As Indian travellers seek destinations that offer authenticity, natural charm, and unforgettable experiences, Taiwan Tourism proudly introduces Penghu – an island paradise that remains one of Asia’s most enchanting secrets. Located in the azure waters of the Taiwan Strait, Penghu is a captivating cluster of 90 islands and islets that weave together centuries-old culture, stunning geological formations, and vibrant marine life. With its white-sand beaches, basalt cliffs, historic temples, and wind-carved landscapes, Penghu is a picturesque blend of tranquility and thrill – offering something for every traveller. Paul Shih, Director, TTA Singapore Office said, “Penghu is where stories of wind and waves come alive. It’s a destination that balances peace with pulse – ideal for Indian tourists looking to move beyond the usual and explore the exceptional.” When:  May 05, 2025~Jul 29, 2025 Where: Guanyinting Recreation Area, No. 7, Jieshou Rd, Magong City, Penghu County, Taiwan 880 Why: To celebrate culture, connection, and the global spirit of travel through breathtaking firework displays, oceanfront festivities, and immersive island experiences. Highlights of Penghu – A Destination That Surprises: Island Hopping by Sea: Glide across crystal waters to explore fishing villages, coral islets, and dramatic coastlines. Basalt Landscapes: Marvel at natural basalt columns, a rare volcanic phenomenon, and geological treasure. Penghu Fireworks Festival: A summertime spectacle that lights up the night sky – a perfect backdrop for romantic escapes or family travel. Wind Lion Gods & Cultural Trails: Dive into local folklore with centuries-old sculptures, Taoist temples, and unique rituals. Fresh Seafood & Night Markets: Relish Penghu’s culinary culture with delicacies like cactus ice cream, flying fish roe sushi, and oyster noodles. With growing awareness of Taiwan’s emerging destinations, the Taiwan Tourism Administration …

Enhanced Religious, Cultural, and Nature-Based Tourism Set to Drive Regional Economy; MP Tourism Board Begins Affordable Flight Operations In a major boost to Madhya Pradesh’s aviation and tourism infrastructure, the newly constructed Satna Airport was inaugurated today by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi via virtual mode from Bhopal. Marking a new chapter in regional connectivity, the ‘PM Shri Paryatan Vayu Seva’, operated by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, was also launched on this occasion, with its first symbolic flight flagged off from Satna. As part of the inaugural ceremony, a special ‘Joy Ride’ was conducted for selected women passengers. Regular commercial operations of the service will commence from June 1, paving the way for enhanced tourism and economic opportunities across the Vindhya region. The inauguration of Satna Airport is poised to significantly bolster regional air connectivity and open new avenues for religious, cultural, and natural tourism across the Vindhya region. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav were present at the inauguration ceremony. Strategic Vision to Strengthen Regional Tourism and Development Minister of State for Culture, Tourism, Religious Trusts and Endowments (Independent Charge), Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, stated: “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the state has witnessed a strengthening of core tourism infrastructure. The inauguration of Satna Airport is a major achievement in this direction. The PM Shri Tourism Air Service will connect our key spiritual and cultural heritage sites—such as Chitrakoot, Maihar, and Khajuraho—to the rest of the country and the world. This initiative will not only stimulate tourism but also unlock new opportunities for investment, employment, and regional development.” Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious …

