Brands
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.
Brands
Tommy Hilfiger unveils Spring/Summer 2026 watch collection
Checo Pérez fronts campaign blending F1 energy with Classic American Cool.
MUMBAI: Checo Pérez just traded the racetrack for the wrist game because when a Formula 1 star says time flies, he means it literally. Tommy Hilfiger Watches & Jewellery has launched its Spring/Summer 2026 collection, fusing modern craftsmanship with the brand’s signature Classic American Cool aesthetic. Global ambassador Checo Pérez, one of motorsport’s biggest names, headlines the campaign, infusing the line with high-octane confidence and relaxed sophistication.
Pérez said, “I’ve been a fan of Tommy Hilfiger since my childhood. The brand’s classic heritage style feels natural to me relaxed, confident and easy to wear. This watch collection blends modern innovation with the quality and tradition Tommy Hilfiger is known for.”
The men’s lineup is led by the bold Bank chronograph (44mm case, aluminium pusher guards, tachymeter bezel), powered by a Japanese chronograph movement and available with integrated bracelets or genuine leather straps. Other designs include the TH Oxford, featuring a textured dial inspired by the brand’s iconic Oxford shirt.
For women, the collection offers refined femininity through pieces like the 22mm Norah (slim two-tone case, navy patterned dial with Roman numerals) and the new Mackenzie (geometric bezel, frosted dial that catches light with subtle sparkle).
Shot against vintage cars and effortless style, the campaign captures the spirit of modern motorsport while celebrating timeless, versatile design suited for daily wear or statement moments.
Manufactured by The Movado Group Inc. under licence from Tommy Hilfiger and distributed in India by Titan Company Limited, the Spring/Summer 2026 Watches collection is now available.
In a world where time waits for no one, Tommy Hilfiger isn’t just keeping pace, it’s racing ahead, proving the perfect watch doesn’t just tell time. it tells your story, lap after stylish lap.
