Hyatt Regency Amritsar announced the appointment of Swapnil Dora as the new Executive Chef. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Chef Dora brings a wealth of culinary expertise, diverse global experience, and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences. In his new role, Chef Dora will spearhead the update of food concepts across all outlets, aligning them with current trends and enhancing the culinary offerings for both in-house guests and local patrons. Known for his dynamic approach to food innovation and attention to detail, Chef Dora’s leadership is anticipated to elevate Hyatt Regency Amritsar’s culinary landscape to new heights. Swapnil’s culinary journey is nothing short of inspiring. With a Diploma in Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition from the National Council of Hotel Management, Delhi, he embarked on his career at Hyatt Regency Delhi as a Commis Chef in 1996. Over the years, he has honed his skills and risen through the ranks, contributing to prestigious hotels like Jumeirah Emirates Dubai, Crowne Plaza Dubai, Grand Hyatt Muscat, Al Raha Beach Hotel Abu Dhabi, and Hyatt Hyderabad. Most recently, he led the culinary team at Radisson Blu Bengaluru as the Executive Chef. Chef Dora’s expertise spans various cuisines, including Indian, American, Arabic, and Mediterranean, and he holds certifications in hygiene audits and food safety management, further enhancing the hotel’s commitment to quality and safety. “We are thrilled to have Chef Swapnil Dora lead our culinary team,” said Naveen Yadav, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Amritsar. “His deep knowledge, creativity, and passion for culinary excellence align perfectly with our mission to offer world-class dining experiences. We look forward to the innovation and leadership he will bring to our property.” Chef …

Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) showcased Taiwan’s potential for Incentives at ITB INDIA 2024, under the theme “Explore Taiwan, Explore New Asia.” This participation marks a significant step in strengthening tourism ties between Taiwan and India. Indian outbound numbers have increased to 92 per cent of pre-pandemic levels from January to June, compared to the same period in 2019. The Taiwan Pavilion at ITB INDIA attracted numerous industry players, facilitating discussions on cooperation opportunities across sectors, including business travel, incentive travel, and wedding photography. With Indian visitor numbers rebounding, Taiwan is rolling out the red carpet for Indian travellers. The delegation was led by Cindy Chen, Acting Director, Taiwan Tourism Administration, Singapore Office; TTA delegations participated at the ITB, Mumbai after a successful showcase at the Taiwan EXPO 2024 in New Delhi in July. The vibrant Taiwan Pavilion at the ITB, Mumbai was a standout, featuring stunning visuals from the serene Sun Moon Lake to the modern skyline of Taipei 101. The captivating displays showcased Taiwan’s blend of natural beauty and urban charm, attracting industry leaders to explore partnership opportunities. Chen remarked, “The ITB INDIA travel show is an exciting opportunity for us to present Taiwan’s warm hospitality, rich cultural experiences and robust infrastructure. We are here to strengthen our collaboration with Indian travel partners that will lead to new opportunities for both the markets. We’re eager to welcome more Indian tourists and create unforgettable journeys tailored just for them.” Joining Director Chen were Allen Chang, Manager, TTA, and the stakeholders, including Paul Yeh, Shi Chun Travels, Paul Hsieh, Edison Travel, Emily Chiu and Elizabeth O. Salim, Apple Tour, and Hank Yen, EVA Air. The initiative aimed at highlighting ease of …

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has taken a significant step towards women empowerment and creating a safe tourism destination by launching the state’s first craft-based cafe ‘Handloom Cafe’ in Pranpur, a village located 4 kilometres from the renowned tourist destination of Chanderi in Ashoknagar district. This cafe is entirely operated by women making it a pioneering initiative in Madhya Pradesh. Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director, Tourism Board visited Pranpur to inspect the cafe and boost the morale of the women staff. Bidisha Mukherjee, said “Handloom Cafe is a crucial step towards empowering women and fostering a safe tourism environment. The cafe will be entirely run by women, from security guards and welcome staff to chefs, receptionists, cashiers, and even front office managers. To ensure smooth operations, all women have undergone specialised training at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Bhopal. A women’s group has been registered as ‘Sakhi Saheli Lok Kalyan Sangh’ to manage the cafe.” Mukherjee also said this project will not only provide employment opportunities to these women but also equip them with the necessary skills, confidence, and financial independence to improve their quality of life. Additionally, this initiative aligns with the state’s broader mission to promote a safe and inclusive environment for women travellers.  This women-run cafe will offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing Madhya Pradesh’s rich culture and progressive outlook.

