Strengthening India x Vietnam connectivity with direct flights from South India Vietnam Airlines, the flag carrier of Vietnam, announced the launch of direct flights from Bengaluru and Hyderabad to Hanoi, further expanding its footprint in the rapidly growing Indian market. Starting May 2025, the airline will operate four weekly flights from Bengaluru (BLR) and three weekly flights from Hyderabad (HYD) to Hanoi, using its modern Airbus A321 aircraft. With the addition of Bengaluru and Hyderabad, Vietnam Airlines will now operate from four major Indian cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, further solidifying its presence in the region. Passengers traveling on the new routes can expect a premium flying experience onboard the Airbus A321, featuring comfortable seating, modern cabin interiors, curated Indian meal options, and Vietnam Airlines’ renowned hospitality. These flights will also provide seamless connectivity from India to popular destinations across Japan, Korea, China, Australia, and ASEAN countries, making travel more convenient for Indian passengers. Nguyen Trung Hieu, Country Manager India, Vietnam Airlines, expressed his excitement about the expansion, stating, “India is an extremely important market for Vietnam Airlines and South India has witnessed a surge in demand for travel to Vietnam. We are excited to cater to this growing segment with the launch of direct flights from Bengaluru and Hyderabad. We are reinforcing our commitment to providing world-class service and seamless connectivity for passengers from all parts of India.” This strategic expansion marks a major milestone in strengthening air connectivity between India and Vietnam, offering seamless access to one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic travel destinations. It also reinforces Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to serving the increasing demand for business and leisure travel between the two countries. Adding to this, Abhishek …

LOT Polish Airlines Team announced their Published Promo Fares from India, bringing you great opportunities to explore a variety of attractive destinations at unbeatable prices for your customers.   Promo details: Sales Period: 03.25 to 31.03.25 Travel Period: 01.05.25 to 22.07.25 Applicable routes: India to Poland, Western Europe, Central and Eastern Europe Type of travel: Round trip Service Classes: LOT Business Class, LOT Premium Economy Class and LOT Economy Class Bookable via: GDS and NDC Promo offer (including taxes and fees) in INR from Delhi and Mumbai to: Poland from ₹44,200 Iceland from ₹54,069 (latest network addition effective 12.04.25) London from ₹45,800 Milan from ₹45,900 Oslo from ₹46,500 Amsterdam from ₹48,000 Prague from ₹48,400 Geneva from ₹48,700 Malta from ₹53,625 (latest network addition effective 16.04.25)  

A delegation from the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), led by M Vinod (President, AATO) along with K Hamza, Vivek, Sajid, and Saikat Biswas, met Lieutenant Governor Admiral DK Joshi (Retd.) to discuss key concerns impacting the tourism industry in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The delegation emphasised the need for a comprehensive tourism policy and the formation of a tourism committee comprising stakeholders and officials for better coordination. They also requested support for the revival of AirAsia’s Kuala Lumpur flights, which were withdrawn in April 2024, and raised concerns over SpiceJet’s route withdrawal, which has led to increased airfare prices and inconvenience to travellers. AATO also urged the administration to open new islands for tourism to ease overcrowding at existing destinations and enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, the delegation requested the extension of Inland Vessel (IV) limits, allowing better maritime connectivity and smoother operations for tourism-related boat services. Joshi appreciated AATO’s efforts and assured that the administration is committed to addressing these concerns for the sustainable growth of tourism in the islands. AATO extends its gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for his valuable time and continued support in strengthening the Andaman tourism industry.  

The launch of the first State Chapter of the Enterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA) happened in Tamil Nadu. The inauguration ceremony was graced by distinguished guests and industry leaders in Chennai. The event was honoured by the presence of Chief Guest, Venkateshan, Regional Director (Southern Region), India Tourism, Chennai, and the Guests of Honour, Amla Dantas and Carl Dantas, Founder & Chairman Emeritus, ETAA. During the event, the newly appointed office-bearer team for the Tamil Nadu chapter was announced with PV Sharan Kumar as Chairman, Fathima Bai as Secretary and Selvi Grace Jecintha as Treasurer. The event was elevated by the attendance of several ETAA National Board Members, including Jagat Mehta, Director and National Board Member, Dipti Pradhan Thakoor, Director, National Board Member and Event Head, Joyson, National Board Member and Regional Director, South India and Abhijit Khadilkar, Director, National Board Member and Membership Head. The inauguration witnessed an enthusiastic crowd of 50+ attendees, including ETAA members, industry professionals from airlines, hotels, tourism, and members from ETAA Bangalore. This event marks an important milestone in ETAA’s mission to expand and strengthen its presence across India, offering new opportunities for collaboration, growth, and development in the tourism sector.  

