Highlighting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming the go-to tool for Indians, Mohit Joshi, Travel & Destinations Expert, Skyscanner, said, “A remarkable 84% of Indian travellers feel confident using AI tools for planning and booking their travels, with 52% using them for destination research, 50% for flight bookings, 48% for comparing flight and hotel options, and 46% seeking destination inspiration.”
Read More »Cross Hotels targets 40% growth in Indian guests via direct channels & partnerships: VP
Andrew Hartley, VP Commercial, Cross Hotels & Resorts, said, “India is a key market for us, and we are strengthening our brand awareness for Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Cross Collection, Lumen and Kaura. Our goal is to increase the number of Indian guests by 40% by this year’s end and we are achieving this through direct channels, forming strategic business partnership.”
Read More »Visa-free destinations fuelling outbound travel demand; Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand see robust growth: Thomas Cook India
This summer, Indian travellers are opting for destinations that provide an escape from the ominous heat while offering visa-free travel. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE & Visa, Thomas Cook India, said, “Visa-free destinations are fuelling outbound travel demand. Countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand, Maldives and Mauritius have seen robust growth due to ease of access.”
Read More »BlackTurtle to represent JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa in India
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa collaborates with Black Turtle to welcome more discerning Indian guests to their resort. The Maldives has long been a favoured destination for luxury Indian travellers, and with Black Turtle’s expertise, the property anticipates bettering their presence in India and crafting memorable experiences for valued guests – Srijith R, Director of Sales & Marketing – JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. Nestled in the pristine Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents everything one needs for a luxurious stress-free family vacation with enriching experiences for the body, mind and spirit through a journey of genuine family friendly experiences, crafted culinary offerings and warm and intuitive service. A luxurious multigenerational retreat, it caters perfectly to couples, families, and friends looking to craft timeless memories. With 60 expansive villas each featuring a private pool and stunning Indian Ocean views-guests can choose between stylish beachfront or overwater accommodations. Each villa is complemented by the attentive services of a personal Thakuru (butler), ensuring a bespoke and seamless experience. Indian Travellers mainly food enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice at the resort’s five exceptional restaurants and three full-service bars, each offering a diverse array of global cuisines and unique dining experiences. A thoughtfully curated vegan menu ensures plant-based palates are equally indulged. The stunning overwater Spa by JW features six couple’s treatment rooms and a deluxe treatment suite, offering tailored treatments designed to rejuvenate both mind and body. Indian Guests eager to explore the vibrant marine life can embark on diving, snorkelling, dolphin-watching, and f fishing excursions through the resort’s dive centre. Young explorers can immerse themselves in the wonders of island life at FAMiLY by JW …
Read More »Udaipur, Mumbai & Rishikesh top 3 searched domestic destinations by Indian travellers to celebrate Holi: Booking.com
With Holi just round the corner, Indian travellers are maximising the extended weekend by opting for a blend of vibrant domestic celebrations. According to Booking.com, Udaipur, Mumbai, and Rishikesh lead as the top three most searched domestic destinations while destinations like Vrindavan, Mathura, Pushkar, Jaipur, Shantiniketan and Hampi are witnessing a surge in searches during the festive period.
Read More »UAE extends visa-on-arrival to Indian nationals holding valid permits from six more countries
UAE expanded visa-on-arrival programme for Indians by including travellers with valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from 6 more countries including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand & Canada. The move permits more Indian passport holders to access the facility at UAE entry points.
Read More »BlackTurtle Reps to represent Kite Travel in India, boosting Kazakhstan Tourism
Kite Travel is a Kazakhstani tour operator committed to expanding horizons and creating new opportunities for travellers. The Indian market is a strategically important direction for them, as it holds immense tourism potential and rich cultural diversity. They aim to introduce Indian tourists to the unique travel experiences in Kazakhstan—a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. The Tour Operator is excited to collaborate with BlackTurtle Reps, represented by Karishma Kazi, to showcase the beauty of Kazakhstan. Her experience and market expertise will help them make trips more accessible and convenient. Kite Travel believes this partnership will bring their countries closer and open new horizons for travellers. Kazakhstan welcomes guests from India to create unforgettable memories!
