Honeymoon 2.0: Exploring the next big travel trends

India's wedding market, a $50 billion industry, has spurred a corresponding boom in the honeymoon travel market. With searches for honeymoon packages up by 30 per cent, couples are now opting for tailored experiences that blend romance, adventure and exclusivity. Most of us know that modern couples face demanding schedules, prompting a rise in short getaways, or mini-moons, lasting three-four days, to nearby destinations. These are frequently followed by longer, indulgent mega-moons, spanning seven–15 days. Adding to this trend are baby-moons, a pre-baby escapade to celebrate impending parenthood, and milestone anniversary trips, with silver and golden anniversaries taking centre-stage. A recent report by Thomas Cook and SOTC highlights dramatic shifts in honeymoon travel trends among Indian couples, influenced by dynamic preferences and increasing spending power.

Top honeymoon destinations
The allure of picturesque destinations remains strong, The Andamans and Kerala dominate domestic preferences, followed by Manali, Kashmir, Goa and the North East. Iconic heritage locations like Rajasthan and Uttarakhand are also in demand. For international escapes, Bali, Maldives and Thailand lead the pack. These destinations offer a mix of relaxation, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.

Classic European destinations such as Switzerland, France and Greece maintain their charm. Australia, New Zealand, Türkiye and Mauritius also feature prominently. Meanwhile, unconventional destinations like Vietnam, Fiji, Azerbaijan and Oman have started gaining traction among adventurous couples.

Beyond the ordinary
Today's honeymooners seek more than romantic seclusion – they crave unique and memorable experiences. From mangrove kayaking in Abu Dhabi to white-water rafting in New Zealand, couples are embracing thrilling activities. Paragliding in Bir Billing, jeep safaris in Jaisalmer and sledding in Switzerland are other popular choices.

Exclusive accommodations elevate honeymoon experience. Options now include underwater villas in the Maldives, treehouses in Malaysia and glamping in Himachal Pradesh. Couples also enjoy private pool villas in Bali and luxury chalets in France.

Food plays a pivotal role in travel, with private island dinners in the Maldives and chocolate-tasting tours in Switzerland standing out. Other highlights include champagne breakfasts in Cappadocia and gourmet bus dining in Paris.

Honeymooners revel in scenic journeys, such as train rides in Switzerland’s Glacier Express or private helicopter tours in Australia. Activities like Vespa rides in Singapore and sports car drives in New Zealand add a luxurious touch.

Budget and spending 
As per the report, Indian couples are spending 10–15 per cent more on their honeymoons annually. Average budgets have risen significantly:

• Domestic trips: Rs 1–1.5 lakh for 5–6 nights (previously Rs 80,000–1 lakh).

• Short-haul international: Rs 1–2 lakh for 5–8 nights (up from Rs 95,000–Rs 1.5 lakh).

• Long-haul international: Rs 4–5 lakh for 8–15 nights (up from Rs 3–4 lakh).

• Couples are extending their honeymoons, with trips lasting 5–6 nights domestically, 5–8 nights for short-haul international destinations, and up to 15 nights for long-haul destinations.

• Personalised services

• Couples increasingly value personalised experiences. These include:

• Private fine dining with sunrise breakfasts or sunset dinners.

• Couple-focussed wellness therapies such as Ayurveda spa treatments.

• Custom-guided tours and heritage walks.

• Professional photoshoots at iconic landmarks.

Honeymoon trends are no longer confined to urban hubs. Demand from smaller cities is rising as couples from Tier II and III cities embrace curated travel experiences. This shift underscores the growing affluence and awareness in regional India.

Sustainability and authenticity
Eco-conscious travel is gaining momentum too, with couples prioritising destinations that offer sustainable practices. Local community engagement and authentic cultural experiences are also key. In addition to honeymoons, anniversaries are becoming a significant travel driver. Popular options include vineyard stays in France, luxury cruises through the Mediterranean or Caribbean, and polar expeditions.

The future 
With India’s affluent middle class expanding and destination preferences diversifying, the honeymoon market is poised for growth. Vietnam, Fiji, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Oman, Hungary, Czech Republic are some destinations that people are looking eager to explore for their best honeymoon period. Companies like Thomas Cook and SOTC are responding with innovative packages, from culinary masterclasses in Thailand to private wildlife safaris in Africa.

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, says, “Honeymoons have emerged as a strong and growing travel driver and what is noteworthy is the growing trend – an extension to mini-moons, mega-moons, baby-moons and milestone anniversary celebrations. What is also interesting is that Indian couples are demonstrating higher spend appetite and interest in longer stays. Hence, our Honeymoon & Romantic Holidays portfolio has been launched with a host of stunning locales, exciting experiences and great offers.”

With evolving preferences, increased spending, and a focus on personalization, Indian couples are redefining romance. As industry players adapt to these trends, the future of honeymoon travel promises to be as exciting and diverse as the couples it serves. Puts in SD Nandakumar - President and Country Head - Holidays and Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel Limited, “To inspire India’s rapidly evolving couple segment, our honeymoon products have been carefully curated to include fun outdoor-adventure elements, unique cuisine experiences and personalised services. What is encouraging is that we are seeing strong demand not just from metros but also Tier II and III cities.”