Cross Hotels & Resorts is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the ‘Lapathon‘ event by ‘Shuffle and Strides’, held on 16-17 September, which aimed to raise crucial funds for mental health initiatives across Indonesia. As a proud sponsor, Cross Hotels & Resorts demonstrated its commitment to supporting mental health activities and making a positive impact within the community.  The ‘Lapathon’ event garnered significant support from participants and community members. It provided a platform to raise awareness about mental health and raise vital funds required to support mental health initiatives throughout Indonesia.  Throughout the event, participants took part in a 24-hour endurance challenge, symbolizing their dedication to supporting mental health. They walked, jogged and ran, collectively covering an impressive distance while showcasing their unwavering commitment to this worthy cause.  “We are thrilled to have been a part of the ‘Lapathon‘ event and to see the tremendous support it received. Mental health is an issue of great importance, and we are committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to positive change in this area,” said Evan Burns, Country Manager – Indonesia of Cross Hotels & Resorts. “We would like to express our gratitude to all the participants and partners who made this event a resounding success.” 

Rakhee Gupta Bhandari, Principal Secretary, Punjab Tourism, says that with an aim to lure investors, government is developing tourism spots in Mohali, Pathankot and Sri Mukstar Sahib. She shared, “The Wonderla Group has committed to invest ₹500 cr in Mohali to establish a theme park and water sports facilities.”

Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – Middle East, India and South-East Asia, South African Tourism, said, “Our  endeavor to innovate and to explore newer avenues of association by expanding such programs like Learn SA to tier-2 and tier-3 cities of the Indian market.”

Peter Semone, Chair, PATA, said, “PATA forecasts international visitor numbers by the end of 2023 are predicted to exceed 516 million, approaching 76% of the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. This is expected to further increase to 107% in 2024 and 116% in 2025.”

A World Bank study states that air pollution is having significant impact on the tourism sector. It highlights that air pollution is costing India’s tourism sector $1.7 billion every year. The pollution is being restraining factor for people visiting India, causing tourists to shorten their stay,

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Sultanate of Oman, recently played host to a remarkable mega trade Familiarization (FAM) trip, welcoming 14 trade partners from across India. This six-night tour showcased the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of Oman, featuring prominent destinations such as Jebel Akhdar, Wahiba Sands, Salalah, and Muscat. One of the highlights of the FAM trip was a dynamic Business-to-Business (B2B) meeting on the final day of the trip, which provided a platform for meaningful interactions and partnerships. A total of 35 partners from Oman actively participated in this event. Indian participants were given the opportunity to represent their companies and establish valuable links with local businesses, including Destination Management Companies (DMCs), hotels, and suppliers. This exchange of information and ideas fostered new collaborations and opportunities, strengthening the relations between the two countries. “The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is dedicated to showcasing the incredible beauty and unique experiences that Oman has to offer,” said Arjun Chaddha, Country Manager, India. “We are confident that the connections forged during this FAM trip will lead to an increased number of travellers from India exploring the marvels of Oman. Our goal is to create unforgettable memories and provide the travellers with a truly authentic Omani experience.” With its diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Oman is poised to become a much sought-after destination for Indian tourists, offering a journey of discovery and adventure, he added.

Samir MC, Managing Director, Fortune Park Hotels said, “We are excited to share that this year has been fantastic for us. We are thrilled to share that we have plans to open another eight to ten hotels in diverse destinations across the country in the next few months.”

In an exclusive interview with Kapil Goswamy, Managing Director, Trans India Holidays Pvt, shares, “There is a lot of potential in India’s inbound tourism, but it has not reached to pre pandemic levels due to lack of visibility in international market and high airfares.”

Ebix Sports, a sports division of EbixCash, is an official travel agent for ICC Cricket World Cup. Naveen Kundu of EbixCash travel servcies says, “We sell tour packages which includes a minimum of two-night, travel package, and an ICC match ticket.”

A passenger ferry service provider in Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Makruzz has been felicitated with the prestigious Maritime Excellence Award at the  Global Maritime Summit 2023 by Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways for their ‘ferry services-promoting urban based water transportation’. The company acknowledged the support of Andaman Administration, DG shipping, the Indian registrar of Ships and efforts of trade partners, passengers who chose Makruzz as mode of transport and team members. Makruzz, a ferry brand of Mak Logistics Pvt Ltd is a pioneering initiative by Mohamed H Jadwet, CS Ashok, and Krishnendu Kundu. They introduced India’s first private sector high speed catamaran passenger vessel in 2009.