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India expects South-east Asia surge
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Ollie Quiniquini, Singapore (2010-07-30)
BUOYED by improved air connectivity and publicity generated by the upcoming Commonwealth Games (CWG), India is expecting a seven to 10 per cent growth in arrivals from South-east Asia.
Rajesh Talwar, director of India Tourism's Singapore office, has high hopes for the region, given that even during the recessionary year of 2009 when arrivals to India dipped 3.3 per cent, visitor numbers from South-east Asia grew 4.7 per cent.
"Our tourist season from October to March is approaching and growth should be much better. Visa trends already indicate an increase in arrivals from the region," said Talwar.
India Tourism is pushing the CWG in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei, and has held roadshows to apprise tour operators of the games developments. The latest was a three-city roadshow in June covering Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Malacca. "CWG is an opportunity to twin promotions for the games and destinations (to visit while people are in the country)."
Talwar has also noticed greater interest in the country's luxury trains, heritage hotels and mountain destinations such as the Himalayas, aside from the regular cultural appeal. The MICE and wellness segments are just as promising, he said.
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