Oz welcomes 2,30,000 Indian tourists

It's the 'Down Under' calling. More and more Indians are opting for Australia as their favoured travel destination. In 2015, the number of Indian visitors travelling to Australia has hit an all-time high, with almost 2,30,000 arrivals between January and September – about 20 per cent increase from the figures of the same period last year, a statement released by the Australian High Commission here said. According to Australian High Commissioner to India, Patrick Suckling, the strong people-to-people connection between the two countries had boosted the number of Indians holidaying in Australia. “Indians are visiting friends and family in Australia. They also explore the beautiful beaches, unique wildlife and iconic landmarks, such as the Great Barrier Reef, in the country,” Suckling said. Australian food is another great attraction for Indians, perhaps an effect of the popular television show - Master Chef Australia. “We’re pleased that the show offers a unique platform to showcase Australia’s incredible, diverse cuisine. So that may be the 'Master Chef' effect,” Suckling added. So far, Indian tourists have contributed about AU$1 billion to the country's economy in the last financial year, the statement mentioned. Currently Indians make for the eighth-largest market for visitors to Australia. The number of Indian tourists has been growing steadily over the past decade --- from 55,600 in 2004 to 1,97,000 in 2014. http://www.thestatesman.com/news/world/oz-welcomes-2-30-000-indian-tourists/111158.html