Accenture’s latest report, Beyond the Stay, identifies gamification as a powerful tool to enhance guest engagement and loyalty. The study reveals that 76% of Indian hoteliers expect revenue growth from gamified strategies, with investments in this area projected to rise by over 15% in the next three to five years, reflecting strong industry confidence.

A delegation from the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) met Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister, submitting a detailed representation seeking a fair, growth-oriented GST framework for hospitality. The association urged regularisation of past GST dues since 2017, restoration of Input Tax Credit (ITC) for hotels, and delinking F&B GST rates from room tariffs to ensure sectoral revival.

Attend an exclusive webinar by Impiana Private Villas, Seminyak, Bali, on 15 October at 2 pm, and discover Bali’s hidden luxury gems with exclusive villa offerings and learn about new packages with value additions. The webinar will also include a quiz, a live Q&A, and gift vouchers. For more info, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or call 9650196532.

This Diwali, Experience Abu Dhabi invites families to make unforgettable memories with unique celebrations and experiences happening all across the city. From vibrant exhibitions and international icons in concerts to festive meals and staycations, there’s something for every family to see, do and discover – all in one easy to reach destination. If you’re looking to plan your Diwali itinerary, here are some of the things to look forward to in the city: 1. Savour festive flavours Food is at the heart of every festivity, and this Diwali, Abu Dhabi has something for every taste. Families can enjoy a Diwali Mela at Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, festive menus at Zeera by Buddha-Bar or experience the Festival of Lights at 28 Degrees, Bab Al Nojoum, Hudayriyat Island, complete with traditional decor including rangolis and diyas, and a dedicated Diwali menu every weekend in October. With everything from Indian thalis to playful fusion dishes, Abu Dhabi’s dining scene is as diverse as it is full of flavour. 2. Cheer for top athletes This Diwali, watch some of the most exciting sporting events in Abu Dhabi, as October sees UFC 321, UAE Warriors and the KMBZ Championship bringing fans closer to the action and creating high-energy experiences for the whole family. 3. Watch international stars take the stage Music fills the air this festive season, with performances from Andre Rieu and Atif Aslam. From classical melodies to Bollywood hits by one of India’s favourite voices, Abu Dhabi’s concerts promise an entertaining evening for every music lover. 4. Enjoy a Diwali staycation Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island makes it easy to immerse yourself in Diwali celebrations with vibrant decor, live entertainment and Indian cooking stations. …

IndiGo has commenced flights from Mumbai to Copenhagen, Denmark. It is IndiGo’s 44th international and 138th destination overall. The services will be operated three times a week with the leased Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

Air India has entered a new interline partnership with STARLUX Airlines, further enhancing travel options for customers across Asia. The agreement between the two carriers enables single-ticket itineraries that combine Air India and STARLUX flights, offering smoother journeys, coordinated baggage handling, and simplified travel for customers of both airlines. Through this partnership, Air India customers will be able to access Taipei via Air India’s Southeast Asia gateways, namely, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur.

In a landmark milestone in the country’s aviation journey, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). Speaking on the occasion, he said that the airport would play a major role in establishing the region as Asia’s biggest connectivity hub. It is a project that exemplifies the vision of a developed India, he added.

The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin operations from 12 October at external Schengen borders of 29 European countries, gradually replacing manual passport stamping with biometric data collection for non-EU citizens. This modernisation aims to enhance security, prevent overstays, and streamline border checks. The system will become fully operational by 10 April, 2026.

GMR Hyderabad International Airport was honoured with the ‘Fastest Growing Metro Airport in India’ award at the India Travel Awards 2025. Ashish Kumar, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer – Aero & Cargo, GMR Hyderabad International Airport, said, “Honoured to be recognised as the fastest-growing metro airport with 18% YoY passenger growth and thank partners for their continued patronage.”

Santosh Kumar, Regional Head, South Asia, Booking.com, has revealed that in premium hotel segments, non-room revenue (especially from F&B and events) now accounts for about 50% of income, which was not the case a decade ago. He was speaking at the launch of the ‘How India Travels 2025’ report in New Delhi.