Air passengers might have a reason to smile this Diwali season as average airfares on many domestic routes have dropped 20-25% compared to the year-ago period, according to an analysis by ixigo. The prices are for one-way average fare on a 30 days APD (advanced purchase date) basis.

DCT-Abu Dhabi will host the first-of-its-kind APAC Travel Marketplace in Al Ain on 15 and 16 October, connecting over 200 travel agents from the APAC region with 60 Abu Dhabi-based stakeholders. The B2B event is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with the APAC travel trade.

Hotels in India are witnessing unprecedented wedding bookings this season. Properties are nearly sold out for key dates, with rates increasing by up to 25%. Unique offerings and services are being launched to cater to the growing popularity of destination weddings in Udaipur, Goa, and beyond.

TripJack, India’s leading B2B travel-tech platform announced the appointment of Varun Mahajan as the new Head of Business for its Flights portfolio, effective May 2024. In his new role, Varun will work closely with founders Hussain Patel and Hasan Patel to drive TripJack’s vision forward and accelerate the company’s growth trajectory. Varun will lead TripJack’s largest division with a focus on building new lines of business, driving process transformation, and enhancing capability development. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of TripJack’s flights portfolio as the company strengthens its position in the travel industry. Varun brings with him over 15 years of rich experience across diverse sectors. Most recently, he served as an Associate Partner at McKinsey India’s growth practice, where he spearheaded numerous sales and marketing transformations across industries for five years. His expertise lies in scaling businesses and implementing high-impact strategies to achieve significant growth. Prior to his tenure at McKinsey, Varun spent nearly a decade at Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL) in various brand management, marketing, and sales roles. His deep-rooted experience in the consumer goods sector provides him with unique insights into building customer-focused strategies. Varun holds an MBA from the prestigious Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), Delhi. With a strong understanding of the Indian commercial landscape and a proven track record in B2B and B2B2C environments, Varun is well-positioned to strengthen TripJack’s ‘customer-first’ philosophy. His leadership will be pivotal as the company continues to enhance its offerings and expand its flights business in the face of a growing competitive market.  

Atout France, the France Tourism Development Agency recently organised the 6th edition of its annual B2B showcase Explore France at the JW Marriott in Goa from 7th to 11th October. A delegation of 23 key stakeholders representing the diversity of France’s touristic offering interacted with 50 members of the Indian travel trade fraternity over 2 days of pre-scheduled meetings and also interacted with trade media representatives. An approximate of 1100 meetings took place over these two days enabling the partners and agents to understand the evolution of travel trends and discuss potential business opportunities. This evolutive edition of the showcase commenced with a presentation for the delegation on the Indian travel landscape and the ever-evolving profile of the Indian traveller and trends prevalent in the country. The presentation included a showcase of the legacy of family run travel businesses in India and the importance of the family segment in Indian outbound travel by Neil Patil, COO, Veena World. There was an introduction also by NPCI Payments International Limited and Lyra on the importance and integration of UPI as a seamless mode of digital payments and its advancement in France. The opening dinner of the workshop took place in the presence of the Consul General of France in Mumbai Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet. In addition to the pre-scheduled meetings, this year, the delegation also had an opportunity to present their offerings to the assembled agents. An interactive visa session was also organised in association with the Consulate General of France in Mumbai and VFS Global to discuss visa procedures and address commonly asked queries by Sami Bouakaze – Consul and Deputy Head of Mission. The networking evenings provided many opportunities for the participants …

Cusped amid Oman’s serene landscapes, the pristine wadis are a dream escape for every traveller. These natural sanctuaries, set against golden hills, offer a perfect blend of peace and beauty. Wadi Bani Khalid, in Al Sharqiyah, is a gem with its year-round emerald-green water framed by towering palm trees and rugged cliffs of the Hajar Mountains. Dubbed as a ‘desert paradise,’ its rocky canyons are a must-see. Wadi Shab entices with a hidden waterfall inside a cave, where thrill-seekers can dive from cliffs into sparkling pools. For those craving multiple adventures at one spot, Wadi Al Auf awaits to unfold a plethora of adrenaline-pumping adventures where one can swim, camp, and sightsee amid natural beauty. Meanwhile, Wadi Darbat, a verdant valley, offers lush greenery and magnificent waterfalls dotting its surrounding hills, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Whether seeking adventure or tranquillity, Oman’s wadis provide an unforgettable mix of rejuvenation and exploration.

