With travel trends around the globe rapidly changing, Etrav, one of the B2B travel technology companies worldwide, takes its position as a major player in the travel tech world with some magnificent expansion plans for 2024 and beyond. Led by Managing Director and CEO Heniel Rupaarelia, the organisation is on a drive to expand its international footprint, with a keen focus on new markets, and will utilise artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the travel journey for both agents and customers. With an emphasis on new destinations and using cutting edge tech, Etrav is poised to change the face of travel.

Beyond: Etrav’s International Development of its Global Market

Etrav has made its presence felt in the travel technology market already in 4 critical markets. But in 2024, the business is broadening its horizon in a big way, moving into five new markets. These are in the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) region, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and an exclusive facility in Spain supporting the rest of Europe. This globalisation is in response to the increasing need for the provision of global travel management solutions, particularly in areas where tourism growth is booming.

By choosing to expand into the Spanish and other European markets, the company is strongly affirming its goal to continue to offer uninterrupted and convenient services to the highest number of consumers who need them, while further penetrating important strategic regions. Etrav On the other hand, Etrav is also ramping up its presence in North America, the Asia Pacific and other newly-emerging markets as part of a plan to set up a complete network of destination management service operations around the world.

By enabling them to access these different markets, Etrav aims to address new demand for custom travel experiences, particularly in a world marking the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, with travellers most interested in destinations that offer relaxation and adventure combined. A regional Asia-Pacific presence for Etrav, is also proof to its vision to deliver special-interest services that are capable of keeping up with these new travelling trends.

Leveraging AI to Transform Travel Operations

One of the most exciting aspects of Etrav’s strategy is its focus on artificial intelligence (AI). Rupaarelia emphasized that AI will play a central role in the company’s operational efficiency and future growth. Etrav aims to automate 80% of its operations by the end of 2025, reducing the need for manual intervention and enabling faster, more accurate service. The company’s focus on automation will reduce operational costs and improve the efficiency of its processes, ensuring that Etrav remains at the cutting edge of the travel technology space.

In line with this vision, Etrav is developing an AI-driven quotation builder, which will empower travel agents to generate destination-specific quotes within just a few minutes. This tool is designed to enhance the travel agent’s ability to create tailored itineraries quickly, using rich, AI-curated content and insights. This is particularly beneficial for travel agents who may not be familiar with certain destinations, as the tool can provide detailed recommendations and pricing that would otherwise require extensive manual effort. By automating these processes, Etrav can provide more accurate and personalized service while streamlining the booking process.

In addition, AI is being integrated into Etrav’s B2B platform, where travel agents can access dynamic travel content, book accommodations, and manage itineraries more efficiently. The company’s continued investment in AI is not only helping streamline operations but is also contributing to the creation of a more seamless and user-friendly experience for travel professionals.

Vietnam: The New Favorite Destination for Indian Travelers

One of the most notable shifts in travel patterns observed by Etrav is the growing interest in Vietnam, which has quickly become one of the most popular outbound destinations for Indian travelers. Historically, destinations like Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia were the go-to spots for Indian tourists, but recent trends indicate that Vietnam is emerging as the preferred choice.

Vietnam offers a unique combination of affordable travel, rich cultural experiences, and an increasing number of budget-friendly flight options from India. Etrav launched fixed departures to Vietnam in May 2024, and the demand was so high that the packages sold out within a week. This level of demand underscores the growing interest in Vietnam as a must-visit destination for Indian tourists. The country’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse cuisine make it an attractive alternative to traditional travel hubs in Southeast Asia.

In addition, the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector is also seeing an increase in inquiries for Far-East destinations, with Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries experiencing growing demand for business travel and corporate events. This reflects the broader trend in travel where leisure and business travel are converging, and destinations that cater to both segments are becoming increasingly popular.

MICE and Leisure Travel Trends

Etrav has noted a clear shift in the preferences of both MICE and leisure travelers. As domestic travel in India has become increasingly expensive—particularly in high-demand regions like Goa and Kerala—more Indian tourists are turning to international destinations for better value. The rising cost of domestic tourism in India has made destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore more attractive. These destinations offer a competitive price point while providing the same level of luxury, adventure, and cultural experiences.

As global travel continues to recover, leisure travelers are exploring new and less conventional destinations. Vietnam, in particular, offers a combination of affordability and diverse experiences, making it a compelling alternative for Indian tourists seeking more value for money. Vietnam’s growing popularity as a leisure destination is expected to continue in the coming years, with travelers drawn to its historical landmarks, tropical beaches, and emerging wellness offerings.

Introducing India as a Destination Management Product

Recognizing the growing trend of inbound tourism, Etrav plans to introduce India as a key product in its Destination Management Company (DMC) network. India, with its vast cultural diversity, beautiful landscapes, and rapidly growing wellness sector, presents significant potential as a travel destination. As the country continues to evolve into a wellness destination, Etrav’s global network will cater to inbound tourists seeking unique and authentic experiences in India.

Etrav’s efforts to introduce India into its global DMC network align with the broader trend of travelers seeking more off-the-beaten-path destinations. By offering tailored services and curated experiences, Etrav aims to make India more accessible to international travelers, particularly those seeking wellness, nature, and adventure-based travel experiences.

What’s In Store: Next And The Growth Of Etrav.

With Etrav’s continued growth, integration of AI, and aggressive expansion and focus on emerging travel markets, it is well positioned for continued success in the years to come. Adopting new technology and catering to changing desires by consumers helps Etrav prepare for its role in the future of travel.

In an ever-competitive travel market, now that the company is scaling and updating AI-driven tool in new areas, Etrav is well-equipped to satisfy desires of both the leisure and MICE travelers. Etrav is well placed to be the spearhead of the next wave of travel technology and tourism trends, providing solutions for both the travel industry professional as well as the global traveler and explorer.