Tourism is a vital part of our global community. It helps share cultures and drives economic growth. Fred Dixon, the new President & CEO of Brand USA, has a big job: he’s promoting the United States as a prime travel destination. In a chat with LiveMint’s Abhishek Singh, Dixon highlights the incredible potential for Indian tourism to the US and shares his ideas to attract Indian travelers.
India’s middle class is expanding rapidly, and with it, the desire for international travel. This growth makes India an important market for US tourism. Dixon mentions that Brand USA is eager to tap into this potential.
“India has the world’s largest population, and the middle class is growing quickly,” says Dixon. “That means more people want to travel.” He adds that Indians are increasingly heading abroad, and the US is often at the top of their wish list. Interest in American culture and pop culture fuels this trend.
In 2024, a record 2.2 million Indians are expected to visit the US, marking a 24% jump from 2023. This figure is also 50% higher than in 2019, which is the highest increase among countries worldwide. Dixon is thrilled about these numbers and aims to increase US tourism from India.
When it comes to attracting value-conscious Indian travelers, Dixon believes the diversity of the US is a huge selling point. “The US has something for everyone,” he says. Whether visitors enjoy nature, city life, or culinary experiences, there’s no shortage of options. The favorable exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the US dollar also adds to the appeal.
Instead of just visiting typical hotspots like New York or California, Dixon observes a growing trend where Indian tourists are exploring lesser-known destinations across the US, including New England and the Midwest. Popular attractions like Route 66 and national parks are drawing many visitors, particularly families from India.
Dixon emphasizes that the US offers a wide range of experiences for travelers at various price points. His goal is to ensure Indian travelers fully discover what the US has to offer. He mentions upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics, which are expected to draw significant global attention and boost tourism.
Brand USA’s strategy involves enhancing awareness of the diverse experiences the US presents. Dixon plans to engage with travel operators in India to offer tailored travel experiences, whether for first-time visitors or those seeking a more extensive travel itinerary.
To handle the influx of visitors, the US is continuously enhancing its visa processes. The recent opening of a consulate in Bengaluru is expected to further ease the visa application process for Indians. Dixon mentions that renewal processes for visas are also becoming simpler.
As for major events, Dixon anticipates huge crowds for the FIFA World Cup and encourages travelers to prepare early, whether they have tickets or not, as the atmosphere during such events is electric.
Dixon’s love for India is evident. He enjoys cities like Mumbai and Delhi, appreciates the country’s rich history, and looks forward to discovering more places, such as Kerala and Kashmir.
When discussing the role of technology in travel, Dixon notes that advancements like digital IDs are making travel smoother. Facial recognition tech speeds up processes at airports, allowing for quicker access for many travelers.
Ultimately, Dixon believes the US is an incredible destination waiting to be explored. With so much to offer, he encourages Indians to keep their travel plans alive and look forward to visiting the US.
Source link
visas, USA, untied state, travel, tourism, brand usa, digiyatra, olympic, fifa world cup, AI, technology
