ROOM FOR CHANGE

On the heels of G20 Summit, Travel+Leisure India & South Asia sits down with three of the country's top hospitality veterans to understand the impact of the forum on travel and tourism, insights gained, and the path ahead.

AMANPREET BAJAJ

General Manager, AIRBNB INDIA, SOUTHEAST ASIA, HONG KONG AND TAIWAN

How has the recent G20 Summit affected Airbnb’s business in the country? Can you share any specific insights into changes in demand, bookings, or user behaviour during the period? 

The G20 brought together leaders and an influx of international visitors from around the world. The Ministry of Tourism designated 2023 as the ‘Visit India’ year. As representatives and spectators poured in from G20 nations, Airbnb witnessed a spike in searches, particularly in cities such as New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and the ever-popular Goa. Given the widespread nature of the summit, with meetings scattered across 60 diverse cities of India— from Goa’s beaches to Udaipur’s palaces, we experienced not only an increase in bookings but also a broadened geographic demand. Lesser-known destinations like Indore, Surat, and Thiruvananthapuram also basked in the limelight.

The G20 Summit highlighted discussions on sustainable tourism and responsible travel. What initiatives is the company undertaking to promote sustainable travel in India? 

Airbnb has an ongoing partnership with the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) to help expand livelihood opportunities for women and empower them. We are helping SEWA members pursue new livelihoods and income streams by sharing their homes on Airbnb. The initiative is also promoting tourism in parts of India that have not traditionally benefited from tourism and hospitality, through home sharing.