HYDERABAD: With just 18 days left until the FIFA World Cup 2022, football fans from Hyderabad are flying to the energy-rich Qatar to watch the world cup which is set to kick off on November 20.
Travel agencies have seen a significant increase in inquiries for tickets and vacation packages to Qatar and even neighbouring countries during the World Cup from November 20 to December 18. "Typically, no one opts for packages to Qatar. However, we have received numerous inquiries for Qatar in the last three months and have some confirmed bookings,” said a Thomas Cook representative.
Fans want to take full advantage of the world cup being played in a small, relatively nearby country, especially since the next one will be in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Most fans are hoping to watch matches of Argentina or Portugal as their favourite soccer stars Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) will likely play in their final World Cup.
Travelers are also extending the trip to nearby countries such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. According to a representative from 'SOTC For Holidays', they have experienced high booking demand since the end of August. According to the representative, flights and hotel prices have increased to these destinations as a result.
As early as April, Arjun Mondody, an insurance professional, bought tickets for four matches. A ticket package he booked included tickets for four matches in four days at four different stadiums, but the choice of matches would be random.
“From November 21 to 24, I'll be watching a match every day. All four matches feature a major team - Netherlands, France, Germany, and Brazil. In addition to supporting England, I also hoped to watch either Argentina or Portugal's matches so as to watch Messi or Ronaldo play,” he said.