As part of the global celebrations for World Tourism Day, the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and Skal International, in collaboration with Goa Tourism, have organised a series of exciting and enriching activities on 27th September to highlight Goa’s cultural and historical heritage. With this year’s theme focusing on Tourism & Peace, three exclusive heritage walks have been curated to offer a deep dive into Goa’s rich history and local life. These walks are open to all, providing a unique opportunity to explore Goa like never before. In addition to the heritage walks, an exciting highlight of the celebrations includes the launch of a coffee table book at the cooking competition “Goencho Swad” by the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM). This event not only showcases Goa’s culinary traditions but also adds a literary touch, offering insights into the state’s diverse cultural and gastronomic heritage. Suneel Andhaka, IAS, Director, Tourism & Managing, GTDC stated “World Tourism Day is an opportunity to celebrate not just the beauty of Goa, but the stories, culture, and heritage that make it unique. Through initiatives like the Heritage Walks and the Stakeholders Meet, we aim to promote responsible tourism that respects our environment and communities while offering enriching experiences for travellers.” Jack Sukija, President, Travel & Tourism Association, Goa (TTAG) “These World Tourism Day events are designed to deepen the connection between visitors and Goa’s rich cultural heritage. By exploring our historic sites and engaging with local communities, we aim to foster a more immersive and sustainable approach to tourism that benefits both travellers and locals alike. We will also invite all our stakeholders from the travel trade to celebrate this year at the …

The Royal Thai Consulate-General in Mumbai, the Tourism Authority of Thailand in Mumbai, and the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT) successfully hosted a remarkable event titled “Promoting Peace Through Tourism with Thailand and IIPT” on World Peace Day at IFBE, Mumbai. The event, held in celebration of the United Nations International Day of Peace, highlighted the critical role tourism can play in fostering global peace and understanding. The event brought together a diverse group of guests, including the Consul Generals of various countries, distinguished dignitaries, travel agents, airline managers, influencers, hotel managers, and other key players from the tourism industry. The gathering started with a seminar by distinguished speakers to raise awareness about the potential of every tourist to act as an ambassador of peace, promoting harmony among people of different cultures, races, and religions. Ajay Prakash who assumed global Presidency of IIPT in September 2023 spoke eloquently on the power of Tourism to connect people across all boundaries of race, religion or nationality and urged the travel industry to join hands to realise this higher paradigm of Tourism by encouraging all travellers to travel with an open mind and a gentle heart, with respect for their hosts, embracing the diversity they encounter, and encouraged them to adopt and propagate the IIPT Credo of the Peaceful Traveller. Attendees also participated in a range of activities including the “Peaceful Voices” and “Peaceful Messages” campaigns, where guests shared their thoughts on how tourism can inspire understanding and unity across borders. The event also underscored the importance of responsible tourism, encouraging participants to embrace sustainable and green travel practices that help preserve the environment. One of the most exciting aspects of …

The 6-month Postgraduate Diploma program in Temple Management will help build advanced skills for effective temple ecosystem management. The eligibility criteria require applicants to be graduates from a recognised university. After the monumental success of the International Temples Convention & Expo (ITCX), Temple Connect has launched the country’s first-ever Postgraduate Diploma program in Temple Management. This six-month course aims to professionalise temple operations covering technology, sustainability, and inclusivity. It will equip participants with the essential skills to manage temple ecosystems with modern expertise and strategic foresight. The inaugural batches of this innovative course commenced at the University of Mumbai and Welingkar Institute with further rollouts planned at Savitribai Phule Pune University. The comprehensive program is designed with a robust curriculum – three months of intensive classroom training, consisting of over 20 sessions, followed by another three-month hands-on internship at various renowned temples. The faculty consists of seasoned professionals from all of whom have substantial practical experience in temple operations.  In the current format, courses are delivered in person and through internships, with 30 student batches per university or institute. The program provides students with a unique opportunity to have practical exposure to temple management, from administrative duties to community engagement and spiritual stewardship. The criteria for admission require that applicants be graduates from a recognised university. Candidates must either have a strong background in temple administration, be closely associated with or seek practical experience through internships in various existing temples. This diploma course is the culmination of a collaborative effort by a committee of eminent minds who have extensive experience in various aspects of temple management. Chaired by Dr. Suresh Haware, former Chairman, Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust, a renowned nuclear …

