With World Tourism Day around the corner, the excitement of travel often comes with a mix of joy and anxiety. According to the Anishchit Index 2024 by Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance (ABSLI), a striking 88 per cent of Indians foresee heightened financial uncertainty over the next five years, with travel being one of the major contributors to their concerns.
The survey delves deep into the frustrations and challenges faced by modern Indian travellers, shedding light on the most common issues plaguing their travel experiences. Flight, bus, and train delays top the list, with 31 per cent of respondents citing them as the most frustrating part of travel. This is followed by the anxiety of lost luggage (23 per cent), hotel reservation troubles (17 per cent), and language barriers (15 per cent), highlighting the unpredictability that haunts even the most well-organized journeys.
For spontaneous travellers, the road to relaxation is not without hurdles. The survey revealed that 63 per cent of Indians who book last-minute trips anticipate challenges, such as steep prices or unavailability of hotels and flights. Additionally, 50 per cent of respondents worry about the possibility of being called back for urgent work meetings, while 34 per cent fear last-minute cancellations by travel companions.
The qualitative research highlights a key trend: CEOs are opting for outdoor adventure as a way to distance themselves from the fast-paced corporate environment, seeking time for reflection and personal growth. The study found that 75% of CEOs believe that adventure travel provides them with valuable opportunities to think without distraction, promoting mental clarity and ideation.
Despite these potential setbacks, travel remains a beloved escape for Indians. A significant 63 per cent of respondents turn to a short getaway when life becomes overwhelming, with weekend retreats and wellness-centric activities becoming popular stress-relief options.The Anishchit Index 2024 sparks an important conversation about how Indian travellers are embracing the uncertainties that come with travel. The findings highlight that while risks—financial, logistical, or emotional—remain an inherent part of travel, proper preparation can help mitigate these stresses. With a focus on financial planning and smart travel decisions, Indians are learning to turn unpredictability into an opportunity for adventure, rather than an obstacle.
As the travel industry continues to evolve post-pandemic, the ABSLI Anishchit Index underscores the need for travellers to be cautious yet resilient in the face of uncertainty.
