How Culinary Experiences Transform Holiday Homes for Indian Travellers, ETTravelWorld

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Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel platforms, has unveiled new research titled ‘Taste of Home’, which reveals that for Indian travellers, food is no longer just a side note to travel, but has become the key element in shaping their trips. The results show that travelers nationwide are choosing vacation homes for their unique ability to blend comfort, flexibility, and local flavor — a combination that allows them to cook, share, and connect in more meaningful ways.

According to the research, 97% of Indian travelers say their eating and cooking habits change while on vacation. Many prefer to visit local markets, with 84% of them exploring nearby stalls and stores to buy fresh ingredients. Others use travel as an opportunity to try regional recipes or put a modern spin on traditional dishes, creating a space where family food culture meets global curiosity. The growing preference for vacation homes is linked to this desire for customization and control. Travelers cite privacy, the freedom to eat whenever they want, and the ability to cook their own meals as main reasons for choosing these accommodations.

Food also affects where travelers go. The study reveals that 88% of Indians choose destinations based on their culinary appeal, while 82% admit that food is a major factor when planning their next holiday. For many, exploring a city’s cuisine isn’t just about eating out — it’s about discovering new flavors, connecting with locals, and finding comfort through familiar tastes in unfamiliar places.

“Food is fast becoming the new language of communication,” said Laura Holdsworth, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Booking.com. “Our research shows that Indian travelers are turning to holiday homes not just for comfort but also to explore local flavours, experience cooking and connect over shared meals. Culinary experiences are now a key factor in travel decisions, transforming holiday homes into dynamic spaces for exploration and connection.”

The research points to a cultural shift in the kitchen as younger generations take the lead in cooking while travelling. Unlike previous patterns where families relied on mothers or older relatives, today’s Millennials and Generation X travelers enjoy preparing meals themselves. Many even approach cooking as a social activity, bringing together friends and family to share recipes, stories and time together. This evolution reflects how the kitchen has become a focal point for storytelling and creativity, even when away from home.

Another interesting trend that emerged from the study is the rise of what Booking.com calls “van tourism.” Travelers are increasingly exploring local supermarkets, farmers markets and artisan shops as part of their travel itinerary, seeking to take home authentic ingredients or simply enjoy the local rhythm of food culture. For Indian travellers, visiting markets has become a useful way to connect with communities and support local producers while deepening their understanding of regional cuisine.

The research also reveals the emotional connection that Indian travelers feel towards food from home. Almost all participants – 95 percent – admitted to carrying familiar food or cooking utensils with them. Whether it’s snacks, pickles, condiments or sauces, these small conveniences help travelers maintain a sense of belonging wherever they go. Some even travel with kitchen essentials like kettles or pressure cookers, ensuring they can prepare home-cooked dishes even in remote destinations.

Booking.com insights suggest that holiday homes are now more than just a place to stay. They are evolving into culinary playgrounds where travelers can express their creativity, celebrate relationships and embrace cultural discoveries through food. These spaces have become ideal for gatherings, celebrations and wellness breaks, providing emotional satisfaction and food satisfaction.

With more than 8.4 million vacation homes out of 31 million listings worldwide, Booking.com is uniquely positioned to monitor this shift in travel behavior. Such insights help property owners better understand what modern travelers value and how to improve their offerings, Holdsworth noted. As she asserts, “Food has become an essential part of the travel story – it brings people together, connects cultures, and makes every stay memorable.”

As travel continues to evolve, the Indian traveler’s journey is increasingly guided by taste. The kitchen has emerged as a new hub of exploration – a space where comfort meets culture and where every meal tells a story. For India’s growing community of food-loving explorers, holiday homes are not just a place to stay, but a way to sample the world while carrying a piece of home along the way.

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