New York City, which has been witnessing a steady growth of 7 per cent from the India market, is expecting a moderate increase this year as well. Makiko Matsuda Healy, Senior Vice President, Global Tourism Development, NYC & Co. revealed that, while business has been the major feeder segment out of India, this year leisure overtook with a 54 per cent share of the visitor market.
She attributed the growth from the leisure market to the various activities by Brand USA and their associates in India to promote the destination. She further opined that the dip in Rupee value hampered business travel, and with the market now recovering enquiries have begun coming in for MICE group travel again.
Speaking about the feeder markets from India, Matsuda revealed that, while Mumbai and Delhi continue to be strong markets, Bengaluru has notched increased numbers, while Hyderabad has seen a surge in student travel. They are also looking to promote the destination to smaller cities such as Ahmedabad, Jalandar and so on.
NYC& Co. is also looking at investing in an app to help guide the tourists and provide them information on their fingertips. However, Matsuda added, the NYC website is updated in real time and is the perfect tool for travellers.