A bilingual website offering a Hindi language option has been launched by ECKO Hotels & Resorts, marking a first for the Indian hospitality industry. In April 2025, the brand launched with 100 keys in Uttarakhand. In addition to being a symbolic act, this change embraces the national language and proudly promotes it as the preferred language for Indian visitors to the ECKO website. It also responds to the expanding domestic tourism trends in India. International tourists may choose the English version. ECKO Hotels and Resorts aims to provide Indian and international guests with an experience that is not only immersive but also deeply rooted in local culture and traditional Indian hospitality. With this vision, the brand is set to establish a new benchmark in the Indian tourism industry. Through the bilingual website ECKO has a vision of seamlessly fusing Indian tradition with global standards. The brand believes that India’s cultural diversity, ancient heritage, and rapidly emerging hospitality sector make it an ideal market. The company strives to incorporate local art, culture, cuisine, and service etiquette into each of its hotels, ensuring every guest enjoys a unique and emotionally enriching experience. Perkin Rocha, Founder & CEO – ECKO Hotels & Resorts said, “We are extremely excited to launch our bilingual website with focus on Hindi, our national language. It is an honour to be one of the first hotel chains in India to do so. We are proud of our rich cultural heritage and languages and our website is testimony to that.” ECKO Hotels and Resorts plans to add other widely spoken international languages such as French, German, Spanish, Chinese and Japanese to its website soon after.

I.P. Constructions Private Limited proudly announces the grand opening of Ramada by Wyndham Ghaziabad Vasundhara, a contemporary hotel located in the dynamic industrial hub of Ghaziabad. Designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers, the 160-room property is set to elevate the city’s hospitality offering with international standards of service and comfort. Speaking on the launch, Mr. Manish Kumar Bansal and Mr. Rajeev Agarwal, co-owners of I.P. Constructions Private Limited, shared their enthusiasm: “It is a proud and exciting moment for us to introduce the Ramada by Wyndham brand to Vasundhara. This project has been years in the making, and we are thrilled to welcome guests to an experience that reflects our commitment to excellence. Every element from design to service has been carefully curated to meet the needs of today’s discerning traveler,” said Rajeev Agarwal. Strategically located, the hotel offers convenient access to major commercial and leisure hubs in the region. Each of the 160 guest rooms is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities, elegant interiors, and technology to ensure a seamless stay for all visitors. Key features of the hotel include: A state-of-the-art fitness center Versatile meeting and conference spaces A multi-cuisine restaurant A sophisticated lounge area for relaxation The launch of Ramada by Wyndham Ghaziabad Vasundhara marks a significant milestone for the city’s hospitality sector, reinforcing its growth as a key destination for both domestic and international travelers. Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts said, “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Ramada by Wyndham to the city of Ghaziabad. Vasundhara is a thriving area, and we believe this hotel will bring immense value not only to our guests but also to the …

Tucked away in the quiet corners of Dindori district, between wildlife giants Kanha and Bandhavgarh, lies a place that literally takes you back 65 million years — to a time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth and tropical forests covered Central India. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Madhya Pradesh, the Ghughua Fossil National Park stands as a remarkable testament to Earth’s ancient botanical heritage. An Unearthed Treasure of 65 Million Years This exclusive fossil park is home to plant fossils that date back approximately 65 million years, spanning from the Upper Cretaceous to the early Tertiary period—a critical phase in Earth’s vegetational evolution. These fossils belong predominantly to dicotyledons and palm families, including rare species such as ancient Eucalyptus, indigenous to Australia, which offers compelling evidence of the legendary Gondwana Supercontinent that once connected the southern landmasses. The park’s collection comprises exquisitely preserved fossils of woody plants, climbers, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds. Notable among these are fossilized remnants of Date Palm, Jamun, Banana, Rudraksh, and Aonla, plants that narrate a vivid story of a dramatically different prehistoric climate in Central India—one that was far more humid and lush than today’s dry terrain. Historical Discovery and Scientific Significance The discovery of these invaluable fossils traces back to 1970, when Dr. Dharmendra Prasad, then Statistical Officer of Mandla district and honorary secretary of the District Archaeology Union, first identified these plant fossils. Collaborating with eminent paleobotanists such as Dr. M.B. Bande from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleobotany, Lucknow, and scientists from Jabalpur’s Science College, the fossils were scientifically analyzed and catalogued. This pioneering work elevated the region to the global fossil map, attracting scientists, researchers, students, and tourists alike. Recognizing the …

