Tuesday, August 6, 2024 The opportunity to have dinner with Neeraj Chopra or witness the Indian hockey team live in action is motivating many Indian travelers to head to Paris. Although the City of Lights has always captivated tourists, the Summer Olympic Games have added an extra allure. However, France is not solely banking on the 2024 Olympics to attract Indian travelers.
The country is also making efforts to facilitate their visits, such as enabling easy payments through the widely-used UPI system. Additionally, recognizing India’s affinity for lavish weddings, France is tapping into the lucrative destination wedding market. While the Olympic Games might not be a major attraction for a country where cricket dominates the sports scene, the Indian turnout for the Paris Olympics is still noteworthy.
Despite this, India ranks 30th in terms of ticket sales for the 2024 Games. The leading markets for Paris Olympic ticket holders are the US, UK, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, Ireland, and Australia. Munshaw anticipates that the 2024 Olympics will have a lasting positive impact on tourism in France.
Easy payments Recently, Jio Financial Services unveiled its JioFinance app in Paris, capitalizing on the city’s current status as a global hub for sports enthusiasts. To simplify digital transactions for Indian travelers, JioFinance will facilitate international payments, including the purchase of tickets to the Eiffel Tower through its official website, La Tour Eiffel. Indian tourists are increasingly choosing France as a destination for their weddings, drawn by the country’s picturesque landscapes, historic châteaux, and romantic settings.
Popular locations include the French Riviera, Provence, and Paris. French wedding planners and venues are now catering to the unique needs of Indian weddings, offering services like traditional Indian cuisine, elaborate décor, and multi-day ceremonies. The trend reflects India’s growing affinity for lavish destination weddings, blending cultural traditions with the elegance of French venues.
France is making targeted efforts to attract Indian tourists by offering tailored experiences. These include simplifying visa processes, promoting Bollywood-themed tours, and providing luxurious venues for destination weddings. French restaurants are also introducing Indian cuisine and vegetarian options to cater to dietary preferences.
Additionally, France is enhancing shopping experiences with luxury brands and tax-free options, while supporting digital payments like UPI for convenience. By aligning with Indian cultural preferences and needs, France aims to become a preferred destination for Indian travelers..
