Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, in collaboration with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, a major player in India’s hospitality sector, emphasised the immense tourism growth potential of the Indian market during a recent gathering in India.
During the event, key insights and milestones were shared, highlighting the significant contributions of GHA DISCOVERY members in India. In 2023 alone, GHA DISCOVERY members in India generated an impressive USD 68 million in revenues, showcasing a robust upward trend. Membership numbers also surged, reaching 540,000, marking a notable 21 per cent year-on-year increase. These figures underscore the growing interest and engagement of travellers within India.
The revenue breakdown from Indian members revealed an even split between domestic (51 per cent) and international (49 per cent) travel, showcasing a balanced interest in both local and global destinations. Top source markets for inbound travel to India included the US, UK, and Australia, highlighting the country’s global appeal as a travel destination.
Outbound travel from India to GHA hotels around the world witnessed a significant uptick, reaching an all-time high of USD 60 million in revenue. Preferred international destinations for India’s GHA DISCOVERY members included Singapore, Thailand, and the UAE, reflecting diverse travel preferences and interests among Indian travellers.
Chris Hartley, CEO, GHA, expressed optimism about India’s thriving travel market, stating, “India’s rapid growth in domestic and international travel is a testament to its appeal as a vibrant and diverse destination. The success of GHA DISCOVERY in India reflects the evolving travel patterns and preferences of Indian travelers, presenting numerous opportunities for our alliance to further enhance the travel experience and engagement.”
This venture marks The Ritz-Carlton’s inaugural presence in North India, promising a new era of luxury hospitality in Jaipur. The resort’s planned location offers convenient access to renowned tourist attractions such as Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal Palace, and Jantar Mantar, ensuring guests can immerse themselves in the city’s cultural tapestry with ease.
The partnership between GHA and The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, with 17 years of collaboration, has been instrumental in driving this growth. Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, emphasized the significance of these developments, stating, “The Indian market trends and the growing interest from GHA DISCOVERY’s global membership signal exciting opportunities for our hotels. We remain committed to providing unparalleled experiences and contributing to India’s thriving tourism sector.”Looking ahead, GHA plans to expand its hotel portfolio in India to offer a broader range of destinations and segments for GHA DISCOVERY members. Anantara Hotels & Resorts is set to open its first property in North India, the Anantara Jaipur Hotel, later this year, further enriching the alliance’s offerings.
As GHA celebrates its 20th anniversary, the alliance continues to evolve and innovate, with recent milestones including the launch of DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) in 2021 and strategic partnerships with NH Hotel Group, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Plum Guide, enhancing the loyalty program’s offerings and rewarding members with unique travel experiences.