SriLankan Aviation College, the training arm of SriLankan Airlines, has trailblazed its way to becoming an IATA Authorised Training Centre (ATC) Top Performer for 2024 – an honour reserved for only the most outstanding IATA (International Air Transport Association) training institutions worldwide. This achievement advances SriLankan Aviation College to IATA’s Preferred ATC category, proving once again its relentless commitment to excellence in developing talent for the travel trade on a global scale. Richard Nuttall, Chief Executive Officer, SriLankan Airlines, commented on the achievement, saying, “We are truly humbled to be recognised as a top performing IATA Authorised Training Centre. It speaks volumes about how much effort the college puts into offering high quality job-ready programmes led by top-tier instructors, blending real-world knowledge and practical sessions. The SriLankan Aviation College has made remarkable progress over the past two years, and with the aviation industry fully returning to pre-pandemic levels last year, we are both ready and excited to meet the growing global demand for aviation professionals.” Over the years, SriLankan Aviation College has introduced some of the most sought-after IATA programmes to Sri Lanka, including the IATA Foundation in Travel and Tourism Diploma; IATA Cargo Introductory Course; and the IATA Airline Cabin Crew course, among many others. Whether in the quality of training, state-of-the-art facilities or talent incubation, SriLankan Aviation College has consistently produced the best results in the island across all IATA programmes over the years, in line with its mission of developing the right talent for the aviation industry. The ATC accreditation also symbolises the longstanding partnership and credibility that SriLankan Aviation College has built with IATA Training. Other achievements include being an IATA Approved Training Centre since inception, …

Goa has been honoured with two prestigious PATWA International Travel Awards at ITB Berlin 2025, one of the world’s largest travel trade fairs, reaffirming its position as India’s premier tourism destination. The award for Tourism Minister of the Year – India was conferred upon Rohan A Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, in recognition of his outstanding leadership and governance in advancing Goa’s tourism sector. Goa was also awarded as the Destination of the Year – India, recognising the state’s diverse tourism offerings, sustainability initiatives, and global appeal. The awards were received by Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, on behalf of the Minister at the ceremony held at ITB Berlin. Expressing his gratitude, Khaunte said, “This recognition on a global platform is a testament to our commitment to responsible and innovative tourism. Goa continues to evolve as a world-class destination, offering sustainable, high-value tourism experiences while preserving its rich heritage and natural beauty.” These awards further strengthen Goa’s international positioning and reinforce its appeal as a preferred travel destination for global travellers.  

This 25th and 26th April, La Mamounia, Marrakech—celebrated for its unparalleled blend of Moroccan tradition and modern luxury—invites guests to an extraordinary weekend where the worlds of Burgundy’s finest wines, Michelin-starred gastronomy, and classical music converge in an unparalleled celebration of art de vivre. Nestled within the historic city walls and surrounded by 20 acres of lush gardens, La Mamounia offers a serene oasis just moments away from Marrakech’s vibrant medina. With elegantly designed accommodations that reflect the rich Moroccan heritage, this exclusive experience offers a rare opportunity to immerse in the elegance, heritage, and artistry of both French and Moroccan traditions. As La Mamounia’s storied gardens awaken in the golden light of spring, guests will embark on a journey of indulgence featuring exceptional wine tastings, intimate cocktail evenings, and exquisite dining experiences. At the heart of this celebration is a spectacular Gala Dinner, where the legendary Grands Crus de Bourgogne will be paired with masterfully crafted dishes by some of the world’s most celebrated chefs. Leading this culinary masterpiece is Marc Haeberlin, a Michelin-starred icon from Alsace’s famed Auberge de l’Ill, alongside Stéphanie Le Quellec, the visionary force behind the two-Michelin-starred La Scène in Paris. Complementing their artistry, renowned Master Cheesemaker Bernard Antony will curate an extraordinary selection of cheeses, ensuring every course is a testament to tradition and innovation. Beyond the pleasures of the table, an enchanting classical concert will bring the weekend to its crescendo. A stellar ensemble of world-class musicians will perform a carefully curated repertoire, weaving together the works of Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, Brahms, Schubert, and Gershwin in a mesmerising evening of symphonic brilliance. Set within La Mamounia’s opulent surroundings, this performance promises to transport guests into the realm of musical mastery, where every note resonates with the grandeur of this iconic palace. …

Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, emphasised the need for public-private partnerships to drive destination marketing at state and national levels. “States can support the industry by incentivising international films and collaborations to showcase destinations globally,” he said.

Mandeep Lamba, President, South Asia, HVS, stressed the need for infrastructure status in the hospitality industry. He said “Infrastructure status is the first requirement for hospitality, as it enables access to long-term financing. Hotels are a highly capital-intensive business.” This move would drive investment and sectoral growth.

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, said, “One of the targets we could perhaps place for ourselves is how to double tourism’s GDP contribution from 5% to 10% in the next ten years and probably add 25 million jobs in the next five years.” He emphasised the need for strategic efforts to achieve this growth.