Moscow has signed an agreement to begin cooperation with India’s largest tour operator, Thomas Cook India Group, at a trade show in Mumbai. The capital of Russia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with India’s largest tour operator, Thomas Cook India Group, at the international tourism trade show OTM in Mumbai. The agreement marks the beginning of active co-operation with the Indian side in the field of tourism. The document is primarily aimed at promoting Moscow as a key destination for leisure and business tourism in the Indian market, which the authorities of the Russian capital consider a priority market. Under the agreement, the parties plan to strengthen cooperation through the exchange of knowledge and best practices. They will also work on increasing awareness among the Indian tourism industry about Moscow’s tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) potential, and developing new travel products that are tailored to Indian travellers. “The Indian tour operator expressed interest in bringing its clients to Moscow this spring as part of a familiarization trip. The MoU was signed at the trade show, after we had agreed to organize a special presentation of Moscow as a tourist destination for Thomas Cook India Group and its clients, particularly in the MICE segment,” – said Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. According to him, Thomas Cook India Group representatives expressed their interest in promoting Moscow in the Indian market at the Meet Global MICE Congress: BRICS Edition, which took place in Moscow in December 2024. “The Thomas Cook India Group team are big fans of Moscow, and are considered …

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center is excited to announce the elevation of Swapnil Nandurkar as the new Director of Sales. With over 14 years of distinguished experience in the hospitality industry, Swapnil has been an integral member of the hotel’s leadership team, having previously served as the Associate Director of Sales. His extensive career includes roles at prominent global brands such as Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris, Mumbai & Hyderabad, JW Marriott Pune, where he has consistently demonstrated a passion for excellence, innovation, and business growth. Swapnil’s contributions to Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield have been instrumental in driving revenue growth, identifying new business opportunities, setting and achieving sales targets, and fostering strong client relationships. His strategic insights, combined with a deep understanding of the hospitality sector, have significantly strengthened the hotel’s position within a competitive market. Before his tenure at Sheraton, Swapnil’s was a part of Sales & Marketing team at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, set new benchmarks for excellence, further cementing his reputation as an industry leader. In his new role as Director of Sales, Swapnil will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s sales strategy. He will be responsible for budgeting, forecasting, and developing initiatives that enhance brand awareness and the hotel’s overall commercial performance. Under his leadership, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield aims to solidify its position as a market leader, increasing market share and continuing its commitment to delivering exceptional service and experiences to guests. “We are thrilled to announce Swapnil’s elevation to Director of Sales,  said Sanjay Gupta, General Manager at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center. “His deep industry knowledge, leadership skills, and unwavering dedication to innovation are key factors that …

Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition, the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) is all set to return with its second edition. This premier travel and tourism event will take place from 26 – 28 February 2025, showcasing Karnataka as a vibrant and diverse global tourism hub. Sri H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, Tourism, Government of Karnataka, unveiled the KITE – 2025 logo along with brochures at the curtain-raiser event organized at Vidhana Soudha. Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka; Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka; Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation; Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society, along with the office bearers of KTS and other officials, were present on the occasion. Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and the ‘Karnataka Tourism Society,’ KITE 2025 promises to be a platform that brings together stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality industries. The event aims to foster new partnerships, promote business opportunities, and spotlight Karnataka’s unique offerings, including its heritage, culture, adventure, wellness, and nature-based tourism. Key Highlights of KITE 2025: B2B Networking Opportunities: With over 400 hosted buyers from India and abroad and with over 150 stakeholders from Karnataka, KITE 2025 ensures impactful interactions for trade and industry professionals. Showcasing Karnataka’s Treasures: Dedicated pavilions will highlight Karnataka’s iconic destinations, emerging circuits, and sustainable tourism initiatives. Cultural Extravaganza: Evening programs celebrating Karnataka’s art, music, and cuisine. Speaking about the event, Sri HK Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, law and Parliament Affairs, Govt. of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka is home …

The Bird Education Society for Travel & Tourism (Bird Academy), a leader in career oriented aviation training, skilling and placements since over 27 years, has been accredited as an Aviation Security Training Institute by the Directorate General, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. This prestigious accreditation authorizes Bird Academy to conduct BCAS-endorsed Aviation Security training programs, including: AvSec Induction Training (5 Days) AvSec Basic Training (14 Days) AvSec Basic Refresher Training (3 Days) Conducted as per the National Civil Aviation Security Training Programme, these programs are designed to prepare aviation security personnel with critical skills, ensuring the highest industry standards. Mr. R.N. Choubey, IAS congratulated Team Bird Academy through a video message and said, “The launch of ASTI marks a significant milestone, not just for Bird Group but for the entire aviation security ecosystem in India. Known for their unmatched standards in the aviation sector, the Bird Group is now poised to set new benchmarks in training and innovation. Under the visionary leadership of Mrs. Radha Bhatia and her dedicated team, I am confident that ASTI, Bird Academy will not only stand out as a center of excellence but will soon rise to be the premier aviation security training institute in the country, serving as a model for others to emulate. This initiative will undoubtedly strengthen our nation’s aviation security framework and inspire a new era of professional excellence.” Mr. M.T. Baig, Senior Advisor, Aviation Security, Bird Group inspired the batch of students present there with his experiences and shared that nowadays private security agencies are being deployed at the airports to perform non-core aviation security functions and access control duties at the entry …

Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity are excited to announce the appointment of Mr. Uday Bhatnagar as the new Director of Revenue Management. With an expansive career in hospitality revenue optimization and a proven track record of success across various regions, he brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the team. Uday joins the Pullman and Novotel family from his previous role as Director of Revenue Management at Novotel Goa Resort & Spa, Novotel Goa Candolim & Novotel Goa Panjim. His expertise in strategic pricing, yield management, and demand forecasting has been instrumental in maximizing revenue and profit at several Accor properties. Mr Bhatnagar has been known for his innovative approach to disrupting industry norms and introducing data-driven solutions that drive operational success. In his new role, he will be responsible for managing the revenue strategies for both Pullman and Novotel properties at Aerocity, optimizing room inventory, pricing, and function space management. He will also spearhead the execution of strategic plans for established and new hotels, ensuring seamless integration across all hotel functions. Uday’s professional journey in the hospitality sector spans over a decade, with key leadership roles in revenue management, where he has consistently delivered exceptional results. His accomplishments include being honored as the “Accor RM Person of the Year 2018” for India and South Asia, and publishing a research paper on the impact of TripAdvisor on hotel reservation intentions. He holds an MBA in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Laureate University in Bangkok and a BBA from GGSIP University, New Delhi. “We are thrilled to welcome Uday to our team,” said Sunaina Manerkar, Resident Manager of Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity. “His dynamic approach to revenue …

Moscow is all set to captivate audiences at the OTM International Tourism Exhibition in Mumbai from January 30 to February 1, 2025. Over three days, the Russian capital will present the best it can offer in cultural, leisure, and business tourism. The Moscow stand will host over 500 key business meetings and negotiations during the event, connecting Moscow’s tourism sector representatives with their Indian counterparts. Experts from Moscow will present the city’s flagship projects, including the Moscow Tea Time Project that introduces visitors to Moscow tea traditions which are being restored nowadays, the Moscow Estates Festival, an iconic cultural event that attracts more than 100,000 tourists and citizens annually, the Moscow Gastronomy Project, the City of Discoveries educational project and RUSSPASS travel planning service. Joint projects include the Moscow+ Project, which fosters collaborative tourism across Russian regions — notably the Tyumen region with its Visit Tyumen Project. Moreover, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, Moscow’s Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development, and the Department of Culture, the Moscow exposition will showcase the city’s export potential, alongside Discover Russia and Made in Moscow brands. Additionally, the stand will showcase key attractions like the VDNH Complex, blending Soviet-era architectural wonders with modern interactive museums, and Moskino Cinema Park that is already gaining attention from the Indian film industry for its potential as a filming destination. Moscow will also feature six leading tour operators, including Headed Goose, Tari Tour, Volshebny Tour, FUN & SUN, INTOURIST, Academservice, and three hotels: the Swissôtel Krasnye Holmy, VEGA Hotel & Convention Center and Izmailovo Hotel Complex. They will cooperatively highlight the diverse range of services available to Indian travelers, from luxurious stays to …

National Tourism Day ‘25 is an opportunity to celebrate India’s incredible journey in travel and tourism while welcoming the future with renewed aspirations. As Indian travellers increasingly venture beyond borders and explore global destinations, Mrs. Jyoti Mayal, CEO of Redhat Communications and Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council , highlights how the World Travel & Tourism Festival 2025 will set the stage for a more empowered and inclusive tourism industry. Scheduled from February 14 to 16, 2025, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, India Gate, the festival represents a landmark collaboration between TV9 Network and Redhat Communications. This one-of-its-kind event aims to bring the entire travel and tourism ecosystem together, from industry leaders to grassroots entrepreneurs, while creating immersive and memorable experiences for attendees. Spanning over 45,000 sq. ft., the festival offers an unparalleled immersive experience with personalized travel consultations, expert-led talks, and extensive networking opportunities with industry leaders. The event features a top music concert, cultural performances, a food zone, travel tech showcase, competitions, and more. Reflecting on the significance of this year’s National Tourism Day, Mrs. Mayal remarked, “Tourism is not confined to discovering new places. It is also about connecting hearts, instilling understanding, and driving economic growth. With India’s tourism sector on the cusp of a new era, the World Travel & Tourism Festival 2025 will provide an unparalleled platform to celebrate, collaborate, and innovate.” The festival is set to redefine how travel is experienced and celebrated. From cultural performances that showcase India’s heritage and global traditions to travel technology exhibits that highlight the role of innovation in transforming the travel experience, the event will explore every facet of the industry. Attendees will also …

