Highlights: Hosting the 21st World Rose Convention is a matter of pride for us – Principal Secretary Shukla Sushil Prakash elected President of World Rose Society Official flag ceremoniously handed over to Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board represented India at the 20th Convention held in Japan India to host the convention for the first time; over 700 international delegates expected The 21st World Rose Convention will be held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh in 2028, as announced by the World Federation of Rose Societies (WFRS) at the recently concluded 20th World Rose Convention in Fukuyama, Japan. The event will mark the first time India hosts the prestigious international gathering, which will bring together more than 700 delegates from across the globe. With its scenic backdrop of lakes and gardens, Bhopal is set to provide an ideal setting for the convention with thematic gardens, technical sessions, cultural performances, and a showcase of tourism experiences from across the state. The official announcement was made at the 20th World Rose Convention, where Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) represented India. The delegation was led by Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. During the closing ceremony, Shukla was ceremoniously handed over the WFRS flag, formally bestowing Madhya Pradesh with the responsibility of hosting the next edition of the convention. In a significant milestone, Sushil Prakash was elected as the new President of the World Federation of Rose Societies. He becomes the first Indian to be appointed to this prestigious post, further strengthening India’s global footprint in the horticultural and floriculture sector. At the closing ceremony of the 20th convention, the WFRS …

The team from Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand collaborates with Kathiwada City House in Mumbai and Lifeyoga and eleved in New Delhi to give guests ‘A Taste of Chiva-Som.’ World’s pioneering and transformative wellness destination Chiva-Som recently brought the Taste of Chiva-Som Wellness Day to Mumbai and New Delhi through a series of curated dining experiences and wellness sessions. During the event, a team of wellness experts and chefs from Chiva-Som Hua Hin, led by General Manager Vaipanya Kongkwanyuen, collaborated with Kathiwada City House in Mumbai and Lifeyoga and eleved in New Delhi. Guests experienced not only the distinctive flavours of Chiva-Som’s wellness cuisine but also gained insight into its holistic wellness philosophy through specially curated sessions. These sessions were attended by Chiva-Som’s past and prospective guests, wellness enthusiasts, travel professionals, and media representatives. Having celebrated its 30th anniversary in April 2025, Chiva-Som stands as a pioneer in transformative wellness destinations. Committed to an innovative approach that harmonises the mind, body, and spirit, Chiva-Som blends Eastern traditions and Western knowledge with evidence-based wellness practices to craft personalised journeys towards complete lifestyle transformation. The events saw Executive Chef Sinchai Srivipa of Chiva-Som Hua Hin, collaborating with Chef Sumit Bhongle at Circle Sixty-Nine of Kathiwada City House and Chef Rajesh Pant of eleved for a unique presentation of innovative wellness cuisine. Together, the chefs curated a collaborative menu featuring nourishing and balanced dishes, using carefully sourced ingredients. The wellness sessions included ‘Pilates for Fitness Essential Class’ by Chiva-Som, Yoga class by Lifeyoga and ‘Be Your Own Nutritionist’ session by Chiva-Som’s resident naturopath. Vaipanya Kongkwanyuen, General Manager, Chiva-Som Hua Hin, said, “It was our pleasure to present the Taste of Chiva-Som Wellness Day for the third consecutive …

In an era marked by geopolitical uncertainty, regulatory changes and shifting traveller expectations, the tourism industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. The ongoing Indo Pak conflict has understandably raised fresh concerns and cast a shadow over the tourism sector. Yet, time and again, history has proven that our industry is built not just on destinations, but on determination. Recognising the need for collective insight and decisive action, the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) is stepping up with a timely and thought-provoking virtual event ‘Turning Tides: Navigating Upcoming Tourism Trends.’ Scheduled for Tuesday, 20 May 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM (IST), this one-hour online dialogue will bring together some of the most respected voices in the Indian travel and tourism landscape. The session is designed as a dialogue to spark ideas, encourage collaboration and offer strategic insights for the road ahead. The panel will feature: Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI – an industry veteran known for his leadership in Tourism, Adventure Tourism and advocacy for sustainable travel; Dhruv Shringi, Co-Founder & CEO, Yatra Online, Inc. – a pioneer in digital travel platforms, offering a sharp perspective on evolving consumer behaviour and tech trends; Ajay Prakash, President, TAFI – a respected voice for travel agents and tour operators with deep knowledge of global travel dynamics. Together, these thought leaders will explore how the sector can embrace change—through innovation, sustainability and resilience—while addressing some of the most pressing questions facing the travel industry today. “The tourism industry has weathered many storms—and every time, we have emerged stronger. We are at another such inflection point, offering us the chance to pause, reset and reimagine,” said Ajeet Bajaj. This session is open …

