Hazel Jain

IndiGo, Jetstar codeshare to boost connectivity via Singapore and Thailand

IndiGo has signed a codeshare agreement with Jetstar enabling its customers to connect seamlessly to Australia and New Zealand. The agreement, announced today, will allow IndiGo to place its code on Jetstar operated routes to these countries, providing a convenient option for IndiGo customers connecting via Singapore, Bangkok and Phuket.  This agreement simplifies travel for the customers of IndiGo by allowing the airline to place its code on Jetstar operated routes and enable convenient connections through Jetstar flights departing Asia for onward travel to cities including Sydney, the Gold Coast and Auckland.  These bookings can be made on IndiGo’s website from 21 July 2025 for travel from 01 September 2025, subject to regulatory approvals. Through this cooperation, IndiGo will be able to strengthen its connectivity into two key markets as the marketing carrier on Jetstar operated flights, enabling its customers to create a single booking for journeys from India to Australia and New Zealand across the combined network of both the airlines.This codeshare arrangement will allow IndiGo to provide seamless connections to its customers, besides enabling them to enjoy an integrated travel itinerary and through check-in of baggage among other benefits. Jetstar CEO, Stephanie Tully said, “The partnership between the two airlines will significantly boost inbound tourism from India. Australia and New Zealand’s unique attractions, world-class experiences and growing communities of Indian expats make both countries incredibly popular for travellers from the subcontinent. This new codeshare agreement will provide IndiGo customers with convenient access to our extensive network allowing them to take off more for less down under.” Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President – Network Planning & Revenue Management, IndiGo said, “We are pleased to expand the horizons and offer our customers convenient …

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DreamSetGo launches Dream Icons that will bring sporting legends to Indian fans, starting with Usain Bolt

In a groundbreaking move for India’s sports and fan culture, DreamSetGo has launched Dream Icons – its signature IP that brings world’s greatest sporting legends face-to-face with Indian fans through bespoke, immersive experiences. As part of this initiative, DreamSetGo will host Usain Bolt on his first-ever multi-city tour to India this September.

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STB launches pilot program that supports Singapore-based DMCs to host customised agent FAMs

Singapore Tourism Board will introduce its ‘Singapore DMC Trade Partner Fam Support Scheme’ on 1 August 2025. This pilot programme supports Singapore-based DMCs in hosting customised familiarisation trips for Indian agents. It aims to catalyse the development of new and distinctive Singapore itineraries by empowering Indian agents through their DMC partners.

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Power shift in Indian tourism? WTTC says women-led firms are leading the way

WTTC’s Together in Travel initiative has spotlighted a powerful shift in Indian tourism—women-led travel businesses are leading a new era of innovation and inclusivity. WTTC calls this movement a ‘game-changer’ for tourism’s future, driving not only economic empowerment but also a more diverse and resilient sector ready to meet evolving traveller needs.

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Explore Italy’s key cities onboard Trenitalia trains with Rail Europe’s exclusive webinar today at 3pm

Rail Europe invites the Indian outbound travel trade to attend an exclusive webinar today about Trenitalia trains for clients who want to explore Rome, Florence, Venice and other hidden gems of Italy. Participate in the quiz for a chance to win exciting goodies! For more information, contact jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

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Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection Dubai hosts exclusive evening for trade partners in Mumbai

Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, Dubai’s quintessential luxury hospitality landmark, recently hosted an exclusive evening to appreciate the esteemed Indian travel trade partners for their continued collaboration and promotion efforts. The elegant networking event was held at Tamasha, Worli in Mumbai on 11th July 2025. The event offered an engaging atmosphere marked by curated hospitality, meaningful networking, and forward-looking conversations. The immersive experience presented incomparable service provided by the Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection. The evening also provided the attending guests to discuss future opportunities with key members of the hotel collection’s senior leadership team, including Vishesh Amerkar, Complex Director of Sales – MICE, and Tulay Kilic, Complex Director of Marketing. Speaking about the event, Tulay Kilic, Complex Director of Marketing, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection said, “India remains one of our strongest and most consistent source markets, and this event is our way of expressing gratitude to our valued partners for their continued support year after year. It has provided a great platform to strengthen existing relationships and explore new opportunities, as we remain committed to delivering exclusive, luxury experiences in the iconic travel destination of Dubai” The Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection features Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, part of the Legend Collection by Preferred Hotels & Resorts, V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City. Each property offers its own distinctive style of luxury and personalized hospitality, while providing seamless access to Dubai’s most sought-after attractions.

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New York City Tourism + Conventions successfully held its first-ever India Business Expo

 From 9–13 June, New York City Tourism + Conventions successfully held its first-ever India Business Expo, bringing together 14 key Indian travel trade professionals for three impactful days of business development, destination discovery, and cultural exchange. Over 30 member businesses across all five boroughs took part in the mission, representing a mix of iconic attractions and new experiences. Leading hospitality players also participated, highlighting the city’s robust offering for Indian outbound travellers. The itinerary featured one-on-one meetings, a Broadway show, Five Borough Marketplace buyers meet, and visits to top cultural and lifestyle attractions—giving Indian buyers a deeper understanding of New York City’s tourism appeal. Highlights included a private screening of “Encounters in the Milky Way” at the American Museum of Natural History, an exclusive Broadway Night featuring Q&As with cast members from Aladdin and The Lion King, and a behind-the-scenes “Wild Encounter” at the Bronx Zoo with a sloth and armadillo—memorable moments that brought NYC’s vibrancy and storytelling to life. Reflecting on the success of the market’s inaugural Business Expo, Makiko Matsuda Healy, Senior Vice President, Tourism Market Development, said, “India continues to be one of New York City’s most promising and engaged visitor markets. The 2025 India Business Expo was a resounding success – not only did it strengthen relationships with our key trade partners, but it also gave us the opportunity to showcase the depth and diversity of experiences across the five boroughs. We’re excited about the continued growth from India and remain committed to fostering long-term collaboration with this market.” New York City is home to the world’s busiest airport system and remains the number one port of entry for U.S. international travelers. The city welcomed 64.5 …