Moscow is pleased to announce the launch of its annual large-scale urban initiative, “Summer in Moscow”, starting from June 1, 2025. This three-month program will transform the capital into a vibrant center of cultural, charitable, and sporting events, inviting international visitors to experience the city’s rich heritage and dynamic atmosphere. From June through August, Moscow will host a diverse array of open-air activities, the majority of which are free and accessible to all. The initiative consolidates the city’s summer events into a large-scale program, showcasing Moscow as a premier destination for global travelers seeking cultural enrichment and memorable experiences. Picturesque boulevards will come alive featuring open-air theatrical performances, vibrant art installations, and interactive cultural workshops, creating festive hubs for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy pop-up markets with local crafts and live music stages showcasing Russian folk and contemporary artists, fostering a lively street festival atmosphere. The 2025 edition of “Summer in Moscow” presents an extensive lineup of festivals, including: • Moscow Estates Festival invites guests to step back in time with immersive programs hosted at more than 40 historic estates across the city. • Theatre Boulevard 2025 will transform Moscow into a citywide stage, with over 150 performances and 3,000 artists from Russia and abroad. Guests can not only watch world-class productions, but also take part in creative workshops, theatrical installations, and behind-the-scenes experiences. • Gardens and Flowers Festival will turn Moscow’s urban spaces into blooming landscapes filled with rare plants and vibrant floral art. This festival celebrates the harmony of beauty and ecology, offering stunning backdrops for summer strolls and photos. • The 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2025, an initiative globally promoted by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, is featured by Moscow Government …

Once again, Madhya Pradesh has made a mark on the global cinematic landscape. At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, the feature film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and shot in Madhya Pradesh, received widespread acclaim. The film premiered in the renowned “Un Certain Regard” section at Cannes and was the only Indian film to be featured in this prestigious category. The screening was met with a standing ovation lasting nine minutes, with international filmmakers, directors, artists, and audiences lauding the film. The film’s global standing was further elevated by the involvement of internationally acclaimed, Oscar-winning American filmmaker Martin Scorsese. This achievement not only highlights the creative potential of Madhya Pradesh but also reinforces the state’s reputation as a preferred global film-making destination. A major portion of Homebound was shot in 2024 in Bhopal and nearby areas, which offered a rich mix of natural, cultural, and urban landscapes. The international recognition of the film is a testament to the state’s film-friendly policies and the suitability of its diverse locations for cinematic storytelling. Notably, Homebound has been produced under the banner of Dharma Productions, marking their fifth film shot in Madhya Pradesh. The film is produced by Karan Johar and directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, whose earlier film Masaan also received critical acclaim. Homebound stars Ishan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles. The team expressed immense happiness over the appreciation received at Cannes. The Homebound team praised the smooth filming experience in Madhya Pradesh — from the easy availability of diverse locations to the support of local communities, the filmmakers regarded the state as an ideal shooting destination. Several team members expressed a strong desire to return for future projects. …

MRG Group, a diversified business conglomerate with interests across real estate, premium hospitality, and infrastructure, has announced the elevation of Mr. Narahari Rao to the role of Chief Executive Officer. This leadership transition underscores the Group’s strategic focus on integrated growth, operational excellence, and long-term value creation. Mr. Rao, who has served as the Group’s Chief Financial Officer, brings over two decades of deep expertise in financial strategy, business planning, and cross-functional leadership. At MRG, he has played a critical role in institutionalising financial systems, driving cost optimisation, strengthening governance frameworks, and aligning capital strategies with business priorities. With extensive experience in hospitality operations and real estate development, Mr. Rao is known for his ability to align financial strategy with business vision. He has successfully led initiatives across profitability enhancement, capital productivity, cash flow management. His insights and leadership have supported MRG’s growth ambitions in Hospitality & Real Estate business reinforcing financial discipline. Prior to joining MRG, Mr. Narahari Rao held senior finance roles across prominent organisations including Colliers Property Services, Synergy Property Development Services Pvt. Ltd, Potential Project Managers Pvt. Ltd., and Kotak Mahindra Prime Ltd. As CEO, Mr. Rao will lead MRG’s overall strategic direction, integrating goals across verticals and accelerating performance in its core sectors. Mr. Narahari Rao, on his elevation, said: “I am deeply honoured by this opportunity and thankful to the leadership at MRG for placing their trust in me. This is more than a role — it’s a responsibility to lead a legacy built on values, vision, and resilience. As we enter a new phase of growth, my focus will be on strengthening our core, unlocking new potential, and building a culture where performance …

