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Culinary tourism redefines Indian vacations, reveals Godrej Food Trends Report
MUMBAI: Food and travel are officially the ultimate power couple.
As National Tourism Day approaches, the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 has spotlighted culinary tourism as the driving force behind a revolution in Indian travel. No longer a side dish to the main event, food has claimed centre stage, transforming vacations into unforgettable, flavour-filled journeys.
In 2024, Indians travelled more frequently and for longer durations, with vacation spending surging nearly 25 per cent. A significant chunk of this increase was fuelled by travellers seeking unique and immersive culinary experiences that connected them to local cultures. Whether exploring bustling spice markets or learning time-honoured recipes from community experts, food became the heartbeat of modern Indian vacations.
The Godrej Food Trends Report 2024, curated by Godrej Vikhroli Cucina with insights from over 190 food experts, revealed the top culinary trends shaping Indian travel:
1. Street food and market tours
With 94.1 per cent of experts highlighting their popularity, vibrant food streets and spice markets emerged as must-visit attractions. From the zesty flavours of pani puri to the aromatic whiffs of garam masala, travellers immersed themselves in the diverse culinary fabric of India.
2. Culinary site tours
Nearly 92.3 per cent of experts predicted continued interest in these immersive experiences, where travellers visited tea estates, artisanal cheese hubs, and other production sites. These tours offered behind-the-scenes glimpses into the craft of food making, adding an educational edge to the journey.
3. Home dining experiences and local expertise
Around 87.5 per cent of experts noted a surge in travellers booking home dining experiences. These intimate interactions with local experts allowed visitors to learn traditional cooking techniques, taste signature regional products, and gain a deeper appreciation for India’s culinary heritage.
“Food is no longer just a part of the travel experience, but its very essence,” said A Perfect Bite Consulting MD & the annual report editor Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal. “Today’s travellers are not just seeking destinations but connections—immersive, authentic experiences that allow them to explore the heart of a place through its culinary heritage. Whether it’s walking through vibrant spice markets, learning traditional recipes from local experts, or savouring unique regional flavours, food has become the bridge that links people to cultures and stories,” she elaborated.
This surge in culinary tourism isn’t just reshaping Indian vacations; it’s creating opportunities for local communities and small brands to showcase their culinary culture. From bustling street vendors to small-scale producers, the movement is helping amplify India’s rich food heritage on a global stage.
As the country celebrates National Tourism Day, travellers are invited to embrace the fusion of food and travel—a blend that promises to redefine how people experience culture and destinations in the years to come.
The Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 is available for download at www.vikhrolicucina.com.
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Hyundai Motor India rolls out nationwide AC check-up camp from April 10
Limited-period service drive offers discounts, free checks to beat summer heat
GURUGRAM: Hyundai Motor India Limited has announced a nationwide AC check-up camp, rolling out from April 10 to April 18, as temperatures climb and car cabins begin to feel the heat.
The initiative is designed to keep vehicles cool and customers comfortable, offering a mix of free inspections, discounted services and value-added benefits across Hyundai’s extensive service network in India.
As part of the limited-period campaign, customers can avail a complimentary 30-point vehicle check-up along with a free dry wash. The company is also offering a 15 per cent discount on AC servicing, including gas refills, and similar savings on wheel alignment and balancing. Key AC components such as compressors, condensers and cooling coils will be available at a 10 per cent discount, while value-added services like AC disinfectant treatments and plastic restoration also come with reduced pricing.
The camp will be hosted across authorised Hyundai workshops nationwide, allowing customers easy access to trained technicians, genuine parts and diagnostic support without the usual hassle.
Speaking on the initiative, Hyundai Motor India Limited national service head Nilesh Shah said, “At HMIL, customer satisfaction and convenience remain at the core of our service philosophy. With the onset of summer, we are pleased to introduce our nationwide AC check-up camp to ensure that our customers enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free driving experience. This initiative reflects our commitment to delivering proactive care and enhancing vehicle performance through our strong service network across India.”
With mercury levels on the rise, Hyundai’s timely service push aims to ensure drivers stay cool behind the wheel while also nudging them towards preventive maintenance, a small check today that could save a larger repair tomorrow.
