The PATA released two reports: 'India Outbound Tourism – A PATA Snapshot', and 'Total Tourism Russia'.

The 16-page India report details how quickly Indian outbound is growing, the destinations Indians prefer, the expected percentage growth rate in outbound travel over the next two years, and the reasons behind the boom.

The 150-page Russia report looks at the total Russian travel scene – inbound, outbound and domestic travel. Russia's outbound travel sector is much larger than its inbound, and is driving air traffic expansion. Many more direct links to Asia are planned. Outbound expenditure by Russians is about US$1 billion more than the country's inbound tourism receipts.

Within Russia there is increased recognition of tourism's economic importance, but not among those wielding real power. Investor confidence has subsequently fallen, despite the potential.

Russian travellers say they want to broaden their Asian experience, but most still book sun, sea and sand holidays. The report shows that Russians are prodigious spenders – especially at retail outlets. Some 97% of Russians shop at airports when they travel.

A similar passion for overseas destinations, shopping and high per capita expenditure is also a characteristic of the Indian traveller. Seven million Indians travel abroad each year, with the total growing at 10.5% per year since 2001.

PATA's report shows that Singapore, Thailand and China receive the most Indians but Sri Lanka is the fastest growing, averaging 35% annual growth since 2000.

"Persistent strong economic growth, new airports in urban heartlands and air liberalisation will continue to drive the Indian outbound boom," said PATA Director-Strategic Intelligence Centre, Mr John Koldowski. "India's middle class is growing by 30 million each year. With disposable incomes also rising, many are making overseas travel a routine part of their modern lifestyle."

PATA launches both reports at the world's largest travel show, ITB.

 A PDF executive summary of the Russia report is available to media upon request. Contact: communications@PATA.org.