The premium ‘Legends of Lake Lucerne – The Supreme Steamboat Experience’ cruise launched recently. This spectacular and exclusive boat/cruise features: 5-hour experience aboard the iconic Gallia, the fastest lake steamer in Europe Limited number of guests for a personal and exclusive atmosphere. A freshly prepared 5-course meal featuring regional specialties and carefully sourced wines Casimir Friedrich Knörr, founder of steam navigation on Lake Lucerne, takes you on a lively journey through time Excellent service from a dedicated team, tailor-made to your specific wishes and combined with classic Swiss hospitality Personalised conversations with the crew Step aboard the steamship Gallia and embark on an unforgettable journey. With a limited number of guests, an exquisite five-course menu, and breathtaking views, this experience is truly one of a kind.

FLY91 introduced UPI payments for inflight purchases, including hot meals and beverages, which can be pre-booked right until the time of boarding, becoming the first regional airline in India and very few in the world to offer this convenience. In most airlines, meals must be booked while purchasing the ticket or paid for in cash. In contrast, FLY91 allows passengers to pre-book their meal right up until they board the flight. Passengers can pre-book or purchase their meals at multiple touchpoints on the day of travel. They can scan a QR code placed at check-in counters, boarding gates or in the seat-back pocket once inside the aircraft. Payments can be made seamlessly via UPI before door closure at departure. This move offers flexibility in payment options. The introduction of UPI payments is just one example of how FLY91 is leveraging innovation and technology for better efficiency and smoother customer experience. Manoj Chacko, MD and CEO, FLY91, said, “As a regional carrier, our focus has always been on enhancing the overall travel experience through practical innovation using an easy-to-use digital framework. Introducing UPI based digital payments on board is a step towards offering our passengers greater convenience, flexibility and warm meals too. FLY91’s digital-first initiative reflects our commitment to a seamless and cashless journey, while continuing to deliver quality service—even on short-haul regional routes.”  

Madame Tussauds Singapore, operated by Merlin Entertainments, unveiled the world’s first wax figure of Indian cinema megastar Ram Charan, immortalised in a first-ever dual celebrity and pet figures—alongside his beloved pet Rhyme. The multi-talented actor came face-to-face with his figure for the first time at Madame Tussauds London, joined by his family and his father, legendary actor Chiranjeevi. The figure will then make its way to its permanent home at Madame Tussauds Singapore from 20th May 2025 onwards. Ram Charan shared, “When I saw the figure for the first time, I was absolutely stunned. The likeness is unbelievable—from the expression to the stance to the exact detail of Rhyme by my side. It is like looking in a mirror, and I am so thrilled that fans around the world will get to experience me up close.” The creation of Ram Charan’s wax figure was a feat of precision and artistry, with many months went into bringing both Ram Charan and Rhyme to life with astonishing detail. Every feature—from the subtle tilt of his head to the lifelike posture of Rhyme—was crafted with care to reflect the actor’s unique personality and calm confidence. Jim Kempton, Principal Sculptor, Merlin Magic Making, commented, “What made this project so special was the chance to capture not just a global film icon, but the deep connection he shares with his dog, Rhyme. We worked closely with Ram to ensure every detail—from his posture and smile to Rhyme’s alert gaze—was perfect. This figure is a celebration of both his star power and his warmth as a person.” Ram Charan is styled in a custom black velvet bandhgala, which he wore at the 2023 Oscars. The outfit …

Following government directives, the recently closed airports are now available for airlines operations. IndiGo has reopened its flight bookings and resumed operations starting 12 May, 2025 progressively on select routes, beginning with Delhi – Chandigarh, Delhi – Jammu – Delhi and Delhi – Amritsar – Delhi.  Over a course of the next few days more flights will resume gradually across the network. Indigo team is working diligently to ensure smooth, secure and seamless travel experience, supported by enhanced protocols and timely communication.