Meliá Hotels International has launched the Atithi Program, a dedicated initiative designed to welcome Indian groups traveling to Europe with warmth, authenticity, and exceptional hospitality. With decades of global expertise in hosting world-class events and group stays, Meliá now introduces a specialized offering for Indian travelers, complete with culturally familiar touches, impeccable service, and the finest Indian cuisine. Whether for weddings, corporate offsites, or celebratory getaways, Meliá’s Atithi Program ensures every detail is thoughtfully taken care of. To support this initiative, Meliá presents a thoughtfully curated portfolio of hotels across key European destinations, all experienced in hosting Indian groups and events. Participating hotels include Meliá Vienna in Austria; Meliá Berlin and Meliá Frankfurt in Germany; Meliá Paris La Défense in France; and Meliá Milan in Italy. In Spain, the program spans multiple cities: in Barcelona, guests can choose from Meliá Barcelona Sarrià, Meliá Barcelona Sky, and INNSiDE Barcelona Apolo; in Madrid, the options include Meliá Castilla, Meliá Madrid Serrano, and Meliá Madrid Princesa; in Sevilla, Meliá Lebreros and Meliá Sevilla offer exceptional service; while in the Canary Islands, Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora in Tenerife provides a luxurious resort experience. Meliá Valencia also joins the list for groups heading to the eastern coast of Spain. In the United Kingdom, the centrally located Meliá White House in London offers the ideal setting for Indian groups visiting the UK. These properties offer state-of-the-art event facilities, central locations, and culturally sensitive hospitality, making them ideal for Indian group travel. A hallmark of the program is the Atithi Cuisine, a signature culinary offering of traditional Indian dishes such as Butter Chicken, Rogan Josh, Amritsari Fish, Paneer Kadai, Chole, Rajma, and more. The menu provides …

The hospitality industry stands at a critical crossroads, where two powerful forces, technology and sustainability, are reshaping every aspect of how we lead, operate, and innovate. At the heart of this transformation is a fundamental shift in leadership: tomorrow’s leaders must be agile, ethically grounded, and deeply literate in both digital fluency and sustainable strategy. Technology as a Driver of Human-Centric Innovation In recent years, digital transformation has redefined the guest journey. AI-powered personalization, data-driven decision-making, and seamless automation are no longer optional; they’re expected. From contactless check-ins to smart-room technology, innovation is improving efficiency while enhancing the guest experience. But the future is not just about convenience. It’s about connection. Virtual reality is being used to offer immersive previews of destinations, while blockchain is enabling secure, transparent loyalty systems. These advancements are only the beginning. What’s needed now is leadership that can strategically deploy these tools in a way that maintains the soul of hospitality: authentic, human-centered service. Sustainability as a Core Business Imperative Sustainability has moved from the sidelines to the strategic core of hospitality businesses. Guests, investors, and employees alike are demanding action on issues like climate impact, energy efficiency, food waste, and responsible sourcing. True sustainability is no longer about isolated green initiatives; it’s about rethinking business models entirely. This includes embracing circular design, decarbonizing operations, and embedding ESG metrics into performance evaluations. For instance, Accor had committed to eliminating single-use plastics by 2022 and reducing carbon emissions by 46% by 2030. Leaders of the future must have the courage to challenge the status quo and the knowledge to build organizations that balance profitability with purpose. Leadership for a Transformative Era As the hospitality industry undergoes …