The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has urged the Government of India to adopt a comprehensive and well-funded international tourism promotion strategy to position India as a leading global destination. Emphasising the sector’s vast potential to generate employment and economic growth, it called for focused, coordinated efforts across ministries, states, and private stakeholders.

At the 20th Regional Convention of HRAWI in Mumbai, Mohamed Farouk, RD & Deputy DG, Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Govt of India, revealed that the ministry intends to strengthen the management standards at tourist destinations through destination management organisations. He urged the hospitality sector to partner with the ministry in the framework of minimum quality standards for accommodation units in the country.

Speaking at the second leg of the Minor Hotels India Roadshows in Delhi, Rohit Chopra, Area Commercial Director, India, Minor Hotels, said, “The brand is strengthening its India footprint with an ambitious plan to open 50 new hotels in the next 10 years. Following the phenomenal success of Anantara Jaipur, which hosted over 60 weddings and 10 conferences, we are witnessing exceptional growth in both inbound and outbound markets.”

Starhotels announces the debut of Teatro Luxury Apartments Firenze – Starhotels Collezione, a flagship of a wider urban-regeneration initiative that has reimagined the former Teatro Comunale di Firenze. Today, after a thoughtful redevelopment, the building reopens as a contemporary collection of 156 luxury apartment-style residences that blend historical grandeur with modern Italian design. Located on Via Magenta, it sits just steps from the Lungarni – Florence’s scenic riverfront promenades along the Arno – and Santa Maria Novella, and with the city’s main attractions close by. Originally inaugurated in 1862 as the Politeama Fiorentino, the theatre – later relocated in 2014 to a new venue nearby – was a cultural beacon that hosted legends including Maria Callas and Franco Zeffirelli. Now the building, which has just undergone a regeneration project, restores value and beauty to a strategic area that had stood idle for years. Starhotels, born in Florence and recognised for its Made-in-Italy hospitality, has been selected to manage the property, which opened on 1 October, bringing the brand’s signature style and service to a contemporary residential setting. “The Teatro Luxury Apartments bring a new chapter to Florence’s cultural story. By reimagining this historic theatre as a place to live, we invite residents and visitors alike to experience the city’s art, history, and architecture in an entirely new way,” said Elisabetta Fabri, Starhotels’ President and CEO. The regenerated complex now hosts the Teatro Luxury Apartments across three buildings – Verdi, Rossini and Puccini – named in homage to the former theatre’s cultural legacy; at their center, a newly created square open to the community, Piazza Maria Callas, established by the City of Florence, provides an open civic space that reconnects the …

About 59% of Indian travellers plan more international trips, with Luxembourg and Norway emerging as breakout global destinations, it was revealed recently at the Google Think Travel event. Domestically, travellers are keen to visit Jibhi in Himachal, revealing Indians’ growing appetite for both global exploration and offbeat local escapes.

Travl360 (A Unit of T4 Initiatives) bagged the Most Promising MICE Operator award at the India Travel Awards 2025. The award was presented to Munish Sekhri, MD and Sejal Sekhri, Navigator – MICE Operations, Travl360. Sekhri said, “This is my third award, and it feels amazing to win. I would love to continue working in the hospitality industry, keep growing, and I dedicate this award to the opportunities and the future ahead.”

Speaking at GPS Kochi, Biji Eapen, National President, IAAI, stressed that knowledge, skills, and the right attitude are essential to thrive in the travel trade. He said, “GPS gives you knowledge, suppliers provide skills, but attitude must come from within. With all three, you become an asset to the industry”. He also underlined challenges, such as rising airfares, taxation pressures, and dollar fluctuations, weighing on tourism growth.

Kanokporn Kunnawattana, Minister Counsellor, Thai Embassy, New Delhi, highlighted that Indian weddings are among the fastest-growing segments in Thailand, especially in Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. She said that Thailand is actively engaging Indian influencers and wedding planners to promote the destination, while also focusing on attracting business travellers and investors through projects like the EEC and Southern Land Bridge project.

The Boutique Collection (TBC) is delighted to announce its appointment as the exclusive Sales Representative for three iconic Sri Lankan properties: Water Gardens Sigiriya, Glenross Living, and Blue Water Sri Lanka. This strategic partnership marks a significant step in TBC’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality and luxury living experiences throughout South Asia. Each of the three properties reflects a unique identity rooted in Sri Lankan heritage, wellness, and design excellence. TBC will lead market outreach, trade partnerships, and sales strategies for all three properties, enhancing visibility among discerning travellers and buyers across India and beyond. Ashwin Joseph, Sales & Marketing Director, Union Resorts & Spas, mentioned, At Union Resorts & Spas, each of our properties embodies a unique philosophy and story. Water Garden Sigiriya is more than a resort – it offers an immersive blend of nature, wildlife & history from a perfectly placed central location in the cultural triangle. Glenross Living reflects our vision of conscious living in harmony with nature, while The Blue Water Hotel & Spa stands as a timeless testament to Geoffrey Bawa’s design and Sri Lankan hospitality. The Boutique Collection by Outbound Marketing as our partner, we are eager to deepen our connection with discerning travellers across India who seek serenity and soulful experiences. Their expertise in luxury travel and strong industry relationships will play a pivotal role in strengthening our presence in this market and in reaching the right audience who truly value meaningful escapes. “We are honoured to represent these three exceptional properties and look forward to crafting innovative campaigns that highlight their unique stories while expanding their presence in the luxury travel market,” said Tonia Sehan, Director of Sales, Hotels Outbound …

TezJet Airlines, a leading carrier from Kyrgyzstan, has appointed Aeroprime Group as its Exclusive General Sales Agent (GSA) in India for both passenger and cargo services. With this strategic collaboration, TezJet is set to establish its presence in the Indian market and strengthen connectivity between India and Kyrgyzstan. TezJet will be launching direct flights from Delhi to Bishkek starting December 2025, offering passengers enhanced travel convenience and businesses efficient cargo solutions. Kyrgyzstan, often called the “Switzerland of Central Asia”, is renowned for its breathtaking mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and rich cultural heritage. From the alpine beauty of Issyk-Kul Lake to the vibrant bazaars of Bishkek, the country is a growing favourite among Indian travellers seeking both adventure and cultural exploration. The new direct flights are set to strengthen the connectivity between India and Kyrgyzstan, two countries that share deep cultural, historical, and economic linkages. While India is home to a growing outbound travel market looking for new destinations, Kyrgyzstan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and Central Asian hospitality. On the trade front, the route will facilitate smoother cargo movement, supporting sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, machinery, auto ancillaries and agricultural products, thereby boosting commerce between the two nations. Arun Kumar, President & CEO, TezJet, said: “India is one of the most dynamic and growing markets in Asia, and we are delighted to partner with Aeroprime Group to represent us here. With their strong expertise in aviation sales and marketing, we are confident in building a successful presence in India.” Aeroprime Group, headquartered in New Delhi, is a leading aviation services provider with a robust track record in airline representation, sales, customer support, and operations across multiple countries and cities. …