Gyan Bhushan, IES – Senior Economic Advisor, MOT said, “As India continues to assert its position as a premier global travel destination, fostering collaborations and partnerships within the tourism sector is imperative for realizing its vast potential. By facilitating direct engagement between GCC buyers and Indian tourism stakeholders, not only opens new avenues for collaboration but also lays a robust foundation for sustainable tourism growth.”  

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi has applauded Rikant Pittie, Co-founder of EaseMyTrip, for his insightful remarks on how Digital India initiatives have fostered a thriving Indian startup ecosystem and are poised to accelerate the Viksit Bharat. Viksit Bharat 2047 represents the government’s vision to transform the county into a developed entity by its 100th independence in 2047. The Prime Minister emphasised that startups will play a pivotal role in building a ‘Developed India,’ and the government’s focus will remain on enhancing this ecosystem and providing startups with the platform to excel. Mr. Rikant Pittie, Co-founder of EaseMyTrip, says, “There were 450 registered startups in 2018. But today, there are more than 1 lakh startups. The startup ecosystem is growing rapidly. With the Digital India initiative of 2015, internet penetration has increased tremendously. In fact, the Bharat Net Scheme launched by the government has provided 2,50,000 villages with internet. I feel the future of the country is in the hands of technology. Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, also mentioned that India’s digital economy is growing at a rate of 2.8 times. As the digital economy grows, there will be a lot of changes that will come through. I am confident that India will be a developed country even before 2047.” EaseMyTrip’s positive outlook towards the initiatives of the Government of India aligns with the government’s efforts to bolster the Indian startup ecosystem at the grassroot level. This mutual support system not only fosters growth but also provides a platform for startups to thrive. Additional Information: On a recent development, EaseMyTrip was also amongst the few unicorns to have collaborated with Government-led Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to join …

AZETA INCOMING ARGENTINA a leading Incoming Tour Operator & DMC, based in Buenos Aires – Argentina, with more than 30 years of experience, Specializes in exclusive, tailor made programs and offers A-Z travel services combining Argentina with Uruguay, Chile, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia and Peru. From 2012 AZETA INCOMING ARGENTINA is certified with Quality Management System ISO 9001-2008. Global India Reps, has the collective experience of almost 20 years in representing, launching, promoting and creating a network for business from India – with deep connections in Europe, Asia, Central Asia & as far as Canada. Upon signing the agreement, Mr. Federico Gavazza, Director, AZETA INCOMING ARGENTINA said “I am delighted that through our newly appointed In market Exclusive Representative, GlobalIndiaReps we can introduce AZETA INCOMING ARGENTINA programs, custom services to the Indian market. Outbound Travel from India presents a significant opportunity given the huge demand for this region and we wish to offer and serve the outbound travel market for 2024.” “With their unique experience, strong trade relationships and proven track record of success launching new international products from India, we are confident that GlobalIndiaReps, headed by Mr. Ashish Saran will springboard and accelerate our entry into the Indian outbound market from Asia”, Federico, added. Mr. Ashish Saran, Business Head, Global India Reps added “Lesser known but exciting no less, exotic experiential journeys will be a fast growing segment from this market. Agents Looking at newer destinations & newer product formats, are keen to promote such journeys and this will create a unique distinction for their markets.”

Radisson Hotel Group has announced the signing of a strategic partnership with NILE Hospitality for growing its mid-scale brand Park Inn & Suites by Radisson in Rajasthan and Gujarat. This move comes as part of the Group’s robust expansion strategy, driven by the growing demand for quality hospitality experiences in tier 2 to tier 5 cities of India. Under this partnership, NILE Hospitality will be responsible for growing the Park Inn and Suites by Radisson brand in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Gujarat boasts higher industrial activities along with tourist and pilgrimage destinations such as Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Dharoi, and Kutch, presenting an excellent business opportunity while helping the tourism boost in the region. Rajasthan being a culturally rich, heritage destination with historical forts, palaces, art, and culture makes it an interesting tourism destination for travelers. Park Inn and Suites by Radisson brand positions itself as a smart hotel investment opportunity, with a clear focus on value maximization for its stakeholders. By offering a conversion-friendly model tailored for the Indian market, the brand adds to the diversity of Radisson Hotel Group’s offerings in the country. On the consumer front, the essence of Park Inn & Suites by Radisson is centered around “Inviting Modern Comfort” ensuring that guests feel welcome, valued, and well-cared for. With an average size of 50 to 70 keys, hotels under the brand will be equipped with inviting social spaces, a welcome corner, a fitness center, services like free WiFi, and signature breakfast options for delivering a holistic experience to guests. “We are delighted to continue our collaboration with NILE Hospitality to strengthen our presence in western and northwestern India. Tailored for the Indian market, Park Inn & Suites …

India and the UK have updated their air service agreement, allowing airlines to add 14 weekly flights between London Heathrow, Delhi, and Mumbai, enhancing connectivity. Both sides can now operate 70 flights per week between Heathrow and Delhi & Mumbai. Previously, only 56 flights were allowed.

