Switzerland eyes double-digit rise in Indians' overnight stays

Expecting a significant rise in tourist inflow from India, Switzerland is looking at a double digit growth in hotel overnight stays by Indian visitors in 2017 and is launching a slew of initiatives to promote the country as a year-round destination.
In 2016, Switzerland expects a total of around 6.46 lakh hotel overnights from Indian visitors excluding those who stay in apartments.
"We are looking at a double-digit growth in 2017 from India. India is now the eighth largest source market for Switzerland," Switzerland Tourism Director India Claudio Zemp told PTI.
The top three foreign source markets for the country are Germany, UK and the US, he added.

On the initiatives that Switzerland Tourism is taking, Zemp said: "We are highlighting that Switzerland is a year- round destination rather than only a summer destination."
Terming India a strategic growth market, he said the focus is also to position Switzerland as 'the country' for individual travellers.

"We are doing a few campaigns here. The focus is to tell people to experience Switzerland. There are so many outdoor activities which can be done there such as skiing, bungee jumping and many more," Zemp said.
Switzerland Tourism has launched of its winter campaign for 2016 and 'Nature wants you back' campaign for summer of 2017.

The winter campaign will focus on action and adventure that can be explored in Switzerland, with the tag line 'You can... But you don't have to'.
On being asked about the average stay of Indians, Zemp said: "The average stay for Indian visitors is 4 to 5 nights."
Leisure is still the largest segment for Indian visitors constituting around 80 per cent of the total, he added.
"Apart from the picturesque natural beauty, Switzerland is also a complete package for families and honeymooners who are not only looking at a relaxing vacation but also crave some adventure," Switzerland Tourism India Deputy Director Ritu Sharma said.

Switzerland Tourism is a federal public corporation. Its mission is to promote Switzerland as a holiday, travel and conference destination both at home and abroad.