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Singapore Airlines and Mandai Wildlife Group launch a three-year strategic partnership

The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group and Mandai Wildlife Group have launched a three-year strategic partnership aimed at enhancing Singapore’s appeal as a top travel destination, co-creating customer experiences through exclusive privileges, and spotlighting the interesting yet crucial work of wildlife conservation for the planet. The collaboration champions Singapore’s vision of being a City in Nature with the Mandai Wildlife Reserve as a unique window to the wild. As part of efforts to boost inbound travel from key international markets, SIA customers will gain access to curated wildlife experiences, exclusive co-branded retail collections, and benefits for visits to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, home to Singapore’s iconic wildlife parks which actively contribute to regional conservation efforts. As part of the partnership, the SIA Group and Mandai Wildlife Group will also collaborate on wildlife conservation efforts, with SIA providing air travel sponsorships and other forms of logistical support.  This may include assistance in transferring animals between Singapore’s wildlife parks and other accredited zoos around the world, as well as the repatriation of wildlife to their native habitats. Vinod Kannan, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing, Singapore Airlines, said: “This partnership strengthens our ability to offer our customers enhanced benefits, while supporting wildlife initiatives in Singapore and around the world. Combining the Singapore Airlines Group’s global reach with Mandai’s world-class wildlife attractions helps to enhance Singapore’s appeal as a leading global tourist destination.” Belina Lee, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Transformation and Growth, Mandai Wildlife Group, added: “Two iconic Singapore brands have joined forces to create world class experiences for global travellers, that also champion conservation. Every visit supports conservation in our wildlife parks, across Singapore and the region. Together with Singapore Airlines, we are …

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IRIS Reps adds Barceló Hotels & Resorts to its portfolio with focus on Maldives and Thailand

IRIS Reps announces its newest partnership with Barceló Hotels & Resorts, adding yet another prestigious name to its growing global portfolio. This exciting collaboration will place special focus on promoting Barceló’s stunning resorts in the Maldives and Thailand to the Indian travel trade. With a legacy of excellence, Barceló Hotels & Resorts is known for delivering exceptional guest experiences across its premium resort destinations. The group’s properties in Maldives and Thailand stand out for their blend of contemporary comfort, unmatched locations, and thoughtful service – ideal for Indian FITs, small groups, MICE, and celebratory travel. Alefiya Singh, Founder of IRIS Reps, shared her enthusiasm about the new partnership: “Barceló is a remarkable brand that perfectly aligns with our vision to bring high-quality international hospitality experiences to Indian travelers. We are particularly excited to promote their properties in the Maldives and Thailand – destinations that continue to be in high demand across various Indian segments. With our strong B2B network and local insights, we aim to create meaningful traction for Barceló in the Indian market.” Thibaut Biguet, Commercial Director at Barceló Hotels & Resorts, added: “India is a key growth market for us, and partnering with IRIS Reps gives us the right platform to reach and engage with the Indian travel trade. With their in-depth market knowledge and strong distribution channels, we are confident this collaboration will elevate Barceló’s presence in India – especially for our resort offerings in the Maldives and Thailand.” This partnership marks a strategic move for both organizations as they work together to enhance brand awareness, drive bookings, and create tailored experiences for the evolving Indian traveler.

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Ramada Encore by Wyndham to open in Bhuj, Gujarat by 2028

M/s N V Hospitality, a respected hospitality firm based in Bhuj, proudly announces its partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company by number of properties, to develop a new hotel under the Ramada Encore by Wyndham brand in the heart of Gujarat’s Kutch region. The upcoming Ramada Encore by Wyndham Bhuj will be a greenfield development featuring 50 guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, meeting facilities, spa, swimming pool, and a range of modern amenities tailored to today’s leisure and business travelers. The project is currently in the planning phase and is expected to open in 2028. Bhuj, a culturally rich and historic city in Gujarat’s Kutch district, is renowned for its vibrant handicrafts, desert landscapes, and architectural heritage. As the gateway to the Rann of Kutch, Bhuj attracts a growing number of tourists, particularly during the celebrated Rann Utsav festival. The city is well-connected by air, with direct flights to Mumbai and Delhi, and is easily accessible by road from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Gandhidham. Niraj Prakash Vazirani, Partner, M/s N V Hospitality, said: “Bringing the Ramada Encore brand to Bhuj is a meaningful step in our journey to enhance the hospitality offerings of the region. This partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts enables us to combine international standards with local culture, and we’re proud to contribute to Bhuj’s continued growth as a tourism and commercial destination.” Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, added: “Bhuj represents a significant addition to our network of emerging destinations across Eurasia. It’s a city that blends tradition, art, and resilience—and we’re excited to contribute to its evolution with a hotel that offers both contemporary comfort and …

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