Dubai, Bali and Bangkok have emerged as the most preferred international destinations for Indians who travelled between January and June 2025, according to travel tech firm OYO. The company reported a 65% year-on-year growth in bookings for destinations offering simplified visa processes, reflecting evolving travel trends shaped by accessibility and convenience.

Findings from the company’s latest ‘OYO Travelopedia 2025’ report, are based on insights drawn from 20,000 bookings made through the OYO app. The report revealed that Dubai led the list, with bookings by Indian families tripling over the same period last year.

Bali witnessed a significant uptick in interest from couples and honeymooners, highlighting its appeal as a romantic and leisure destination.
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“The report highlights 65% YoY growth in visa-easy destination bookings by Indian travellers in H1 2025, underscoring a shift in preferences driven by relaxed visa policies, enhanced air connectivity, and a growing appetite for premium experiences. Some of the most popular destinations on this list include Dubai, Bali, and Bangkok, among others,” the company said.

According to data, average travel durations varied by region. trips to Southeast Asian countries such as Bali and Bangkok typically lasted between five to seven days, while visits to Middle Eastern destinations like Dubai averaged three to five days. Long-haul travel to Europe and the United States tended to extend over 10 to 15 days, suggesting a higher spending and extended travel in those regions.

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OYO, which is currently preparing for its initial public offering (IPO), noted that it operates a network of 50 premium hotels in popular destinations. Of these, 23 are located across Southeast Asia and 27 in the Middle East, primarily under its SUNDAY and Palette brand portfolios.

The company added that it is planning to expand its premium offerings in emerging international hotspots, with a particular focus on aspirational properties and personalised guest experiences tailored to evolving traveller expectations.

1 Monaco Officially Best Destination in Europe 2025: Monaco is a sovereign city-state and microstate located on the French Riviera, known for its luxurious resorts, and high-end lifestyle. 2 Riga, Latvia This “Paris of the North”, is known for its lively culinary and cultural scene. This vibrant capital is a historical and cultural hub situated on the Daugava River where it meets the Baltic Sea. 3 Budapest, Hungary This charming city is bisected by the River Danube. Its 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district. A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times onward. 4 Madrid, Spain Madrid boasts elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks such as the Buen Retiro. It’s renowned for its rich repositories of European art, including the Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velázquez and other Spanish masters. 5 Namur, Belgium Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it features a historic Citadel fortress, charming old town, museums, and lively squares, blending rich history with modern vibrancy. 6 Amsterdam, Netherlands The Dutch capital is known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades, legacies of the city’s 17th-century Golden Age. Its Museum District houses the Van Gogh Museum, works by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum, and modern art at the Stedelijk. 7 Olhão, Portugal Traditional charm, vibrant markets, Ria Formosa Natural Park, culinary delights. Olhão is a charming fishing town in the Algarve, famed for its bustling waterfront market perched over the Ria Formosa lagoon. Explore the historic narrow streets, colourful murals, and peaceful gardens like Pescador Olhanense. 8 Mljet Island, Croatia Mljet is the southernmost and easternmost of the larger Adriatic islands of the Dalmatia region of Croatia. In the west of the island is the Mljet National Park – with serene landscape, saltwater lakes, pristine beaches perfect for water sports. 9 Lisbon, Portugal This vibrant city offers visitors historical charm, sunny weather, and stunning landscapes. Situated on the banks of the Tagus River and built on seven hills, it offers breathtaking views and a unique blend of old and new. 10 Antipaxos, Greece Untouched beaches with turquoise waters, secluded and enchanting island getaway. 11 Istanbul, Turkey A dazzling city where East meets West, boasting landmarks like the majestic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque with its six minarets, and the opulent Topkapi Palace. 12 Paris, France Its 19th-century cityscape is crisscrossed by wide boulevards and the River Seine. Beyond such landmarks as the Eiffel Tower and the 12th-century, Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral, the city is known for its cafe culture and designer boutiques. 13 Rome, Italy Regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful ancient cities, and contains vast amounts of priceless works of art, palaces, museums, parks, churches, gardens, basilicas, temples, villas, piazzas, theatres, and other venues. 14 Dhërmi, Albania Hidden gem on the Albanian Riviera with azure waters, breathtaking beaches, traditional hillside village, and fresh seafood delights. This lesser-known destination makes a surprising entry and promises tranquility and authentic charm. 15 Dubrovnik, Croatia See the spectacularly preserved 16th century city, known for its defensive walls and red-roofed buildings. Experience the allure of Croatia’s Adriatic Coast, an incredibly beautiful region, located between the Gulf of Trieste and the Bay of Kvarner. 16 London London dazzles visitors year-round with a mix of historic grandeur, modern marvels, and vibrant street life. Top attractions include: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and the Buckingham Palace. Unforgettable experiences include Thames River Cruises, London’s Parks, the Camden Market, Brick Lane & Shoreditch. 17 Athens Athens, the capital and one of the world’s oldest cities holds a multitude of ancient treasures and ruins ripe for exploration, such as the Acropolis and its iconic Parthenon. If offers a wonderful combination of ancient history and picturesque landscapes. 18 Porto, Portugal Explore the vibrant streets of Porto, where old-world elegance meets cutting-edge innovation. Stroll along the Douro River, admire the iconic bridges, and take in the city’s neighbourhoods. Renowned for its spectacular azulejo-tiled façades and buzzing culinary scene Porto is a must-see for travellers seeking both culture and charm year-round. 19 Prague, Czech Republic Prague enchants visitors with its blend of mediaeval history, striking architecture, and vibrant culture, offering a remarkable array of attractions: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, The Powder Tower, Vyšehrad historic fortress, and Vltava River views. 20 Barcelona, Spain Barcelona, the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, is known for its art and architecture. The Sagrada Família church and other modernist landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí dot the city. Museu Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró feature modern art by their namesakes.

