Xpress Holidays - Taking On The Destination Specialist Tag

Anupama Anand - New Delhi

With the opening up of the Indian economy in the last couple of years, the number of outbound travellers, either for leisure or business purposes has noticeably increased. However, Indian travellers are maturing and looking for something different - away from run-of-the-mill touch-and-go tours that -would let them explore a country or region. In concurrence, has risen, a demand for travel agents and tour operators who can turn vacations into experiences and Xpress Holidays fits the bill. Says Vikas Singal, CEO, Xpress Holidays, "Outbound travel from India need not be a daunting experience anymore. One just has to explore the world with us and feel the difference."

A unit of Delhi Express Travels which is into big time ticketing, Xpress Holidays was formed four and a half years ago to diversify into outbound travel. Basically wholesellers, they service 3,000 plus agents across India with 12 sales offices. Today, they are the leading PSA's for Star Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Lines with their own sales team catering to sub-agents in each location.

"Our target was the FIT segment as it was one section that was not really catered to. We therein became a one-stop-shop, where we offer everything from tickets to sightseeing at wholesale prices," added Singal.

According to him, 2004 would be the year of Indian outbound, if there was enough seat capacity and no out-of-the-blue tragedies. FIT travel, pointed out Singal, is picking up as more and more people, even first timers, are opting for such flexible itineraries. Travel savvy Indians now want to travel freely and do things they want.

While gearing up for the coming outbound season, the company is changing focus from being FIT specialist to 'destination' specialist. "We plan to position ourselves as destination specialists' and hence bring out brochures on complete Europe, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Besides, we are introducing off-beat destinations like Egypt, Maldives, Spain and Greece to add flavor to our vacations," said Singal.

Keeping pace with time, Singal is diversifying into the domestic and incentive segment as well. "The domestic and incentive markets are growing fast and so we moved to tap this potential market. Due to the FIT volumes we generate, our buying power is very good and we can offer good rates for incentive groups. For domestic leisure travel, we are playing safe with the time-tested destinations like Kerala, Rajasthan and Goa."