Moscow continues to reinforce its status as a premier travel destination, experiencing a substantial rise in international tourist arrivals. In the first nine months of 2024 alone, the Russian capital welcomed 19.7 million visitors, including 1.9 million foreign tourists — a 19% increase compared to the previous year. India has emerged as one of Moscow’s top two non-CIS inbound tourism markets, with over 61,000 Indian travelers visiting the city during this period. Building on this momentum, Moscow made a strong impression at OTM 2025, held in Mumbai from January 30 to February 1, by captivating the Indian travel trade industry with its rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings. The Moscow City Tourism Committee presented an engaging showcase of the city’s cultural, leisure, and business tourism opportunities, emphasizing its partiality towards the Indian market. “India remains a key market for Moscow’s tourism strategy, and we are pleased to see a steady increase in Indian visitors to our city. Through strategic partnerships, customized travel experiences, and immersive initiatives, we look forward to welcoming more Indian tourists and providing them with an unforgettable experience in our vibrant and historically rich city,” stated Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. On the sidelines of the exhibition, the Moscow City Tourism Committee finalized two significant agreements aimed at bolstering tourism cooperation with Indian partners. A landmark cooperation agreement was signed with the State of Maharashtra, India’s second most populous and third-largest state. This strategic partnership is designed to foster mutual growth and promote tourism between Moscow and Maharashtra, with a special emphasis on enhancing travel links between the …

Leading B2B travel portal ETrav, in collaboration with Riders Rally, successfully hosted its landmark Republic Day celebration, “Spirit of Unity 2.0,” on January 26th, 2025. The joint venture brought together more than 2,000 Bikers in Mumbai for a spectacular display of national pride and adventure spirit. The grand rally, which commenced at Hotel Red Carpet, marked a significant milestone in ETrav’s mission to transform adventure tourism across Asia. The event kicked off with a flag hoisting ceremony at 9:00 AM, symbolizing both national pride and the collaborative commitment to expanding India’s adventure tourism sector. The grandeur of the event was significantly enhanced by the presence of prominent social media influencers, who added significant star power to the celebration. The partnership between ETrav and Riders Rally showcased the growing adventure tourism community and highlighted ETrav’s upcoming expansion of adventure tourism experiences to Vietnam and Bali later this year. “The overwhelming response to Spirit of Unity 2.0 demonstrates the powerful impact of adventure tourism. There is vast unexplored territory in this spectrum, and we at ETrav are committed to providing the perfect platform by promoting it on a huge scale,” said Heniel Rupaarelia, Managing Director at ETrav. “By joining forces with Riders Rally, we’ve been able to truly celebrate both our national spirit and the growing adventure tourism community.” The event featured various recognition categories, with participants receiving awards for their involvement, further encouraging the spirit of adventure tourism. The rally served as a networking platform for airline partners, and adventure tourism enthusiasts, fostering new collaborations in the adventure tourism sector. The presence of representatives from SpiceJet Airlines, Vietjet Air & Oman Air further underscored the event’s significance in bringing together key …

Latest official figures from Taiwan Tourism administration, the national tourism agency of Taiwan, show that Indian market has registered a strong 19.46 per cent growth in visitor arrivals in the first 10 months of 2024. Taiwan has registered a total arrival of 31,766 visitors from India during the January – October 2024 period, a robust near 20 percent growth over 26,591 visitors from India registered during the same period in 2023. Meanwhile international arrivals has soared to 6,206,267 visitors for the period January – October 2024, an impressive 24.55 per cent growth over the corresponding January – October 2023 period when arrivals had reached 4,983,081 international visitors. With two more months to add to inbound arrival number of last year, total year-end Indian arrival number is expected to be over 38,000 visitors, whereas total year-end international visitor arrival number is expected to be in the region of 7.5 million visitors in 2024. Taiwan recorded 6.48 million tourist arrivals in 2023. Paul Shih, Director, TTA Singapore Office, said: “India is our number one South Asian market for both, in terms of visitor arrival numbers as well as spend. Our focused marketing initiatives, targeted trade engagements through road shows, travel exhibitions, as well as trade and media familiarisation trips, consumer engagements through social media influencers’ trips backed by digital initiatives and activations, have held us in good stead in 2024 and we look forward to executing these plans for 2025 with even greater finesse and results.” Furthermore, Shih added, “Taiwan brings probably the greatest value to its visitors. One of the smallest countries in the world, spread over an area of just over 36,000 square kilometers, Taiwan, with a population of about …