From staycation spots to bucket list family trips…

Each month, we ask a local UAE legend about their favourite places to eat, shop and explore around the emirates. But for this travel special, we’re going global. So we’ve tapped Dani Wilson Naqvi (@daniwilsonnaqvi), luxury travel designer and founder of Unique Family Travels (@uniquefamilytravel) for her favourite spots worldwide. As a travel specialist who’s ticked 55 countries off her bucket list, she’s well equipped to share the best places on the planet for all vacation styles.

Top staycation spot

I love the Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert for family trips as we enjoy the desert activities and get to explore RAK with unique experiences such as the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp  and zipling across Jebel Hafeet. A definite favourite of my family is Atlantis The Royal, as the family can enjoy Aquaventure from morning to night, there’s an endless choice of mouth-watering restaurants, and lots of water activities.

@ritzcarltonalwadidesert, @atlantistheroyal

Bucket list family trip

A safari in Africa is a must for all families. The most incredible safari experience I have had was in Botswana in the Okavango Delta where we canoed in the Okavango and witnessed many truly wonderful sights. For first-timers, I would recommend Kenya. I work with many luxury lodges that are more private and located in private conservancies, so you get to escape the crowds and have a more up-close experience.

A must-try meal

One of my best memories was at the 3 Michelin Star Mirazur in Menton on the border of France and Italy. We were staying in Monaco and drove to the restaurant, which took 30 minutes. All the ingredients served are grown on the side of the mountain around the restaurant, perfectly encapsulating the farm-to-table experience.

@restaurantmirazur

Favourite hotel

Bisate Lodge (pictured above) in Rwanda is one of the most incredible hotels – so much so that it actually made me cry. The story behind it is very empowering as it was built by the local villagers, it’s located in Volcanoes National Park, close to where you can trek with the gorillas. Aside from that, I love Nihi Sumba on Sumba Island in Indonesia, Soneva Jani or Soneva Fushi in the Maldives for the Robinson Crusoe experience, Gleneagles for a country retreat in Scotland, and Belmond Splendido in Portofino for a romantic couples’ break.

@bisatelodge, @nihi, @soneva, @thegleneagleshotel, @belmondsplendidomare

A destination everyone should visit

cape town whatson.ae, South Africa. There is something magical about this city. From the amazing hikes to the spectacular vineyard Estates, driving the Garden Route to Hermanus to whale watch, and visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach – the vibe in Cape Town is unmatched.

Under-the-radar destination

Raja Ampat in Indonesia, known as The Last Paradise on Earth. We went as a family sailing around the islands for 10 days. From diving and snorkelling with manta rays, to hiking the untouched islands, it was raw and beautiful. The team set up beach days and dinner on private sandbanks, we kayaked around islands and relaxed on the most incredible boat, which had 15 staff to assist with every need. Easily one of my bucket list moments.

Images: Unsplash, Supplied

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