Commenting on the Union Budget 2025, Kanwarjit Singh Sawhney, Hon. Secretary, ITTA said, “The tourism sector is benefiting from initiatives like the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, which could make flying more affordable for the middle class. The reduction or waiver of e-visas for special groups, likely to include Buddhist tourists, is a positive step. India is being recognised as a hub for medical, spiritual, and niche tourism, with a focus on lesser-known destinations beyond the popular Delhi-Agra-Jaipur triangle. While the government’s efforts are commendable, there is a call for improvements in GST and TDS policies, particularly the introduction of a unified GST where input credit can be claimed. Additionally, regulations on luxury vehicles and speed limits for tourism transport need revision.”

Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, THSC shared her opinion on the Union Budget 2025 saying, “The government sometimes forgets the service providers and travel agents. However, the budget focuses strongly on infrastructure, including the UDAN scheme, which will add 120 new routes to the existing 619, boosting footfalls. There are plans for more helipads in hill areas and new green and brown airports. The addition of 50 tourist sites will promote sustainable tourism. E-visas, particularly for medical and adventure tourism, are another positive development. Skilling initiatives, including the establishment of five National Centers of Excellence, are also encouraging. However, the tourism sector requires more support, especially in marketing and international promotion.”

Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & MD, Cygnett Hotels and Resorts shared his views on the Union Budget 2025 saying, “The Union Budget’s strategic emphasis on tourism is a welcome move that will significantly boost India’s hospitality industry. The development of 50 key destinations under challenge mode, along with streamlined e-visas and visa-free access for select tourist groups, will drive international footfall and enhance India’s global appeal. The government’s initiative to include new hotels coming up in 50 key destinations in the infrastructure harmonised list (HML) for projects where land will be provided by the state governments is a welcome step. This will help hospitality investors to avail infrastructure lending at easier terms with enhanced limits and offer access to larger amounts of funds as External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs). The government’s plan to introduce a modified UDAN scheme for strengthening connectivity to additional 120 destinations and supporting helipads development in northeastern region will help to connect potential tourist destinations in the region. Particularly, the focus on the Buddhist Circuit presents immense opportunities for hospitality expansion. With greater infrastructure and promotion around these culturally significant sites, we see strong potential to develop quality accommodations and travel experiences in these regions, catering to both domestic and international travellers. Additionally, skill development initiatives through IHMs and financial support for homestays via Mudra loans will strengthen the sector, ensuring high-quality service and deeper community involvement in tourism growth. Cygnett Hotels is keen to align with these initiatives, expanding our footprint in high-growth destinations and playing a pivotal role in India’s tourism success story.”

Air India announced that it will resume its non-stop services between Delhi and Tel Aviv from 2 March 2025. The flag carrier will operate 5x weekly to Tel Aviv, using its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft that offers 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 spacious, cushioned seats in Economy Class.

Kite Travel is a Kazakhstani tour operator committed to expanding horizons and creating new opportunities for travellers. The Indian market is a strategically important direction for them, as it holds immense tourism potential and rich cultural diversity. They aim to introduce Indian tourists to the unique travel experiences in Kazakhstan—a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. The Tour Operator is excited to collaborate with BlackTurtle Reps, represented by Karishma Kazi, to showcase the beauty of Kazakhstan. Her experience and market expertise will help them make trips more accessible and convenient. Kite Travel believes this partnership will bring their countries closer and open new horizons for travellers. Kazakhstan welcomes guests from India to create unforgettable memories!

Air India’s booth will feature Business Class and Premium Economy seats of its A320 aircraft Visitors can get a glimpse of Air India’s brand new A350 product at the Virtual Reality (VR) zone Air India, India’s leading global airline, is set to showcase its premium cabin product and in-flight offerings at the upcoming Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) 2025, Asia’s premier and most influential travel trade show, scheduled to take place from 30 January to 1 February 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai. Taking inspiration from Air India’s signature design philosophy, the exhibition booth has been conceptualised with ‘The Vista’ as an integral part of its structure, blending aesthetics with immersive digital experiences. The pavilion will showcase various aspects of Air India’s transformation journey, captivating audiences with a live demonstration of Business Class and Premium Economy seats that are today available on Air India’s newly retrofitted A320 family aircraft. These aircraft come with subtle cabin mood lighting, spacious legroom and wider pitch, and modern features, like portable electronic device (PED) holders and USB ports to charge mobile phones, laptops and other gadgets, among others. Visitors will be able to experience the seats in real-time while also getting a glimpse of Air India’s brand new A350 product at the Virtual Reality (VR) experience zone. In addition, Air India will also display a selection of in-flight meals to showcase its refreshed menus and enhanced dining experience onboard. “OTM 2025 presents a significant platform for Air India to engage and deepen ties with more than 40,000 key trade visitors from across the globe while highlighting the milestones of our transformation journey. With the Air India pavilion featuring unique activations and immersive …

