Travel Emerges as the Ultimate Romantic Expression in India, Surpassing Traditional Gifts
While a sculpted physique might capture attention, research now confirms that a thoughtfully booked holiday has become the most powerful gesture of romance in contemporary India. According to a comprehensive new study by global travel platform Booking.com, surprise getaways are rapidly replacing grand dinners and expensive presents as the preferred way to express love, especially as Valentine's Day approaches.
Planning and Booking: The New Language of Love
The findings reveal a significant cultural shift in romantic expectations. An overwhelming 86% of Indian travelers surveyed stated they find it highly attractive when a partner takes the initiative to plan and book an entire trip. This sentiment is particularly strong among women, with 76% believing men should typically take charge of holiday planning. However, a notable 8% of women admitted they have never experienced a partner fully organizing a romantic escape, highlighting an opportunity for change.
This year, the desire for proactive planning is even more pronounced, with 91% of women expressing a wish for their partners to show greater initiative, starting with crafting the travel itinerary. The research underscores that thoughtfulness in creating experiences now carries more weight than physical appearance in romantic relationships.
Meaningful Experiences Trump Physical Appearance
The data presents a clear preference for emotional connection over aesthetics. Approximately 92% of women find it appealing when a partner handles all travel planning and booking details. Furthermore, 82% would prefer a partner who creates meaningful, shared experiences over someone with merely a good physique.
The emotional payoff of such gestures is substantial. When a partner takes care of travel arrangements, 74% of respondents report feeling loved, 72% feel excited, and 51% experience gratitude. The impact is so profound that 99% of those surveyed indicated they would likely show extra affection if surprised with a pre-booked holiday.
Overcoming Barriers to Romantic Travel Planning
Despite the strong desire for planned getaways, barriers to execution persist. Common challenges include not knowing where to begin the planning process and anxiety about getting details wrong, which can deter potential planners from taking the leap.
Expert Insight: Travel as an Act of Love
Santosh Kumar, Regional Manager for South Asia at Booking.com, commented on the findings: "Our research demonstrates that planning a vacation has evolved into a genuine act of love and intention, transcending mere logistical arrangements. As Valentine's Day approaches, we observe a growing appetite for seamless, surprise-led travel experiences."
Kumar added, "At Booking.com, our 'Connected Trip' vision addresses this need by simplifying the planning process. We integrate accommodations, flights, local attractions, and car rentals into a cohesive platform, empowering partners to plan thoughtful, end-to-end journeys that authentically reflect care, confidence, and romance."
The study signals a transformative moment in how Indians perceive and practice romance, positioning travel not just as leisure but as a profound medium for emotional connection and relationship building.