Mussoorie Sky Car gears up to launch the Dehradun-Mussoorie ropeway. This mono-cable detachable gondola system will span 5.2 kilometres and ascend 1,000 meters, dramatically reducing travel time between Dehradun and Mussoorie to just 20 minutes. The construction of its initial phase is planned to be completed by September 2026. Once operational, it will be South Asia’s longest ropeway of its kind and one of the longest in the world—ushering in a new era of tourism, connectivity, and green infrastructure in the region.   Mussoorie Sky Car is a consortium comprising three leading players in the urban mobility and infrastructure sectors: FIL Industries, POMA SAS, and SRM Engineering LLP. FIL Industries is a diversified business enterprise with interests in agriculture, F&B, tourism, ropeway mobility solutions, and hospitality. It is also India’s largest CEN-certified ropeway operator, and is known for its flagship project, Skyview by Empyrean, which has been operational since 2019 in Sanget–Patnitop, Jammu and Kashmir. The ropeway spanning 2.8 km, is currently the highest ropeway in India in terms of ground clearance. Over the years, the mountain harbour has established itself as a benchmark for sustainable mobility and tourism infrastructure in the country. SRM Engineering LLP brings a robust track record in financing, developing, and operating infrastructure assets across India, France, the UAE, and South Africa. Backed by the promoters of Rahman Group and Hindustan Dock Yard, SRM strengthens the project’s development and execution capabilities. POMA SAS serves as the project’s technical partner, shareholder, and strategic supplier, reinforcing its long-term commitment to ropeway development in India. The Dehradun-Mussoorie ropeway marks POMA’s first concession investment in India and will be the first European-standard ropeway in the country, with a significant portion …

Saudia received multiple accolades in the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Awards and the Onboard Hospitality Awards, presented on the sidelines of the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo 2025 held in Hamburg, Germany. Saudia’s new ELIE SAAB premium amenity kit collection has earned Gold Awards from the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Awards for Business Class: The Middle East, First Class: Unisex Kit Middle East, and Business Class: Amenity Kit Program for the Rest of the World. This collaboration with lifestyle brand ELIE SAAB marks their debut in aviation luxury, bringing celebrated elegance exclusively to Saudia’s first and business class guests. The kits captivated judges and guests alike with their sophisticated design and luxurious contents. Moreover, Saudia’s exquisite Saudi Coffee Cup initiative was recognised with a Gold Award for First Class Glassware. This initiative features handcrafted cups representing Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions. It reflects Saudia’s dedication to infusing cultural elements into its service offerings while maintaining world-class standards. Further reinforcing its status as a leader in guest comfort and innovation, Saudia was also awarded the prestigious TravelPlus Passenger Amenities Five Star Rating 2025, an honour shared by only five airlines globally this year. The Onboard Hospitality Awards also acknowledged Saudia’s innovative approach by awarding a highly commended recognition in the Best Service Equipment: Crew category for the airline’s new cabin crew uniforms. This award reflects style as well as functionality designed to enhance service delivery onboard. Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer, Saudia, said, “These awards are more than just trophies; they represent our relentless pursuit of excellence across all aspects of our guest experience at Saudia. From our pioneering collaboration with ELIE SAAB to the culturally rich Saudi Coffee Cup initiative …

Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager – India & Gulf, Tourism Australia, said, “We are pushing strongly into the MICE segment with our Bid Fund Program, offering financial incentives for corporate groups, in ties with state convention bureaus. Our aim is to take this momentum further by targeting 5 lakh Indian visitors by 2026.”