Museums serve as treasure house of a nation’s history, culture, and achievements, offering a rich tapestry of knowledge to history enthusiasts. With its diverse array of museums, Oman provides a deep dive into its multifaceted culture and values, preserved through the tangible and intangible elements that define Oman’s heritage, from ancient times to the present. Oman’s museums are like time capsules, each specialising in a unique chapter of the nation’s history. They chronicle the journey of the early Omanis, whose architectural masterpieces still stand today, and they also explore the impact of oil in shaping modern Oman. The story of Omani frankincense, once carried by ships to distant lands, is another fascinating tale told within these walls. These museums are scattered across the Sultanate, housed in everything from ancient forts to modern structures, each offering a high-quality, immersive experience. Travellers can immerse into the intriguing vibe of the National Museum, located in the heart of historical Muscat with 14 permanent galleries, each dedicated to a different aspect of Oman’s legacy. Meanwhile, the Museum of Oman Across Ages in Manah spans 800 million years of history, providing a comprehensive look at the land and its people.

Oman is a culinary paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a feast for every palate. Whether you are indulging in gourmet experiences at upscale restaurants within 5-star hotels and resorts or exploring charming cafes and eateries, Oman’s food scene is as diverse as it is delightful. From international flavours that satisfy the seasoned traveller to the rich, aromatic dishes of traditional Omani cuisine, there is something for everyone. Omani cuisine is a unique blend of Arabian, Indian, and African influences, creating a distinctive culinary identity that stands out. For an authentic taste, head to ‘Rozna’ in Airport Heights or ‘Beit Al Luban’ in Muttrah, where traditional Omani dishes are served with a modern twist. These restaurants, deeply rooted in Omani culture, offer more than just a meal—they provide a cultural experience that will captivate any food lover. Whether you are craving global flavours or eager to dive into local specialties, Oman’s culinary landscape promises a memorable journey for your taste buds.

Ready to find the ultimate backdrop for your next film? Oman might just be the hidden gem you are searching for. With its stunning landscapes and diverse terrain, Oman provides a breathtaking canvas for any cinematic vision. Imagine shooting scenes in majestic forts, ancient castles, or serene islands with dramatic coastlines. From the peaks of Jabal Shams to the depths of Snake Canyon, and the vibrant underwater world of the Daymaniyat Islands, the Sultanate offers a wealth of locations to suit every film genre. Muscat, the lively capital, pulses with energy, while Al-Batinah offers a more traditional setting, with enchanting wadis and charming villages like Wadi Mistal and Wakan Village. Oman’s rich architecture, customs, and traditions add layers of authenticity and intrigue, making it a versatile and inspiring destination for filmmakers. Whether you are after a rugged adventure or a cultural exploration, Oman’s diverse experiences and scenic beauty are ready to elevate your story to new heights.

The coastlines of Oman provide a myriad of exhilarating opportunities for those seeking to plunge into a mesmerizing aquatic wonderland. With year-round waves and pleasant summer temperatures, Oman stands out as a premier surfing destination in the Middle East. Venture to the southeast coast, where Salalah offers excellent surf that crashes onto the sandy shores of the Arabian Sea. Oman’s contemporary marinas provide training, and most beachfront hotels offer rental equipment for windsurfing and kiteboarding. While kiteboarding is still a burgeoning sport in the country, it promises an adrenaline-pumping adventure at al-Sawadi, Duqm, and Masirah Island. Whether you are a snorkeler, an experienced scuba diver, or a beginner eager to dive in, Oman’s underwater realm will leave you spellbound. Discover vibrant reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and coral-lined fjords. Mussanah Marina, the jewel of Oman Sail at the Millennium Resort Mussanah, offers an array of sailing options from dinghies and yachts to powerboats. Whether you prefer skippered charters or bareboat rentals, adventure awaits. Set sail to the stunning Damaniyat Islands off the Batinah coast or embark on an island-hopping journey to uncover hidden beaches nestled in tranquil, secluded bays.