In a historic event, SKAL International Pune successfully hosted the “Pedal for a Purpose” Cyclothon on 22nd September, marking a significant milestone for Pune’s travel fraternity. The event, which brought together over 80 riders and 220 total participants, aimed not only at fostering unity but also at making a meaningful social impact. The Cyclothon, meticulously planned, was flagged off at 7:30 AM by esteemed dignitaries including Amit Sharma, GM, Amanora The Fern, Abhishek Sahai, GM, Conrad Pune, Pankaj Saxena, GM, Radisson Blu Kharadi Pune, and Biswajit Biswas, Executive Director, Ana Hotels & Resorts. Throughout the ride, participants stopped at 3 Impact Points, where they pledged to: Plant 5 Trees this year to promote a greener environment. Follow Road Safety Rules to ensure responsible commuting. Reduce Plastic Usage, committing to a more sustainable future. After completing the route, riders were greeted with a grand welcome by a team of over 30 Dhol Tasha players, creating an electrifying atmosphere full of energy and excitement. Beyond the Cyclothon, the event offered a wide variety of engaging activities for non-riders, including Yoga and Zumba sessions, a painting competition for all age groups, and an array of games and entertainment. The event also featured spectacular dance performances and beatboxing acts, adding to the festive mood. Attendees enjoyed a delicious breakfast spread, and the day concluded with exciting lucky draws and prize distributions. Shaberam Rabbani, President, SKAL Pune, made a special mention of the event’s associate partners TAAI, TAAFI, PHA, & IIHM, acknowledging their support in making this event a true celebration of unity and social responsibility. With medical support from Manipal Hospitals and insurance coverage from Asego, the event showcased the power of collaboration for …

In partnership with Vietjet Air and Bali Trip, Cross Hotels & Resorts is set to organise an exclusive webinar for the travel trade on Friday, 27 September at 3:00 pm IST. Gain valuable insights and be there to win exciting prizes. For more information, connect with Jaspreet Kaur at jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

As we celebrate World Tourism Day 2024, with its theme of “Tourism and Peace,” a compelling new case study titled “Tides of Change: The Story of Lakshadweep Tourism” is capturing global interest. Released in July 2024 in the renowned Tourism Cases by CABI, UK, this study is authored by Dr. Aditi Choudhary and Mahima Gopalkrishna from the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Noida. “Tides of Change” is a comprehensive examination of Lakshadweep’s tourism development, the first of its kind to explore the balance between tourism expansion and the sustainability of these pristine islands. The study delves into the interplay between policymakers, local communities, cultural preservation, and ecological conservation, offering a model of destination stewardship. This model aligns seamlessly with the 2024 theme, demonstrating how tourism can be a force for peace by fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Lakshadweep, with its delicate ecosystems and vibrant cultural heritage, should be developed   as a prime example of how tourism can support local economies while promoting social harmony and environmental care. The study outlines tourism developmental strategies that emphasise community involvement and environmental responsibility—crucial components for achieving sustainable and peaceful tourism growth. This case study provides a valuable framework for Indian tourism stakeholders, showcasing how responsible tourism practices can lead to sustainable development in vulnerable island environments. It is an essential resource for researchers, policymakers, and tourism professionals, offering insights that support the vision of tourism as a catalyst for peace and sustainability.

Data from Thomas Cook (India), India’s leading omnichannel travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, reveals that the Indian appetite for experience-driven travel is witnessing significant growth. The exceptional solar activity (solar maximum) occurring once every 11-15 years offers an increased chance to view the Northern Lights and has heightened interest for Aurora Borealis experiences between September 2024 – April 2025. To maximise on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Thomas Cook and SOTC have designed a diverse range of Arctic tours, including top locales like Santa Claus Village – Rovaniemi, Saariselka-Lapland (Finland); Tromso, Kirkenes (Norway); Kiruna (Sweden) and Murmansk (Russia). Thomas Cook and SOTC’s Northern Lights tours offer awe-inspiring views of the Aurora Borealis on an exciting husky dog, reindeer and snowmobile safaris. Additionally, authentic local experiences have been woven into the programmes: ice-floating, king crab fishing safaris; engaging and dining with the local Sami people; snowmobiling, visit to a reindeer farm, husky sledding, sea kayaking, fissure snorkelling in the fjords and whale watching. The Companies’ have incorporated exceptional local accommodation options: from Artic tree house stays, snow lodges, glass igloos, bubble stays, ice hotels to lighthouses. In addition to a range of Northern Lights group tours (escorted by an experienced tour manager), Thomas Cook and SOTC’s experts have curated a delightful portfolio of personalised programmes – based on unique customer preferences/passions. Rajeev Kale, President, Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India), said, “With the 2024-2025 solar maximum season offering a rare chance of witnessing spectacular northern light displays, we have launched exciting and immersive Arctic Tours to drive demand. Immersive experiences that we’ve created include Aurora Borealis safaris, eclectic accommodation in igloos, glass hotels and Arctic tree houses/lodges; …