Tisya Stays has long been a hallmark of luxury and privacy in the world of villa rentals, and with the recent expansion of its portfolio, it is further solidifying its reputation as a premium provider of exclusive vacation experiences. With 18 luxurious villas and 35 apartments in Goa and three stunning villas nestled in the peaceful hills of Uttarakhand, Tisya Stays offers an unparalleled combination of comfort, space, and privacy. The company announced the launch of new villas that cater to various group sizes and preferences. These new additions—Casa Solace, Casa Meraki, and Casa 2565, all three-bedroom properties, and the larger Vilasa villa with five bedrooms—are designed to provide guests with an extraordinary vacation experience. Each villa boasts its own private pool, contemporary amenities, and exceptional interiors, ensuring that every stay is nothing short of memorable. In addition to these stunning new properties, Tisya Stays also offers luxurious villas in the serene surroundings of Uttarakhand. The Mukteshwar, Sitla, and Satoli villas provide a perfect escape for those looking to unwind amidst the tranquillity of the hills, combining nature’s beauty with the utmost in luxury and privacy. One of the key differentiators of Tisya Stays is its unwavering focus on delivering a personalised experience. Each villa comes equipped with modern amenities like private pools and generators for power backup (for villas), ensuring that guests enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted stay. For those who require additional services, the concierge team is always on hand to arrange everything from airport transfers and grocery deliveries to spa treatments and private chefs, further elevating the overall guest experience. Tisya Stays is also accredited with Marriott Bonvoy, which means guests enjoy exclusive privileges, including earning and redeeming …

Emirates’ newest Airbus A350 aircraft commenced its India operations on the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day. The first Emirates A350 touched down at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. The airline’s newest aircraft, featuring several industry-first technologies, will operate daily on Mumbai and Ahmedabad routes. Pilots waved Indian and UAE flags as the aircraft prepared for its inaugural flight from Dubai to Mumbai.

IRIS Reps expands portfolio with two exciting new partnerships: The Rickshaw Travel Group, East Africa and Ninety-Six Hotel Collection IRIS Reps, a leading PR and marketing firm in the travel industry, is thrilled to announce the addition of two prestigious names to its portfolio: The Rickshaw Travel Group, East Africa, a renowned specialist in African safaris and cultural journeys, and Ninety-Six Hotel Collection, a distinguished group of city hotels in Mauritius. As part of this expansion, IRIS Reps will exclusively represent all its brands under its umbrella, including these two new additions, offering unparalleled travel experiences and services to Indian travellers. The firm’s approach is focused on curating a unique selection of products that are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the Indian market. Alefiya Singh, Founder, IRIS Reps, shares her excitement about these new associations, “We are delighted to introduce The Rickshaw Travel Group to our portfolio. Their expertise in creating bespoke travel experiences focusing on across South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda is unmatched, and we are excited to bring these exceptional safari and cultural journeys to Indian travellers. Their tailored itineraries and personalised services offer the ultimate African adventure, from safaris to mountain treks and beach tours. We believe they are a perfect fit for Indian travellers looking for unique and enriching travel experiences.” She continues, “As for the Ninety-Six Hotel Collection, we are equally excited. This Mauritius-based collection embodies the perfect blend of cultural heritage and modern luxury. From the elegant 5-star Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel to the charming 4-star hotels: the dynamic and artistic Hennessy Park Hotel, the contemporary Le Suffren Hotel & Marina and the unique The Address Boutique Hotel & Residences, this collection …

Achieving a 16% increase in international traffic and an 18% growth in transit guests Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has concluded 2024 with remarkable growth in its international operations, as highlighted in its latest performance report. The airline transported 20 million international guests on scheduled and additional flights, representing a 16 per cent increase compared to 2023. Transit guest numbers also surpassed 9.3 million, an impressive annual growth of 18 per cent. These milestones underscore Saudia’s unwavering commitment to connecting the world to the Kingdom while contributing to Saudi Vision 2030’s goals in tourism, entertainment, sports, and Hajj and Umrah. In total, Saudia carried 35 million guests throughout 2024, reflecting a 15 per cent year-on-year increase. The airline operated 193,000 scheduled and additional flights, a 10 per cent growth compared to the previous year. Additionally, Saudia achieved an 8.5 per cent increase in flight hours, totalling over 581,000 hours, while maintaining an on-time performance rate of 89.1 per cent, a 2.7 per cent improvement. Guest satisfaction also saw a notable rise, with the Net Promoter Score (NPS) reaching 32.7, a 4.5 per cent increase, indicating enhanced satisfaction and an improved likelihood of recommending Saudia to others. His Excellency Eng. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General, Saudia Group, said, “Operating in the competitive aviation industry demands a constantly evolving strategy. Saudia is committed to achieving sustainable operational excellence while adhering to the highest international standards. This remarkable growth is a testament to the dedication and hard work of Saudia’s employees and the strategic optimisation of our aircraft fleet to deliver exceptional service. We have also made significant strides in enhancing our services and enriching the overall guest experience.” As part …