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Cancellation of Travel and Holiday Bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan by Indians
The recent tensions between India and Pakistan have led to a significant development in the travel industry. Turkey and Azerbaijan, popular holiday destinations for Indians, have expressed support for Pakistan, prompting a massive cancellation of travel bookings by Indians.
Background
The conflict between India and Pakistan has been ongoing for decades, with both countries having a complex and often tumultuous relationship. Recently, the situation escalated after a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India blamed on Pakistan. In response, India launched strikes against what it claimed were “terrorist camps” in Pakistan. Turkey and Azerbaijan, both close allies of Pakistan, issued statements backing Pakistan, which sparked widespread outrage in India.
Cancellation of Bookings
The backlash was swift, with many Indians calling for a boycott of Turkish and Azerbaijani products and services. The travel industry was no exception, with several Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) reporting a significant increase in cancellations. According to MakeMyTrip, one of India’s largest OTAs, bookings for Azerbaijan and Turkey decreased by 60%, while cancellations surged by 250% in just one week.
Other OTAs, such as EaseMyTrip and Ixigo, have also reported similar trends. EaseMyTrip’s co-founder, Rikant Pittie, stated that cancellations for Turkey and Azerbaijan have reached 22% and 30%, respectively. Ixigo has suspended all flight and hotel bookings to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China, citing solidarity with the nation.
Alternatives to Turkey and Azerbaijan
So, where are Indian travelers turning to instead? According to EaseMyTrip’s Rikant Pittie, travelers are increasingly choosing destinations like:
- Georgia: Known for its stunning mountain scenery, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, Georgia is an attractive alternative to Turkey and Azerbaijan.
- Serbia: A hidden gem in Eastern Europe, Serbia offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for travelers.
- Greece: With its picturesque islands, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, Greece is a popular destination for Indians looking for a relaxing vacation.
- Thailand: A favorite among Indian travelers, Thailand offers a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches, making it an excellent alternative to Turkey and Azerbaijan.
- Vietnam: Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Vietnam is another popular destination for Indian travelers.
In conclusion, the cancellation of travel bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan by Indians is a significant development in the travel industry. While the situation is fluid, it’s clear that Indian travelers are choosing alternative destinations that offer a similar blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. As the travel industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends play out in the coming months .
