With this addition, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts now boasts nine properties across Goa. Goa-based hospitality chain Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts is proud to announce the launch of its latest property, Azalea by Stone Wood, a luxurious retreat set amidst the scenic beauty of Carmona in South Goa. Located just 700 metres from the pristine White Sands of Carmona Beach and within walking distance of Zalor Beach, the resort offers a serene escape for travellers seeking relaxation and tranquillity. The launch of Azalea by Stone Wood strengthens the brand’s presence in Goa, a destination known for its stunning beaches, historic churches, and vibrant local culture. Azalea by Stone Wood offers 52 well-appointed rooms, including deluxe, premium, and suite options, with modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, HD LED televisions, and 24-hour room service. The resort also features a multi-cuisine restaurant, Café d’Azalea, a swimming pool, and guest services, including airport transfers and a business centre, making it an ideal choice for leisure and business travellers. Guests of Azalea can explore nearby attractions, including Cabo de Rama Fort, a historic landmark with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, and Big Foot, a recreated Goan village that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The property is also close to the iconic Arch of Coconut Trees, a natural landmark perfect for picturesque moments. Commenting on the launch, Shikhar Kumar, Managing Director, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are thrilled to introduce Azalea by Stone Wood, which perfectly captures the essence of South Goa’s beauty and tranquillity. With its prime location, luxurious accommodations, and world-class amenities, we believe Azalea will provide an unforgettable experience for every guest. We continue …

Presidential Inauguration, WorldPride and citywide conventions, meetings and sports help sustain momentum of $10.2 billion industry Major events of international interest and several notable openings present opportunities for continued growth for Washington, DC’s $10.2 billion tourism industry, according to Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organisation of the nation’s capital. DDC unveiled strategies to build on an impactful first year of its “Only One DC” campaign and leverage events, including the presidential inauguration and WorldPride 2025, at its annual Marketing Outlook Meeting at the Washington Hilton. “India continues to be a market of top importance to Washington, DC, welcoming 165,100 Indian visitors in 2023,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO of DDC. “The market is currently the city’s second largest overseas inbound market and reflects the highest spending total at $287,400,000 USD for the year.” “DDC launched its award-winning campaign last year in India. ‘There’s Only One Washington, DC’ positions the destination as wholly unique, spotlighting a diversity of experiences that research shows India prioritises, including arts and culture, shopping, luxury amenities and a robust culinary scene. “Additional funding has allowed us to reach more potential travellers than any campaign to date. In 2025, we will continue to be more aggressive with our global advertising in the Indian market and plan to meet with Indian travel agents and media.” “Nearly 26 million visitors to Washington, DC last year directly supported more than just our hotels, restaurants, tour operators and local businesses. Over $10 billion in spending and $2 billion in tax revenue impacts the entire city, emphasising the continued importance of tourism to Washington, DC” Washington, DC welcomed a record-breaking 25.95 million total visitors in 2023, up …

While receiving ‘Most Promising African Airline Award,’ on behalf of EgyptAir Rasha Abdelmouneim, Country Manager, India & Sri Lanka, Egyptair, said, “This award means a lot to Egyptair, and I am honoured to be here.” EgyptAir is keen to capture India’s major market share, especially the MICE segment.  

Tamil Nadu Travel Expo 2024 concluded successfully in Madurai after two days of business meetings between 130 exhibitors and around 300 buyers from across the country. The 3-day event also saw the launch of a new portal ‘travel2tamilnadu.com,’ which showcases lesser-known gems.

Under its Tourism Policy 2022-2032, UP government will provide 50 per cent reimbursement of certification fees established for tour operators for obtaining GSTC certification to promote sustainable tourism. Tour operators can benefit from this initiative and will have up to ₹5 lakh reimbursed. 

Nepal’s tourism capital, Pokhara, is gearing up to host its first-ever International Balloon Festival, set to take place from 24 December, 2024, to 1 January, 2025. Organised by Balloon Nepal, the event promises to coincide with the Christmas and New Year celebrations, offering a unique and vibrant attraction for both local and international tourists. Bishnu Bhakta Dhakal, Director, Balloon Nepal, expressed enthusiasm about the festival, noting that it will contribute significantly to Pokhara’s growing reputation as a hub for adventure tourism. “Pokhara is naturally rich and beautiful, and it has been steadily emerging as a sought-after destination for adventure tourism. The balloon festival will further enhance Pokhara’s aim to establish itself as a premier adventure destination on the global map,” said Dhakal. The festival will span a three-kilometer area from Lauruk to Chankhpur in the scenic Pame region of Pokhara. It is expected to feature around 30 professional ballooning companies from Nepal and various countries worldwide. Over the course of the week-long event, more than 500 professional balloon flights, along with an additional 300 non-commercial flights, are planned. These activities are aimed at promoting adventure tourism in the region and boosting Pokhara’s profile as a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers. In addition to balloon rides, the festival will host a variety of side attractions. Attendees will be able to enjoy mini balloon shows, cultural performances by both national and local artists, food stalls offering a range of local and international cuisine, and other entertainment activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Organisers are confident that this diverse array of offerings will create an immersive and unforgettable experience for participants. Bikram Bade, Chairman, Balloon Nepal, highlighted the larger goals of the …