MRG Group, a leading force in India’s hospitality and real estate sectors, has outlined a bold expansion strategy that will see its portfolio reach 3500+ keys by 2035. This growth includes a combination of its own properties under the Goldfinch brand and strategic international partnerships. With its flagship Goldfinch brand, celebrated dining establishments such as Sana-di-ge, Kni-hau, Banjara, and The Kabab Studio, MRG Group is poised to enter new domestic markets while exploring global collaborations. Currently, MRG Group operates 11 hotels across India, all owned and managed by the group, with strategic partnerships with leading international brands like Marriott and Hilton in India. The group’s existing portfolio consists of 1200 operational keys, with additional properties under development in key locations such as Goldfinch Goa, Marriott Resort & Spa in Chikkamagaluru, JW Marriott Resort, Spa & Residential in Sakleshpur, Tribute in Mangalore, Goldfinch Retreat in Mangalore, and Westin Bangalore – each set to redefine the industry in the years ahead. MRG Group has identified high-growth cities such as Hyderabad, Chennai, Gurugram (Delhi NCR), Ahmedabad, and Pune as prime locations for its future developments. These cities were selected for their dynamic economic growth, increasing demand for premium hospitality services, and flourishing tourism and real estate sectors. Mr. Gaurav Shetty, Managing Director of MRG Group, emphasized the role of strategic partnerships in their growth. “Our collaborations with esteemed global brands such as Marriott International, alongside the expansion of our own Goldfinch brand, will offer guests a unique blend of luxury and accessibility. We are committed to catering to every type of traveller, from leisure seekers to business professionals, while staying ahead of industry trends,” he explained. While real estate remains the backbone of …

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has taken stringent action against a violation of the Goa State Shack Policy 2023-26. Based on a report submitted by the Police Inspector of Mandrem Police Station on January 27, 2025, it was found that Shri. Manuel Espritosanto Fernandes, allottee of Shack No. 4 at Arambol Beach Stretch, had sublet the beach shack in violation of Clause 20 of the policy. In view of this serious breach, the Department has imposed a penalty of ₹25,00,000 and forfeited the security deposit paid by the allottee to the Government Treasury. The shack license issued to Shri. Manuel Espritosanto Fernandes stands cancelled, and the erected Beach Shack No. 4 must be demolished within seven days from the receipt of the order. Failure to comply will result in the Department carrying out the demolition at the cost and risk of the allottee, with expenses recovered as arrears of land revenue. Additionally, Shri. Manuel Espritosanto Fernandes has been permanently blacklisted and debarred from participating in any future shack allotment processes under the Tourism Shack Policy. The Department of Tourism remains committed to upholding transparency and strict enforcement of regulations to maintain the integrity of Goa’s tourism sector.

‘’The Union Budget 2025 marks a significant step in supporting the sustained growth of India’s aviation sector. We commend the government’s commitment to infrastructure which will make air travel more accessible, thereby boosting tourism and the economy on the whole. Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, this focus on aviation strengthens India’s position as a global hub, ensuring greater mobility for all and contributing to a more connected, inclusive nation. As India’s fastest-growing airline, we applaud the government’s continued efforts to fuel the sector’s growth and make air travel accessible to a greater number of Indians.’’

Encalm Hospitality, a leader in premium airport hospitality, has taken airport experiences to new heights with the launch of its exclusive airside lounge Encalm Privé at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Shamshabad. Strategically located on the Mezzanine level of the International Departures terminal, the premium lounge offers travelers a seamless and premium environment to relax, recharge, and refresh before embarking on their journeys. Spanning around 885 square meters, the lounge offers a wealth of amenities tailored to meet the needs of the modern traveler, all available 24/7. Guests can enjoy a range of world-class facilities in the airside lounge, including spacious seating areas, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a variety of dining options to cater to every travellers need. Culinary offerings take center stage, with an array of gourmet food options ranging from international cuisines to local delicacies, ensuring something for every palate. Live cooking stations allow guests to enjoy freshly prepared meals tailored to their tastes, while the Grab n Go counter offers quick bites for travelers with tight schedules. A full-service bar enhances the experience, offering a wide selection of premium spirits and expertly crafted cocktails. Crafted for both convenience and comfort, the lounge features shower facilities, perfect for revitalizing between long-haul flights, as well as a serene spa where guests can relax and rejuvenate with a variety of soothing treatments. At Encalm Hospitality, our objective is to create exceptional travel spaces that cater to the evolving needs of today’s travelers,” said Vikas Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of Encalm Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. “The launch of the Encalm Privé at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad marks a significant milestone in our journey to provide personalized, efficient, and luxurious experiences …

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 …