Read More »Vietnam Airlines announces wide-body flights on Mumbai-Hanoi route, effective 1 May, 2025
Strengthens commitment to the Indian market by upgrading aircraft on the Mumbai-Hanoi route, enhancing capacity and comfort with the most modern A350 and B787 aircraft Vietnam Airlines, the flag carrier of Vietnam, announced the upgrade of its aircraft on the Mumbai to Hanoi route, effective 1 May, 2025. Starting 1 May, the flights will operate four times a week using the state-of-the-art Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 aircraft. Both models are renowned for their advanced technology, spacious design, and superior comfort. This upgrade reflects Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to increasing capacity from Mumbai, strengthening air connectivity between India and Vietnam and ensuring a world-class flying experience for its passengers while delivering an unparalleled travel experience. With a spacious cabin layout that includes economy seats with In-flight entertainment (IFE), offering best-in-class extra legroom and full-flat bed seats in business class, passengers can look forward to a restful journey enhanced by a state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system and gourmet meals options. To specifically cater to Indian travellers, the airline will feature a specially curated Indian menu in addition to other premium amenities. Speaking on the announcement, Nguyen Trung Hieu, Country Manager India, Vietnam Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm, “Following the successful launch of daily A350 flights in Delhi last year, and the overwhelming response from the market, we are thrilled to increase our operations from Mumbai. Upgrading to wide-body operations with our Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 aircraft reflects our unwavering commitment to offering Indian travellers unparalleled comfort and convenience. We look forward to welcoming passengers onboard and providing them with an exceptional journey characterised by renowned Vietnamese hospitality.” Echoing this sentiment, Abhishek Goyal, CEO & Executive Director, Aeroprime Group (India GSA for Vietnam Airlines), …
Read More »Explore the best of Singapore this year through insider stories and exclusive experiences
Indian travellers can look forward to a year of surprises as Singapore celebrates 60 years of friendship with India As two Asian nations with shared histories and deep cultural ties, India and Singapore share extensive connections that go far beyond the 288 weekly flights linking both countries. With 2025 marking 60 years of bilateral relations between India and Singapore, Indian consumers can look forward to an action-packed calendar of experiences, entertainment, and offers celebrating this enduring friendship, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) announced. Friends and fans of Singapore in India have much to look forward to in 2025. The Gamechangers Studio show, and 60 Insiders panel will offer travel enthusiasts a multi-dimensional way to discover Singapore’s unique spirit and hidden gems, through the eyes of prominent tastemakers and visionaries across both India and Singapore. Hidden Gems, presented through a unique musical journey by one of India’s celebrated artists, whose name will be revealed later, will uncover Singapore’s best-kept secrets, through a curation of familiar urban sounds that make the city feel like a home away from home for Indian visitors. Travel enthusiasts can also expect a year-long surge of wanderlust with Friends of Singapore, a first-of-kind platform launched to offer Indian content creators with Singapore’s unique perspective on discerning, experiential travel, unlocking a new level of powerful storytelling for their audiences through the destination’s hidden gem experiences. Later in the year, indulge in exclusive Singapore programming at Subko – Specialty Coffee Roasters, Bakehouse and Fine Cacao, celebrating the rich resonances between India and Singapore through the medium of food and design. In addition to exciting content that celebrate the special connection shared between the two countries, Indian visitors in Singapore …
Read More »Visit Malaysia Year 2026 to focus on joint promos, campaigns to boost Indian arrivals
Noriah Jaafar, Director, Tourism Malaysia, Mumbai, said, “We will focus on joint promotions and tactical campaigns to further boost Indian arrivals. We are also excited to prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which will serve as a cornerstone for our future tourism initiatives, aiming to attract more visitors from India.”
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