On the occasion of 92nd Anniversary of EgyptAir, Amr Ali, Country Manager, EgyptAir, said, “Indian market is very crucial to us but instead of expanding we are focusing to stabilise the current operations in India. We will continue to monitor the Indian market and the traffic between India – Egypt and will introduce new routes at right time. Currently, our aim is to increase the traffic between Cairo and Delhi and enhance the options of cultural tourism, beach tourism, and wedding tourism between the two countries.”  

Akasa Air Co-Founder Aditya Ghosh said, “If you convert one day’s rail traffic to air, India would need 500 more aircraft. To maintain current growth, India will need 75 more planes next year. The US has 1,400 airports, while India has only 150-200, highlighting the immense potential and need to double the number of airports in India.”  

According to a study by Amadeus, corporate travel managers plan to invest 13% more in technology than they did in 2023, while Business Travel Agencies, Online Travel Agencies and Leisure Travel Agencies plan similar changes. On average, payments leaders intend to increase investment by 12% over the coming 12 months. Airports, however, intend to increase technology investment by 17%, which is larger than any other area of the travel industry covered by the study. 

Cross Chiang Mai Riverside is thrilled to introduce an innovative culinary experience with its new menu concepts for 2024 at the Oxygen Dining Room. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Watit ‘Khem’ Ruengrojwattana, the restaurant is set to redefine fine dining in the region with a series of unique set menus. Thai Set Menu Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Thai cuisine with our exclusive Thai Set Menu. Renowned for a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and spicy tastes, this menu highlights local ingredients and premium seafood. Integrating French culinary techniques, Chef Khem crafts a romantic and atmospheric dining experience that engages all senses. Degustation Set Menu For those seeking to explore the essence of seasonal ingredients, our Degustation Set Menu is the perfect choice. Focusing on the freshest produce at its peak, this signature menu is an artistic representation of culinary finesse, designed to delight the palate and nourish the soul. Experience Set Menu Dive into the artistic aesthetics of our Experience Set Menu. Each dish, a creation of Chef Khem, marries traditional Thai flavors with modern French innovation. This menu promises a fresh and memorable exploration of what contemporary gastronomy can offer. Join us at Oxygen Dining Room to explore these exciting new offerings and enjoy a culinary journey that promises not just a meal, but an experience that will linger in your memories long after your visit.

Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA)announces its partnership with the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) to organise a mega familiarisation (FAM) trip for its members. Taking place from June 30th to July 6th 2024, this initiative is dedicated to highlighting the myriad attractions of Türkiye to Indian travel agents. A total of 40 OTOAI members from across India will be participating in this exciting endeavour, representing diverse regions and tourism interests. OTOAI, a leading travel association in India, represents outbound tour operators and travel agents committed to promoting international travel from India. This collaboration with TGA reflects a shared commitment to nurturing tourism partnerships and facilitating meaningful exchanges within the travel industry, further strengthening ties between India and Türkiye. The upcoming familiarisation trip will offer OTOAI members an immersive journey through Türkiye’s iconic destinations, ensuring an unforgettable experience rich in cultural exploration and scenic marvels. Covering the enchanting cities of İstanbul, Antalya, and İzmir with specific visits to Pamukkale and Kuşadası, participants will explore the diverse array of attractions that Türkiye has to offer, ranging from ancient ruins to breathtaking natural wonders. Each stop on the itinerary is meticulously curated to highlight Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage, spectacular landscapes, and renowned hospitality, providing OTOAI members with a comprehensive understanding of the country’s tourism offerings. In addition to sightseeing excursions, the trip will also include strategic B2B meetings scheduled in İstanbul, where Turkish tourism sector representatives and Indian travel agents will convene to foster meaningful discussions and forge valuable partnerships. These meetings are expected to serve as a pivotal platform for collaboration, allowing industry professionals to explore innovative avenues for enhancing tourism between India and Türkiye. By facilitating dialogue …