India

In 2024, several trends will shape the travel industry and offer unique opportunities and immersive experiences. These trends include sustainability, adventure, and wellness, all of which Globe Aware volunteers can experience on a volunteer vacation week.

Top 8 travel trends for 2024

TIMESOFINDIA.COM
Jan 7, 2024

In 2024, several travel trends will shape the industry in unique ways, and will offer travellers unique opportunities and immersive experiences.

As we step into a new era of exploration, the world of travel is evolving with exciting trends that promise to redefine the way we experience and engage with destinations. In 2024, several travel trends will shape the industry in unique ways, and will offer travellers unique opportunities and immersive experiences.

Sustainable travel

This trend will take the centre stage. In 2024, sustainability will not just remain a buzzword, but will be a guiding principle for many travellers. Conscious efforts to reduce carbon footprints, support eco-friendly accommodations, and engage in responsible tourism will become a norm. Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that prioritise environmental conservation and ethical practices.

With the normalisation of remote work, the concept of ‘workations’ has gained popularity. Travellers are opting for destinations that offer a perfect blend of work and leisure. From beachside villas to mountain retreats, remote work retreats cater to those seeking a change of scenery while fulfilling professional responsibilities.

Tech-enhanced experiencesAdvancements in technology will continue to revolutionise travel experiences. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are being incorporated into guided tours and museum visits, providing travellers with interactive and immersive adventures. Smart travel apps that offer personalised recommendations and real-time updates are becoming indispensable tools for modern explorers.

Wellness trend

The wellness travel trend is evolving beyond spa retreats. Travellers are prioritising holistic well-being, seeking destinations that offer a balance of physical activities, mental health retreats, and rejuvenating natural environments. From yoga retreats in serene landscapes to wellness-focused culinary experiences, travellers are embracing a holistic approach to health.

Cultural immersion

Experiential travel that fosters authentic cultural immersion is gaining momentum. Travellers are moving away from traditional tourist hotspots, opting instead for off-the-beaten-path destinations where they can engage with local communities, participate in cultural exchanges, and savour authentic culinary delights.

Micro-cations and weekend getaways

Short getaways, often referred to as micro-cations, are on the rise. Travellers are embracing the idea of frequent, shorter trips to explore nearby destinations and make the most of weekends. This trend aligns with the desire for more accessible and manageable travel experiences.

Adventure

Adventure travel is extending beyond traditional boundaries. From immersive wilderness experiences to extreme sports in unconventional locations, adventure enthusiasts are seeking adrenaline-pumping activities in unique and lesser-explored destinations.

Personalised travel experiencesCustomisation will remain the key in 2024. Travellers are seeking personalised itineraries and curated experiences that align with their interests and preferences. Travel agencies and platforms are leveraging technology to tailor trips, ensuring that every journey is a reflection of the individual traveller’s desires.

In India, harvest festivals in January mark the beginning of festivities every year. Makar Sankranti festival marks the beginning of the harvest season and the sun’s transit to the Capricorn. Globe Aware volunteers can take part in Jaipur, and even fly kites or visit beautiful temples.

From Lohri, Makar Sankranti to Pongal; here’s how India celebrates these harvest festivals

13 Jan 2024
Livemint

In India, harvest festivals in the month of January mark the beginning of festivities every year. The onset of harvest season is observed across the country under various names based on the region where it is celebrated. The festival is widely celebrated in the Indian Subcontinent and by Hindus all over the world.

North Indian Hindus and Sikhs refer to it as Maghi, which is preceded by Lohri. In Maharashtra, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka and Telangana, it is known as Makara Sankranti and also Poush Sôngkrānti. In central India, it is called Sukarat, Assamese call it Magh Bihu, in Eastern Uttar Pradesh it is called Khichdi.

Lohri

Lohri festivities are followed by Makar Sankranti. This year Lohri festivities will take place on January 14. It is observed primarily in the northern regions of India, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. While paying their respects to Sun God, people sing and dance around the bonfire. Traditional dishes like Makki ki Roti, Sarson ka Saag, Pinni, Gur Gajak, Dahi Bhalle and Halwa are the culinary delights cherished on this occasion.

Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti marks the sun’s transit to the Capricorn which is followed by warmer and longer days. This day marks an end to a bitter cold spell. This period of Uttarayan lasts for around six months. Sankranti means movement of the sun while Makar Sankranti is the most important of all 12 Sankranti that fall in a year.

Makar Sankranti usually falls on January 14 every year, but as per Drik Panchang, this year the festival will be celebrated on January 15. During the festival, people worship the Sun God, take a holy dip in sacred water bodies, engage in charitable activities by giving alms to the needy, fly kites, prepare sweets made of sesame and jaggery, and worship livestock. Moreover, farmers across India pray for good crops.

Pongal

Pongal is celebrated in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka and Pondicherry. The festival derives its name from the Tamil word meaning ‘spilling over.’ The festivities begin with boiling the season’s first rice with milk and jaggery. Bhogi Pongal marks the begining to 4 day long festivities. It is followed by Surya Pongal and Mattu Pongal on the third day. Kannum marks the conclusion to these festivities.

Rituals that mark this occasion include bathing, processions, prayers at home and temples, elaborate feasts, house decorations and worship of the Sun God.

Jallikattu, a bull taming sport is widely celebrated in the state of Tamil Nadu as part of Pongal celebrations. Jallikattu event in Madurai will be held for three days, beginning from January 15. This event involves releasing a bull into a crowd of people where participants try to grab hold of the bull’s hump in an attempt to stop the bull.

Uttarayan

The festival, also known as Uttarayan, in Gujarat and Rajasthan is marked by kite flying. In Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, this festival is associated with the popular practice of kite flying. Since 1989, the day has been observed as International Kite Festival.

While India can be overwhelming if you have just landed in the country, it is also home to some of the warmest, helpful people on the planet. If you’re planning your first trip to India, Globe Aware volunteers will be delighted to learn our Jaipur location is included in this list!

Most tourist-friendly cities of India

By SHIKHA GAUTAM
TIMESOFINDIA.COM
Oct 15, 2023

While India can be overwhelming if you have just landed in the country, it is also home to some of the warmest, helpful people on the planet. If you’re planning your first trip to India, we will tell you where to go; these places are known for being tourist-friendly, welcoming and easy for foreign travellers to explore.