Ahmedabad: Those wanting to escape the mundane or get away from the city’s hustle have a long weekend around Independence Day coming up to make their dream come true. With Aug 15 being a Thursday, an adjusted leave from work on Friday clubbed with the weekend and Rakshabandhan on Monday, will give people five days of holidays . Luxury villas in destinations nearby are a hit this time, particularly among groups of families and couples holidaying together.
Private villas with four or five bedrooms cost between Rs 30,000 and Rs 2 lakh for a two-night stay, and travel agents say that this turns out to be cost-effective for larger groups travelling together. Ankit Bajaj, who owns a travel company in Ahmedabad said, “Overall, the sentiment is upbeat. With air fares skyrocketing, many are choosing to drive down to nearby destinations and spend the money on their stay and experience instead.
Basic to luxury villas with five to six bedrooms with breakfast, private pool and other amenities included are high in demand in locations such as Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh and Goa.” A high number of holidayers are choosing domestic destinations over international trips. “Barely 5-7% of the travellers are taking international trips,” Bajaj added.
“A majority of holidayers are families or groups of couples. Aware of the air fare hike during the period, people have booked their holidays well in advance. Those with last-minute plans are feeling the pinch and are facing dilemmas.
Even hotels a.