And quite a few of these holidaymakers are first-time travellers, says Suganthi Thiyagarajan, Manager, Holiday Travels.
"There have been instances when people have got their passports made to take off to these locales," she adds.
If the first-timers are lured by the South East Asian countries, seasoned travellers are heading to Europe, primarily the United Kingdom and Switzerland.
"Those who are done with Europe are looking at an African experience with the safari and the wilds," says Satya.
Slashed air travel rates are why people are increasingly considering the flying option, say travel firms.
If a trip to Singapore earlier meant shelling out nearly Rs. 25,000, today it will cost around Rs. 15,000. A trip to Thailand, including accommodation, is possible at less than Rs. 15,000 per person.
Affordable accommodation is also a reason why the city's middle class is now exploring South East Asia.
"Bookings for these countries began as early as two months before the holidays," says Satya.
"What makes it possible for the layman to travel to these countries is that hotel fares are comparatively cheap there," says Tony.
"A three-day stay at a three-star hotel in Malaysia along with breakfast comes for 100-110 dollars," he adds.
The lure of international travel is proving to be irresistible for many as domestic travel is not too cheap either. Take for instance God's Own Country.
The Kerala factor
"Kerala with its backwaters is now the new paradise for travellers, especially the inbound ones," says Satya. But, a two-night stay at Kumarakkom can cost anywhere between Rs. 15,000 to 18,000, she adds.
"Even in cities like Bangalore and Delhi, good hotels work out to be expensive," says Tony.
Though there are the traditional holiday spots like Ooty and Kodaikanal and the newly emerging destinations like Vythiri in Wynad and Orange County in Coorg, it is Kerala that is turning out to be a big draw, especially for those willing to splurge.
But if Kerala is preferred for a short two-night stay, it is at the cost of your pocket.
Probably that is why people are willing to explore the option of travelling abroad.
"The tourism market has grown considerably over the years and enquiries have been much better than last year. Further, most of these enquiries have resulted in people undertaking these trips," says Tony.
So be it the cruise to Singapore or a trip to Thailand, all the special packages on offer are being grabbed.
"There is a great rush for the low fare tickets in airlines," says Suganthi. Travel firms also point out that with the regular advertisements about available packages, travellers are aware of what is on offer.
Friendly offers
"Travelling international has also become possible because of the `travel now, pay later' schemes offered by banks. As there are tie-ups between banks and airlines, you can pay up in monthly instalments," says Suganthi.
The travel rush is expected to go on till the end of May.
But for now, Singapore and Bangkok are shining bright on the tourism map of Coimbatoreans.
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