William E. Heinecke, founder and chairperson of Minor International, stated that India stands to gain from shifts in global travel patterns, particularly as tourists reconsider traditional routes. The Thailand-based company, known for its hotel brands like Anantara and Avani, aims to capitalize on this trend by focusing on city hotels and experiential resorts. Heinecke noted that Minor plans to open 50 hotels in India over the next decade, emphasizing quality experiences over rapid expansion. The company recently announced plans to sign an Anantara hotel at the World Trade Centre in Kolkata, which will feature 170 rooms and is expected to be completed by 2032. Despite rising airfares of 15-20% year-on-year, domestic travel demand in India remains strong, with travelers exploring previously unvisited regions. Minor's asset-light strategy, primarily through management contracts, allows the company to maintain high standards across its properties. Heinecke expressed confidence in the resilience of the hospitality industry, noting that travel demand is robust and evolving, particularly towards unique experiences.