Suman Billa, Addl. Secretary, MOT, said, “There is a need for targeted strategies including decongesting popular tourist sites and developing new ones.” Currently, tourism sector contributes five per cent to India’s GDP, whereas Thailand and Turkey adds 23 per cent and 11 per cent, respectively. 

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announced the signing of a resort in Barnala in Punjab, under the Gateway brand. Speaking on the occasion Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL said, “This signing is in line with our strategy of growing IHCL’s presence in tier 2 and 3 cities in India. Barnala, a commercial and industrial centre bordering Ludhiana is an emerging market in Punjab.  Gateway, the latest addition to IHCL’s brand portfolio will showcase this vibrant city. We are delighted to partner with Lakhvir Singh for this project.” Spread across 9 acres, Gateway Barnala will be a haven of tranquillity. The resort will feature a unique low-rise design with 100 spacious villas and rooms. It will offer an all-day-diner, specialty restaurant, bar, gymnasium and health centre. The 7,000 sq. ft banquet hall coupled with meeting rooms will be ideal for corporate and social gatherings. Lakhvir Singh, BRH Eaton said, “We are excited to collaborate with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to Barnala. We are confident this hotel will be a preferred destination for travellers.” With this addition, IHCL will have three hotels in Punjab with two under development.

Launches Portico branded hotels in Nepal, Jim Corbett and Haridwar Sarovar Hotels announced the grand opening of three new properties, marking a significant expansion in its international and domestic portfolio. This latest development underscores Sarovar Hotels commitment to offering exceptional experiences tailored to diverse segments. The new properties—Sarovar Portico in Birgunj, Nepal, ABN Sarovar Portico in Jim Corbett and MJ Sarovar Portico in Haridwar—reflect the brand’s commitment to enhancing its international and regional presence. Sarovar Portico, Birgunj, located in the southeastern part of Nepal, marks Sarovar Hotels debut in the country. This property introduces a blend of traditional Nepalese hospitality with 60 elegantly designed rooms and suites, offering modern luxury in the vibrant city of Birgunj. As a bleisure hotel, it aims to redefine standards for both business and leisure travellers in the region, providing a sophisticated and culturally rich experience. ABN Sarovar Portico, Jim Corbett, offers a serene retreat nestled within the lush landscapes of India’s oldest national park. This property, located 4 Kms from the Dhangadi Gate (Dhikala Zone), features 65 elegantly designed rooms and cottages, blending relaxation with natural beauty. MJ Sarovar Portico, Haridwar, situated 5 Kms from Har Ki Pauri, enhances Sarovar Hotels pilgrimage portfolio. Strategically located to serve travellers visiting Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun, this hotel boasts 75 elegant rooms and suites, designed with extensive facilities to meet the needs of spiritual seekers and professional visitors alike. Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels and Director, Louvre Hotels India, commented, “The opening of these three new properties represents a significant milestone for Sarovar Hotels, expanding our footprint both globally and domestically. Each property is thoughtfully designed to cater to different traveller needs—whether for business (Birgunj), leisure …

Representation World announced the successful completion of its very first assignment as hospitality consultants, where they had the privilege of guiding Expoinn Suites & Convention Hotel Greater Noida in achieving their prestigious 5-star classification from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This remarkable achievement was accomplished in record time, and Representation World are extremely proud of the hotel’s dynamic team. Barun Gupta, General Manager, Expoinn Suites & Convention Hotel, took on the challenge of transforming the hotel to meet the Ministry of Tourism’s rigorous 5-star guidelines within a year of stepping into his role. Due to his leadership and the dedication of his entire team, that goal has been achieved with flying colors. “We are extremely satisfied with the guidance provided by Vineet Gopal and Manoj Babbar, which helped us implement the right measures to elevate our hotel’s facilities and services to meet 5-star standards,” said Barun Gupta. At Representation World, members are delighted with this outcome. Manoj Babbar and Vineet Gopal are proud to have played a role in this journey, and they extend their heartfelt congratulations to the entire Expoinn Suites & Convention Hotel’s team for their hard work and dedication. This milestone marks the beginning of many exciting ventures for Representation World in the hospitality sector, and they look forward to continuing to deliver top-tier consulting services to future partners.