Dream Trip4U is a retail travel agency with over 15 years of expertise in crafting exceptional travel experiences to long-haul destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the US and Europe.
Specializing in tailor-made group tours, MICE services, and honeymoon packages, the company caters to the unique preferences of its clientele. The travel agency’s primary focus is on serving HNI’s with bespoke travel solutions that exceed expectations. Prateek Wadhwa, Director, Dream Trip4U in an exclusive interaction with Travel Trade Insider spoke about the growing interest of the Indian outbound travel market in Australia, adoption of AI in travel agencies and other trends.
Q. Australia offers one of the most hassle-free visa processes for Indian travellers. How is this helping to grow tourist arrivals from the Indian market in the destination?
A. Australia’s visa process has really made a difference. It is completely streamlined and online, so there is no need for in-person appointments or endless paperwork. This simplicity has given Indian travellers more confidence in planning their trips and we are already seeing a boost in tourism. Additionally, with some upcoming digital enhancements, the experience is only going to get better.
Q. Reports suggest that 40% of Indian travellers seek adventure experiences. Which Australian adventure destinations are seeing the fastest growth in Indian visitors?
A. Adventure is a big draw for our Indian clients – almost 40% of them are looking for that thrill. Places like the Great Barrier Reef and Cairns are incredibly popular for diving and snorkelling, while the Blue Mountains and Outback adventures are also catching on. It is exciting to see such dynamic growth in these destinations.
Q. The Australian MICE industry is valued at AUD 17 billion, with India being a key contributor. Which cities are emerging as the most popular for large-scale business events?
A. In 2024, we hosted several Indian corporate groups in Australia. Sydney and Melbourne remain top choices, thanks to their world-class facilities and vibrant business environments. But we are also noticing a growing interest in Brisbane and Perth as emerging hubs for major MICE events.
Q. Based on your bookings, which three Australian destinations were the top-selling for Indian travellers in 2024?
A. From our bookings this year, it is clear that Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast are the favourites among Indian travellers. Sydney and Melbourne offer an amazing mix of culture, nightlife, and business opportunities, while the Gold Coast is simply irresistible for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Q. Apart from Australia, which other destinations do you promote and which destinations you think have the most potential?
A. Beyond Australia, we are actively promoting destinations like New Zealand, South Africa and select European countries such as Italy and Switzerland. Personally, I believe New Zealand stands out with its dramatic landscapes and adventure opportunities – it really resonates with Indian travellers looking for something extraordinary.
Q. With AI-driven itinerary planning and booking platforms gaining traction, how are traditional travel agents adapting? Do you see AI as a threat or an opportunity for your business?
A. AI is transforming the travel industry and rather than seeing it as a threat, we are embracing it as a tool to enhance our services. AI helps us tailor itineraries based on individual preferences and streamlines many of our processes, allowing us to offer more personalized and memorable travel experiences.
Q. The fluctuating value of the Indian rupee impacts travel costs. Have you noticed travellers cutting down on expenses, or are they still willing to spend on international holidays?
A. While the fluctuating rupee does influence travel costs, our clients still remain very enthusiastic about international travel. They are more value-conscious now, but they are not cutting back on spending if it means getting a great experience. It’s about striking the right balance between quality and cost, and that’s something we continually strive to achieve.