In a strategic move to capture growing demand for international travel, Thomas Cook India and its group company SOTC Travel have expanded their range of holiday packages to China, signaling renewed confidence in the country’s tourism potential. The expansion includes curated itineraries covering key destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Chengdu, aimed at both leisure and experiential travelers. This move comes as travel interest in East Asia rises sharply following the reopening of borders and the easing of visa procedures. The companies aim to position China as a premier destination for Indian tourists seeking culture, history, and modern luxury.
Thomas Cook and SOTC Strengthen Asia-Pacific Portfolio
Leading travel firms Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. and SOTC Travel have announced the expansion of their China travel offerings, underscoring the resurgence of outbound tourism to East Asia. With the reopening of international travel routes and improved flight connectivity, China has re-emerged as a preferred long-haul destination for Indian travelers.
The companies’ enhanced portfolio features customized packages designed to appeal to diverse customer segments, including families, solo travelers, and luxury holidaymakers. These itineraries offer immersive experiences — from exploring the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing to enjoying the futuristic skyline of Shanghai and the Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an.
Officials from both companies noted that India’s post-pandemic travel market has shown strong interest in culturally rich, safe, and well-connected destinations, making China a natural fit in their expanding Asia-Pacific lineup.
Reigniting Interest in Chinese Tourism
After years of subdued activity in the tourism sector, China’s reopening has provided a significant opportunity for travel operators to reintroduce the destination to global travelers. According to industry experts, there has been a steady increase in outbound bookings to East Asian markets, with China now gaining momentum among Indian tourists seeking unique cultural and culinary experiences.
Thomas Cook and SOTC are banking on this revival by offering experiential travel packages that go beyond conventional sightseeing. Their offerings include culinary tours, high-speed rail experiences, panda conservation visits in Chengdu, and technology-focused city tours in Shenzhen.
The companies’ efforts aim not only to promote China as a travel hotspot but also to educate travelers about its evolving infrastructure, safety standards, and tourist-friendly policies.
Meeting Demand with Curated and Flexible Packages
Recognizing the changing preferences of Indian travelers, Thomas Cook and SOTC have introduced a modular holiday design that combines flexibility with affordability. Customers can now select from group tours, private family trips, or bespoke itineraries, each tailored to individual budgets and travel styles.
Additionally, both firms have integrated digital booking platforms that simplify trip planning, allowing travelers to customize itineraries, book flights, and manage accommodation through a single interface. These enhancements are intended to make international travel more accessible and streamlined, aligning with the growing adoption of digital tools in the travel and hospitality sector.
Executives also emphasized that early-booking discounts, transparent pricing, and bilingual guides are part of their commitment to providing value-driven experiences without compromising on quality.
Expanding Beyond Leisure: Business and MICE Travel
Apart from leisure travelers, Thomas Cook and SOTC are also targeting the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment, capitalizing on China’s position as a major hub for global trade and technology. With cities like Shanghai and Guangzhou serving as economic powerhouses, the companies aim to attract corporate clients seeking premium event management and travel coordination services.
Industry analysts note that the inclusion of China in the companies’ MICE portfolio represents a strategic alignment with India’s growing cross-border business engagement in manufacturing, technology, and exports. This diversification is expected to strengthen the companies’ revenue streams while expanding their international footprint.
Industry Perspective and Market Outlook
The travel and tourism sector in India is experiencing a strong rebound, with international bookings surpassing pre-pandemic levels in several markets. Industry data suggests that destinations offering visa-on-arrival or simplified entry procedures are seeing the fastest recovery, and China’s re-entry into this ecosystem adds momentum to that trend.
Travel analysts believe that Thomas Cook and SOTC’s proactive approach to reintroducing China will position them advantageously against competitors. Their integrated approach combining affordability, authenticity, and convenience caters perfectly to the evolving expectations of Indian consumers, especially millennials and young professionals seeking experiential travel.
In addition, the companies are focusing on sustainability initiatives, ensuring responsible travel practices and partnerships with eco-conscious local operators, aligning with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards.
Conclusion
The expansion of China holiday offerings by Thomas Cook and SOTC underscores a broader shift in India’s travel landscape — one driven by curiosity, cultural exchange, and economic optimism. As international travel demand strengthens, these companies are positioning themselves at the forefront of Asia-focused tourism by offering diverse, immersive, and accessible travel experiences.
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