If you work in tourism long enough, you realise that it’s not just about destinations, products or nett rates, it’s about people. And for me, nowhere captures that truth quite like Incredible India.
For more than twenty years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside India’s travel trade; inbound operators, wholesalers, agents and destination specialists who have become much more than colleagues. They’re friends. In fact, India has shaped not only my understanding of tourism but also my outlook on connection, culture and what it means to build genuine partnerships.
My first visit to India was nearly 10 years ago and since then I’ve returned more times than I can count for trade missions, sales visits and industry roadshows. But the moments that stand out most aren’t just the conferences or presentations; they’re the conversations over a cup of chai in a Mumbai office, the laughter shared with a dear travel agent and now friend over dinner, or meeting someone’s much-loved dog after a long day of travel.
In India, business is never rushed. It’s relational, built on trust and time. Catching up for “a bit to eat” in Mumbai is not a meeting, it’s an occasion. Sitting across from partners in their offices, sipping chai and discussing how to grow visitation to Australia, you can feel how much personal connection drives professional success. These shared moments are where ideas form, friendships strengthen and loyalty is built.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the most dedicated inbound operators and trade partners in the industry. Together we’ve designed experiences that resonate with Indian travellers, from family adventures and MICE itineraries to premium FIT travel, ensuring that each product feels authentic, warm and welcoming. It’s been a joy to watch travellers from India discover Australia’s beauty and culture and to see those numbers grow through the strength of enduring partnerships.
What I love most is that these relationships go far beyond business. When I visit India, I’m welcomed not just as a colleague but as a friend. I feel their philosophy of “Guest Is God” at every touch point of my trip. I’ve attended weddings, shared meals with families and celebrated milestones with trade partners who have become an integral part of my professional and personal life. There’s an ease, an energy and a sense of belonging that makes every trip feel like coming home even when it’s 40 degrees and the traffic is at a standstill.
After two decades, I’m proud to say my passion for India is stronger than ever. It’s a market that continues to evolve, dynamic, ambitious, tech-savvy and full of opportunity. It’s also a market that rewards patience, understanding and genuine relationship-building, the kind of trade engagement that’s about people first, paperwork and contracts second.
So here’s to my friends and colleagues across India, the inbound operators, wholesalers and agents who are such avid supporters of Australia. Thank you for your trust, your partnership and your endless hospitality.
And to all my Indian cricket-loving friends, thank you for letting me gloat just a little when Australia wins and for graciously reminding me when you take the trophy back.
After twenty years, I’m still bowled over by India, its warmth, its spirit and its people.
