New Delhi:
The recent implementation of new Schengen Visa regulations has catalyzed a notable shift in travel patterns, especially among senior citizens heading to Europe.
According to a survey conducted by insurance broker Policybazaar.com, the influx of older travelers bound for Europe has skyrocketed by a staggering 100%.
Let’s delve into the evolving landscape of travel and insurance trends in light of these visa changes.
Increased Senior Citizen Travel:
The data gleaned from the Policybazaar.com survey unveils a remarkable doubling of Europe-bound senior citizens compared to the previous year’s statistics.
This surge reflects the newfound accessibility and appeal of European destinations for older demographics under the revised visa regime.
Shifts in Travel Insurance Preferences:
Accompanying the surge in travel,
there has been a notable uptick of 3-4% in travelers securing travel insurance policies, as highlighted by the survey.
Particularly, there has been a heightened interest in coverage for baggage loss, trip cancellations, adventure sports, and pre-existing medical conditions.
This shift underscores travelers’ proactive approach to mitigating risks associated with international journeys.
Long-Term Travel Insurance Trends:
A noteworthy trend observed post-implementation of the new visa rules is the surge in long-term travel insurance bookings.
In April 2024 alone, there has been a 3-4% increase in users opting for travel insurance policies exceeding 45 days.
This trend is anticipated to gain further momentum with the relaxation of visa norms,
facilitating extended stays for Indian tourists in Europe.
Popular European Destinations and Health Declarations:
The survey also sheds light on the favored European destinations among Indian travelers, with France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, and Spain topping the list.
Additionally, there has been a 15% rise in travelers declaring pre-existing medical conditions such as Diabetes and Hypertension, reflecting a heightened awareness of health management during overseas travel.
Visa Regime Overhaul:
Under the revamped Schengen visa regime, Indian travelers are granted visas valid for two years, a significant departure from the previous three-month maximum validity.
This extension enables multiple entries to any of the 29 European countries, with the potential for further extension by five years.
Such liberalized visa provisions empower Indian tourists with enhanced flexibility and prolonged visa-free stays across Europe.