In the national capital New Delhi, Bharat Parv 2025 is set to take place from January 26 to 31 in the historic Red Fort premises. Madhya Pradesh’s impressive pavilion is poised to be a major highlight of this six-day cultural extravaganza, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary Tourism, Culture and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department and Managing Director Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, said “Bharat Parv is a grand celebration of India’s cultural diversity, and Madhya Pradesh is proud to be a key participant. Through our pavilion, we aim to offer a deep and authentic experience of our state’s heritage, culture, and tourism potential.” The Madhya Pradesh pavilion will be a harmonious reflection of the state’s deep-rooted spirituality, cultural essence, and artisanal brilliance. A dedicated information center will highlight the state’s iconic spiritual destinations, including the sacred Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain, Omkareshwar Temple, and the tranquil Sanchi Stupa, offering a journey into its profound spiritual heritage. The pavilion will also showcase GI-tagged products and One District One Product specialties, providing visitors a glimpse into the craftsmanship that embodies the spiritual and cultural ethos of Madhya Pradesh. Adding to the charm, the pavilion will host live cultural performances by the renowned Janki Band, which will bring the state’s folk traditions to life. A food court featuring Madhya Pradesh’s authentic local delicacies, such as poha-jalebi, Gwalior ki Bedai Poori, Morena kiGhaz, Indori Kees Kachori and many more, will not only be open for sale but will also include live kitchen demonstrations showcasing the preparation of the iconic dishes such as Garadu Chaat and Khopra Patties on the 30th. Additionally, a handicraft and handloom stall …

Indulging in exceptional culinary experiences is an integral part of any memorable stay, and Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport offers a diverse array of dining options to satisfy every palate. Nestled in the heart of the historic ‘City of Gates’, the property promises an exciting line-up of culinary adventures and spirited celebrations that make it the ideal destination for leisure or business. From exquisite local flavours that celebrate the region’s rich heritage to international cuisines crafted by renowned chefs, each dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and passion. Here are some of the key highlights for the month that celebrate the art of gastronomy across all the eateries – ‘ZING’ – World of Flavors, all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant, ‘Zing Bar’ and ‘The Market’: ZING – World of Flavors: Republic Day Specials: Celebrate India’s spirit of unity with a grand Republic Brunch on 26th January, priced at ₹1699/-+. Follow it up with a delectable Republic Day Dinner at ₹1299/-+. Both offerings feature a vibrant spread that pays homage to the nation’s rich culinary diversity. Dumpling Extravaganza: From 27th January to 9th February, immerse yourself in a delightful Dumpling Promotion, showcasing an irresistible assortment of momos and dim sums. Relish these handcrafted bites that bring together a world of flavours in every fold. Zing Bar: Zing at Hyatt Place Aurangabad unveils a flavourful Dumpling Fiesta: A limited time culinary celebration Starting 27th January through 9th February, explore an exciting range of Zodiac Cocktails, crafted to align with the Chinese calendar. These unique concoctions promise a journey through the stars, one sip at a time. Month-Long Cheers: All through January, enjoy a Buy 2, Get 1 Free offer on selected premium brands. This exclusive …

With over 15 years of distinguished experience in leading marketing and communications for some of the most prestigious brands. Sandhya is a passionate and dynamic leader known for her strategic vision and execution. Throughout her illustrious career, Sandhya has excelled in various roles beyond the hospitality industry, bringing a wealth of diverse experience to her new position. Notably, she has held challenging and impactful roles at Apeejay Surendra Park Hotels as AM – Public Relations, The Lalit Suri Hospitality group as Marketing & Communications & PR Manager, ISKCON and Akshayapatra as the Regional Head of Communications, as well as serving as Senior Consultant, PR at PRHUB Integrated Marketing Pvt. Ltd and worked with Radisson Blu Outer Ring Road and Sarovar Portico Outer Ring Road, Marathalli as Associate Director, Marketing & Communications. In her last assignment as Corporate Head – Marketing and Communications at Inventree Hotels & Resorts, Sandhya demonstrated her ability to drive marketing strategies that delivered exceptional results. Sandhya’s expertise spans a broad spectrum of skills essential for her new role, including strong communication abilities, media planning, budget management, corporate communication, brand building, website management and people management. Her outstanding rapport with print, electronic, and online media will continue to be an asset to strengthen brand presence and market reach. “My aim is to create a difference in everything I do. Having something new and experimenting something new has an incredible intrinsic value. Marketing is to know and understand the customer well along with the brand’s vision and that can be achieved with the stories you tell”. At MRG Group as Deputy General Manager – Marketing & Communications