India and Bhutan are likely to see an increase in holiday bookings as a result of the visit from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, according to Opodo.
The travel company researched how previous royal tours have helped tourism in destinations across the world. Opodo experienced a 45% increase in bookings for Sydney over the course of a three day period back in 2014, in comparison to the same dates in 2015- the dates coincided with William and Kate’s visit to Australia. Following media reports that the royal couple visited Courchevel, a resort in the French Alps, bookings for the three closest airports to the area increased in the week after photographs emerged of the couple. In total, 57% more flights were booked in comparison to the same dates in the previous year.
However, it isn’t just the younger royals who are encouraging holidays. During the Queen and Prince Philip’s state visit to Berlin last June, bookings increased by 31% in comparison to the previous year. In the week leading up to the visit to Bhutan, searches for the destination had increased by 44%.
The destination expert for Opodo said that when members of the royal family travel, be it for an official visit or for a holiday, the company sees a spike in bookings as British people feel ‘royally inspired’. He added that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s current trip is putting the spotlight on ‘two beautiful countries’ which are often overlooked as a travel destination.
Why you should visit Bhutan:
The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan was cut off from the outside world until 1974, but is slowly modernising. Interestingly, the capital city of Thimphu is the only capital city in the world without traffic lights. Some were installed, but were swiftly removed following complaints that they were ‘disturbing the peace’.
In Bhutan, archery is a national sport, and it is not uncommon to see men and women competing at the side of the road.
The national dress is a kira– an ankle length dress which is worn with a short jacket. For men, it is a gho– a robe which resembles a kimono. Anyone who refuses to wear national dress at school or work faces a hefty fine.
For more information about visiting Bhutan or India, contact Opodo.
