India travel trend watch: on the cusp of convenience

Travel in India is changing. With more air service to and within India, it’s becoming easier to get there and get around in-country. Plans for an influx of budget chain motels means that travel within the country may become more convenient, but also more homogenized. And, more booking choices online will simplify trip planning further.

Airlines are making it so India is easier to get to than ever before. In the last year, British Airways has increased service to India. British Midland Airways (bmi) is also increasing its flights between the UK and India. And airlines in the U.S. are getting in on the trend as well; according to a Chicago Tribune article about domestic airlines increasing their international service, airlines are moving in to serve high-growth countries such as India and China. There’s also talk of increased service by budget airlines within India.

Two recent developments suggest that accommodations in India are looking to become more convenient, as well as more accessible to online bookers. The international lodging giant Accor is competing with India’s biggest hotel company to build budget hotels at train stations across India. This will mean more predictable choices for travelers. And, a possible Travelocity India site that may debut later this year would mean that more hotels across the country will be available online.

All of this infrastructure building means that travel is set to become more convenient. For those who have always been intimidated by visiting India, this is good news. But, travelers who would prefer to keep the country off the tourist radar might want to consider going sooner rather than later.

India is also one of SmarterTravel.com’s picks for up-and-coming adventure travel destinations.