Goa’s Digital Nomad Initiative

The Goa government is strengthening its efforts to attract digital nomads by rolling out free public Wi-Fi hotspots across 75 locations and installing 11 new 4G BSNL mobile towers. These upgrades are part of a broader plan to provide 100% internet connectivity, including in rural areas, making the state a hub for remote workers.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte revealed plans for beachside coworking spaces and high-speed internet infrastructure, stating, “By next year, we aim to have the infrastructure to attract digital nomads and freelancers who don’t follow a typical 9-5 schedule.” Additionally, Goa introduced the Let’s Goa platform, listing hotels and activities for tourists while integrating local businesses. The state also launched the One Map Goa GIS portal for improved infrastructure planning and governance.

Treebo Targets Mid-Market Segment with New Hotel Brand

Treebo Hospitality Ventures has debuted Medalio, a premium mid-market hotel brand. The first property, Medalio Resort Udaipur Shobhagpura, features 30 rooms, a swimming pool, and a spa. This comes as Treebo expands into the ₹3,500–₹6,000 price range to cater to India’s growing upper-middle-income households.

Treebo co-founder Sidharth Gupta highlighted the strategy behind the expansion, noting, “By 2030, India will have an additional 65 million upper-middle-income households, representing 52% of consumption.” Medalio properties will offer a premium experience with 20–50 rooms, complementing Treebo’s economy segment offerings and its collaboration with Radisson Hotel Group.

Indian Tourists Propel Thailand Beyond Pre-Pandemic Levels

Over 2 million Indian tourists visited Thailand in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers from 2019. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) celebrated the milestone, emphasising India’s role as a key source market. To further boost arrivals, Thailand extended its 60-day visa waiver for Indian travellers and introduced an e-visa system for more extended stays.

Though air connectivity has rebounded to 92.2% of pre-pandemic levels with 342 weekly flights, airlines such as IndiGo, Thai Airways, and Thai AirAsia are adding new routes to meet growing demand.

Paytm Insights: Young Travelers and Last-Minute Plans

Fintech giant Paytm shared travel trends from 2024, highlighting a 44% surge in bookings for concert travel and a preference for affordable travel among younger users, with 36% of bus bookings coming from travellers under 25. Dubai and Mumbai were the most-searched destinations, while visa-free spots like Almaty and Kenya saw rising interest. Late-night bookings became a trend, with 30% of reservations made after 8 PM.

Hospitality Growth and Upskilling Initiatives

Luxury chain The Postcard Hotel launched a boutique property in Assam’s Durrung Tea Estate, expanding its portfolio to 10 hotels. Upcoming properties include locations in Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Andhra Pradesh. Meanwhile, The Oberoi Group unveiled the RISE program to onboard and train 2,000 hospitality trainees annually by 2025 in partnership with skilling organisations.

Goa’s push for digital nomads, Treebo’s mid-market expansion, and growing international tourism reflect India’s dynamic travel and hospitality sectors. With innovative strategies across states and industries, the future looks promising for tourism and real estate in India.