
Advance bookings, off-peak travel, and local transport options can further improve affordability.
“Booking holidays during a destination’s off-peak season is an effective way to save. Self-drive tours in countries like South Africa, Scotland, and Spain-Portugal allow travellers to explore at their own pace while discovering lesser-known locations,” said SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel.
Cruises are also gaining popularity due to their all-inclusive dining, entertainment, and multi-port itineraries, offering convenience and savings.
Cultural immersion without breaking the bank
Offbeat destinations also provide unique cultural experiences.
Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited, highlighted Georgia as an example of a cost-effective European-like destination.
Homestays and village excursions in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam,
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